London Transport Museum’s upcoming exhibition will uncover all the juicy secrets of the oldest subterranean railway in the world.
Hidden London is known for its exclusive, sell-out tours of the city’s abandoned tube stations. Organised by the London Transport Museum, these tours are led by Underground experts who are on hand to share all their weird and wonderful facts about the tube network’s history.
Well, later this year, all these crazy facts will come together in one big ‘Hidden London’ exhibition at the London Transport Museum.
From October 11, you’ll be taken on an immersive journey through some of London’s top secret spaces, hearing stories of the Underground’s fascinating past, including its role in the Second World War.
For example, learn how Churchill took shelter at Down Street station during the Blitz and indulged in Champagne and caviar, or how the Central line was used as an underground aircraft factory before its completion.
There’ll be a large collection of rare photos, posters and objects on display, all collected from disused stations and brought together for this exciting new exhibit. You’ll also be able to explore recreations of iconic locations, such as the abandoned ticket hall at Aldwych station.
Hidden London will uncover the whats and whys of these forgotten spaces, referencing changes in population, economic priorities and political pressures as reasons for abandonment. Of course, many of these spaces have since been snapped up by businesses for various reasons. For example, below the streets of Clapham, in a former air raid shelter, you’ll now find the world’s first underground farm.
Many of these ‘lost’ locations have also been used in films, and movie buffs will be able to discover these in the vintage film posters section of the exhibition, which features films such as V for Vendetta and Skyfall.
Tickets for the Hidden London Exhibition’s launch party are available now, but check the London Transport Museum’s website for updates on general ticket sales.