If you’ve ever daydreamed on your way to work about what it would be like hanging out at a tube station after hours, you’ll be pleased to know that you might actually be able to. And not just hang out after hours but, hire out a Tube station and throw a whole shindig.
TfL is officially allowing people to host their own parties and private events on decommissioned Underground platforms.
And if you’re a TfL fanatic then you’ll be pleased to know that the venues on offer include the rarely seen to the public closed ticket halls at Aldwych, which is described by the London Transport Museum as one of London’s ‘best kept secret places.’
Located in Westminster and first opened to the public in 1907 with the name ‘Strand,’ it closed in 1944 due to the lack of use and now, 30 years later after it shut its doors, it could be the spot for your next big do.
The station itself is listed as a Grade II building designed by the late architect Leslie Green and has also been featured in a number of films over the past few decades such as Atonement and Sherlock. Parts of Aldwych were said to be used during both the World Wars to shelter art and pieces from public galleries and museums in London while being bombed.
Other venues up for grabs include disused Jubilee line platforms at Charing Cross (featuring a stationary train) and the Waterloo and City line platforms at Bank station which I can confidently say, has not been frequented that often. From events to big birthday bashes, you can invite up to 300 people.
Aside of tube stations, TfL is also hiring out river piers and cable cars for scenic hangouts in the capital city. You will also be able to hire out the IFS Cloud Cable Car as well as river piers like Westminster Pier and Blackfriars Pier.
So, if you’re ever running out of party ideas, fear not, put your next party up right beneath the capital!