Aldwych: Hidden Tube Station Guided Tour

Discover the Hidden World of Aldwych Station in London

The Aldwych: Hidden Tube Station Guided Tour offers a unique glimpse into London’s underground past. For $60.61 per person, this 75-minute journey takes you through one of London’s most intriguing “ghost stations,” providing an intimate look at a disused Piccadilly line station that was opened in 1907 and closed in 1994.

This tour is perfect for those interested in history, transport, or film, as it combines fascinating stories, historic architecture, and cinematic appearances. While the tour involves a fair amount of walking and stair climbing—so it’s not suitable for guests with mobility issues or claustrophobia—it rewards curious minds with a behind-the-scenes look at a rare underground site.

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Key Points

• 75-minute guided tour exploring Aldwych station, a disused London Underground site
• Learn about its history from opening in 1907 to closure in 1994
• See original architectural features in the abandoned ticket hall and lifts
• Spot filming locations from movies like “Sherlock” and “Atonement”
• Discover wartime secrets, including how priceless treasures were stored during the Blitz
• Guides are expert, engaging, and draw on extensive archives from the London Transport Museum

The Unique Charm of Aldwych Station’s History

Aldwych station, once a busy terminus, offers a rare opportunity to explore a station closed for nearly three decades. Its quiet corridors and abandoned platforms tell stories of a bustling transport hub that served London for nearly a century. The station’s architecture retains many of its original features, including the ticket hall and lifts, which are visible during the tour.

Unlike operational stations, Aldwych remains open only for special visits, making this experience a special peek into London’s transport heritage. The guides share insights into the station’s varied past—from providing shelter during the Second World War to serving as a filming location.

Starting Point and Meeting Arrangements

The tour begins outside the Aldwych station entrance on Surrey Street, a different spot than the one facing the Strand. This specific meet-up point ensures an organized start, and the tour ends back at this same location, making it easy to plan your day around.

Since the tour involves walking through tunnels, staircases, and uneven ground, visitors should wear sturdy footwear and suitable clothing. The tour is not step-free and does not include an elevator, so those with mobility concerns should consider this carefully.

Inside the Station: What You’ll See

Once the group gathers, the guide leads you through the ticket hall, where you can see the original architectural features that have been preserved. The guide explains how the station was designed for heavy use but became more of a secret spot after its closure.

You’ll explore abandoned platforms, tunnels, and interconnecting walkways, many of which are seldom seen by the public. The tour also includes visits to the original lifts, offering a rare glimpse into the station’s operational past. These areas are evocative of a bygone era of London’s underground transport.

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Films and TV Shows Filming at Aldwych

Aldwych station has appeared as a filming backdrop for numerous productions. It notably features in “Luther: The Fallen Sun”, where its deserted corridors provide the perfect cinematic setting. Other productions that have filmed here include “The ABC Murders” (2018), “Darkest Hour” (2017), “Sherlock” (2014), and “Atonement” (2007).

This cinematic connection adds an extra layer of interest for film fans and helps illustrate how the station’s empty tunnels have become part of London’s visual storytelling landscape.

Secrets of the Blitz and Wartime Storage

One of the most captivating aspects of the tour is learning how priceless treasures were stored at Aldwych during World War II. The station’s underground spaces were used to safeguard valuables from the London Blitz, adding a secret dimension to its history. The guides share first-hand accounts of shelterers who used the station as a refuge during air raids, giving a human perspective on this underground world.

Guides and Their Expertise

The tours are led by knowledgeable guides from London Transport Museum, renowned for their deep archive of historical information. Guests consistently praise the guides, such as Colin, Cat, Emily, and Dom, for their professionalism, enthusiasm, and ability to bring the station’s history to life. Their storytelling keeps the experience engaging and informative, making complex history accessible and memorable.

Practical Details and Tips for Visitors

The tour has a maximum group size of four children aged 10-15 per adult, ensuring a manageable and personalized experience. It is recommended to bring passport or ID card for verification purposes. Since walking involves stairs and uneven ground, visitors should dress in sturdy shoes and wear appropriate clothing for potentially cool and low-light conditions.

Please note that food, drinks, and large luggage are not permitted inside the station, and there is no cloakroom available. The tour is not suitable for guests with claustrophobia, mobility impairments, or children under 10.

The Physical Demands and Accessibility

This tour involves a good deal of walking, including going up and down stairs. It is not step-free, and there are areas with low lighting, so guests should be prepared for a physically active experience. The emphasis on historical exploration means that it’s best suited for visitors comfortable with walking and stair climbing.

Why This Tour Stands Out Among London Underground Tours

What sets the Aldwych tour apart is its focus on a disused station with a deep history and its cinematic fame. Visitors enjoy the chance to see original features that are otherwise hidden from the public, as well as discovering stories of wartime storage and film productions.

While the 75-minute duration is relatively short, it packs in rich stories, architecture, and secrets, making it a highly curated experience. The tour’s recognition as the “Best Hidden Gem in the World” in 2022 underscores its appeal to those seeking something genuinely different from conventional sightseeing.

Final Thoughts on the Aldwych Hidden Tube Station Tour

The Aldwych: Hidden Tube Station Guided Tour offers a compelling mix of history, architecture, film and wartime stories. It appeals most to history buffs, film enthusiasts, and transport fans, especially those eager to explore a rare, abandoned underground site.

While accessibility limitations mean it’s not for everyone, the knowledgeable guides and the well-preserved stations make this a memorable journey into London’s underground past. The tour’s affordable price and short duration make it an attractive option for a quick yet enriching cultural experience.

Overall, it promises a fascinating snapshot of London’s hidden history, filled with stories and sights that bring the city’s underground world to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 10 and above can participate, with a maximum of four children per adult, but the tour involves walking and stairs, so younger children or those with mobility issues may find it challenging.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, visitors should bring passport or ID card for verification. Comfortable, sturdy footwear and clothing suitable for cool and low-light conditions are also recommended.

Can I cancel or reschedule the tour?
Yes, the tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning your trip.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not step-free and involves walking up and down stairs, so it is unsuitable for guests with mobility impairments.

What makes this tour different from other London Underground tours?
This tour focuses on Aldwych station’s unique history, its appearances in films, and its wartime secrets, giving a more exclusive and in-depth experience of a disused underground site.

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