A Comprehensive Look at the History of London Underground Tube Station Names

The London Underground, affectionately known as the Tube, is an iconic transportation system that has served London and its suburbs for over 150 years. With 270 stations and 11 lines spanning over 400 kilometers, the Tube is not only an essential mode of transport but also a reflection of the city's rich history and culture.

Why Do Shepherds Need a Bush?: London's Underground History of Tube Station Names

by David Hilliam

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The names of the Tube stations are as diverse as the city itself, each with its own unique story to tell. Some stations are named after geographical landmarks, while others commemorate historical figures or events. There are stations that evoke a sense of place, and others that are simply practical in their nomenclature.

In this article, we will delve into the fascinating history behind the naming of London Underground tube stations, exploring the diverse origins and intriguing anecdotes that have shaped their monikers.

Geographical Origins

Many Tube stations are named after the geographical landmarks near which they are located. This is particularly common in the suburbs, where stations are often named after the towns or villages they serve.

• Ealing Broadway: Named after the bustling town center in the west London borough of Ealing.
• Greenford: Named after the suburb in the London Borough of Ealing, which is known for its green spaces.
• Harrow & Wealdstone: Named after the two towns in the London Borough of Harrow.
• Upminster: Named after the town in the London Borough of Havering, which is believed to derive its name from the Old English word for "upland monastery."
• Watford: Named after the town in Hertfordshire, which is a major commuter town for London.

Historical Figures and Events

A number of Tube stations are named after historical figures or events that have shaped British history.

• Bank: Named after the Bank of England, which is located nearby.
• Bond Street: Named after Sir Thomas Bond, who developed the area in the 17th century.
• Charing Cross: Named after the medieval market cross in Westminster, which marked the boundary between the City of London and Westminster.
• Embankment: Named after the Victoria Embankment, which runs along the north bank of the River Thames.
• Monument: Named after the Monument to the Great Fire of London, which is located nearby.

Sense of Place

Some Tube stations are named in such a way as to evoke a sense of place or atmosphere.

• Baker Street: Named after the fictional detective Sherlock Holmes, who lived at 221B Baker Street in the novels of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
• Covent Garden: Named after the historic Covent Garden market, which is known for its theater and shopping.
• Hyde Park Corner: Named after the famous park in central London.
• Notting Hill Gate: Named after the vibrant neighborhood in west London, which is known for its colorful houses and Portobello Road Market.
• Victoria: Named after Queen Victoria, who reigned from 1837 to 1901.

Practical Nomenclature

Some Tube stations have names that are simply practical in their nomenclature.

• Aldgate: Named after the old city gate of the same name, which was located at the east end of the City of London.
• Cannon Street: Named after the street of the same name, which is known for its financial institutions.
• Farringdon: Named after the area in the City of London, which is known for its meat market.
• Holborn: Named after the street of the same name, which is known for its legal institutions.
• King's Cross: Named after the railway station of the same name, which is a major transport hub.

Intriguing Anecdotes

The names of some Tube stations have intriguing anecdotes behind them.

• Elephant & Castle: Named after a former coaching inn, which had an elephant and castle on its sign. The inn was a popular stop for travelers heading to and from London Bridge.
• Moorgate: Named after the old city gate of the same name, which was located on the site of the Barbican Centre. The gate was known for its moorings, which were used to secure boats on the River Thames.
• Piccadilly Circus: Named after the famous circus, which is known for its neon lights and advertising billboards. The circus was originally a roundabout, and the name "piccadilly" is believed to derive from the French word "piccadil," which means a kind of ruff or collar.
• Tottenham Court Road: Named after the street of the same name, which is known for its furniture shops. The street was originally called "Tottenham High Road," and the name "Tottenham" is believed to derive from the Old English word for "farm of Tota."