The London Underground Station That Looks Just Like a Local Pub
Kilburn Park station in London charms visitors with its pub-like design and unique architectural features
London, Kilburn Park, Underground, Architecture, Public Transport
London: You know, London is full of amazing buildings, and the Tube stations are no exception. One station that really catches the eye is Kilburn Park on the Bakerloo line.
It’s got this cool red-tiled look that makes it feel like a cozy pub from the past. It’s a nod to the classic Tube designs from the early 1900s.
The guy behind this design is Stanley Heap, but he took a lot of inspiration from Leslie Green, who was pretty famous for his similar style.
Green’s stations usually had those red tiles and glossy surfaces, but Kilburn Park really steps it up a notch.
If you’re new to the area, you might just mistake it for a local pub!
It’s a bit bigger and sturdier than most of Green’s other stations. Unlike places like Chalk Farm or Belsize Park, Kilburn Park doesn’t have a first floor with those arched windows.
This is because they opted for escalators instead of lifts, so they didn’t need the extra space for lift machinery.
One of the coolest things about this station is its original lattice windows at ground level. They’re still in great shape and stretch almost down to the pavement.
With a six-bay front on Cambridge Avenue, you get a clear view of those unique tripartite windows. The tiled frieze above adds a nice touch, while signs announce “EXIT”, “Underground”, “KILBURN”, “PARK”, and “ENTRANCE.”
When you step inside, you’re greeted by those classic green and cream checked tiles that remind you of Leslie Green’s stylish 1920s vibe. The ticket area has some lovely wooden details and a charming timber kiosk that looks a bit like a chocolatey Tardis!
The inside is pretty nice too!
The double escalator area is topped with a glass dome that lets in loads of light, and there’s a big bulb right in the center. Deeper in, the lower escalator hall has these lovely moulded arches leading to platforms with rich tiling and a continuous frieze showing the station’s name.
The platforms are decked out with beautiful tiles, adding to the station’s historic charm.
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