The London Underground Station That Almost Had a Different Name
Clapham South was nearly named Nightingale Lane, a choice that could have made more sense for travelers.
Clapham, London, Nightingale Lane, Transport for London, Empire Windrush
London: Clapham has three Underground stations, which is pretty rare for South London. Those stations are Clapham North, Clapham Common, and Clapham South.
But guess what? Clapham South almost had a different name! It was super close to being called Nightingale Lane, since it sits right at the corner of Nightingale Lane and Balham Hill. Honestly, that name would have made more sense and helped distinguish it from the other two stations.
Opened in 1926, Clapham South could have confused a few tourists. Imagine someone hopping off, thinking they arrived too early! Nightingale Lane would have been a lifesaver for those folks and a nice tribute to Florence Nightingale, the nursing pioneer.
Sadly, we’re stuck with Clapham South. The name Nightingale Lane was so close to being official that they even made maps and signs for it!
According to Transport for London, the name Nightingale Lane is still hidden behind some blue bars at the station. You’d never know it was there unless someone told you.
Another name that was tossed around was ‘Balham North,’ but in the end, Clapham South won out. And there’s more to this station than meets the eye. It has over a mile of underground passageways!
During WWII, Clapham South served as a refuge and even housed Caribbean migrants arriving on the Empire Windrush. It was also London’s cheapest hotel during the Festival of Britain. You can explore the shelter and learn more about its fascinating history with Hidden London at the London Transport Museum.