What London Underground lines serve South Kensington station?

South Kensington station is served by three London Underground lines: the Circle line, the District line, and the Piccadilly line.

Where is South Kensington station located within London?

South Kensington station is situated in the district of South Kensington in southwest London, within Travelcard Zone 1.

Which stations are adjacent to South Kensington on the Circle and District lines?

On the Circle and District lines, South Kensington station is located between Gloucester Road station and Sloane Square station.

Which stations are adjacent to South Kensington on the Piccadilly line?

On the Piccadilly line, South Kensington station is located between Gloucester Road station and Knightsbridge station.

What is the local authority responsible for South Kensington station?

The local authority responsible for South Kensington station is the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.

How many platforms does South Kensington station have?

South Kensington station has a total of four platforms.

What was the passenger usage of South Kensington station in 2019?

In 2019, South Kensington station recorded approximately 33.07 million entries and exits.

How did passenger usage change in 2020 compared to 2019?

Passenger usage at South Kensington station significantly decreased in 2020, falling to approximately 9.81 million entries and exits from 33.07 million in 2019. This decrease reflects the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on public transport usage.

What is the listed building status of parts of South Kensington station?

Parts of the sub-surface station, including the arcaded entrance and the Exhibition Road pedestrian tunnel, are designated as Grade II listed structures, recognizing their architectural and historical importance.

When did the sub-surface platforms of South Kensington station first open?

The sub-surface platforms of South Kensington station were opened on December 24, 1868, by the Metropolitan Railway and the District Railway.

Who designed the original sub-surface station at South Kensington?

The original South Kensington station, for the sub-surface platforms, was designed by John Fowler, the engineer for the Metropolitan Railway.

What was the purpose of the South Kensington Subway, opened in 1885?

The South Kensington Subway, opened on May 4, 1885, was a pedestrian subway designed to provide sheltered access from the station to the nearby museums for a toll of one penny.

What happened to the South Kensington Subway after its initial opening?

After a brief period of operation, the South Kensington Subway was closed in November 1886 but was later reopened to the public free of charge in 1908.

When were the deep-level platforms at South Kensington station opened, and by which railway company?

The deep-level platforms at South Kensington station were opened on December 15, 1906, by the Great Northern, Piccadilly and Brompton Railway.

What was the original purpose of the deep-level line planned by the District Railway?

The deep-level line was planned by the District Railway to relieve congestion on its existing sub-surface tracks between South Kensington and Mansion House, allowing for faster, express services.

How did the deep-level platforms at South Kensington station change in the early 1970s?

In the early 1970s, the original lifts providing access to the Piccadilly line platforms were replaced by escalators to improve passenger flow and interchange between the different levels of the station.

What major work was undertaken on the Piccadilly line platforms between February 2021 and June 2022?

Between February 2021 and June 2022, access to the Piccadilly line platforms at South Kensington was closed to facilitate the replacement of the station's escalators.

What are some of the future proposals for South Kensington station?

Future proposals for South Kensington station include redeveloping the site, potentially bringing a disused northern platform back into use, creating a new entrance, reconfiguring the ticket hall, and providing comprehensive step-free access. Planning consent for these developments was granted in December 2023.

What is the typical frequency of District line trains during operational hours?

District line trains typically operate every 2 to 6 minutes from approximately 05:15 until 00:30 eastbound and from 05:45 until 00:45 westbound.

How often do Circle line trains run through South Kensington station?

Circle line trains run approximately every 8 to 12 minutes, operating clockwise from around 05:30 to 00:30 and anticlockwise from about 05:40 to 00:15.

What rolling stock is currently used on the Piccadilly line at South Kensington?

The 1973 Stock is currently used on the Piccadilly line services at South Kensington station.

What rolling stock is used on the Circle and District lines at South Kensington?

The S Stock is used on the Circle and District lines serving South Kensington station.

What London bus routes serve South Kensington station?

South Kensington station is served by London Buses routes 14, 49, 70, 74, 345, 360, 430, C1, and the night routes N74 and N97.

Where is the Santander Cycles rental station located in relation to South Kensington station?

A Santander Cycles rental station is situated north of South Kensington station on Thurlow Street.

In which work of literature is South Kensington station mentioned?

South Kensington station is mentioned in the song "When you're lying awake" from the Gilbert and Sullivan operetta *Iolanthe*.

What was the "Outer Circle" service that operated through South Kensington?

The "Outer Circle" service, which began operations on February 1, 1872, was run by the North London Railway from Broad Street, using the West London Line and the District Railway tracks through South Kensington to Mansion House.

What was the "Middle Circle" service that operated through South Kensington?

The "Middle Circle" service, which began on August 1, 1872, ran from Moorgate along the Metropolitan Railway and Hammersmith & City Railway tracks, then via the West London Extension Joint Railway and the District Railway to Mansion House.

When were the "Middle Circle" and "Outer Circle" services withdrawn from South Kensington?

The "Middle Circle" service was withdrawn between Earl's Court and Mansion House on June 30, 1900, and the "Outer Circle" service was shortened to terminate at Earl's Court on December 31, 1908.

What architectural style is featured in the 1907 redesign of the station entrance?

The 1907 redesign by George Campbell Sherrin included a new art deco entrance with an arcade and a new ticket hall, featuring canopies that replaced the original trainsheds.

What was the purpose of the disused westbound tunnel of the Piccadilly line?

The disused westbound tunnel was utilized for various purposes, including storing art from the Victoria & Albert Museum and china from Buckingham Palace during World War I, serving as a signalling school from 1927 to 1939, and housing equipment for detecting bombs in the River Thames during World War II.

What was the original cost of the South Kensington Subway, and how does it compare to modern values?

The South Kensington Subway cost £42,614 to construct, which is equivalent to approximately £5.81 million today, accounting for inflation.

What was the proposed South Kensington and Paddington Subway project?

The South Kensington and Paddington Subway was a proposed cut-and-cover railway in 1890 that aimed to create a new railway line and sought to purchase the existing pedestrian subway for use as the initial segment of its tunnel.

Why did the South Kensington and Paddington Subway project fail?

The project failed because its controversial plan to excavate a trench across Hyde Park faced opposition, leading the railway company to withdraw its private bill from Parliament in March 1891.

What is the significance of the "Inner Circle" route mentioned in the station's history?

The "Inner Circle" route was an early designation for the Circle line, which was later given its own distinct identity on the tube map in 1949.

What changes were made to the sub-surface platforms in the 1960s?

In the 1960s, modifications were made to the sub-surface tracks to suit operational demands. Specifically, the eastbound Metropolitan Railway platform (Number 1) and the westbound District Railway platform (Number 4) were taken out of use in 1966 and 1969 respectively, with the track bed for platform 4 later demolished to accommodate escalators.

What is the role of the "Rolling Stock" information in the article?

The article details the types of trains, known as rolling stock, that have operated or currently operate on the lines serving South Kensington, such as the S Stock for the Circle and District lines and the 1973 Stock for the Piccadilly line.

What is the significance of the "Navbox" sections at the end of the article?

The "Navbox" sections provide navigational links to related articles, such as the Circle, District, and Piccadilly lines, as well as information on their rolling stock, depots, and history, helping users explore related topics.

What is the primary function of the "External links" section?

The "External links" section provides direct links to further resources, such as the Transport for London station information page, the London Transport Museum Photographic Archive, and the Wikimedia Commons category for South Kensington tube station, allowing users to access additional information and media.

What is the significance of the station's location near major museums?

The station's location is significant because it provides convenient access, via a pedestrian tunnel from Exhibition Road, to major cultural institutions like the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum.

What was the original intention for the South Kensington subway's route?

The South Kensington subway was originally intended to extend as far as the Royal Albert Hall, but its route was altered due to the construction of the Imperial Institute, causing it to emerge at the Science Museum instead.

How many stations are listed on the Circle line navbox?

The Circle line navbox lists 27 stations, covering the full loop of the line.

How many stations are listed on the District line navbox?

The District line navbox lists stations across its main route and branches, including Upminster, Richmond, Ealing Broadway, Wimbledon, and Hammersmith, totaling over 60 stations.

How many stations are listed on the Piccadilly line navbox?

The Piccadilly line navbox lists stations along its main route to Cockfosters, its Heathrow branch, and its Uxbridge branch, totaling over 50 stations.

What does the "Listed status" in the infobox indicate about the station?

The "Listed status" indicates that parts of the station, specifically Grade II listed structures, are recognized for their architectural or historical significance and are protected by law.

What was the approximate area occupied by South Kensington station and its adjacent premises?

South Kensington station and its adjacent shop premises occupy a site of approximately 0.77 hectares (1.9 acres).

What was the purpose of the "South Kensington Subway" when it was first opened?

The South Kensington Subway was opened in 1885 to provide a pedestrian tunnel from the station to the newly built museums, allowing access for a toll of one penny.

What is the significance of the "Key dates" section in the infobox?

The "Key dates" section provides a chronological overview of significant events in the station's history, such as its opening, the introduction of various services, and the closure or modification of certain routes.

What is the role of the "Bibliography" section?

The Bibliography section lists the sources used to compile the article, providing details of books and publications that offer further information on the history and development of the London Underground and South Kensington station.

What was the original purpose of the lifts at the deep-level station?

The original lifts at the deep-level station were intended to provide access from street level to both the eastbound and westbound Piccadilly line platforms.

What does the "Fare zone" information signify for South Kensington station?

The "Fare zone" information indicates that South Kensington station is located within Travelcard Zone 1, which is typically the central area of London.

What was the reason for the Piccadilly line closure at South Kensington in 2021?

The Piccadilly line was closed at South Kensington from February 2021 to June 2022 to facilitate the replacement of the station's escalators.

South Kensington Tube Station Wiki: London Underground: South Kensington Station

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Station Overview

Location & Lines

South Kensington station is a significant London Underground interchange located in the affluent South Kensington district of southwest London. It serves three crucial lines: the Circle, District, and Piccadilly lines. Specifically, it lies between Gloucester Road and Sloane Square on the Circle and District lines, and between Gloucester Road and Knightsbridge on the Piccadilly line. It is situated within Travelcard Zone 1.

Usage & Infrastructure

The station features four platforms in total, accommodating the distinct sub-surface and deep-level tracks. In 2023, it recorded approximately 26.09 million passenger entries and exits, reflecting its importance as a transport hub. The main entrance is at the junction of Old Brompton Road and Exhibition Road, with subsidiary entrances providing access via a pedestrian tunnel to major cultural institutions.

Proximity to Landmarks

Its strategic location places it adjacent to world-renowned institutions such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. Other key landmarks nearby include the Royal Albert Hall, Imperial College London, and the Royal College of Music, making it a vital gateway for tourists and students alike.

A Rich History

Sub-Surface Origins

South Kensington station commenced operations on December 24, 1868, initially serving the Metropolitan Railway (MR) and the District Railway (DR) as part of their eastward extension. Designed by Sir John Fowler, the original station featured two platforms. The DR later opened its own facilities on July 10, 1871, with an enlarged station including a bay platform for terminating MR trains. The station's layout and track configuration have undergone several modifications over the decades, notably in the 1960s.

Deep-Level Development

To alleviate congestion on the sub-surface lines, an express deep-level tube line was planned. This culminated in the opening of deep-level platforms on December 15, 1906, by the Great Northern, Piccadilly and Brompton Railway (GNP&BR). These platforms, featuring Leslie Green's distinctive terracotta facade, were later enhanced with escalators in the 1970s to improve inter-platform connectivity.

Architectural Significance

The station boasts significant architectural heritage. The arcaded station entrance, shops, brick retaining walls for the sub-surface platforms, and the Exhibition Road pedestrian tunnel are all designated Grade II listed structures. This recognition underscores the station's historical and aesthetic value within London's transport infrastructure.

Future Redevelopment

Proposals for redeveloping the station site have been considered since 1989. More recent plans, published in 2016, aimed to reconfigure the station, potentially bringing a disused platform back into use, improving step-free access, and modernizing facilities. These plans have progressed through the planning process, indicating ongoing evolution for this historic station.

Serving Key Lines

Circle Line

The Circle line connects South Kensington with major London landmarks, forming a loop through central London. Preceding stations include Gloucester Road, and following stations are Sloane Square. The line utilizes S7 Stock rolling stock.

District Line

The District line offers extensive service, with branches extending to Ealing Broadway, Richmond, and Wimbledon in the west, and eastward towards Upminster. South Kensington serves as a key interchange point. Preceding stations are Gloucester Road, and following stations are Sloane Square. The line primarily uses S7 Stock.

Piccadilly Line

The Piccadilly line provides access to Heathrow Airport and destinations across North London, including Cockfosters. At South Kensington, it connects to Gloucester Road (westbound) and Knightsbridge (eastbound). The line operates with 1973 Stock, with future upgrades planned for 2024 Stock.

Operational Services

Frequencies

Train frequencies vary by line and time of day. The District line typically runs every 2-6 minutes eastbound and westbound. The Circle line operates approximately every 8-12 minutes clockwise and anticlockwise. The Piccadilly line maintains a high frequency, with trains running every 2-6 minutes throughout its operational hours.

Rolling Stock

The station's platforms are served by distinct rolling stock. The Circle and District lines predominantly use the modern S7 Stock trains. The Piccadilly line utilizes the 1973 Stock, known for its distinctive design, with plans for the introduction of the new 2024 Stock in the future.

Connecting London

Bus Routes

South Kensington station is a major bus interchange, with numerous London Buses routes serving the area. Key routes include the 14, 49, 70, 74, 345, 360, 430, and C1. Night services are also available, with routes N74 and N97 operating through the night.

Cycling Facilities

For cyclists, a Santander Cycles docking station is conveniently located north of the station on Thurlow Street, providing an accessible option for last-mile travel or exploring the surrounding museum district.

Cultural Resonance

Mentioned in Song

South Kensington station holds a place in cultural history, notably being mentioned in the Gilbert and Sullivan operetta Iolanthe. It is referenced in the song "When You're Lying Awake," alongside Sloane Square station, highlighting its presence in London's cultural landscape.

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References

An example of an air rights development is adjacent Gloucester Road station where the Circle and District line platforms were roofed over in the 1990s for the construction of a shopping mall and an apartment building.

A full list of references for this article are available at the South Kensington tube station Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional transport planning, architectural, or historical consultation. Always refer to official Transport for London documentation and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

South Kensington Station Unveiled

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Station Overview ℹ️

📍 Location & Lines

📊 Usage & Infrastructure

🏛️ Proximity to Landmarks

A Rich History ⏳

🏗️ Sub-Surface Origins

🚇 Deep-Level Development

📜 Architectural Significance

🏗️ Future Redevelopment

Serving Key Lines 🛤️

🔵 Circle Line

🟢 District Line

🟣 Piccadilly Line

Operational Services ⏱️

⏰ Frequencies

🚆 Rolling Stock

Connecting London 🔗

🚌 Bus Routes

🚲 Cycling Facilities

Cultural Resonance 📖

🎶 Mentioned in Song

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Station Overview

Location & Lines

Usage & Infrastructure

Proximity to Landmarks

A Rich History

Sub-Surface Origins

Deep-Level Development

Architectural Significance

Future Redevelopment

Serving Key Lines

Circle Line

District Line

Piccadilly Line

Operational Services

Frequencies

Rolling Stock

Connecting London

Bus Routes

Cycling Facilities

Cultural Resonance

Mentioned in Song

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice