Dollis Hill

Dollis Hill Tube Station is a London Underground station situated in the north-west of the city, serving the Jubilee line. The station was opened on the 1st of October 1909 by the Metropolitan Railway, as part of its extension into north-west London. At the time of its opening, it was located in a rural area, surrounded by fields and farmland.

The station was initially named Dudding Hill, after a nearby hill, but was renamed Dollis Hill in 1910. The name Dollis Hill comes from the nearby Dollis Brook, which runs through the area. The station was designed by the architect Stanley Heaps, who also designed other stations on the Jubilee line such as Willesden Green and Neasden.

In the early 20th century, Dollis Hill was a quiet suburb, with a mix of residential and commercial properties. The area became more densely populated after the First World War, and in the 1920s and 1930s, many new housing developments were built in the area. These developments included the Dollis Hill Estate, which was built by the London County Council in the 1920s.

During the Second World War, Dollis Hill Tube Station played an important role in the war effort. The station was used as a secret research facility by the British government, where scientists worked on the development of radar technology. The research carried out at Dollis Hill was instrumental in the Allied victory in the war, and the station is now designated as a site of national importance.

Today, Dollis Hill is a vibrant and diverse area, with a mix of residential and commercial properties. The area is home to a number of local landmarks, including:

Gladstone Park: This large park is located to the north of Dollis Hill, and covers an area of over 35 hectares. The park features a number of sports facilities, including football pitches and tennis courts, as well as a children’s playground and a cafe.

St. Mary’s Church: This historic church is located on Neasden Lane, and dates back to the 14th century. The church is a Grade II listed building, and features a number of interesting architectural features, including a Norman doorway and a 15th century font.

Neasden Temple: This Hindu temple, also known as the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, is located to the south of Dollis Hill. The temple was opened in 1995, and is the largest Hindu temple in the UK. The temple is a stunning example of traditional Hindu architecture, and features intricate carvings and sculptures.

Overall, Dollis Hill and its surrounding area have a rich history and a number of interesting landmarks. From its role in the development of radar technology during the Second World War, to its beautiful parks and historic churches, there is plenty to explore and discover in this vibrant part of London.