Northfields

Northfields Tube Station is a station on the Piccadilly Line of the London Underground, located in the Northfields area of Ealing, West London. The station opened on 16th December 1908, as part of the extension of the District Railway (now the Piccadilly Line) from Acton Town to Hounslow. Originally, the station was named Northfields Halt, reflecting its rural location at the time.

The area around Northfields has undergone significant changes since the station opened. In the early 20th century, the area was largely rural, with orchards, market gardens, and a few scattered cottages. However, the arrival of the railway and the opening of the station brought about a period of rapid development and urbanisation.

One of the most notable landmarks in the area is the Brentham Garden Suburb, which was built in the early 20th century. Designed by architects E. G. Trobridge and C. H. James, Brentham is a unique example of suburban planning, characterised by its winding roads, open spaces, and Arts and Crafts-style houses. The suburb was designed to provide a high standard of living for working-class families, with spacious houses, gardens, and communal facilities.

Another landmark in the area is the Northfields Allotments, which were established in 1832 and are one of the oldest and largest allotment sites in London. The allotments cover an area of around 50 acres and are home to over 400 plots, each tended by local residents. The site is also a designated Site of Importance for Nature Conservation, with a range of wildlife habitats, including ponds, meadows, and hedgerows.

In the 1920s and 1930s, the area around Northfields became a hub for the film industry, with several studios and production companies based in the area. One of the most famous studios was the London Film Productions studio, which was located on Ealing Green and produced a series of classic films in the 1930s, including The Lady Vanishes and The 39 Steps.

Today, Northfields is a bustling and diverse neighbourhood, with a range of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. One of the most popular attractions is the Questors Theatre, which is located just a short walk from the station. The theatre was founded in 1929 and is one of the largest community theatres in Europe, with a range of productions throughout the year.

Other notable landmarks in the area include the Ealing Broadway Shopping Centre, the Ealing Cricket Club, and the Gunnersbury Park Museum, which is located just a short distance from Northfields and features a range of exhibits on the history of the local area.

Overall, Northfields Tube Station and the surrounding area have a rich and varied history, reflecting the growth and development of London over the past century. From rural beginnings to a bustling urban neighbourhood, Northfields has undergone significant changes, but has retained its unique character and charm.