Fairlop

Fairlop Tube Station is a London Underground station located in the north-eastern part of London, on the Central line. It was opened in 1903 as part of the Great Eastern Railway’s Fairlop Loop Line, which connected Ilford and Woodford. The station was initially named “Hainault Loop”, but was later renamed to its current name in 1906.

The station is located in the Fairlop Plain area, which used to be a rural area with many farms and fields. However, in the 19th century, the area started to develop and many houses were built, attracting new residents to the area. The construction of the railway line and the station facilitated the growth of the area, making it easier for people to commute to and from London.

One of the most famous landmarks in the area is Fairlop Waters, which is a large lake surrounded by beautiful greenery and woodland. The lake was created in the 18th century when a dam was built across the Roding River. It was originally used for fishing and boating, but in the 20th century, it was turned into a public park with many amenities such as a golf course, an outdoor gym, and a café.

Another local landmark is Hainault Forest, which is a large forested area located to the south of the station. The forest has a long history, dating back to the 12th century when it was a royal hunting ground. Over the years, the forest has been used for many purposes, including timber production, charcoal burning, and grazing. Today, it is a popular recreational area, with many walking trails, picnic areas, and wildlife to explore.

In the early 20th century, the Fairlop Aerodrome was built nearby, which was used for military purposes during World War II. After the war, the aerodrome was turned into a civilian airport, but it was eventually closed in 1964 due to noise complaints from nearby residents. Today, the site is used for housing development and a small industrial estate.

In terms of architecture, the station itself is a Grade II listed building, which means that it is considered to be of special architectural or historical interest. The station was designed by architect Charles Holden, who was responsible for designing many other iconic London Underground stations, such as Arnos Grove and Chiswick Park. The station features many of Holden’s signature design elements, such as the use of curved concrete and glass.

In conclusion, Fairlop Tube Station and its surrounding area have a rich and diverse history, with many interesting landmarks and attractions to explore. From the beautiful Fairlop Waters to the historic Hainault Forest, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this part of London.