Mill Hill East

Mill Hill East Tube Station is a London Underground station located in the Mill Hill area of Barnet, North London. The station is part of the Northern line and is situated on the branch that runs between High Barnet and Finchley Central, which was opened in 1940.

Before the station was built, Mill Hill was a rural area with a small village centre. However, the arrival of the railway in the mid-19th century brought rapid change to the area, and the population grew significantly. The station was built to serve this growing community and was opened on 18 May 1941. It was designed by the architect Charles Holden, who was responsible for many of the iconic Underground stations built in the 1920s and 1930s.

The station’s design is typical of Holden’s style, with a simple, modernist aesthetic that emphasises functionality and efficiency. The exterior features a combination of brickwork and concrete, with large windows and a distinctive curved roof that gives the building a distinctive appearance. Inside, the station is spacious and light, with a ticket hall and platform areas that are open and airy.

Over the years, the station has undergone several renovations and upgrades to keep up with changing demands. In the 1960s, the platforms were extended to accommodate longer trains, and in the 1980s, the station was refurbished with new lighting, signage and other modern features.

Mill Hill East is also home to several notable landmarks and attractions. One of the most prominent is the Mill Hill Observatory, which is situated on a hilltop overlooking the surrounding area. The observatory was built in 1929 and is now managed by the University of London Observatory. It is used for research and teaching, and is open to the public for special events and stargazing sessions.

Another local landmark is the Dollis Brook Viaduct, which is a Grade II listed structure that spans the Dollis Brook valley. The viaduct was built in 1868 as part of the railway line that ran through the area, and is now used by the Northern Line. It is an impressive sight, with 13 arches that are each 13 metres wide.

Other notable attractions in the area include the RAF Museum in nearby Hendon, which houses a collection of historic aircraft and aviation artefacts, and the Mill Hill Music Complex, which is a popular rehearsal and recording studio used by many local musicians.

Overall, Mill Hill East Tube Station and the surrounding area have a rich and fascinating history that is reflected in the many landmarks and attractions that can be found here. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the area, there is plenty to discover and explore.