Piccadilly Circus

Piccadilly Circus Tube Station is one of the most famous and busiest stations in London’s Underground network. Located in the heart of the West End, the station serves as a hub for tourists and locals alike, connecting them to major attractions and destinations across the city. The station is named after the famous Piccadilly Circus intersection, which is just a stone’s throw away.

Piccadilly Circus itself has a rich history. Originally an open space, it was named after a popular 17th-century tailor, Robert Baker, who sold piccadills, a type of frilled collar. Over time, the area evolved into a bustling commercial district, with theaters, shops, and restaurants popping up all around it. In the early 20th century, Piccadilly Circus became known for its bright lights and advertising billboards, earning it the nickname “the Times Square of London.”

The Piccadilly Circus Tube Station was opened in 1906 as part of the Bakerloo line extension. It was designed by Leslie Green, who was known for his distinctive style of station architecture, characterized by the use of ox-blood red tiles. The station was expanded in the 1920s with the addition of a subway tunnel, which connected it to the nearby Leicester Square station.

One of the most iconic landmarks in the area is the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain, which stands at the center of Piccadilly Circus. Erected in 1893, the fountain features a statue of the Greek god Anteros, and is commonly referred to as the Eros statue. The fountain has become a popular meeting spot for tourists and locals alike, and is often featured in films and TV shows set in London.

Another notable landmark in the area is the Criterion Theatre, which is located just a few steps away from the station. The theater was built in 1874, and has hosted many famous productions over the years, including Noel Coward’s “Private Lives” and Harold Pinter’s “The Birthday Party.” The theater is also known for its elegant interior, which features ornate ceilings, chandeliers, and plush red seats.

One of the most popular shopping destinations in the area is the Trocadero Centre, which is located just across the street from the station. The center features a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, including a cinema and a bowling alley. The Trocadero was originally built in the 19th century as a hotel, but was converted into a shopping center in the 1980s.

In recent years, Piccadilly Circus has undergone a major renovation, which included the removal of the famous advertising billboards. The new design features a pedestrianized area, with seating and planters, making the area more welcoming to visitors. The Tube Station itself has also undergone a refurbishment, with new signage and a more streamlined layout.

In conclusion, Piccadilly Circus Tube Station and its surrounding landmarks have a rich and fascinating history, dating back to the 19th century. From its origins as a commercial district to its current status as a major tourist destination, the area has evolved and adapted to meet the changing needs of Londoners and visitors alike. Whether you’re looking for shopping, entertainment, or just a place to meet friends, Piccadilly Circus is sure to have something to offer.