Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Northern line

The Northern line is a major route on the London Underground, extending from in through the city centre to northern termini at , High Barnet, and Mill Hill East, with a recent extension branching to . It operates as a north-south corridor with two central branches—one via [Charing Cross](/page/Charing Cross) and the other via —serving 52 stations across a that includes both deep-level tunnels and some surface sections. Colored black on the , the line is one of the network's busiest, handling key commuter flows between London's suburbs and its West End and financial districts. Formed in 1937 through the merger of the (opened in 1890 as the world's first deep-level tube) and the Charing Cross, Euston and Hampstead Railway (opened in 1907), the Northern line represents an amalgamation of three original railways plus later extensions, resulting in its distinctive six-branch structure. The 2021 extension added two new stations at and , enhancing connectivity to southwest London and increasing the total to 52 stations from the original 50. Operated by using 1995 Tube Stock trains, the line features automated signaling upgrades and step-free access at several key interchanges, supporting high-frequency services during peak hours.

History

Early planning and formation

The origins of the Northern line trace back to two independent Victorian-era deep-level tube railways, the City and South London Railway (C&SLR) and the Charing Cross, Euston and Hampstead Railway (CCE&HR), which formed its core before their later amalgamation. The C&SLR emerged from plans dating to the 1880s, when growing urban congestion in London prompted proposals for an underground line connecting the City with south London suburbs. Parliamentary powers were obtained in 1884 and expanded in 1888, with construction beginning in 1887 under engineer James Henry Greathead, who utilized his innovative tunneling shield to bore narrow-diameter tunnels through the London clay. This shield, an iron cylinder advanced by hydraulic jacks and stabilized with compressed air and cement grout, marked a pivotal advancement in tube boring technology, enabling safer and more efficient deep-level excavation compared to earlier cut-and-cover methods. Construction of the C&SLR faced significant engineering challenges, including tunneling beneath the River Thames and navigating waterlogged ground, which required careful of groundwater ingress and structural . Contractors such as & Hemingway handled the excavation, employing Greathead's to create 16-foot diameter tunnels at depths of up to 70 feet. The line opened on 4 1890 as the world's first deep-level electric railway, running 1.75 miles from Stockwell to King William Street (near the ) with intermediate stations at , , , and . Powered by electricity from a substation at Stockwell using a system, it dispensed with steam locomotives entirely, though initial rolling stock consisted of small, windowless "padded cell" trains limited to 32 passengers each due to the constrained tunnel size. The CCE&HR, which would become the Northern line's northern branch, originated from an 1893 parliamentary bill but stalled due to funding shortages until American financier revived it in 1900 through his Underground Electric Railways Company of London (UERL). Yerkes' consortium provided the necessary capital, enabling construction to commence in 1903 with similar deep-tube techniques, including shield boring by specialized contractors to link with and beyond. The line opened on 22 June 1907, extending 8.25 miles from northward to , with a 1-mile branch from to (originally Highgate Road station). Like its predecessor, it operated electrically from inception, with stations featuring distinctive oxblood terracotta facades designed by Leslie Green. Through the early 1910s, both railways operated independently, with the C&SLR extending northward to in 1901 and in 1904 to improve , while the CCE&HR focused on suburban expansion. Electrification efforts were already complete at opening, but ongoing improvements included larger trains for the C&SLR by 1912 to address capacity constraints from its original undersized infrastructure. These "tube" contractors and engineers laid the groundwork for the Northern line's formation, demonstrating the viability of electric deep-level rail for urban mass transit despite financial and geological hurdles.

Integration into London Underground

In the early 1920s, the (C&SLR), operational since 1890 as the world's first deep-level electric tube line, and the Charing Cross, Euston & Hampstead Railway (CCE&HR), opened in 1907, underwent significant integration efforts under the ownership of the Underground Electric Railways Company of London (UERL). Work began in 1922 to physically link the two lines, including the construction of new tunnels between Euston and and between and , enabling through services and forming the core of what would become a unified route. This absorption process involved widening the narrow C&SLR tunnels, which were closed for five months in late 1923 to accommodate larger trains, and rerouting sections to improve connectivity. These adjustments, such as the 1924 "Euston Loop" that bypassed station to join the lines south of , enhanced operational efficiency despite the technical challenges of aligning differing tunnel diameters and gradients. The extensions completed in the mid-1920s further solidified this unification, with the CCE&HR reaching in 1924 and the C&SLR extending southward to in 1926, both electrified to match the existing electric traction systems. At this stage, the combined route was informally referred to as the "Morden line" due to its prominent southern terminus, reflecting the focus on suburban expansion. These developments marked a shift from independent operations to a more cohesive network under UERL management, setting the foundation for standardized services across north and south London branches. The creation of the London Passenger Transport Board (LPTB) on 1 July 1933 represented the culmination of these unification efforts, bringing all underground railways, including the C&SLR and CCE&HR, along with the and surface transport operators, under a single public authority. This administrative consolidation eliminated fragmented ticketing and operations, allowing for coordinated planning and the formal naming of the integrated line as the ", and line" in 1933, later simplified to "Morden- line" in 1934. The LPTB's oversight also briefly incorporated the Great Northern & City Railway, providing a prelude to further connections in the decade ahead. Under the LPTB, these integrations improved line coherence by standardizing infrastructure and services, directly influencing the ambitious New Works Programme announced in 1935, which built upon the connections to pursue extensive extensions and modernizations for a more unified system. This prelude emphasized the benefits of centralized control in addressing and suburban growth, transforming disparate routes into a strategically planned .

1930s extensions

The marked a period of significant expansion for what would become the Northern line, building on earlier infrastructure through the London Passenger Transport Board's (LPTB) ambitious New Works Programme announced in 1935. This initiative aimed to modernize and extend the , with the Northern line—then known as the Morden-Edgware line—receiving key investments to connect suburban branches and improve connectivity. One major project under the programme involved the integration and extension of the former (C&SLR) southward. Although initially opened in stages up to by 1900, the full extension to commenced construction in the early 1920s and opened on 13 September 1926, adding seven new stations: Clapham South, , (originally Tooting Town), Tooting Broadway, , South Wimbledon, and . These stations, designed by architect in a modernist style, featured brick-built structures with prominent brick towers at major stops like , reflecting the LPTB's push for suburban development in . The 6.6-mile extension from to enhanced access to growing residential areas, with station serving as the southern terminus and incorporating escalators for efficiency. To the north, the Hampstead branch (formerly the Charing Cross, Euston & Hampstead Railway) had been extended from under plans dating to 1923, reaching Hendon Central on 19 September 1923 and on 18 August 1924. This 3.4-mile addition completed the suburban outreach to , with stations at , Hendon Central, and designed to support interwar housing growth. Although constructed in the mid-1920s, these segments were further integrated and electrified as part of the 1935 New Works Programme, facilitating through services and preparing for additional northward ambitions. The programme also incorporated the Great Northern & City Railway (GN&CR), a deep-level line opened in 1904 from to with larger-diameter tunnels intended for mainline trains. Following the LPTB's formation in 1933, the GN&CR was operationally transferred to the Northern line in the mid-1930s, branded accordingly from 1937 despite lacking physical connection to the core network due to tunnel gauge differences. This absorption added a branch serving the City and , boosting overall capacity. Station improvements exemplified the era's focus on modernization, including the resiting of Archway (originally Highgate) station. As part of the New Works linkage between the and branches, the platforms were relocated southward from their original cutting position, with escalators installed and the station rebuilt between 1935 and 1939. The updated facility opened on 24 July 1939, coinciding with the renaming to Archway to distinguish it from the new station on the extension to . By 1937, these developments culminated in the official renaming of the combined Morden-Edgware route to the "Northern line" on 28 August, reflecting its north-south span and the programme's vision for a unified system. This nomenclature, alongside the Central line's, standardized the Underground's identity under the LPTB.

Abandoned Northern Heights project

The Northern Heights project, announced in June 1935 as part of the London Passenger Transport Board's New Works Programme, envisioned a major expansion of the Northern line by integrating it with existing () surface lines in . The scheme aimed to create a seamless electric network serving northern suburbs, with proposed extensions from to Bushey Heath and from Archway to via , promoting efficient mainline-tube integration for commuters. This would have electrified branches, such as those to High and Mill Hill East, while adding new infrastructure to connect isolated rail segments. Key elements included constructing links to LNER lines at and , alongside new or upgraded stations like Crouch Hill on the Finsbury Park branch and Brockley Hill near . At , the existing surface station was resited to high-level platforms, with a new deep-level tube station built below to facilitate through services from . Other planned features encompassed a depot at and additional stations such as Elstree South and Heath, designed to support anticipated suburban growth in areas like . Stations like Bull & Bush, an earlier unopened proposal on the Hampstead branch, highlighted the project's roots in long-standing but unrealized Underground ambitions, though it was not directly revived here. Construction advanced in the late 1930s, achieving partial openings such as the East Finchley to Highgate link in July 1939 and the new deep-level Highgate station in January 1941, allowing initial tube services on the integrated route. However, the outbreak of World War II in September 1939 halted most work, with resources diverted to defense; for example, the Elstree depot site was repurposed for munitions production. Wartime disruptions, including bomb damage to tracks and stations, further delayed electrification of LNER branches like Finsbury Park to Alexandra Palace. Post-war challenges led to the project's formal abandonment on 9 1954, as costs soared amid economic constraints and the 1948 of railways under British Railways shifted priorities away from suburban expansions. The introduction of the Metropolitan in 1947 restricted housing development that would have justified the lines, redirecting funds instead to projects like the Central line's western extension. Consequently, planned stations such as Brockley Hill and Bushey Heath were never built, leaving the Northern line without its intended northern connections and preserving remnants like unused tunnels at as historical relics.

Post-war changes and 1990s upgrades

Following the Second World War, the Northern line experienced relatively few structural alterations in the 1950s and 1960s, as economic constraints led to the formal abandonment of the pre-war Northern Heights extension plans, including further development of the East branch beyond its existing terminus. The East branch, integrated into the Northern line in via of the former Great Northern Railway line, continued operations unchanged , though the planned link to via a new alignment was permanently shelved due to the introduction of the , which restricted suburban development. During the 1960s and 1970s, modifications were primarily limited to enhancements at key interchanges, such as expanded platforms and better connectivity at Euston and stations, to accommodate growing passenger volumes without major line expansions. A significant operational shift occurred in 1975 when the Northern City branch, running from to , was decoupled from control following the Moorgate disaster on 28 February of that year, in which a southbound Northern City line train overran the buffers at , killing 43 people and injuring over 70; the branch was subsequently transferred to ownership in October 1975. The 1987 , which originated on a wooden at the station serving both Piccadilly and Northern lines and resulted in 31 deaths, prompted widespread safety reforms across the , including the immediate replacement of all wooden escalators with metal ones and the extension of the to all station areas and trains effective 23 November 1987; Northern line escalators at King's Cross were among those swiftly upgraded as part of this response to address fire risks from accumulated debris and poor ventilation. In response to these safety concerns and rising ridership, which had strained the aging infrastructure, the line's 1938 stock trains—some nearly 50 years old—were withdrawn in 1988 and replaced by 1972 stock transferred from the , improving reliability but highlighting the need for broader modernization. The 1990s marked a turning point with the launch of a comprehensive refurbishment program in 1995, driven by years of under-investment, escalating passenger demand exceeding 800,000 daily journeys by the mid-, and ongoing safety imperatives following incidents like the . This initiative encompassed track renewals to eliminate speed restrictions, enhancements for more reliable operations, and the modernization of several stations, including the reopening of in 1992 after a closure for upgrades and the completion of station's £55 million rebuild in 1993, which featured new 500-meter tunnels, a wider platform, and the longest escalators on the network. upgrades included the progressive introduction of purpose-built 1995 stock trains starting on 12 June 1998, with all 106 six-car units in service by 2001, replacing the mixed fleet of older stock and providing improved accessibility, air-conditioning prototypes, and reduced maintenance needs. The concurrent construction and 1999 opening of the indirectly benefited the Northern line by diverting passengers from overcrowded central sections, such as between and , thereby easing peak-hour pressures and allowing focus on Northern-specific improvements like preliminary signaling reviews that laid groundwork for future capacity increases.

Recent developments

Battersea extension

The Northern line extension to Battersea was approved on 12 November 2014 by the Secretary of State for Transport, forming a key component of the Vauxhall, Nine Elms, and Battersea (VNEB) Opportunity Area regeneration initiative. The project, estimated at £1.1 billion, was largely funded through private sector contributions from property developers in the area, including those redeveloping , rather than public funding. Construction commenced in early 2015, focusing on a 3.2 km southward extension from via twin bored tunnels to serve the emerging residential and commercial districts. Two tunnel boring machines (TBMs), each with a 5.2 m diameter cutting head, were deployed to excavate the running tunnels through at depths up to 26 m, completing the breakthrough in 2017. The works included two new underground stations: , located adjacent to Pascal Street to support local housing and employment growth, and , positioned at the heart of the iconic power station redevelopment as the line's terminus. The extension opened to the public on 20 September 2021, adding a dedicated branch to the Northern line's route and enabling direct services from to the southwest in under 15 minutes. This integration has boosted connectivity for the VNEB area, facilitating the creation of approximately 20,000 new homes and 25,000 jobs while reducing pressure on existing transport links like . In October 2025, a second step-free entrance opened at station on Electric Boulevard, providing fully accessible lifts to the platforms and aligning with ongoing network-wide accessibility enhancements.

Signalling upgrades and 2025 timetable

The Northern line's signalling system underwent a major upgrade to (CBTC) using Thales Seltrac technology, completed in 2015 as part of a broader modernisation programme to enhance capacity and reliability. This upgrade transitioned the line from conventional fixed-block signalling to a moving-block system, which uses continuous radio communication between trains and the control centre to determine precise train positions and safe braking distances in . The implementation was achieved with minimal disruption to passenger services, allowing the line to maintain operations during the commissioning phase. The CBTC rollout focused on the entire line, including the eastern branch, enabling closer train spacing and more efficient use of track . Prior to the , the line operated under fixed-block signalling, which limited headways to around 2.5 minutes due to reliance on track circuits for train detection. With CBTC, headways were reduced to approximately 2.3 minutes on the branch, supporting up to 26 trains per hour—compared to 24 trains per hour previously—while the branch achieved 22 trains per hour and the southern sections up to 30 trains per hour during peak times. This resulted in an overall capacity increase of 20% across the line, addressing growing demand without requiring additional track . Integration with other London Underground lines was facilitated through the CBTC system's compatibility with existing network controls, improving interchange efficiency at key junctions like Euston and , where signalling coordination ensures smoother transitions for through services. The upgrade complemented the introduction of new 1995 Tube Stock between 1997 and 2000, which feature capabilities aligned with CBTC requirements. By 2025, these enhancements continue to underpin the line's operations, with the timetable maintaining peak frequencies of 26 per hour on the Bank branch to deliver consistent service levels amid ongoing demand pressures.

Station capacity and accessibility improvements

In the 2020s, Transport for London (TfL) has prioritized upgrades to Northern line stations to address overcrowding and improve accessibility, particularly for passengers with disabilities. A key project is the redevelopment of Elephant & Castle station, which includes a new entrance and expanded ticket hall for the Northern line platforms, set to increase overall station capacity by 25-40% to accommodate projected growth in passenger numbers. The station box for the new entrance and expanded ticket hall was completed in mid-2025. Passenger tunnel construction is scheduled to begin in late 2025 and complete in 2027, introducing step-free access from street level to the platforms for the first time via escalators and lifts to enhance flow and inclusivity, with the station expected to open in 2029. TfL's step-free access program has targeted several Northern line stations, with early cost estimates released in September 2025 for upgrades at five locations: (£98.5 million to £262.5 million), (£41.7 million to £111.3 million), (£40.4 million to £107.8 million), (£94.8 million to £253 million), and Tooting Broadway (£53 million to £141 million). These retrofits aim to install lifts and adjust infrastructure to eliminate stairs between street and platform, significantly benefiting users with mobility impairments by reducing physical barriers and travel times. Related efforts include step-free enhancements at Clapham South and , prioritized alongside the others to address high-demand areas on the Morden branch. Colindale station's step-free access, including a new ticket hall and upgraded lifts, is scheduled for completion by the end of 2025, marking a milestone in northern extensions' accessibility. A notable achievement occurred in October 2025, when TfL opened a second step-free entrance at station, providing direct lift access from street level to platforms and improving connectivity for local residents and visitors. These initiatives align with TfL's broader ambition to make 50% of stations step-free by 2030, up from approximately 93 in early 2025, to foster greater independence for disabled and promote equitable use. However, funding constraints pose ongoing challenges, with rising costs potentially delaying projects and requiring careful based on passenger volumes and feasibility studies. Despite these hurdles, the upgrades have already enhanced disability access, enabling smoother journeys and reducing reliance on assistance services at key Northern line interchanges.

Route and services

Line branches and layout

The Northern line features a distinctive branched layout, unique among London Underground lines, with multiple northern and southern termini connected through a narrow central section. This structure results in two northern branches and two southern branches, allowing services to diverge and converge at key points. The line's overall path forms a complex network spanning north and south London, with a total length of 58 km. From the north, the line splits into three branches originating near : the High Barnet branch, which extends northwest through to High Barnet; the branch, running via and to ; and the short Mill Hill East branch, a single-station diverging from . These branches serve suburban areas in the , funneling passengers toward . The junction at accommodates this divergence with four platforms, enabling crossovers between the /High Barnet lines and the separate branch path. In the central section, the line divides into two parallel routes through : the Charing Cross branch, passing west of the city via stations like and to connect with the West End; and the Bank branch, routing east through King's Cross St Pancras and to serve the financial district. This dual central alignment, which rejoins south of the Thames, creates operational flexibility but also complexity at interchanges. station on the branch stands as the line's deepest point, at 58.5 metres below ground level. South of the river, the line again branches at , where a allows southbound trains from the branch to reverse direction without changing ends, facilitating efficient turnarounds. One southern arm continues to via and Tooting Broadway, serving southwest suburbs; the other, opened in 2021, extends from Kennington to , providing a direct link to the area. This southern configuration mirrors the northern splits, emphasizing the line's role in connecting outer zones to central hubs, as illustrated in high-level route diagrams.

Station list

The Northern line comprises 52 open stations, spanning approximately 58 kilometres from its northern termini in suburban London to its southern endpoints in south London. The route is divided into distinct branches, with a key junction at where trains split towards either the or branches in ; further south, services diverge at into the and branches, facilitated by a loop allowing flexible routing. Stations are listed below by branch, with brief notes on notable features where relevant.

Northern branches

High Barnet branch (from Camden Town via East Finchley): This 11-station branch serves residential areas in , terminating at High Barnet.
  • High Barnet: Surface-level terminus opened in 1940, serving town centre.
  • Totteridge & Whetstone: Elevated station with woodland views, opened 1933.
  • Woodside Park: Suburban stop near , opened 1932.
  • West Finchley: Opened 1932, providing access to nearby parks.
  • : Junction for the short Mill Hill East spur, opened 1867 ( since 1940).
  • : Features the iconic Dick Whittington statue, opened 1867.
  • : Deep-level platforms below the abandoned high-level station, opened 1907.
  • Archway: Formerly named Highgate, resited in 1939 for better access.
  • : Opened 1907, near local markets.
  • : Interchange with , opened 1907.
  • : Major junction station opened 1907, handling branch splits.
Edgware branch (from Camden Town via Golders Green): This 10-station branch extends to suburban , passing through Jewish and multicultural neighbourhoods. Mill Hill East spur (from Finchley Central): A short single-station branch.
  • Mill Hill East: Surface-level terminus opened 1941, serving residential .

Central London branches

Charing Cross branch (from ): This 9-station section runs west through theatre district and government areas. Bank branch (from Camden Town): This 8-station section heads east through financial and East End areas.
  • King's Cross St. Pancras: Premier interchange hub, opened 1907.
  • : Step-free since 1992 resiting, opened 1901.
  • : Tech district ("Silicon Roundabout"), opened 1901.
  • : Financial interchange, opened 1900.
  • : Deep-level complex in , opened 1900.
  • : Major transport hub, opened 1900.
  • : Near , opened 1890.
  • Elephant & Castle: Interchange with tram and bus, opened 1890.

Southern branches

Kennington loop and Morden branch (from Elephant & Castle via ): The 12-station Morden branch serves south London suburbs, with the loop at allowing trains to reverse direction.
  • : Junction for loop and branches, opened 1890; features reversing sidings.
  • : Near cricket ground, opened 1890.
  • : Interchange with , opened 1890.
  • Clapham North: Opened 1926, deep-level.
  • : Surface-level common, opened 1926.
  • Clapham South: Near common, opened 1926; wartime deep shelter.
  • : Interchange with , opened 1926.
  • : Opened 1926, serving Tooting.
  • Tooting Broadway: Shopping area stop, opened 1926.
  • : Near , opened 1926.
  • South Wimbledon: interchange, opened 1926.
  • : Southern terminus opened 1926, surface-level with depot nearby.
Battersea branch (from , opened 2021): This 2-station extension serves redeveloped areas in southwest . Over its history, several stations have closed permanently, including King William Street (1900), the original southern terminus of the City & South London Railway replaced by due to alignment issues; City Road (1922), closed for low usage; South (1924), unviable early closure; and Down Street (1932), later repurposed as an emergency facility. was resited northward in 1992 to eliminate a tight curve and enhance accessibility. The aborted Northern Heights project of the 1930s left multiple stations abandoned or unbuilt, including the high-level platforms at (closed 1957, never connected to the ), and planned surface stations at , , and Stroud Green on the former Great Northern & City Railway line, which were integrated only partially before wartime suspension. Unbuilt stations like North End (Bull & Bush) near were prepared but never opened due to post-war cancellations.

Operating patterns and frequencies

The Northern line operates a complex pattern of services across its multiple branches, with trains distributed to balance passenger demand and prevent bottlenecks, particularly at Camden Town station where the northern branches converge. During peak hours (Monday to Friday, 06:30–09:30 and 16:00–19:00), the line achieves 28 trains per hour (tph) through central sections as of 2025, enabling high-capacity commuting from north and suburbs to key interchanges like King's Cross St Pancras and . Specific routings include 12 tph from to via , 4 tph from to via , 2 tph from to via , 8 tph from High Barnet to via , 4 tph from High Barnet to via , and 2 tph from Mill Hill East to via , ensuring even distribution across the four northern terminals and three southern destinations. This balancing act at Camden Town allocates services proportionally to the Edgware/High Barnet and Mill Hill East branches to mitigate overcrowding on the busy junction platforms. Off-peak services (all other times) run at 24 tph overall, with patterns such as 8 tph from to via , 8 tph from to via , 4 tph from High Barnet to via , 4 tph from High Barnet to via , and 2 tph from East to via , maintaining reliable connectivity while easing platform congestion. The January 2025 timetable, implemented following the completion of signalling upgrades under the programme, increased capacity on the eastern branches (High Barnet and East) by approximately 20%, allowing for more consistent headways and better integration with the Battersea extension. Trains on the branch typically turnaround using the loop, a single-track reversal facility south of station that enables efficient service recovery without occupying through platforms. Night Tube services operate on the Northern line every Friday and Saturday night, providing 24-hour connectivity across the full route from approximately 23:00 to 06:30, with trains running every 10–20 minutes on both and branches—unlike earlier limitations on the Bank branch due to past . This extension, introduced in 2016 and fully realized by 2025, supports London's night-time economy by linking northern suburbs like and directly to southern destinations including and . All services utilize the 1995 Tube Stock rolling stock, which facilitates these frequencies through its automated train operation compatibility.

Infrastructure

Rolling stock

The Northern line operates exclusively with 1995 Tube Stock trains, consisting of 252 three-car units forming 106 six-car trains, built by between 1996 and 1999 and introduced into service from 1997 to 2000. As of 2025, the 1995 Tube Stock continues to be the sole in use on the Northern line, with no new trains introduced. These trains are designed for compatibility with the deep-level tube infrastructure, featuring a standard gauge of 1,435 mm and powered by a 630 V DC fourth-rail traction system with floating earth return. Each six-car train has a total passenger capacity of 662, including 248 seated passengers, supporting high-volume commuter traffic on the line's branches. The fleet underwent refurbishment between 2013 and 2015 to enhance accessibility and reliability, incorporating improved lighting, seating configurations for better passenger flow, and dedicated spaces for wheelchair users in compliance with modern standards. Operations utilize (ATO) at Grade of Automation 2 (GoA2) under the Thales SelTrac (CBTC) system, allowing semi-automated running with a train operator present for oversight and emergency intervention. This setup enables precise control and higher frequencies while maintaining safety on the complex branched route. Prior to the 1995 Stock, the line used 1972 and 1973 Stock trains, which were progressively withdrawn between 1999 and 2000 as the new fleet was rolled out, marking the end of an era for older deep-tube designs. The 1995 Stock is maintained under a (PFI) contract with at depots such as and , ensuring ongoing serviceability. As part of broader deep-tube modernization efforts, is exploring the introduction of New Tube for London stock in the late 2020s or beyond, potentially replacing the aging 1995 fleet to increase capacity and introduce air-conditioning, though no firm rollout timeline for the Northern line has been confirmed as of 2025.

Tunnels and track

The Northern line's infrastructure consists primarily of deep-bored tunnels constructed using the method, which was standard for early 20th-century lines. The original sections, inherited from the opened in 1890, feature narrow running tunnels with an internal diameter of 3.20 metres, lined with grey cast-iron segments for structural support in the London clay. Subsequent extensions, such as those built by the in 1907, employed slightly larger bored tunnels of approximately 3.56 to 3.59 metres in diameter, also lined with cast iron or precast concrete rings to withstand ground pressures. Unlike sub-surface lines built via cut-and-cover, the Northern line has no such sections, with all routes maintained as deep-level throughout its 58 km length. The 2021 extension introduced modern twin-bored tunnels of 5.2 metres internal diameter, excavated using tunnel boring machines to enhance capacity and ventilation space. The track follows the British standard gauge of 1,435 mm (4 ft 8½ in), laid on concrete sleepers with continuous welded rail in the tunnels to minimize noise and vibration. Electrification is provided by a four-rail direct current system at a nominal 630 V, comprising a positive conductor rail at +420 V and a negative rail at -210 V relative to the running rails, which serve as the neutral return path. This setup, unique to deep-level tube lines, allows for efficient power distribution while reducing electrolytic corrosion in the surrounding soil. The longest continuous tunnel run on the line measures 27.8 km from East Finchley to Morden via Bank, representing the longest such stretch on the London Underground network. Ventilation is managed through a network of sub-surface shafts and mid-tunnel fans that facilitate airflow, heat extraction, and smoke control during emergencies, with the tunnel ventilation control system automating operations based on temperature and air quality sensors. Drainage systems incorporate sumps, channels, and electric pumps along the tunnels to collect and remove groundwater seepage and surface water ingress, preventing accumulation that could disrupt services. The line has a history of flooding vulnerabilities, particularly in the 2000s, when heavy rainfall events led to multiple closures on the Northern and similar deep lines, with average disruptions exceeding two hours due to water entering via cracks or old infrastructure. Tunnels link to depots at Golders Green and Highgate for maintenance access.

Depots and maintenance

The Northern line's maintenance operations are primarily handled at three key depots: in the north, serving the eastern branches, and in the south. depot, established in the early alongside the line's initial development, supports the High Barnet and branches through routine servicing and stabling. depot, built in 1926 to coincide with the line's southern extension, handles heavy maintenance for the Morden branch and includes facilities for train washing and inspection. depot, converted from a former facility in 1939 during expansion era, provides stabling and lighter maintenance for the eastern routes, including shared infrastructure from the original Great Northern & City Railway integration. These depots collectively support a fleet of 106 six-car Tube Stock trains, with maintenance contracted to since 1995 under a initiative arrangement that covers cleaning, repairs, and component overhauls. Routine maintenance follows scheduled cycles, including daily pre-service inspections and periodic deep cleans to ensure reliability, while heavier interventions occur at and every few years based on mileage thresholds. In the , depot upgrades have focused on adapting facilities for enhanced fleet efficiency, such as improved traction equipment handling and space reconfiguration to support the line's ongoing modernisation, including compatibility with new signalling systems. Crossover sidings at and enable flexible train routing, allowing depots to dispatch units efficiently for service recovery during disruptions. Overnight stabling occurs across the depots and additional sidings at locations like and , where up to 80% of the fleet is positioned to minimize morning turnaround times and facilitate rapid response to faults. This stabling strategy plays a critical role in service recovery, enabling to reallocate trains from depots to affected sections within hours of an incident, thereby reducing overall downtime. Historical shifts, such as the depot expansions tied to uncompleted Northern Heights plans, underscore the facilities' evolution from basic stabling to integrated hubs essential for the line's high-volume operations.

Future plans

Proposed line split

The proposal to divide the Northern line into two separate lines emerged in the 2000s as part of Transport for London's efforts to address capacity constraints on the network's busiest route. Under the plan, the line would be split at , with one route running from High Barnet and branches to via , and the other from Mill Hill East to via . This reconfiguration aims to align services with the line's primary operating patterns and eliminate the complex four-way junction currently causing operational bottlenecks. Implementing the split would require a major rebuild of station to expand it to six platforms, enabling independent operations on each branch while maintaining interchange facilities. The project has been delayed since the due to escalating costs, estimated at over £500 million for the station works alone, amid challenges and competing priorities. The key benefits include simplified train paths, fewer delays from conflicting movements at , and the potential to increase frequencies to 28-32 trains per hour on each new line, enhancing overall reliability and passenger throughput. This structural change would integrate with the broader Northern line upgrade, including new signalling and , to support higher capacity without further infrastructure strain. The proposed is briefly linked to ongoing station capacity enhancements at to manage peak-hour crowds. As of November 2025, continues to "aspire" to its delivery despite financial hurdles, though no firm timeline has been set.

Potential extensions and upgrades

Proposals to extend the from its current southern terminus at to have gained momentum through recent feasibility studies conducted by the . A 2024 study commissioned by the concluded that there are no physical or geological constraints preventing the extension, which would involve approximately 3 km of new tunnelling and a new station at , potentially serving up to 40,000 additional daily passengers. The design of the 2021 was aligned to facilitate this future southward push, with infrastructure prepared for seamless continuation. In November 2024, launched a on the proposal as part of its masterplan, aiming to integrate the extension with broader regeneration efforts; in November 2025, the shortlisted three options to improve the station's capacity and facilities, continuing to consider the extension, though no timeline or funding has been confirmed. At the northern end, upgrades around Euston station are under discussion to enhance capacity and integration with the (HS2) project, amid ongoing development of the Euston station campus. Discussions in 2025 have focused on adding a new traction substation to power the Northern line more reliably, as part of enabling works for HS2's arrival, which could include improved interchanges between the and high-speed platforms without altering the line's route. A 2024 report highlighted the urgent need for upgrades to Euston station (served by the Northern, Bakerloo, and ) to prevent capacity failures during peak hours, recommending expanded platforms and better passenger flow, though these remain at the planning stage with no firm commitments tied to HS2. The has engaged industry partners for engineering and design work at Euston, valued at up to £300 million, which may incorporate Northern line enhancements to support increased passenger volumes from HS2; market engagement for this opportunity began in 2025. Step-free access expansions are prioritised at several Northern line stations to improve accessibility, with identified as a key candidate in Transport for London's 2024-2029 programme. Design and feasibility work for lifts and platform adjustments at began in 2024, aiming for completion by the late 2020s, addressing the station's current lack of step-free access from street to platform. Similar upgrades are under consideration for other Northern line stations like , where a new ticket hall and lifts are under construction; the station reopened in a temporary configuration in December 2024, with full step-free access slated for autumn 2025. These initiatives form part of TfL's broader goal to make 100 Underground stations step-free by 2030, though progress depends on annual funding allocations. Feasibility studies for these extensions and upgrades face significant funding barriers, exacerbated by post-Brexit economic pressures and the lingering impacts of the on TfL's revenues. TfL's 2024 Business Plan emphasised the need for a long-term funding settlement to support capital projects like line extensions, noting that short-term grants limit planning for ambitious schemes such as the proposal. Economic analyses indicate that without stable financing, post-pandemic recovery challenges could delay or scale back these developments, with contributions sought for Euston-area works but not yet secured. Signalling upgrades planned for 2025 may indirectly enable future capacity growth on the Northern line by allowing more frequent services.

Incidents and accidents

The Northern line has experienced several notable incidents and accidents since its formation. On 10 March 1938, two Northern line trains collided near (now ) station due to a signal failure, injuring several passengers but causing no fatalities. On 27 November 1923, a train on the (predecessor to the Northern line) was involved in a tunnel collapse at station after the road above subsided, trapping the train but resulting in no serious injuries. The most severe accident occurred on 28 February 1975 at , when a southbound train (part of the Northern line) failed to stop and crashed into the dead-end wall of the platform, killing 43 people and injuring 74. The cause remains undetermined, though theories include driver error or a medical event; it prompted major safety reforms including staff training and communication protocols. On 19 October 2003, a northbound derailed while approaching station due to a track fault, injuring seven passengers. The incident led to temporary closures and investigations into track maintenance. On 27 July 1946, a southbound struck the buffers at station at excessive speed, injuring 12 people but causing no deaths. On 13 August 2010, an engineering ran away backwards from near Archway station after a coupling failure while being towed, traveling approximately four miles through several stations before being stopped at [Chalk Farm](/page/Chalk Farm). No injuries occurred, but the incident was a near-miss and resulted in procedural changes for engineering operations. More recent minor incidents include trap-and-drag events in 2023 at Archway and stations, where passengers' clothing became caught in train doors, leading to RAIB recommendations for improved platform-train interface safety. As of 2024, these highlighted ongoing risks but caused no serious injuries.

Cultural depictions

The Northern line has been a recurring motif in , often symbolizing the frenetic pace of urban life or serving as a dramatic backdrop for chases and intrigue. In the 2012 film , directed by , an action sequence featuring evading pursuers is filmed on the disused platforms of station, part of the Northern line, highlighting the line's deep-level tunnels as a cinematic staple for tension. Similarly, the series (2010–2017) incorporates the Northern line into its narrative, notably in the episode "" from series three, where a fictional station called Sumatra Road—envisioned on the line between and —plays a key role in a terrorist plot involving the Underground, drawing on the line's complex branching layout for plot twists. In , the London Underground, including elements evocative of the Northern line's routes, appears as a for , chance encounters, and the hidden underbelly of city life. In modern fiction, the Northern line often embodies the drudgery and unpredictability of daily commutes, as seen in works like Ben Aaronovitch's Rivers of London series, where its tunnels become portals for supernatural elements intertwined with everyday Londoner struggles. The line's cultural footprint extends to visual art and advertising from the interwar period, with 1930s posters commissioned by promoting its southern extension to as a gateway to suburban escape and modernity. These artworks, such as Christine H. Jackson's 1930 depiction of station, blended aesthetics with imagery of leisure and progress, becoming enduring icons of British design history preserved at the London Transport Museum. The 2021 opening of the Power Station garnered significant media attention, positioning the line as a symbol of London's evolving skyline and social divides. Coverage in outlets like The Guardian portrayed the new stations at and as catalysts for luxury redevelopment, sparking debates on while the line's extension was hailed as a milestone in urban connectivity. As a , the Northern line encapsulates the rhythm of life, from its role in daily migrations across the city's north-south divide to its nickname "the Misery Line," a in routines and sketches lampooning chronic delays and overcrowding. This moniker, popularized in the late through like Londonist articles and stand-up acts, underscores the line's reputation for unreliability while endearing it to residents as a quintessentially endurance test.

Naming and legacy

The Northern line's naming evolved during as part of the London Passenger Transport Board's efforts to unify and simplify the . Initially referred to as the Morden–Edgware line upon the completion of its southern and northern extensions in , the name was deemed cumbersome due to the line's extensive branching beyond those termini. In , it was officially renamed the Northern line to reflect its north-south orientation and to align with the ambitious Northern Heights expansion plans, which aimed to connect it further into suburban areas like and Heath, though many of these were later abandoned. On Tube maps, the Northern line is represented in black, a color inherited from its predecessor, the City & South London Railway, which opened the world's first deep-level Tube in 1890 and was assigned black to symbolize its status as the deepest and darkest route in the system. This distinctive hue has become iconic, emphasizing the line's role as a vital artery through London's underbelly. During World War II, the Northern line played a crucial role in civilian protection, with seven deep-level air-raid shelters constructed beneath its stations at Belsize Park, Camden Town, Goodge Street, Stockwell, Clapham North, Clapham Common, and Clapham South. These parallel-tunnel facilities, each designed to accommodate up to 8,000 people, provided refuge during the Blitz, though most were completed after the peak bombing campaigns in 1940–1941; they were originally intended for post-war reuse as an express Tube route but instead served as storage sites. The line's 1930s extensions significantly spurred suburban growth in north and , transforming rural or semi-rural areas into commuter hubs. The extension to in 1907, part of the , Euston & Railway (later integrated into the Northern line), triggered an 800% surge in local land prices and facilitated the development of , a model community now housing around 13,000 residents. Further northward pushes to Hendon Central in 1923 and in 1924, alongside the southern reach to , enabled rapid housing expansion, embodying the era's "suburban dream." In terms of legacy, the Northern line exemplifies how infrastructure shaped London's metropolitan expansion, promoting decentralized residential development while linking suburbs to central employment centers and influencing and policies. Its branching and deep-bore tunneling techniques set precedents for integrating rail with , as seen in the creation of self-contained suburbs that balanced green spaces with connectivity. The Northern line's engineering and operational model has influenced subsequent Underground projects, including the , whose 2011 signalling upgrade—boosting capacity by 20%—served as a template for the Northern's own enhancements, sharing technologies like to handle high-density branching services. As of 2025, ongoing modernizations continue this legacy, with implementing fleet expansions and frequency increases to support growing demand, including plans for up to 36 trains per hour on key sections, ensuring the line remains a of London's sustainable .

References

  1. [1]
    Northern Underground line - Transport for London
    View stations by Battersea Power Station ↔ Edgware, Battersea Power Station ↔ High Barnet, Morden ↔ Edgware via Bank, Morden ↔ Mill Hill East via Bank.London Bridge · Embankment Underground... · Euston Underground Station
  2. [2]
    The Northern line | London Transport Museum
    The Northern line serves some of the busiest commuter routes on the Underground, joining the suburbs of north and south London to the West End and the City.
  3. [3]
    New Northern line stations open today as Tube extends to Battersea ...
    Sep 20, 2021 · Their opening today takes the total number of London Underground stations to 272 and means that 88 of these stations are now step-free. Working ...
  4. [4]
    London Underground - TfL
    The Northern line, opened in 1937, was created out of two separate railways: the City and South London Railway, and the Charing Cross, Euston and Hampstead ...
  5. [5]
    [PDF] Research Guide No 13: A Brief History of the Northern Line - TfL
    The Northern Line serves 50 stations, is an amalgamation of three different railways and extensions and has no less than six branches.
  6. [6]
    James Greathead and tunnels under London
    The world's first tube tunnel, cut with Greathead's shield, was the Tower Subway that opened in 1870. Just seven feet (2.13 metres) wide, it was dug under the ...
  7. [7]
    James Henry Greathead | Railway Engineer | Blue Plaques
    The shield was used again from 1886 when Greathead started work on the City and Southwark Subway. This grew into the City and South London Railway, the world's ...
  8. [8]
    4th November 1890: City and South London Railway, the world's ...
    Nov 4, 2023 · The construction of the railway presented numerous engineering challenges including the need to tunnel under the River Thames, ...Missing: contractors | Show results with:contractors
  9. [9]
    James Henry Greathead and the London Underground
    This article investigates the origins and early history of the device known as the 'Greathead Shield', an important innovation in Victorian engineering crucial ...
  10. [10]
    A brief history of the Underground - Transport for London
    A new, wider southbound Northern line platform opens at Bank station, following a 17-week closure of the Bank branch of the Northern line; London Underground ...
  11. [11]
    Charles Tyson Yerkes: the unscrupulous American businessman ...
    Thirdly, there was the deep-level Charing Cross, Euston & Hampstead Railway, which Yerkes obtained parliamentary authorisation to build and in 1900 paid ...
  12. [12]
    Charing Cross, Euston and Hampstead Railway - Graces Guide
    Jul 15, 2021 · 1907 The line opened on 22 June 1907 as The Hampstead Tube with the following stations: Charing Cross (to make an interchange with the South ...
  13. [13]
    A Brief History Of The Northern Line - Londonist
    Sep 22, 2025 · The line has grown extensively to cover 58 km (36 miles). Here, then, is a brief chronology of the Northern line, including plenty of tidbits you won't find on ...
  14. [14]
    [PDF] THE HISTORY OF THE NORTHERN LINE | Andrew Dismore
    the railway attracted 5.1 million passengers in 1891, its first year of operation. To alleviate overcrowding, the fleet of rolling stock was enlarged. The ...
  15. [15]
    How did London's Tube lines get their names? - CityMonitor
    Jul 15, 2023 · It remained the Central London line even after integration into the London Transport Passenger Board network in 1933, but by 1937 had been ...
  16. [16]
    Lord Ashfield: Creator of London Transport
    On 1 July 1933, the London Passenger Transport Board (LPTB) became the world's largest single passenger transport authority. It was responsible for all the ...Missing: impact | Show results with:impact
  17. [17]
    Railway 200: 162 years of the Underground - Rail Engineer
    Jun 20, 2025 · Just 38 years after the birth of the modern railway in 1825, the first underground railway was opened in London. In case anyone is unaware, ...
  18. [18]
    B/W print; Opening of the Morden extension of the City & South ...
    Opening of the Morden extension of the City & South London Railway (now Northern line), September 1926. This view shows guests and officials walking down ...
  19. [19]
    Morden Extension now open, artist unknown, 1926
    The Morden extension opened in 1926 when Morden became the southern terminus for the Northern Line. The station, a modernist design, was one of the first ...<|separator|>
  20. [20]
    Great Northern and City Railway - Graces Guide
    Sep 19, 2023 · A few years after the formation of London Passenger Transport Board in 1933, the line was transferred to the Northern Line for operational ...
  21. [21]
    CULG - Northern Line
    The Great Northern & City Railway was first envisaged in 1891. The initial plan was to connect the GNR - just south of Finsbury Park - with Moorgate, in the ...
  22. [22]
    Northern Line - Railfanning London's Railways - Citytransport.info
    Mar 17, 2024 · Originally Archway station was called Highgate but because the line's 1939 extension to East Finchley included serving another station also ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  23. [23]
    Northern Line - Graces Guide
    In preparation for the Northern Heights ... Northern Heights. These lines, built in the 1860s ... New Works programme, run as a tube-train shuttle from 1957.
  24. [24]
    North End: the hidden history of the station that never was
    In 1903, the Charing Cross, Euston and Hampstead Railway (CCE&HR), later to be part of the Northern line, began work on constructing a station to be known as ...
  25. [25]
    Northern line extension to Battersea gets go-ahead - TfL
    Nov 12, 2014 · Two new stations will be constructed - one at the heart of the Battersea Power Station redevelopment and another at Nine Elms to the east, ...
  26. [26]
    Northern Line extension to Battersea and Nine Elms given go-ahead
    Nov 12, 2014 · Two new stations will open - Nine Elms to the east and one at the heart of the Battersea Power Station development. The full cost is expected to ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  27. [27]
    Northern Line Extension - Mott MacDonald
    The £1.1bn scheme to extend the Northern Line by 3km, including two new stations at Nine Elms and Battersea that are revitalising the surrounding area.
  28. [28]
    Northern Line Extension Tunnelling Completed
    Nov 8, 2017 · The machines undertook tunnel drives at depths of up to 26 metres to construct the 5.2 metre diameter tunnels. Each machine was capable of ...
  29. [29]
    The London Underground (Northern Line Extension) Order 2014
    The work includes two new stations: Nine Elms station is to be constructed on land adjacent to the north side of Pascal Street and Battersea station is to be ...
  30. [30]
    London Underground's Northern line extension comes into service
    Sep 20, 2021 · £1.1bn project adds nearly two miles of tunnel and two new stations – Nine Elms and Battersea Power Station.
  31. [31]
    Northern Line Extension (NLE) - Ferrovial
    The extension supported the creation of around 25,000 new jobs, 20,000 homes and reduced journey times to the West End or City to less than 15 minutes. We ...
  32. [32]
    Wandsworth Council welcomes new accessible Tube entrance for ...
    Published: Monday, October 6, 2025. A new step-free entrance to the Underground station at Battersea Power Station has opened, giving Tube passengers a ...
  33. [33]
    LU Northern line goes CBTC - Rail Engineer
    May 8, 2015 · This technology, originally developed for the Vancouver Sky Train network, has been around since the 1990s. First used in the UK by Docklands ...
  34. [34]
    London Underground Northern Line Upgrade and Extension
    Jun 11, 2020 · London Underground's Northern Line in the UK is being upgraded to increase passenger capacity and reduce delays.
  35. [35]
    Northern line Future Plans - Greater London Authority
    The signalling system has now been modernised, delivering 20 per cent more capacity on the line with a frequency of up to 26 trains per hour on the Bank branch ...
  36. [36]
    Elephant & Castle station - Transport for London
    A new entrance and ticket hall at Elephant & Castle Tube station will support the creation of new homes and jobs in the area.
  37. [37]
    Elephant & Castle capacity upgrade hits milestone, but what about ...
    Jul 8, 2025 · The long-awaited upgrade of Elephant & Castle Underground station in south central London has reached a key construction milestone.
  38. [38]
    Elephant and Castle tube station's new entrance box ready to be ...
    Jun 17, 2025 · When it opens, the new station entrance will replace the existing Northern line ticket hall and also includes space for three more escalators to ...
  39. [39]
    TfL releases early cost estimates for Step-Free access at five tube ...
    Sep 4, 2025 · TfL releases early cost estimates for Step-Free access at five tube stations · Colliers Wood – £41.7 to £111.3 million · Tooting Broadway – £53 to ...
  40. [40]
    Battersea Power Station step-free entrance cuts journey times to ...
    Oct 6, 2025 · Colindale step-free access, new ticket hall and improved lift due to open by the end of 2025; Northolt step-free access due to be completed by ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  41. [41]
    Cost pressures set to curtail plans for total London Underground ...
    Mar 11, 2025 · London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has conceded that many of London Underground's 272 stations will never have step-free access.<|separator|>
  42. [42]
    TfL launches new phase of step-free access projects on London ...
    Aug 7, 2024 · The Mayor of London has set an ambitious target to make 50% of Tube stations step-free by 2030. Currently, more than a third of London ...
  43. [43]
    Northern line Facts for Kids
    Oct 17, 2025 · Northern line facts for kids ; 58 km (36 mi) · Deep-tube · 1,435 mm (4 ft 8 1⁄2 in).
  44. [44]
    London Underground: 150 fascinating Tube facts - The Telegraph
    Jan 9, 2017 · The deepest station is Hampstead on the Northern line, which runs down to 58.5 metres. 15. In Central London the deepest station below ...
  45. [45]
    What's So Special About The Kennington Loop? | Londonist
    Oct 12, 2018 · The Northern line extension, slated for a 2020 opening, adds two new stations beyond Kennington. TfL confirmed for us that the building work ...
  46. [46]
    Where are the deepest London Underground station platforms?
    Feb 2, 2012 · At 58.5 metres (192 feet) the platforms at Hampstead station (opened 22 June 1907) are the deepest of all the London Underground stations.Missing: source | Show results with:source<|control11|><|separator|>
  47. [47]
    Northern Heights: Finsbury Park to Stroud Green
    It was absorbed by the GNR in 1911 and they operated a frequent service of trains from/to Moorgate/Kings Cross; including eleven on Sundays all of which ...
  48. [48]
    [PDF] Item: London Underground World Class Capacity Programme
    Jul 3, 2018 · (b) Northern line capacity improvement: A minimum of 31 trains per hour on the Morden branch in peak periods in early 2020 (the Morden branch is.
  49. [49]
    FOI request detail - London - TfL
    Sep 1, 2025 · In terms of 'infrastructure requirements', we have an aspiration to run 36 trains per hour on the Northern line branches in the future. To ...
  50. [50]
    New Northern line stations to open on 20 September - TfL
    Sep 3, 2021 · There will be five trains per hour during off-peak times, doubling to 10 trains per hour next year. The Northern Line Extension is the first ...
  51. [51]
    Four Lines Modernisation - Transport for London
    We're transforming the Circle, District, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan lines to increase capacity and boost reliability, making journeys faster and ...
  52. [52]
    [PDF] Northern line extension - TfL
    At Kennington, forecasts suggest an increase in the number of passengers interchanging between the Bank and Charing Cross branches. The NLE has little impact on ...
  53. [53]
    The Night Tube - Transport for London
    Night Tube runs on Friday and Saturday nights on the Central, Jubilee, Northern, Piccadilly and Victoria lines.
  54. [54]
    [PDF] Schedule 6 Part A Technical Specification for Northern Line Rolling ...
    The Trains per hour (TPH) figures are peak values for one direction of running. The Contractor shall read these requirements in conjunction with Clause 5 of the.
  55. [55]
    [PDF] Rolling stock data sheet, 2nd edition - TfL
    Track gauge: 4ft 8½ ins/1435mm. Current system: 630V dc 3rd and 4th rail, floating earth. Types of vehicle: Driving Motor (DM); Trailer (T). Formation per unit:.
  56. [56]
    London Underground 1995 Stock
    Aug 2, 2007 · There are 106 trains in operation, each of six cars; they entered service between 12 June, 1998 and 10 April, 2001.
  57. [57]
    Northern line maintenance service contract - Transport for London
    These documents make up our current redacted contract with Alstom for Northern line maintenance service. The original contract dates from 1995.
  58. [58]
    The six London Underground lines that TfL says will get brand new ...
    Dec 30, 2023 · The document states that, within next 20 years, new stock will be introduced on the Piccadilly, Bakerloo, Central, Waterloo and City, Jubilee ...
  59. [59]
    Northern Line tunnel reconstruction at Old Street - Emerald Publishing
    Feb 1, 2002 · The Northern Line tunnels were originally 10 ft 6 in (3·20 m) internal diameter (six segments and a key of grey cast iron), but were enlarged ...
  60. [60]
    Sub-Surface and Deep-Level Tubes | London
    Northern Line · Piccadilly line · Victoria line · Waterloo & City Line · About ... The deep tunnels have a diameter of about 3.59m and are lined with cast-iron ...
  61. [61]
    There's Something Unique About The New Northern Line Tunnels
    Jan 10, 2019 · The 6.4km of new tunnels created for the Northern line extension will have a 5.2 metre diameter, 1.6m larger than current tube tunnels.
  62. [62]
    FOI request detail - Transport for London
    The London Underground uses a four-rail DC system. Deep-level lines use 630V, while sub-surface lines use 750V, except for some shared tracks.
  63. [63]
    [PDF] Advanced tunnel ventilation control system on the Northern Line ...
    Providing adequate tunnel ventilation is a vital element of the NLE. The original design of this part of London Underground is naturally ventilated only and was ...
  64. [64]
    Tunnel vision: the challenge of cooling the London Underground
    Keeping sub-surface lines cool is less of a challenge; steam trains originally ran on some of these, so they are larger than the deep Tube tunnels and ...
  65. [65]
    The race to save the London Underground from flooding | WIRED
    Aug 2, 2021 · Those on the Northern and Central lines were most likely to be at risk. The average closure duration was more than two hours. Russell conducted ...
  66. [66]
    Train depots - FOI request detail - Transport for London
    Aug 16, 2023 · Thank you for your request received by Transport for London (TfL) on 3 rd August 2023 asking for information about London Underground train depots.
  67. [67]
    [PDF] London Underground World Class Capacity Sub Programme ... - TfL
    Jun 28, 2017 · 4.1 Maintenance of the current fleet of 106 Northern Line trains is undertaken by. Alstom through the PFI Train Service Contract.The baseline ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  68. [68]
    [PDF] Transport for London Investment Programme Report Quarter 4 2020 ...
    The Northern line rolling stock team has completed the decommissioning of redundant legacy signalling assets from all 106 Northern line trains. This was an ...
  69. [69]
    [PDF] London Underground Asset Management Strategy Summary - TfL
    These operate on 11 lines and are maintained at 14 maintenance depots. There are numerous sidings where trains are stabled overnight and occasionally minor ...
  70. [70]
    [PDF] Item: Northern Line Upgrade 2 - TfL
    Mar 17, 2016 · Ultimately the project will deliver a 30 trains per hour service on all branches of the Northern Line by April 2023 yielding a strong ...<|separator|>
  71. [71]
    TfL still 'aspires' to make major change to London Underground line ...
    Apr 14, 2024 · TfL still 'aspires' to make major change to London Underground line to increase capacity by 20k. In the original plans TfL forecast the ...
  72. [72]
    Northern line split - Greater London Authority
    TfL has stated that its current plans are to partially separate the Northern line in the early 2020s. This would allow it to run more trains: 28-32 trains ...
  73. [73]
    Who will fix crumbling Camden Town Underground Station?
    Oct 17, 2024 · The pricetag for a scheme unveiled in 2013 is at least £250million, but this week's chaos once again highlighted the dangers of keeping the ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  74. [74]
    Splitting the Northern line - RailUK Forums
    Jan 20, 2024 · The Northern line is most likely going to be split sometime in the near future, once Camden Town station has been expanded.
  75. [75]
    Northern Line Plans - FOI request detail - Transport for London
    Jan 16, 2024 · The answer was “TfL has stated that its current plans are to partially separate the Northern line in the early 2020s.”
  76. [76]
    [PDF] 26 June 2024 Item: London Underground Four Lines Modernisation ...
    Jun 26, 2024 · We are now targeting SMA8 to go live in early 2025 and the final section of signalling, SMA14 (Rayners Lane to Uxbridge) to go live in 2026. 4. ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  77. [77]
    'No engineering constraints' to extending Northern line to Clapham ...
    Nov 26, 2024 · “There are no physical engineering or geological constraints that would prevent the tube being extended to Clapham Junction,” according to London Borough of ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  78. [78]
    Could The Northern Line Ever Be Extended To Clapham Junction?
    Nov 25, 2024 · Transport for London built the 2021 extension with an alignment that would support a future push to Clapham Junction.
  79. [79]
    The Northern Line Extension to Clapham Junction Just Got a Step ...
    Nov 25, 2024 · Wandsworth Council has opened a public consultation into the potential extension of the Northern line past Battersea Power Station.
  80. [80]
    Council report clears path for Northern line extension to Clapham ...
    Nov 22, 2024 · There are no physical reasons why the Northern line couldn't be extended to Clapham Junction according to a council commissioned report.Missing: studies | Show results with:studies
  81. [81]
    [PDF] eusstton new on newsletter sletter - spring 2025 - Discover Euston
    The Government is committed to bringing HS2 to Euston and is working at pace with partners in the area to deliver and integrate four major projects: the new.
  82. [82]
    Euston Tube stations need urgent upgrade report says - BBC
    Nov 26, 2024 · Work on HS2 Euston was paused by the then Conservative Government in 2023. At one point a tunnel was proposed between HS2 Euston and Euston ...Missing: Northern line additional
  83. [83]
    DfT engages market on £300M Euston engineering and design ...
    Oct 21, 2025 · The initiative encompasses upgrades to the existing mainline station, enhancements to the London Underground interchange, improvements to local ...
  84. [84]
    TfL confirms the next 12 Tube stations to be prioritised for step-free ...
    Aug 5, 2024 · TfL is starting design work imminently on making a further three Tube stations step-free, which means there are now five Underground stations with funding in ...
  85. [85]
    12 tube stations prioritised to gain step-free access - RailAdvent
    Aug 6, 2024 · These include Croxley on the Metropolitan line, East Finchley on the Northern line, Neasden on the Jubilee line, Northwood on the Metropolitan ...
  86. [86]
    Step-free access - Transport for London
    Other Tube stations prioritised for step-free access include Alperton, Arnos Grove, Colliers Wood, Eastcote, North Acton, Tooting Broadway and West Hampstead.
  87. [87]
    [PDF] 2024 Business Plan - London - TfL
    To protect these benefits, it is still vitally important that we agree a decent long- term funding settlement from the. Government that enables us to plan and.
  88. [88]
    GLA Economics publications - Greater London Authority
    Latest macroeconomic scenarios for London's economy post COVID-19 - June 2023 ... The economic impacts under future funding scenarios for TfL - December 2021 ...
  89. [89]
    The name's Underground, London Underground - TfL
    Oct 26, 2012 · Skyfall, the 23rd film in the Bond series, was filmed in part in London and includes an action sequence on the Tube. The iconic new bus for ...
  90. [90]
    London's disused tube stations as film sets - Discover Britain
    Feb 19, 2021 · Central London's disused Tube stations make for some of the capital's most iconic film sets, says Jenny Rowe.
  91. [91]
    The real truth behind Sherlock's abandoned 'Sumatra Road' tube ...
    Jan 5, 2014 · North End station, which would have appeared on the Northern Line between Hampstead and Golders Green, was built in the early 1900s as part ...Missing: TV | Show results with:TV
  92. [92]
    Sherlock fans go off the rails on Twitter over 'elementary errors' | BBC
    Jan 3, 2014 · Viewers complain that journeys taken by Holmes and Watson in The Empty Hearse don't match real-life Underground layout.
  93. [93]
    Ten of the best: scenes on London Underground | Books
    Mar 4, 2011 · The Man in the Brown Suit, by Agatha Christie This whodunit begins with a mysterious death at Hyde Park underground station. Anne is on the ...
  94. [94]
    LONDON UNDERGROUND CRIME FICTION: A LIST - Mystery Fanfare
    Jan 9, 2013 · Whispers Under Ground by Ben Aaronovitch The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown The Man in the Brown Suit by Agatha Christie Patriot Games by Tom ...Missing: mentions | Show results with:mentions
  95. [95]
    Yetis on the Northern Line: how the secrets of the Tube inspired our ...
    Sep 12, 2019 · These functions – the place of refuge and the repository of secrets – have shaped the Tube's role in fiction ever since. Dick Lester's 1969 film ...
  96. [96]
    Poster; Morden, by Christine H Jackson, 1930 | London Transport ...
    The extension of the Northern line between Clapham North and Morden was completed in 1926. The Underground Group published this poster in 1930 to advertise ...
  97. [97]
    The birth of London's transport posters
    ... Underground and London Transport posters in the 1920s and 1930s. Discover ... The Northern line. Poster announcing the opening of the C&SLR Kennington ...
  98. [98]
    Take The Drain, The Misery Line, Then The Viking Line - Londonist
    Apr 11, 2017 · Northern: Misery line. Old nicknames die hard. The Northern line was long famous for its signal failures and inevitable delays. Its black ...
  99. [99]
    10 Highlights of the Northern line | Transport for London - YouTube
    Aug 1, 2025 · ... Camden Market 01:27 Leslie Green's designs at Mornington Crescent 01 ... platforms at Clapham North and Common 03:40 Eleanor Cross ...Missing: Town four
  100. [100]
    How did the London Tube lines get their colours? - CityMonitor
    Oct 14, 2022 · The fact it was the deepest, darkest line seems as good an explanation as any for why today's Northern line is black. The Piccadilly line is ...
  101. [101]
    London's Secret Deep-Level Shelters And Where To Find Them
    Dec 21, 2018 · Eight deep-level shelters were built to protect the population from bombing (seven along the Northern line and one at Chancery lane).Belsize Park · Clapham Common · Clapham SouthMissing: WWII | Show results with:WWII
  102. [102]
    Tube 150th anniversary: Exploiting the 'suburban dream' - BBC News
    Jan 11, 2013 · The Charing Cross, Euston and Hampstead Railway, now the Northern Line, brought an 800% rise in land prices at Golders Green, Mr Harrison-Putnam ...
  103. [103]