Hidden Tube Tour – Piccadilly Circus: The Heart of London

If you’re curious about London’s underground world beyond the usual rush of commuters, this Hidden Tube Tour at Piccadilly Circus offers a fascinating peek behind the scenes. While the London Underground is famous worldwide, few get the chance to explore the secret passageways, old tunnels, and original Edwardian design features that lie beneath the city’s bustling streets.

What stands out for many visitors is the chance to see parts of the station that have been off-limits for decades. At the same time, the stories shared by expert guides—covering wartime sheltering, secret storage, and the station’s evolution—bring the experience to life.

However, be prepared for a tour that involves a fair amount of walking and navigating uneven floors, stairs, and low lighting. It’s not suitable if you’re claustrophobic or have mobility challenges. This tour tends to appeal most to those with a genuine interest in London’s history and underground infrastructure, rather than casual sightseeing.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: You’ll visit parts of Piccadilly Circus station that have been closed to the public since 1929.
• Historical Insights: Guides share stories of wartime refuge, secret storage, and the station’s Edwardian origins.
• Physical Demands: Expect walking, stairs, and uneven surfaces—highly recommend sturdy footwear.
• Duration & Cost: The tour lasts about 75 minutes and costs around $60.61 per person, providing a good value for underground enthusiasts.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for children aged 10 and above, with some limitations for those with claustrophobia or mobility issues.
• Expert Guides: The reviews highlight how knowledgeable and engaging the guides are, making the experience memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour

The Hidden Tube Tour at Piccadilly Circus is a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes of one of London’s most iconic underground stations. Built in 1906, the station originally served the Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines, and saw extensive modernisation between 1925 and 1928. What you’ll appreciate is the blend of old-world charm and more recent infrastructure upgrades—proof of how London’s underground network has grown to meet the city’s needs.

The tour begins at the bottom of Exit 4, located at the corner of Shaftesbury Avenue and Coventry Street, right next to the Criterion Restaurant. From there, your guide leads you through a series of passageways, lift shafts, and disused tunnels that have been inaccessible to the public for nearly a century. You’ll get to see the original Edwardian design features that have survived, which are a real treat for architecture buffs and history geeks alike.

What You’ll See and Experience

Disused Tunnels & Passageways: One of the most intriguing parts of the tour is exploring tunnels no longer used for passenger travel. These spaces haven’t been open since 1929, giving you a rare glimpse into the station’s past operations and underground layout. Walking through these areas, you get a sense of how the station was once a bustling hub, and how parts of it have been largely preserved and hidden away.

Historical Stories: Guide-led anecdotes bring the underground to life. You’ll hear about wartime shelterers who found refuge in the station during air raids, giving a poignant reminder of London’s resilience. The guides are well-trained, and several reviewers mention how their enthusiasm and knowledge make the experience particularly engaging—it’s clear they’re passionate about London’s underground history.

Original Edwardian Features: Many elements from the station’s earliest days still exist, from design details to structural features. These details give a tangible sense of the station’s age and the engineering methods of the early 20th century. It’s a rare chance to see these historic features close-up, far from the crowds and noise above ground.

What’s Not Included

Since the tour is strictly focused on the underground station itself, it doesn’t include travel to or from Piccadilly Circus station. If you’re coming in from outside, you’ll need to plan your own transportation, but the station’s central location makes it easy to access via the Tube or on foot.

The Experience in Practice

The tour lasts about 75 minutes, and according to reviews, it’s well-paced for those interested in history and engineering. Be aware that there’s quite a bit of walking, including stairs, uneven floors, and low lighting, so comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must. Also, the tour isn’t step-free, so it’s not suitable for guests with mobility issues or those who are claustrophobic.

Participants are asked to bring ID, and children aged 10 to 15 are permitted, with a limit of four children per adult. It’s worth noting that the experience is best suited for those who enjoy walking through dimly lit, slightly confined spaces. Several reviewers mention how guides make the journey enjoyable, blending storytelling with technical insights.

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What to Expect at the Meeting Point

The meeting point is at the bottom of Exit 4, which is conveniently located next to a popular landmark—the Criterion Restaurant. The tour ends back at the same spot, making it easy to continue exploring London afterward. Keep in mind that there’s no cloakroom, so plan accordingly if you’re carrying bags or large items.

Is It Worth the Price?

At around $60.61 per person, this tour offers solid value if you’re genuinely interested in London’s underground history. The inclusion of access to disused tunnels and the expert storytelling makes it more than just a walk-through; it’s a mini adventure behind the scenes. Several reviews praise the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge, which adds significant value to the experience.

While it’s pricier than a typical sightseeing tour, many feel it’s worth it for the unique access and insights you get. For history lovers, architecture fans, or anyone curious about London’s hidden stories, this is a memorable, enriching experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who don’t mind walking, stairs, and low-light environments. If you’re fascinated by urban transport, engineering marvels, or wartime stories, you’ll find a lot to love here. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy guided experiences with expert storytellers steering the narrative.

However, if you or your travel companions experience claustrophobia, have mobility challenges, or prefer not to navigate uneven or confined spaces, this might not be the best fit. It’s not designed for children under 10, and those with specific health concerns should consider their comfort levels accordingly.

Final Thoughts

The Hidden Tube Tour at Piccadilly Circus offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look into London’s underground infrastructure, revealing parts of the station that have been hidden for nearly a century. With knowledgeable guides, original architectural features, and stories of wartime refuge, it’s a compelling experience for those interested in history, engineering, or London’s lesser-known stories.

While not a typical sightseeing activity, it’s a rewarding add-on for travelers keen to deepen their understanding of London’s transport history. The access to disused tunnels and the chance to see original Edwardian design elements make it stand out, especially given the enthusiastic reviews praising the guides’ expertise.

If you’re comfortable with walking and low-light environments, this tour can be a highlight of your London trip—offering a new perspective on the city beneath your feet. It’s not just an underground tour; it’s a glimpse into London’s resilient spirit and engineering ingenuity, all delivered in an engaging and approachable way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 10 to 15 are allowed, but there’s a maximum of four children per adult. It’s best suited for older kids who enjoy walking and exploring underground spaces.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 75 minutes, making it a manageable and engaging experience without feeling rushed.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, you should bring your passport or ID card as identification. Wear sturdy shoes, as the tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and stairs.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour involves walking up and down stairs and is not step-free, so it’s not suitable for guests with mobility impairments.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if plans change.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point and end point are at the bottom of Exit 4 of Piccadilly Circus Underground Station, at the corner of Shaftesbury Avenue and Coventry Street.

Is food or drink allowed on the tour?
No, food and drinks are not permitted during the tour.

Are large bags or luggage allowed?
No, large bags or luggage are not allowed, as there’s no cloakroom available.

How much does the tour cost?
It’s priced at around $60.61 per person, which is reasonable considering the exclusive access and expert guides.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English.

Thinking about stepping into London’s underground past? This tour offers a fascinating, well-guided look at a part of the city few get to see—and many will find it worth the time and money.

You can check availability for your dates here: