The Fascinating Stories Behind 15 Iconic London Underground Station Names

The London Underground may be relatively young in historical terms, but its station names are steeped in centuries of fascinating stories. If you’ve ever glanced at the Tube map and wondered why stations have such peculiar or intriguing names, you’re not alone.

The London Underground is more than just a transport network—it’s a journey through the city’s rich history. The names of its stations often reflect centuries of culture, landmarks, and even a little bit of whimsy. Whether they’re named after pubs, historical figures, or peculiar local features, these stations have fascinating tales to tell.

Here are 15 fascinating stories behind some of the Underground’s most iconic station names.

1. Liverpool Street: A Tribute to a Prime Minister

Image Source - Network Rail UK

Liverpool Street takes its name from Robert Banks Jenkinson, the 2nd Earl of Liverpool, who served as Prime Minister from 1812 to 1827. The station is now a hub for commuters and travelers, but its historical connection to a leader who guided Britain through the Napoleonic Wars gives it a sense of gravitas.

2. Swiss Cottage: A Taste of Alpine London

This station owes its name to a charming 19th-century pub styled like a Swiss chalet. Ye Olde Swiss Cottage still stands today, offering a nod to its quirky origins and a reminder of London’s penchant for unique architecture.

3. Angel: A Heavenly Name with Humble Origins

Angel may sound divine, but its name comes from the Angel Inn, a historic 17th-century coaching house. Located on a key route into London, it was once a refuge for weary travelers dodging highwaymen. Today, the area thrives as a bustling hub of restaurants and shops.

4. Paddington: The Bear or the Lord?

While Paddington Bear may have popularized the station globally, the name predates him by centuries. Likely linked to an Anglo-Saxon lord named Padda, the name also appears in the Domesday Book. Still, it’s fun to humor tourists who ask if the bear came first.

5. Cockfosters: A Name That Raises Eyebrows

This end-of-the-line Piccadilly station has amused passengers for centuries. First recorded in 1524, the name is believed to refer to a prominent local house or family. Its quirky nature continues to entertain visitors and Londoners alike.

6. Shepherd’s Bush: A Stop for Flocks

Traditionally, Shepherd’s Bush was a resting spot for shepherds driving their flocks to market at Smithfield. Whether the name comes from a notable bush or a shepherd named Sheppard, the area’s pastoral history stands in stark contrast to its urban present.

7. Arsenal: Football Royalty

Image Source - Arsenal

The only Tube station named after a football club, Arsenal was originally called Gillespie Road. In 1932, it was renamed to honor Arsenal Football Club, whose historic Highbury Stadium stood nearby. The club now plays at the Emirates, but the station remains a pilgrimage site for fans.

8. Marylebone: From Stream to Elegance

Marylebone’s name derives from St Mary’s Church and a nearby stream, or “bourne.” Over time, "St Mary at the Bourne" evolved into Marylebone. Often mispronounced as “Marrleebone,” the name reflects the area’s transformation into a chic London neighborhood.

9. Elephant and Castle: Pub or Princess?

Named after an 18th-century pub, Elephant and Castle is also rumored to be a corruption of "La Infanta de Castilla," referencing a Spanish princess. While the pub theory is more likely, the royal connection adds a touch of intrigue.

10. Oval: A Garden Turned Cricket Icon

The Oval station gets its name from a market garden owned by the Duchy of Cornwall, aptly named for its distinctive oval shape. Today, it’s synonymous with one of the world’s most famous cricket grounds.

11. Tooting Broadway: Saxon or Roman Legacy?

Tooting Broadway’s roots trace back to pre-Saxon times, flourishing along an ancient Roman road. The name may reference the Tota people or the word "tout," hinting at a lookout post. Its long history makes it one of London’s most storied stations.

12. East India: Echoes of Empire

This Docklands station reflects London’s colonial past, named after the East India Docks that once buzzed with goods from the East Indies. Today, the name serves as a reminder of the city’s maritime history.

13. Canary Wharf: From Birds to Business

This modern station owes its name to the Canary Islands, which inspired the Canary Wharf Dock. The docks, once central to trade, are now replaced by towering financial skyscrapers, making it a symbol of London’s evolution.

14. Cyprus: A Mediterranean Tribute

Named after the Cyprus Estate, built for dock workers, the station commemorates Britain’s 1878 acquisition of the island of Cyprus. It’s a small nod to a significant moment in British imperial history.

15. King’s Cross: From Saint to Station

One of London’s busiest transport hubs, King’s Cross was named after a statue of King George IV that once stood nearby. The statue was unpopular and eventually removed, but the name stuck, blending royal history with modern-day hustle.

London Underground: A Network of Stories

Beyond their quirky names, London’s Underground stations are a testament to the city’s rich history and evolving identity. Whether you’re a local commuter or a first-time visitor, each stop offers a unique glimpse into London’s past.

And as millions travel through the Tube each day, it also presents a golden opportunity for brands to connect with this diverse audience. With London Underground Advertising, your brand can make a lasting impression in one of the world’s busiest transport networks.

Get in touch with London Underground Advertising today and let your story stand out amidst the hustle and bustle of this iconic city.