Piccadilly Line

Opened in 1906, the Piccadilly Line is one of London's classic deep-level "tube" lines. As you descend into its stations, particularly in the central sections, you'll experience the distinct curved tunnels and often find the original tiled platforms and station architecture, providing a palpable sense of history. While the trains themselves are being progressively modernised (with new, air-conditioned trains currently being rolled out and due to be fully in service in the coming years), you'll primarily experience the existing fleet which provides a reliable, if sometimes warm, ride. The line is famous for its direct link to Heathrow Airport, making it a crucial route for international visitors.

Key highlights for tourists travelling on the Piccadilly Line

• Cockfosters: The northern terminus offers a quieter, suburban London experience, with links to Trent Park, a large country park, perfect for a peaceful escape.
• Arnos Grove / Southgate: Stations on the northern reaches feature distinctive and historically significant Art Deco architecture, worth observing for their unique design.
• Finsbury Park: A major interchange, this station provides access to a large park of the same name, which often hosts events and concerts.
• King's Cross St. Pancras: A vital transport hub, connecting you to national and international rail services (Eurostar). From here, you can visit Platform 9 ¾ for Harry Potter fans, or explore the revitalized King's Cross area with its trendy restaurants, bars, and cultural spaces. The British Library is also nearby.
• Russell Square: Your direct access to the magnificent British Museum, housing a vast collection of world art and artefacts. The area around Russell Square is also known for its garden squares and Bloomsbury's literary connections.
• Holborn: Another key station for accessing the British Museum and the surrounding academic and legal district. It's also a short walk to Covent Garden.
• Covent Garden: Step off here directly into the vibrant heart of Covent Garden Market, known for its street performers, unique shops, restaurants, and the Royal Opera House. Be aware that this station has only lifts for access, and can have long queues.
• Leicester Square: The epicentre of London's entertainment district, with numerous theatres, cinemas, and vibrant nightlife. It's a short walk to Piccadilly Circus and Covent Garden.
• Piccadilly Circus: Step off here into the dazzling lights and energy of Piccadilly Circus. It's the epicentre of London's entertainment district, with theatres, shops, and the famous Eros statue. From here, you're minutes from Regent Street and Oxford Street for shopping.
• Green Park: Perfectly positioned for exploring Royal London. From here, you can easily walk to Buckingham Palace, St. James's Park, and Piccadilly. It's also a major interchange for the Victoria and Jubilee lines.
• Hyde Park Corner / Knightsbridge: These stations are your gateways to Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, perfect for leisurely strolls, and the world-renowned shopping district of Knightsbridge, home to Harrods and Harvey Nichols.
• South Kensington: The heart of London's museum quarter. Alight here for direct access to the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum – all within easy walking distance.
• Earl's Court: A major interchange and a convenient base for exploring West London. The area also hosts various exhibitions and events.
• Barons Court / Hammersmith: These stations offer convenient connections and access to the Hammersmith area, with its riverside pubs and music venues like the Hammersmith Apollo.
• Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3 / Heathrow Terminal 4 / Heathrow Terminal 5: The Piccadilly Line provides the most economical and often convenient way to travel directly between central London and all Heathrow Airport terminals, running frequently throughout the day.

Tips for riding the Piccadilly Line

• Airport access: If travelling to or from Heathrow, allow ample time, especially during peak hours. The journey can take 45-60 minutes from central London.
• Can get busy: Like all central London lines, the Piccadilly can get very crowded, particularly between Heathrow and central London, and during peak hours (roughly 7:30 AM - 9:30 AM and 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM on weekdays). If you have flexibility, try to travel outside these times.
• New trains: Keep an eye out for the new, modern, and air-conditioned trains that are gradually being introduced across the line. These will significantly enhance comfort.
• No air conditioning (on older trains): The older fleet of Piccadilly Line trains does not have air conditioning and can get quite warm, especially during summer months. Carry water, particularly on hot days.
• Covent Garden lifts: Be prepared for potentially long queues to use the lifts at Covent Garden station, particularly at busy times. Consider using Leicester Square or Holborn and walking.

The Piccadilly Line is an indispensable route for tourists, providing a direct link between major attractions, theatreland, and London's international gateway. Its deep-level character adds to the quintessential London Underground experience, blending practicality with a sense of history.

Stations

The Piccadilly Line has one main branch in the north and then splits into three distinct routes to serve the different terminals at Heathrow Airport.

Main Line (Cockfosters to Acton Town)

• Cockfosters Tube Station
• Oakwood Tube Station
• Southgate Tube Station
• Arnos Grove Tube Station
• Bounds Green Tube Station
• Wood Green Tube Station
• Turnpike Lane Tube Station
• Manor House Tube Station
• Finsbury Park Tube Station
• Arsenal Tube Station
• Holloway Road Tube Station
• Caledonian Road Tube Station
• King's Cross St. Pancras Tube Station
• Russell Square Tube Station
• Holborn Tube Station
• Covent Garden Tube Station
• Leicester Square Tube Station
• Piccadilly Circus Tube Station
• Green Park Tube Station
• Hyde Park Corner Tube Station
• Knightsbridge Tube Station
• South Kensington Tube Station
• Earl's Court Tube Station
• Barons Court Tube Station
• Hammersmith Tube Station
• Turnham Green Tube Station
• Acton Town Tube Station (Here the line branches for Heathrow)

Heathrow Terminal 2 & 3 / Terminal 5 Branch (from Acton Town)

• South Ealing Tube Station
• Northfields Tube Station
• Boston Manor Tube Station
• Osterley Tube Station
• Hounslow East Tube Station
• Hounslow Central Tube Station
• Hounslow West Tube Station
• Hatton Cross Tube Station
• Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3 Tube Station
• Heathrow Terminal 5 Tube Station

Heathrow Terminal 4 Loop (from Hatton Cross)

• Heathrow Terminal 4 Tube Station (This is a loop service from Hatton Cross that then returns to Hatton Cross before going to Terminals 2 & 3 and Terminal 5)

More Reading

• London Underground: Discover London's iconic Tube—learn about its colourful network, rich history, diverse station architecture, easy payment options, and essential navigation tips for seamless travel.