The London Underground is full of quirks, from hidden tunnels to abandoned stations, but one of its most puzzling features is a platform that seems far bigger than necessary. While some stations boast record depths or the most platforms, this one holds a title that serves little practical purpose.
Among Transport for London ’s 272 stations, Highgate, in North London has the longest platform on the network, stretching an impressive 490 feet (150 metres). However, this station is hardly used, only served by the Northern Line.
Even more bizarrely, no Northern line train is long enough to reach both ends of the platform. A stopping mark on the front end of the platform shows drivers where to halt, making much of it redundant.
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According to a Reddit user mycketforvirrad, the platform was originally constructed with future expansions in mind. However, these ambitious plans never materialised, leaving Highgate with a long yet largely unnecessary platform.
The Northern line was once meant to operate longer trains that would reach both ends of Highgate’s platform. However, the project was scrapped when World War II began.
Despite its underuse, Highgate is still a fascinating anomaly within the network, offering a glimpse into ambitious transport plans that never came to be.
The London Underground has a history of record-breaking features, having opened in 1863 as the world’s first underground railway. Today, it spans 11 lines, including the Victoria line, which launched in 1968.
Just a few stops away, Hampstead station holds its own unique record as the deepest Tube station, sitting 58.5 metres below ground. However, this isn’t as straightforward as it sounds.
Hampstead’s depth is largely due to its location atop a steep hill, meaning it has an unfair advantage in holding the title. For those brave enough to skip the lifts, the station also features a daunting 320-step staircase – equivalent to climbing a 15-storey building.
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