One of London's most famous abandoned tube stations will start offering family tours this summer. The London Transport Museum's Hidden London programme will finally provide a kids' option in time for the holidays.
New Family Tour of Aldwych Disused Tube Station
For 10 years now, the London Transport Museum has been hosting tours into some of the city's most impressive abandoned underground structures via its Hidden London programme. Among the most notable tours are its End of the Line trips to Aldwych tube station, which was finally shuttered in 1994 after 30 years of reduced service.
Although the current tours recently allowed anyone aged 10-plus to attend with appropriate supervision, they have been on the adult-oriented side. This stands in contrast with the museum itself, which is a primary school classic offering free admission for youngsters and featuring an excellent soft play area.
London's forgotten underground spaces are still definitely not the place for toddlers. But this summer, the LTM is offering something different via tours of Aldwych specifically aimed at 10 to 14-year-olds.
What the Family Tour Includes
Basically, it is the same deal as the adult tour: visitors can explore the original platforms, lifts and ticket hall of the disused and otherwise inaccessible Aldwych station. However, the tour has been tweaked to make it more engaging and exciting, with the addition of riddles, challenges and other hands-on elements. It lasts 75 minutes, and children under 16 still need to be accompanied by an adult. ID is required for legal reasons, meaning no sneaking in a nine-year-old sibling.
For big tweens and little teens, it looks like the perfect summer day trip – a look at a mysterious new part of London, not to mention the ultimate escape from the summer heat.
Tour Dates and Booking
Aldwych: The End of the Line's new family editions run from July 16 to August 30 at the London Transport Museum. Visit the LTM website for dates and booking.
This tour is among the best things to do in London this summer, offering a unique experience for families with children aged 10-14.
