Arsenal's Premier League trophy parade is causing major disruptions on the London Overground, with the Mildmay Line experiencing severe delays as thousands of fans flock to Islington. The Gunners suffered a heartbreaking last-minute defeat to PSG in the Champions League final on Thursday night, losing on penalties. However, the club still has plenty to celebrate after securing its first Premier League title in 22 years, along with the women's team winning the FIFA Women's Champions Cup earlier this season.
Transport Disruptions
Fans have already begun gathering, leading to severe delays on the Mildmay Line. Several Tube and train stations are either closed or operating limited services:
- Highbury & Islington: Victoria line trains will not stop. London Overground services are exit-only, and the station is not step-free.
- Holloway Road: Closed.
- Canonbury: Exit only.
- Finsbury Park: Queues expected, especially after the parade. No Thameslink service through central London to Farringdon due to planned engineering works.
- Caledonian Road: May operate exit-only or trains may not stop if overcrowded.
- Drayton Park: Closed.
- Essex Road: Closed.
All roads along the parade route, including side roads, are closed to traffic.
Police Presence
The Metropolitan Police has deployed over 500 officers to Islington, alongside specialist search teams and drones. Commander Stuart Bell, leading the operation, said: 'The parade is an opportunity for Arsenal supporters to celebrate, and we want everyone attending to enjoy the day safely. There will be a police presence along the route throughout the event, supporting event organisers and stewarding operations. Officers will respond to incidents where necessary. We expect the vast majority of those attending to do so safely and responsibly. However, anti-social behaviour, violence or any other type of criminality will not be tolerated. Officers will take action against anyone attempting to cause disruption or harm.'
Parade Route
The parade follows a loop of approximately five miles, starting and ending at the Emirates Stadium. The buses will turn onto Holloway Road from Drayton Park, continue east along Seven Sisters Road, then head down Blackstock Road, Mount Grove Road, and Green Lanes. Continuing south along Petherton Road, Beresford Road, and Newington Green Road, the route then goes south along Essex Road before turning north at Angel Tube station onto Upper Street. After passing Highbury and Islington station, the buses return to Holloway Road and back to the stadium.
