In Defense of London's Most Maligned Tube Line
It might be slow. It might be old. It might even be dirty. Yet, there is nothing I cherish more than riding London's most hated Underground line. The Bakerloo line consistently tops lists of the capital's most despised transport routes, but here's why that reputation is entirely undeserved.
The Criticisms Are Well-Known
The Bakerloo line faces widespread disdain for numerous reasons. Its carriages feature a distinctive seating arrangement with two forward-facing and two backward-facing seats alongside standard TfL seating. Operating with 1972-stock trains—the oldest still in regular service on the London Underground—the line is frequently criticized for its sluggish pace, rumbling noises, and occasional grime. While these complaints hold some truth, I firmly believe the line's unique advantages far outweigh its perceived drawbacks.
A Journey Through Time and Space
The Bakerloo line serves 25 stations across London, transporting nearly 100 million passengers annually from its northern terminus at Harrow & Wealdstone to its southern endpoint at Elephant & Castle. When Citymapper suggests taking the Bakerloo, I experience the same thrill as sitting at the front of the DLR and imagining a rollercoaster ride. Unlike the often-packed Jubilee line, traveling on the Bakerloo feels like stepping back in time, offering a nostalgic escape from modern commuting drudgery.
Quirks That Define the Experience
The distinctive clickety-clack of wheels on tracks and the occasional scent of McVitie's biscuits near Harlesden Station—thanks to its proximity to the factory just 0.2 miles away—add layers of charm to this unique public transport journey. Passengers are sometimes greeted with sweet aromas of caramelized sugar, transforming an ordinary commute into a sensory delight.
The Luxury of Space
Perhaps the greatest pleasure is securing one of the four-seater carriages all to yourself. On the Bakerloo, you can often place your bag on a seat—a luxury unthinkable on busier lines like the Piccadilly. This is because the Bakerloo ranks among the least busy Underground routes, handling between 85 and 95 million passengers yearly compared to the Elizabeth Line's 230 to 250 million. I can scarcely recall a time when I couldn't find a seat, ensuring a more relaxed and enjoyable journey.
Future Prospects and Expansion
The Bakerloo line also features prominently in the Mayor's transport strategy for London. Plans for a Bakerloo line extension from Elephant & Castle toward Lewisham promise to enhance connectivity in South London. Although this project remains in development, interim solutions like the Bakerloop bus service demonstrate ongoing commitment to improving access. So, here's to celebrating this underappreciated gem of London's transport network!
