Kensington (Olympia), a station in West London's Zone 2 currently served by the London Overground and District line, was notably absent from the iconic London Tube map for nearly two decades. The station's omission stemmed from its secretive role during World War II, when it was used by Allied Commander Dwight D. Eisenhower.
A Station with a Storied Past
Originally launched as Kensington station in 1844, it closed in December of the same year due to lack of success. Reopened in 1862 with Metropolitan line services, it was rebranded Kensington Addison Road in 1868. During WWII, the Metropolitan line suffered bomb damage, leading to the closure of West London stations. However, Kensington station's prime location—with rail links across London and proximity to Eisenhower's headquarters—made it his preferred departure point for trips to Wales in 1944 to prepare for the Normandy landings.
Secret Operations and Post-War Transformation
In 1946, the station was renamed Kensington (Olympia) and began serving Post Office Savings Bank workers. Its operations remained classified under the National Secrets Act until 1958, when it finally gained official recognition. That year, a permanent platform and a District line shuttle service to Earl's Court were added. Despite improvements like more frequent timetables, a community garden, and cosmetic upgrades, train services remain infrequent, making it one of London's only part-time stations.
