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The Underground is the tunnel that connects us all. With a tube to take you anywhere in London, the city is your oyster – and none more so than the Central Line. With so much to see and do across London, the Central Line has stops all across the west, east and of course central areas – check out our recommendations and start mapping your next adventure.
West London
Westfield London
Located only a short walk from Shepherd’s Bush Tube Station, Westfield London is Europe’s largest shopping and leisure destination. Spanning 242,000 square metres, the complex must be seen to be believed. With more than 500 retail stores including midrange to luxury brands, a host of eateries, and a range of leisure activities such as bowling, mini golf, and a cinema, there is plenty to do, eat and drink to keep you entertained. And if you are visiting in the winter months, be sure to check out the Christmas ice rink!
Notting Hill
Hopping off at Notting Hill Gate, take a wander around the picturesque area of Notting Hill – which you might know from the rom-com starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant. Take a stroll through the famous Portobello Market – we recommend going on a Saturday for the best range of goodies – and find yourself something unique. The market offers a range of things to buy from sweet treats and savoury bites to fruit and vegetables, second-hand goods and vintage clothing. Other wonderful things to do in Notting Hill include exploring the Museums of Brands and enjoying a show at the Gate Theatre or Coronet Theatre.
Serpentine Galleries, Kensington Gardens
Located near Lancaster Gate Tube Station, the Serpentine Galleries in Kensington Gardens is perfect for those seeking a little culture among greenery. The North Gallery and South Gallery have an expanded display of contemporary art and architecture that follows the seasons of the year. Exhibitions are timed to take place with each new season – so no matter what time of the year you visit, there will be a stunning display to enjoy.
Holland Park
Fancy a bit of celebrity spotting? Hopping off at Holland Park Tube Station will do the trick! Located in Kensington, Holland Park is affectionally known as ‘Millionaire’s Row’, and is among some of the most expensive residential areas of the UK. From The Beckhams and Ed Sheeran to Elton John and Robbie Williams, the area is, and was, the home for many of the UK’s rich and famous. Whether you see a celeb or not, it’s worth taking a stroll through the leafy neighbourhood and admiring the large Victorian mansions. Why not pop into a café and enjoy a drink like the luxurious locals?
Central London
Marble Arch and Hyde Park
Hopping off at Marble Arch Tube Station, you can see the triumphant 19th-century white Marble Arch. Designed by John Nash in 1827 and first situated closer to Buckingham Palace, the arch has been in its current location since 1851. With intricate design details and an almighty stance, it’s worth checking out. Plus, once you are there you can wander into the famous Hyde Park and enjoy a stroll, have a picnic, ride a bike or explore the gardens. The park is 350 acres and has a long rich history – having first been established by Henry VIII in 1536.
St Paul’s Cathedral
A London icon, St Paul’s Cathedral is a work of art within the city’s heart and easily accessible via Bank Tube Station or Chancery Lane Tube Station. Designed by the legendary Sir Christopher Wren, the Anglican cathedral holds historical and cultural significance. It has served as the site for numerous funerals of renowned figures and has played host to royal weddings – including King Charles III (then Prince) and Princess Diana. Inside, the cathedral is home to an incredible range of art with delicate carvings, and modern work by artists such as Yoko Ono and Antony Gormley.
Oxford Street and Regent Street
London is known for its shopping and Oxford Street and Regent Street are the answer to all of your retail needs. Alighting at Oxford Circus you can access both streets and visit iconic stores such as John Lewis & Partners, and Marks & Spencer, as well as luxury brands on Regent Street. For a touch of added magic, consider visiting during Christmas time for stunning decorations and lights.
East London
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
If you are a fan of all thing’s sports, then it’s worth catching the Central Line and alighting at Stratford Tube Station for Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. A public sporting complex purposely built for the 2012 Summer Olympics and Paralympics, the Park houses an Olympic Stadium, Olympic swimming pool, the athlete’s village and other sporting venues, as well as the ArcelorMittal Orbit – a 114.5m tall structure that offers amazing views of London. You can even take the 40-second tunnel slide down!
Westfield Stratford City
Adjacent to the Park is Westfield Stratford City – which can also easily be accessed by Stratford Tube Station. It is the largest urban shopping centre in the UK by land area and the fourth largest shopping centre in the UK by retail space. Meaning? It’s got everything you need in one place. From shops and restaurants to bowling, a casino, live music venues and so much more, you can easily spend a day there.
Think we missed something? Check out our other London Underground blogs – Jubilee Line, Victoria Line and Northern Line – for further inspiration on your city-wide travels.
