A London Guide via The Underground Central Line

A London Guide via The Underground Central Line

• Visiting London, Area Guide

Hurtling through London, from forested Essex in the east to suburban Ruslip in the west, the easy-to-navigate central line stops at many of the capital’s hotspots. It’s the fastest way to reach premium shopping destinations – including the stylish stores of Bond Street – as well as the leafy delights of Holland Park and the boho chic environs of Notting Hill. Allow the Central line to be your guide on a whistle-stop tour through London.

Stratford

Begin your Central line adventure in the buzzing hub of Stratford. Home to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park – where the 2012 games were held – and the vast Westfield Stratford City shopping centre, there’s plenty to see here. The outlandish ArcelorMittal Orbit – a towering sculpture that was constructed in honour of the 2012 tournament – pierces the skyline above the myriad of festivals and events that take place in the park throughout the year.

Liverpool Street

Alighting at Liverpool Street, you’ll notice iconic skyscrapers such as the Gherkin and Walkie-Talkie rubbing shoulders with narrow, cobbled streets and charming old drinking dens. Welcome to east London. The bustle of Old Spitalfields Market is a hop, skip and jump from Liverpool Street station. Head here to browse vintage stalls and discover hip clothing designers. Brick Lane is also close by. Markets selling everything from contemporary art to quirky jewellery and vegan food are interspersed with the aromatic curry restaurants that the street is famous for.

Oxford Circus & Bond Street

Whether you depart from Oxford Circus or Bond Street station, prepare to arrive at one of the busiest hubs of London. From the popular high street stores that hem the former to the luxurious enclaves lining elegant Bond Street, there’s a retail emporium to suit every taste, making this the Central line’s one-stop shopping destination

Notting Hill Gate

Antique dealers, artisan bakeries and rows of elegant town houses define Notting Hill’s bohemian vibe. Stroll around this well-heeled district for glimpses of some of London’s most beautiful streets lined with terraced houses in a rainbow of pastel colours. Pause for a tipple at one of the inviting pubs tucked away in its backstreets. Antiques collectors and vintage magpies will love the nearby Portobello Road. On Saturdays, it’s host to Portobello Road Market, known for a dizzying range of antique treasures.

Holland Park

Seeking a tranquil pit stop? A laid-back meander through the leafy charms of Holland Park is an scenic way to while away an afternoon. With its native peacocks, prettily landscaped gardens and an open air theatre, there’s plenty to see. Lofty soprano notes can sometimes be heard reverberating from Holland Park Opera House, and a picnic on the lawns outside is often accompanied by an interesting soundtrack.

Shepherd’s Bush

The western twin of Stratford’s epic mall, the chic Westfield London is Shepherd’s Bush’s draw card. The glittering shopping centre is home to cafés, restaurants and the hallowed halls of The Village with its collection of chic big-name designer stores. Alight here for some serious retail therapy, followed by a sumptuous evening meal at one of its prestige eateries.

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