When you think of London’s most picturesque tube stations, Kings Cross, Paddington, Victoria, and Waterloo might immediately come to mind. But have you ever considered Dollis Hill in North London?
While it may not be the first station that springs to mind when thinking about beauty, Dollis Hill has its own unique charm.
Its design is more practical than pretty, but there are certain features that make it stand out. From the circular windows in its waiting rooms to the flower beds on its platforms, this station has a few surprises up its sleeve.
Located in Zone 3 on the Jubilee line, between Neasden and Willesden Green, Dollis Hill is nestled among residential buildings and can only be accessed via pedestrian subways at its north and south entrances.
You might walk past the station and not even realise it’s there
(Image: Google Maps)
These subways are decorated with enamel panels designed by Amanda Duncan, featuring maps of the Dollis Hill area from various periods spanning the 16th to the 20th century, alongside interpretations of classical star maps.
Since 2009, the station has undergone some refurbishment, although it could arguably do with another spruce-up due to visible wear and tear. However, during winter, the waiting rooms become cosy retreats, especially when the windows frost over slightly.
Dollis Hill is hidden away in Zone 3 in North London
(Image: Chris McKenna / WikiCommons)
The extra tracks flanking the platforms allow sunlight to filter through unobstructed, casting a warm, golden glow on the frost-kissed windows.
With a warm brew in hand, Dollis Hill station can feel quite homely. However, it’s not always this charming.
On a cold, windy day, there’s no protection from the freezing gusts that blow from every direction.
Amanda Duncan designed the decorated enamel panels in the subway leading to the station
(Image: Winstonsmith99 / WikiCommons)
But when summer arrives, the scene changes. The station transforms into a cool retreat, secluded from the city’s noise, with only the pleasant buzz of bees around the flower beds for company… well, that and the occasional Metropolitan line train whizzing by without stopping.
So, while Dollis Hill might not be everyone’s cup of tea, on a sunny day, you can understand why some commuters have a fondness for it, despite its need for a little tender loving care now and then.
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