The London Underground, the very essence of a great metropolis, is a story which has fascinated and captivated generations since its first opening in January 1863. For many it is a very familiar narrative, a seemingly well-trodden story, with little new or significant additions, a direct and simple story of development and expansion, from the first trains from Paddington to Farringdon, culminating in today’s Elizabeth line. What this book seeks to do is to revisit the seemingly familiar story, but utilising the full wealth of archive primary resources now available. These sources are honed by a highly experienced researcher and historical expert in the subject.

The daunting engineering challenges from constructing tunnels under London, or designing Underground rolling stock, to the ever present battle to secure financial stability to expand and enhance the system, along with the unique design culture; are fully explored. The book, first of others, seeks to unify the at times disparate approach to writing on the subject. You will never think about the tube in the same way again.