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Charing Cross 150

Saturday 12th April 2014

Charing Cross station from the London Eye 29th October 2006

Charing Cross station is celebrating 150 years with a birthday bash on Saturday 12 April. The station, which opened in 1864, has survived a political campaign to close it, sustained bomb damage in the Blitz and was the original terminus for passengers travelling to France. Today Charing Cross station sees over 37 million passengers each year, making it Britain's fifth busiest station (by footfall) - what an achievement for a station with only six platforms! On 12 April see the celebrations and join in the fun.

What is happening on the day?:

  • Kentish Farmers Market with local produce on sale
  • Charing Cross staff in period dress
  • A commemorative plaque will be unveiled by a celebrity
  • The new waiting room will be showing off its mural, which has been created by a student from Leigh Academy in Dartford

More information about the tours:

To celebrate this epic anniversary, Southeastern & Network Rail has teamed up with award winning London Detours to explore the historic station and its surrounding area on a unique walking tour. The tour will delve into the history of London Charing Cross, exploring its stories and hidden gems that lurk in and around this notorious building. Starting at the Official Centre of London, we unearth quirky alleyways and secret side streets to explore Celebrity Haunts, Egyptian Artefacts, Hidden Street Art, Grade Listed Sheds and Bloody Executions! Come see a different Charing Cross!

  • 11:00-12:15
  • 13:15-14:30
  • 15:30-16:45
  • 17:45-19:00
(above - photograph of Charing Cross station taken from the London Eye on 29th October 2006 by Colin Duff)