Which London landmark is the world’s oldest underground railway, opened in 1863?

The London Underground is the world’s oldest underground railway, opening in 1863.

Its first route, the Metropolitan Railway, ran between Paddington and Farringdon. Steam locomotives initially hauled trains through tunnels, so stations and ventilation arrangements were essential. The opening addressed severe traffic congestion in central London during the Victorian period.

The network later expanded through separate companies and technologies. Electric trains began replacing steam trains on underground routes in the late nineteenth century, making deeper tunnels and longer services more practical. The Metropolitan Railway also gave the word “metro” to many later urban rail systems.

“London Underground” is the official network name, while “the Tube” usually refers especially to its deep-level lines. The London Overground is a separate rail network, although both systems are integrated into Transport for London’s wider transport system.