
Southgate Underground Station London
A unique Art Deco gem on the Piccadilly line, famous for its striking circular tunnels and elegant design.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Southgate Underground Station London
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique Art Deco gem on the Piccadilly line, famous for its striking circular tunnels and elegant design.
"Architecturally interesting building with excellent connection to London via Piccadilly line."

📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Safely photograph the unique circular tunnels from the bridge above the tracks.
🎟️ Ticketing Woes
Be prepared for potential issues with child tickets; staff may not always be helpful.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Art Deco Architecture
Station Building
Admire the elegant, light-filled Art Deco design, a rare gem on the London Underground.

Circular Tunnel Views
Platform Level
Experience the iconic 'tube' feel with visually striking circular tunnels, perfect for train spotting.

Piccadilly Line Connection
Platforms
Enjoy reliable and frequent services directly into central London via the Piccadilly line.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Architectural Gem & Train Spotting Hub
Navigating Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Safely photograph the unique circular tunnels from the bridge above the tracks.
🎟️ Ticketing Woes
Be prepared for potential issues with child tickets; staff may not always be helpful.
🚶♀️ Station Surroundings
Explore nearby shops and handy bus stands right by the exit.
🚇 Piccadilly Line Access
Excellent and reliable connection to central London via the Piccadilly line.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Safely photograph the unique circular tunnels from the bridge above the tracks.
🎟️ Ticketing Woes
Be prepared for potential issues with child tickets; staff may not always be helpful.
🚶♀️ Station Surroundings
Explore nearby shops and handy bus stands right by the exit.
🚇 Piccadilly Line Access
Excellent and reliable connection to central London via the Piccadilly line.
🗣️ Staff Interactions
Some visitors report unfriendly staff; be patient and persistent if needed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Southgate Underground Station is praised for its unique Art Deco architecture and the visually striking circular tunnels, making it a photographer's delight. While the Piccadilly line offers reliable service into central London, some visitors have noted mixed experiences with staff friendliness and ticketing assistance.
"no backbone or care from staff. yesterday i was getting followed by someone, told one of the staff i was getting followed and if they could stop the person following me from tapping into the tube and following me, or at least getting on the tube with me, the guy there pretty much ignored me. allowed her to continue following me, i had to get on and off the tube multiple times and missed one tube because i didn’t wanna be stuck in the tube with them but they kept getting on and off with me, staff didn’t even care enough to come downstairs and make sure me and everybody else were safe after i told them i was getting followed. i actually feared for my safety, and i tried to stay in sight of the cctv cameras in case anything happened, so all of this is recorded. thankfully i managed to get away, but with the level of indifference from tube staff, its not surprising at all why so many crimes happen on the tube. actually disgraceful"
Nastaran Niroumand
"Elegant decor, authentic art deco, excellent connection to London via piccadilly circus line. V reliable services and friendly staff."
L H Silva-Clark (Tupinambah)
"Light and bright subsurface station. Usually quiet. Handy bus stands right by the exit and close to local shops."
David Scott
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Southgate Underground Station is served by the Piccadilly line, offering direct access to central London. It's a light and bright subsurface station, making it easy to find.
As a subsurface station, Southgate is generally accessible. However, specific accessibility details like step-free access should be confirmed with TfL for any mobility concerns.
Handy bus stands are located right by the station exit, providing convenient connections to various local routes.
While driving is possible, parking availability and restrictions around the station should be checked. Public transport is generally recommended for ease of access.
The Piccadilly line provides excellent and reliable services into central London, with journey times varying depending on your specific destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the station itself is free. You only pay for your journey using an Oyster card, contactless payment, or a paper ticket. Be aware that some visitors have encountered issues with child ticket issuance.
Southgate Underground Station operates according to TfL's standard Underground operating hours, typically from early morning until late at night. Exact times can vary, so it's best to check the TfL website for the most up-to-date schedule.
Yes, ticket machines are usually available at Southgate Station for purchasing single tickets or topping up Oyster cards. However, some users have reported difficulties with specific ticket types.
While standard TfL child fares apply, one reviewer mentioned staff being unable to issue a child ticket, leading to adult prices. It's advisable to have proof of age or check TfL's child fare policy beforehand.
No advance booking is required for Southgate Station. You can tap in with your Oyster or contactless payment as you would for any other Underground station.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photographic opportunities are the visually striking circular tunnels on the platforms, offering a unique 'tube' aesthetic.
Yes, photography is generally permitted at Southgate Underground Station for personal use. However, always be mindful of other passengers and avoid obstructing any areas.
Absolutely! Southgate is a popular spot for train spotters. The unique tunnel design provides a fantastic backdrop for capturing London Underground trains.
Drone photography is strictly prohibited at all London Underground stations and on TfL property due to safety and security regulations.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the full scope of the Art Deco architecture and the circular tunnels. Natural light inside the station is generally good.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
Southgate Station is often described as quiet and bright, offering a more relaxed experience compared to busier central London stations.
Restroom facilities are not always available at all London Underground stations. It's advisable to use facilities before arriving or at your destination if needed.
Reviews on staff friendliness are mixed. Some visitors have found them to be unhelpful or rude, while others report friendly service.
While generally safe, one reviewer reported feeling unsafe due to a lack of staff intervention when being followed. It's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.
The station is celebrated for its authentic Art Deco design, featuring elegant decor and a light, bright subsurface environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and make the journey more comfortable for children. The station's Art Deco architecture also provides a visually stimulating environment. While staff interactions can be mixed, focusing on the unique visual aspects of the station and the ease of travel on the Piccadilly line can ensure a positive family experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons for fewer crowds, allowing for more freedom to compose your shots. The natural light within the subsurface station is generally good, but a wide-angle lens will be beneficial for capturing the full scope of the architecture and the tunnels. Remember to be respectful of other passengers and avoid obstructing any areas while you're taking photos.
🚇 Commuters & Day-Trippers
While the station is convenient, be mindful of potential mixed reviews regarding staff helpfulness. However, the ease of using Oyster or contactless payment for your fare, combined with frequent train services, makes it an efficient choice. The nearby bus stands also offer further connectivity if your destination isn't directly on the Underground line.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art Deco Marvel of Southgate Station
The station's subsurface design contributes to its bright and airy feel, a contrast to many of the deeper, more utilitarian Tube stations. The use of materials and the overall layout create a welcoming atmosphere. It’s a testament to Holden's ability to blend practical transport needs with artistic vision, making Southgate more than just a transit point but a destination in itself for those interested in design history.
Beyond its architectural significance, Southgate is also a hub for train enthusiasts. The circular tunnels leading into the station are particularly famous, offering a unique perspective and a visually striking backdrop for capturing London Underground trains. This distinctive feature is what gives the station its 'tube' identity and is a major draw for photographers and railfans.
Navigating Southgate: Tips from Travelers
Regarding ticketing, some visitors have encountered issues, especially with child tickets, suggesting it's wise to be prepared and potentially confirm policies with TfL beforehand. While the station is generally quiet and reliable for Piccadilly line services into central London, there have been isolated reports of staff unfriendliness. Therefore, maintaining a patient and polite demeanor is advisable. The station's proximity to local shops and bus stands also makes it a convenient point for further exploration.
For those interested in the station's history or design, taking a moment to appreciate the authentic Art Deco decor is highly recommended. It’s a chance to step back in time and experience a piece of London's transport heritage. Despite occasional service hiccups or staff interactions, the overall consensus is that Southgate offers a distinctive and pleasant Underground experience.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit