For four days this September visitors will have the chance to go behind the scenes at London Transport Museum’s Depot in Acton, west London. The Museum Depot houses over 320,000 objects from the Capital’s transport history and this autumn the focus is on all things ‘Underground’.
Guests will be treated to a jam-packed programme of mini talks and vintage vehicle displays, as well as fun activities for families. One of the highlights will be a talk by disused station history expert Siddy Holloway, who is co-presenter of the new Secrets of the London Underground TV series on the Yesterday channel and the Hidden London Engagement Manager at London Transport Museum.
Things to do at ‘Underground Uncovered’:
- Expand your mind with four days of mini talks: from art and poster history to station architecture, the rich design history of London’s transport network and heritage vehicles, try out one of these bite-size, half-hour lectures given by the Depot’s knowledgeable team of volunteers. At 11.30, 12.30, 13.30, 14.30 and 15.30. Limited numbers. These are best for adults and older children with a keen interest in transport
- Uncover the secrets of the Tube network with Siddy Holloway, co-presenter of the new Secrets of the London Underground TV series, in the lecture theatre. There are two talks, on Friday afternoon only, on a first come first serve basis. With broadcast clips of subterranean secret tunnels and stations from the Yesterday channel series and a Q&A, this will be a real treat for fans of forgotten Tube stations and tunnels
- Try your hand at being a Train Operator in the Victoria Line driving cab and see how the trains on the world’s first automatic railway work. On certain days only
- Watch a demonstration with restored London Underground signalling frames. On certain days only
- Visit the historic Q stock carriages in the train shed, and learn more about the current restoration project. On certain days only
- Explore two rare historic works vehicles outside on the Depot forecourt, not often on display to the public. Visitors will love the red 89Q tower wagon (1936) used to maintain overhead tram and trolleybus systems and the 351X Fordson tractor (1937) which was used to push or tow trams within depots and retrieve broken down trams
- Pick up a stylish gift, or souvenir of your visit, at the London Transport Museum shop in the Depot. There is also a pop up shop and marquee outside, where there will be original signs, moquette Tube fabric scraps, tread plates and a multitude of other authentic items for sale from Transport for London’s network – all at bargain prices
- Transport enthusiasts will be among the first to get their hands on two London Transport Museum exclusive Class 20 diesel locomotives models at £179.95 each, which are the No. 20142 ‘Sir John Betjeman’ and No. 20227 ‘Sherlock Holmes’
- The London Transport Museum Friends’ Shop will be back in business, selling a wide range of second hand books, transport models, maps and other ephemera
- The London Transport Museum Friends’ Desk will also be open, for those interested in finding out more about supporting London’s transport heritage; by becoming a Friend, volunteering, or supporting a project
- Look out for the Museum’s expert volunteers who will be on hand to talk about their specialist restoration work with the Depot’s collection, as well as stewarding vehicles and supporting family activities
- Enjoy a tea or coffee, a hot toasted sandwich and cakes at the Mini Bean speciality coffee bar
Certain talks, activities and demonstrations are only running on certain days. Visitors should check the full programme online when buying their ticket, which will be available in early September.
Families can:
- Take a ride on a miniature railway on all four days
- Join a fun ‘Down at the Depot’ storytelling for under 5s, Thursday and Friday only
- Get involved with singing, dancing, play and an interactive story about the Depot’s unique Milk van
· Get crafty in a make and take ‘Textured Tiles’ activity on Saturday and Sunday only. Create your own mosaic-style tiles using collage and recycled materials inspired by the unique tile designs of London Underground stations. Best for children between 3 and 12 years
· Spot the colourful vehicles on the explorer trail for under 5’s on all four days
· Take home Activity packs for all children, are included in entry ticket price
