Description
- Two stations, one location: The station was actually built as two separate stations, one for the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway (LBSCR) and the other for the London, Chatham and Dover Railway (LCDR).
- Opening dates: The LBSCR side opened first in 1860, followed by the LCDR side in 1862.
- Early rivalry: The two companies initially competed for passengers, leading to a rivalry that played out in the design and amenities of their respective stations.
Merger and modernization:
- Unified ownership: In 1923, the two railways merged under the Southern Railway, leading to the gradual unification of the station.
- Integration project: Walls were removed, platforms renumbered, and tracks reconfigured to allow for seamless movement between the two sides.
- Expansion and renovation: The station underwent significant expansion and renovation in the early 20th century, including the addition of a new entrance for the Royal Family. Royal Waiting Room: Despite the grandiose name, this is now just a set of retail stock rooms. Originally, this is where the Royal Family would enter the station. You can see the outside entrance to this on Hudson’s Place – it is the entrance with the columns to either side. No doubt there would have been a fine station clock within but we are unable to find any reference to such an item.
World War II and beyond:
- Troop departure point: During World War I, Victoria Station served as the main departure point for troops heading to the front line.
- Post-war challenges: The station faced challenges in the post-war period due to increasing competition from other modes of transport.
- Modernization efforts: In recent decades, the station has undergone further modernization, including the addition of new shops and restaurants, and improved accessibility features.
Interesting facts:
- Catacombs: Beneath the station lie a network of hidden catacombs, once used for storage and warehousing.
- Ghostly stories: The station is said to be haunted by several ghosts, adding to its mysterious atmosphere.
- Architectural mix: The station features a mix of Victorian and modern architecture.
