District line
The green District line is the second-largest Tube line with 60 stations and five branches — Upminster in the east splits in central London into branches for Ealing Broadway, Richmond, Wimbledon and Edgware Road.
About the District line
Opened in 1868 as the Metropolitan District Railway, it was one of the first underground railways in the world and remains the only Tube line serving both Wimbledon and Kew Gardens.
Almost the entire line runs above ground — only the central Embankment to Earl's Court section is in tunnel. This makes the District line one of the most scenic Tube journeys, especially the Richmond branch.
For tourists the District is essential: Westminster, St James's Park, Sloane Square, South Kensington (V&A, Natural History, Science Museum), Earl's Court, Hammersmith and Tower Hill all sit on the green line.
Key stations on the District line
- WestminsterJubilee and Circle lines — Big Ben, Parliament
- South KensingtonPiccadilly and Circle lines — V&A, NHM, Science Museum
- Earl's CourtBranch junction for Wimbledon, Ealing, Richmond
- WimbledonNational Rail, Tramlink — for AELTC Championships
FAQs about the District line
How many branches does the District line have?
Five western branches: Ealing Broadway, Richmond, Wimbledon, Kensington (Olympia) and Edgware Road, plus the main eastern line to Upminster.
Does the District line go to Wimbledon?
Yes. The Wimbledon branch runs from Earl's Court through Putney Bridge, Parsons Green, Putney and Southfields to Wimbledon — the easiest Tube to the All England Club.
Does the District line have air conditioning?
Yes. All District line trains are S7 Stock with full air conditioning and walk-through carriages.