Wembley Central

This is the entrance to Wembley Central, the 22nd station I have visited on the Bakerloo Line. It doesn't look much like a station from this photo but the front is currently being replaced. It lacks the character of the other stations I have seen and just looks part of the shopping complex which is probably what the designers wanted. Behind this small station front is a much larger station than you would think. It even has public toilets! British Rail, the Overground as well as the Bakerloo Line use this station.



The station is the white section at the bottom right of this coloured mixed block of shops and apartments.

Across the road from the station is a much older block of shops known as Central Parade. More interesting architecture but not sure how long this block will remain before it is also redeveloped.

Another interesting building around the corner.

Walking from Wembley Central station you soon see Wembley Stadium. In fact the arch has been visible since leaving the station. These are light poles in the foreground. I'm sure it looks wonderful in the evening when they are all lit up.

This is the new Wembley Stadium opened in 2007. The previous stadium was opened in 1923 and was one of a number of concrete structures built for the British Empire Exhibition of 1924. The stadium was also used as the main venue for the Summer Olympics of 1948. It is perhaps more well known for its association with football, hosting the annual FA cup finals; a number of European cup finals and the world cup final in 1966. The present stadium is still mainly used for major football matches. The 134m arch can be seen across London.


Opposite the stadium is the Designer Outlet so if you're not interested in football there are plenty of shopping opportunities here.

A reflection in the Designer Outlet gives a better view of the Stadium.

Walking in the opposite direction from the Underground station I came across this Mosque and was surprised to see a Shiva Temple next door.

There is a strong Asian presence in this area as you can see from the local shops.

A few Irish pubs as well.

The church of St John the Evangelist just off the Harrow Road looked a charming old church. Built in 1846, a graveyard was added in 1887 which is now referred to as Wembley Old Burial Ground.

Further along the road is this art deco fire station.

Next to the fire station is this large modern police station

Although a modern building it has retained the old blue lamp, the Victorian symbol used outside police stations. They first appeared outside police stations in 1861.

Across the road from the police station is Barham Park. A large open space with formal gardens

Also in the park is this Georgian building used as a local library until 2011 and now housing 31 studios.

Whilst wandering through the walled gardens I came across a group of Nepali Ladies. They were watching another lady showing them some keep fit movements. There was a lot of laughter but I only saw one of them trying some of the movements.

In another part of the garden their husbands were sitting on a couple of benches chatting away.

Back at the Underground station to make the long journey home.