Network Rail is organising these unique tours at London Bridge, Victoria, and Waterloo stations, offering a chance to delve into the fascinating historical evolution of these pivotal transport hubs.
Renowned railway historian Rachel Kolsky will lead the tours, taking attendees on a journey through time.
London Waterloo, the terminus of Network Rail’s Wessex route, opened in 1848 and has a rich and varied history.
Gerry Kitchener, head of managed stations for the Wessex route, said: “London Waterloo is steeped in history, and a glimpse of this is available in the old international terminal with a series of vinyl plaques.
“This tour will expand on that snapshot of its 177-year history, providing an inspirational tale of how the railway grew and adapted over its lifetime, including a look at how Waterloo was once the grand gateway into Great Britain for visitors from the continent, offering them their first impression of the country when Eurostar served this station.”
London Victoria, originally two separate stations that merged in the 1920s, was a starting point for many continental journeys on the Night Ferry to France.
The tour will explore its history as a hub of glamour, frequented by the Orient Express and having an association with the Imperial Airways Terminal.
Built as part of London’s first railway line, London Bridge has recently undergone a dramatic transformation.
Once an unloved terminus, it is now a bright, spacious station leading to the city, the Thames, and trendy Borough and Bermondsey.
The tours begin in London Waterloo on May 3, London Victoria will be May 8 and London Bridge on May 15.
Glen Merryman, head of managed stations on the Kent and Sussex routes, said: “London Victoria and London Bridge are landmarks in their own right.
“There is fascinating history around both of these stations and attendees will learn about the changes these places went through in order to provide a modern railway for our passengers.”
These tours are part of the 200th anniversary of the modern railway, inspired by the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway in 1825.
Nationwide celebrations are planned throughout the year under the banner of Railway 200, highlighting how the railway shaped Britain and the world and how its pioneering spirit continues to shape the future.
Tickets are available via Eventbrite, and priced at £25 per person, with each session accommodating 15 attendees.
Tours are fully accessible, with Quiet Vox devices available for the deaf community.
They will last two hours, with seating areas available throughout the stations.
Tour participants will have the opportunity to admire artwork from the 1951 Festival of Britain, explore luxury restaurants, contemporary public art, and numerous cinematic associations, including a news cinema, TV lounge, and iconic film locations.
For many, these tours will provide a new perspective on stations they may pass through regularly, shedding light on the captivating stories and historical events that have taken place at these bustling transport hubs.
