Pimlico Station, London
It primarily serves the local residential area, which is known for its elegant white stucco terraces, leafy garden squares, and proximity to the River Thames and Tate Britain. Pimlico is the only London Underground station with no National Rail, Overground, or other Underground connections, served exclusively by the Victoria Line.
Station Entrances and Location
The station's main entrance is located on Bessborough Street, near its junction with Rampayne Street.There are additional exits onto Rampayne Street and Tachbrook Street.
The entrance is situated within a low-rise concrete and glass structure at street level.
This modest ground-level building does not house any commercial premises — it functions solely as a station entrance, ticket hall, and access point to the escalators below.
There is no major shopping or residential unit attached to the building, reflecting the relatively quiet and residential nature of the surrounding area.
Distance from Charing Cross
Pimlico Station is approximately 1.8 miles by road from Charing Cross.This makes it easily reachable within 10 to 15 minutes by car or a short journey on the Victoria Line, changing once at Victoria or Oxford Circus depending on your route. Walking there will take about 38 minutes.
Rail Services at Pimlico
Pimlico Station is served solely by the London Underground.It does not offer London Overground, National Rail, or DLR services.
The station sits on the Victoria Line, a deep-level, high-frequency Tube line connecting south and north London.
Victoria Line Connections
On the Victoria Line, Pimlico is situated between: The Victoria Line is fully underground at Pimlico and operates automatic trains, known for their speed and regularity.History of Pimlico Station
Pimlico Station is a relatively modern addition to the London Underground network.It was opened on 14 September 1972, several years after the Victoria Line itself had started running. Its construction was delayed due to financial constraints and local planning considerations. Despite these delays, it eventually became the final addition to complete the original route of the Victoria Line.
Unlike most other London Underground stations, Pimlico was not built in the 19th or early 20th century, but rather in the late 20th century, giving it a more minimalist architectural style.
Origin of the Name “Pimlico”
The station is named after the district of Pimlico, in which it is located. The origin of the name “Pimlico” itself is somewhat obscure. One popular theory is that it may derive from a 16th-century innkeeper named Ben Pimlico, who was known for selling a famed ale. His name became associated with the area where the ale was distributed — eventually evolving into the district's name.Pimlico Station was known by this name from the beginning; there have been no renamings or alternative titles throughout its history.
Interesting Facts about Pimlico Station
Here are a few fun and lesser-known facts that make Pimlico Station worth noting:- Only station on the Victoria Line that does not connect to any other line.
- It is the only station on the entire Underground named after a purely residential district.
- The station was designed with Tate Britain in mind — it is the closest Tube stop to this world-famous gallery, just a short walk away.
- Several of the station’s original tile motifs were designed to reflect its connection to art and the Tate.
Quick Facts
- Station Name: Pimlico
- Location: Pimlico, City of Westminster
- Opened: 14 September 1972
- Lines Served: Victoria Line (London Underground)
- Nearby Streets: Bessborough Street, Rampayne Street, Tachbrook Street
- Station Type: Underground, with a small ground-level entrance building
- Services: No Overground or National Rail — Victoria Line only
- Adjacent Stations: Vauxhall (south), Victoria (north)
- Distance from Charing Cross: Approx. 1.8 miles by road
- Nearby Attractions: Tate Britain, Millbank, the River Thames
- Fun Fact: Only Victoria Line station without an interchange
Conclusion
Pimlico Station may not be a major transport interchange or a bustling retail hub, but its unique status and central yet quiet location give it a special place within the London Underground network.It serves as a convenient gateway to the Pimlico district, the Thames riverside, and cultural destinations like Tate Britain.
Whether you’re a commuter heading north into the city or a tourist seeking an off-the-beaten-path London experience, Pimlico Station offers efficient access with a peaceful charm all its own.
Pimlico Station is 
on the Map of London Underground
Painting of Pimlico Station, London (View image in full size)