'Light Tunnel'

King's Cross Light Tunnel.

I had heard, and seen images, of the Light Tunnel at King's Cross station, but had yet to see it.

Considering its location, linking King's Cross with St Pancras International stations it also guides visitors towards Granary Square and the markets, restaurants and shops near Coal Drops Yard, it wasn't the easiest thing to find. 

I entered it by using the entrance from King's Boulevard, which, I think, is a better way to first experience the light installation.

Colour-changing LED screens.

Using the King's Boulevard entrance to the King's Cross underground station really sets the mood for what you are going to see.

Kingsway Tram Subway

The Kingsway Tram Subway entrance.

I have walked up and down Southampton Row on numerous occasions, as it is a direct walking route from Euston, when I travel by London Overground, to the River Thames. The road and pavements are always busy as Russell Square, Queen Square, the University of London and much more are all in the area.

As you cross the busy Theobalds Road, there is a ramp, behind iron gates, that slopes down into a tunnel, in the middle of the road. This is the only surviving entrance to the Kingsway Tram Subway.

Unlike the rest of the tram network, which ceased operation in 1952, the Kingsway Tram Subway still has the street tracks, for the most part, in situ. Looking closer you can make out the underground electricity cable that powered this route.

Although Southampton Row hasn't really changed that much, over the last century, you can immediately spot a problem with the layout. The roads would have been quieter, granted, but passengers would have to cross to the centre of the road, where stairs would need to be descended to reach the station below. And those exiting the tunnel would climb a different set of stairs, only to find themselves fighting to cross the road to the safety of the pavement.