London Underground trains are known for their functionality, with basic features such as seats, doors, and handrails. However, this wasn't always the case. In the 1930s, trains were adorned with plush deep-pile carpets.
This luxury began in the early 1900s when the Metropolitan Railway was competing with the Great Central Railway to attract passengers. The Metropolitan line had long journeys, running all the way to Aylesbury from Liverpool Street, which could take up to an hour-and-a-half. READ MORE: Small South London town set to be transformed by Crossrail 2 but people fear Croydon-like high rises To enhance passenger comfort, the Metropolitan collaborated with the Pullman company, known for its luxurious carriages.
They built two carriages for the Metropolitan, complete with deep-pile carpets, wood panelling, comfortable chairs, decorative lamps, and even a bar and restaurant facility. The first two coaches, named Mayflower and Galatea, were painted in Pullman's signature cream and brown colours, later replaced with a coat of red paint. They also had dining facilities where passengers could enjoy a full sit-down meal in tip top conditions.
There was an extra charge for using the Pullman carriages, which helped pay for them along with the sales of food and drink. They tended to run on the line between London and Chesham or Aylesbury, but occasionally went further north. Unfortunately the service did not sit well with plans to modernise the railways and the agreement with Pu.