Stations with significant wartime histories will host poignant tributes, including silent memorials and a two-minute silence observed network-wide on 8 May
Transport for London (TfL) is marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day with a week of commemorative events across the capital’s transport network, designed to honour the sacrifices of those who fought and fell during the Second World War. From 5 to 11 May, stations with significant wartime histories will host poignant tributes, including silent memorials and a two-minute silence observed network-wide on 8 May.
Five London Underground stations—Baker Street, Balham, Bethnal Green, Charing Cross, and Tower Hill—now feature silent memorials made up of the Unknown Tommy and Unknown Woman in War statues. These installations, commissioned by Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI), have been placed alongside memorial plaques commemorating the civilians and transport workers who lost their lives during wartime bombings and attacks. The statues are designed to provoke quiet reflection and to acknowledge the vital contributions of both men and women in uniform and civilian roles during the war.
The Unknown Woman in War statue, in particular, highlights the often-overlooked role of women in wartime efforts—not just in the armed services, but also in critical civilian work such as nursing, communications, and transport operations. These contributions, long overshadowed by combat narratives, are receiving renewed attention in this 80th anniversary commemoration.
On VE Day itself, Thursday 8 May, a network-wide two-minute silence will be held at midday. At Charing Cross Underground station, London’s Transport Commissioner Andy Lord will lay a wreath alongside a member of the London Transport Old Comrades Association and TfL veterans. The station, a poignant site in its own right, was bombed in 1940 during the Blitz, resulting in the deaths of seven people sheltering within.
“Every year we are proud to support fundraising efforts for veterans, serving personnel and their families,” said Andy Lord. “This year is particularly special as it marks 80 years since VE Day. These memorials and the wreath-laying ceremony are an important way to recognise the courage of those who fought, the role of transport staff during the war, and the lives that were lost.”
TfL has partnered with two leading military charities for the occasion: the Royal British Legion and Royal British Legion Industries. Volunteers from the Royal British Legion will be present at various stations on 8 May, collecting donations to support serving and former military personnel. The funds raised will help provide assistance to veterans and their families across the UK.
Seb Dance, Deputy Mayor for Transport, said the capital owed a great debt to the wartime generation. “It’s right that TfL is marking this historic anniversary with events that honour brave men and women who dedicated their lives to protecting the country. As we continue building a better London, the Mayor and I extend our deepest gratitude to our Armed Forces community.”
TfL’s commemorative efforts also reflect its longstanding role as a major employer of veterans. Lisa Farmer OBE, Chief Executive of RBLI, praised TfL’s engagement: “Our mission to support those who have defended our freedoms is ongoing. VE Day is the perfect time to reflect, and we hope that those who see our statues on the TfL network will take a moment to consider the cost of that freedom. TfL’s commitment to our cause is something we deeply value.”
Lucy Inskip, Director of the Poppy Appeal at the Royal British Legion, added: “We are proud to place Second World War veterans at the heart of VE Day commemorations. Thanks to the ongoing support of TfL, donations collected will go directly to helping these veterans and others who have served since.”
Due to the VE Day events, TfL expects stations and roads in central London, especially near Westminster, to be busier than usual from Monday 5 May through Thursday 8 May. Customers are advised to plan their journeys using the TfL Go app or the Journey Planner tool to avoid disruptions. On VE Day itself, Westminster Station will be particularly busy between 9:00 and 11:00, while Green Park Station is expected to see increased footfall between 13:00 and 15:00. Travellers are encouraged to consider alternative stations such as Embankment, Waterloo, Victoria, or Bond Street for a smoother journey.
In addition to Underground impacts, road closures will affect the Westminster area, leading to diversions and changes to some bus routes. Most disruptions are expected from the evening of 1 May through the morning of 2 May, and again on 5 May. Full details and real-time updates are available on the TfL website.
The commemorations not only serve as a solemn tribute to the past but also highlight TfL’s commitment to fostering community remembrance and engagement. These efforts ensure that the sacrifices of the past continue to inform and inspire future generations. For those travelling across London this week, the memorials and events offer a timely opportunity to pause and reflect—in the midst of daily routines—on the resilience and sacrifice that made peace in Europe possible 80 years ago.
