Transport for London (TfL) has warned that several Underground and Overground stations may be forced to introduce queueing systems this Saturday (April 26) as huge crowds descend on North London.
The Victoria and Weaver lines are set to be particularly busy as boxing fans head to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for the much-anticipated showdown between Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn.
An estimated 62,000 fans are expected to pack the stadium, putting major strain on stations including Seven Sisters, Bruce Grove, Silver Street, and White Hart Lane from 5pm until late. TfL is urging travellers to set off earlier where possible to avoid the worst of the congestion.
Best Stations for Stadium Access
TfL has recommended that fans use Seven Sisters and Tottenham Hale stations, both situated on the Victoria line. While each is around a 30-minute walk from the stadium, they offer more frequent services and can handle larger volumes of passengers.
Meanwhile, although Bruce Grove, Silver Street, and White Hart Lane are located closer to the ground, their smaller size and less frequent services mean attendees may experience longer waits when trying to board trains.
London Marathon Brings More Disruption on Sunday
Adding to the busy weekend, Central London will face widespread road closures on Sunday (April 27) for the London Marathon.
The elite races will kick off from Blackheath at 8.30am, with the mass runners setting off in waves between 9:35am and 11:30am. The finish line awaits participants on The Mall, drawing large crowds throughout the day.
TfL has confirmed that Tube stations along the marathon route will be exceptionally busy. To help manage the rush:
- The DLR service from Tower Gateway to Lewisham will begin early at 5:30am.
- All other DLR routes will start operating from 7am.
- Cutty Sark station will be exit-only for the day.
- Services from Woolwich Arsenal will terminate at Stratford International.
Rail Maintenance to Impact Heathrow and Maidenhead Services
Travellers heading towards Heathrow Airport or Maidenhead on Sunday should expect disruptions, as Network Rail will be carrying out essential maintenance work.
Key changes include:
- A reduced service between Paddington and both Heathrow and Maidenhead.
- Trains will not stop at the following stations:
- Acton Main Line
- Hanwell
- West Ealing
TfL advises passengers to use alternative Tube services or local bus routes where possible.
With two major events – the Eubank Jr vs Benn fight and the London Marathon – converging over the weekend, London’s transport network is set for one of its busiest periods this year. TfL has urged all travellers to plan their journeys in advance, leave plenty of extra time, and prepare for crowded conditions.
Whether you’re heading to watch a historic bout or lining the streets to cheer on the runners, a little patience and planning will go a long way.
