Transport for London (TfL) has introduced new names for its London Overground lines, one of which—the Mildmay Line—honouring a significant chapter in LGBTQ+ and HIV/AIDS history.
The Mildmay Line, which runs between Richmond, Clapham Junction, and Stratford, has been renamed in tribute to Mildmay Mission Hospital in Shoreditch. The hospital, a charitable institution, was a cornerstone of care during the HIV/AIDS crisis in the 1980s and remains a leading specialist in HIV care today. TfL described it as “a valued and respected place for the LGBTQ+ community.”
Mildmay Mission Hospital gained global recognition for its work as Europe’s first dedicated AIDS hospice, reopening in 1988 under Princess Alexandra. During the height of the crisis, it was visited multiple times by Diana, Princess of Wales. Her visits, both official and unofficial, were instrumental in breaking down stigma around HIV/AIDS. Diana’s compassion, often shown by holding hands with patients, made headlines worldwide and shifted public perceptions.
The hospital continues to deliver specialist care and remains an essential institution for the LGBTQ+ community. Geoff Coleman, CEO of Mildmay, told PinkNews that the hospital is “deeply honoured” by the move, adding: “More than just tracks and stations, the Mildmay Line symbolises a journey of acceptance, love, and belonging – a vibrant thread connecting our collective past, present, and future.”
Alongside recognising Milmay’s HIV/AIDS legacy, other Overground lines were also renamed to highlight key people and moments tied to London’s history and communities. These include the Windrush Line, Lioness Line, Liberty Line, Suffragette Line, and Weaver Line.
Mayor Sadiq Khan, who launched the renamed lines at Dalston Junction station, emphasised the dual purpose of the initiative: to make navigation simpler for passengers and to celebrate London’s rich cultural heritage.
“The new names and colours reflect the heritage and diversity of our amazing city,” he said. “The London Overground now serves as a reminder that we wouldn’t be the city we are today without the energy and diverse experiences of everyone who lives here.”
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The changes, a significant update to the iconic Tube map, were shaped through consultations with passengers, historians, and local communities.
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