is a free, open-source train simulator that has become a primary platform for enthusiasts to experience driving the London Underground (the Tube). Unlike mainstream simulators, OpenBVE focuses on technical realism, often requiring players to study operational manuals and handle complex safety systems. Popular London Underground Routes
Community developers have recreated several iconic lines, often focusing on specific historical eras or technical details:
Northern Line: Versions of this route often feature the 1995 Stock.
Jubilee Line: Recent "Phase 3" releases include the stretch from Stratford to West Hampstead, featuring the distinctive sounds of the 1996 Stock.
Central Line: Detailed simulations exist for the section between Ealing Broadway and Liverpool Street, utilizing high-quality 1992 Stock models with prototypical safety systems. A historical branch for the closed Epping–Ongar section is also available. london underground openbve
District Line: Routes such as Edgware Road to Putney Bridge allow players to drive older C Stock trains before they were retired in real life.
East London Line: Simulations capture this line as it was in 2002 (e.g., Shoreditch to New Cross Gate) before it was converted to the London Overground. Key Features and Development Bve4Trains - Links
To enjoy the London Underground (LU) experience in openBVE, you will need to download specific routes and trains, install them correctly, and learn the unique driving systems used on the Tube. 1. Where to Find Routes and Trains
Because many older sites have disappeared, you often need to look at specific archives or community sites. is a free, open-source train simulator that has
Bve4Trains: A reliable hub with links to several London Underground routes and trains previously hosted on closed sites .
OpenBVE.net: Offers downloads for the East London Line (A60/A62 stock) and the Central Line (Epping–Ongar branch) . BENO BVE: Hosts the Hammersmith & City Line for openBVE .
BVE Western Region: Known for developing high-quality versions of the Jubilee Line (1996 stock) .
Community Archives: You can often find collections on BVEStation Forums or shared Google Drive links like this LU BVE archive . 2. How to Install Best For: Long-distance endurance and complex switching
OpenBVE requires a specific folder structure to recognize content.
The keyword "London Underground OpenBVE" is searched by thousands looking for reliable, high-quality files. Unlike commercial games, content for OpenBVE is community-driven. Here are the essential hubs:
The long-standing archive for all UK train simulations. You will find older but still excellent routes like the Northern Line (Morden to Edgware) and Jubilee Line (Stanmore to Stratford).
For those who love vintage feel, the Bakerloo line uses 1972 Stock. The cab is analogue, with no digital speed readout—just a needle and your ears. The run from Queens Park (where it shares tracks with London Overground) into the deep-level tunnels is a masterclass in gradient management.
While primarily US-focused, BVEStation hosts a significant archive of legacy Underground routes and trains, particularly for BVE 2/4 compatibility.
| Route | Train | Why it’s interesting | |-------|-------|----------------------| | Bakerloo Line (Harrow & Wealdstone → Elephant & Castle) | 1972 Tube Stock | See the sharp curve into Piccadilly Circus – real drivers call it “the corkscrew.” | | Circle Line (Edgware Road → Edgware Road full loop) | C69/C77 Stock | Notice how the same station appears twice (High Street Kensington vs. Gloucester Road) – a quirk of London’s disjointed signalling zones. | | Northern Line (High Barnet → Morden via Bank) | 1995 Stock | The long tunnel section under the Thames near London Bridge has a hidden emergency crossover you can spot in the developer view (Shift + F3). | | Central Line (Ealing Broadway → Hainault via Woodford) | 1992 Stock | The “Hainault loop” features Britain’s only surviving stretch of tube line with four parallel tracks (Woodford → Hainault). |