The first London Underground line to open in 1863 was the Metropolitan Railway, now known as the Metropolitan line. It was the world's first underground railway and began operating on January 10, 1863, between Paddington (Praed Street) and Farringdon Street. The line was built using the cut-and-cover method, where trenches were dug and covered with brick arches to create the tunnels.

The Metropolitan line was a huge success, with over 30,000 passengers using it on its first day of operation. It quickly expanded to cover more of London, connecting areas such as Baker Street, King's Cross, and Euston. The line was initially powered by steam engines, but these were later replaced by electric trains in the early 20th century.

The Metropolitan line played a crucial role in shaping London's transportation network and was the catalyst for the development of the city's underground railway system. It inspired the construction of other underground lines, such as the District line and the Circle line, which eventually formed the London Underground as we know it today.

Today, the Metropolitan line is part of Transport for London's network of underground railways, serving millions of passengers every year. It connects areas in the northwest and northeast of London, including Uxbridge, Watford, and Amersham. The line is known for its distinctive purple color on the tube map and its iconic 'S7' and 'S8' trains.

If you want to learn more about the history of the Metropolitan line and the London Underground, you can visit the Transport for London website. There, you can find information about the different lines, stations, and services available on the London Underground network.

In conclusion, the Metropolitan line was the first London Underground line to open in 1863 and played a crucial role in the development of the city's transportation system. It paved the way for the construction of other underground lines and continues to be an essential part of London's public transport network.

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