London Underground Guide: 10 Travel Tips From a Local!

Visiting London for the first time is an exhilarating experience, and one of the most iconic aspects of the city’s transportation system is the London Underground, affectionately known as the Tube. Navigating the sprawling network of underground trains can be a bit intimidating for first-time visitors, but fear not – I have put together this comprehensive London Underground Guide. I hope to demystify the tube and ensure you have a smooth and memorable journey beneath the bustling streets of this historic city.

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1. You DO NOT need an Oyster Card

You will never see a Londoner travelling with an Oyster Card! Anyone that tells you that you need one clearly hasn’t visited London recently.

Firstly, London’s travel network is trying to encourage us to waste less paper and discourages the use of paper tickets (which are now more expensive). Instead the whole of London’s travel network is navigable with just contactless payments.

All you need to do is tap your phone or card (or even your Apple Watch!) and walk straight through. Then when you tap out using the same card/device it will calculate the cost of your journey. The best bit is that it will automatically cap your payments if you reach the daily or weekly price limit (you can read more about this on the TfL website).

So, don’t waste £5 on an oyster card when you can do in on your phone!

Top tip: If you use an iPhone you can change the setting on your phone so your card will automatically work without requiring Face ID or your passcode (Settings > Wallet & Apple Pay > Travel Cards). Then all you need to do is hold your iPhone near the reader and go.

2. Download the Citymapper App

Forget Google Maps, make sure you’ve downloaded the Citymapper app before you arrive in London!

Navigating your way around London isn’t easy. In fact, despite having lived in London for over three years I still use Citymapper when trying to work out the best route to get somewhere in London.

With some lines branching off (The Northern Line, I’m looking at you!), the Circle Line not continuously going around in a circle (yes I got on the tube and ended up back where I started!), it can be confusing to work out which direction you need. But Citymapper does this for you, breaking down which line, direction and destination you need.

I will say if you’re just walking around Google Maps is better, but when it comes to navigating the different tubes and buses, Citymapper is much better.

Top tip: you can also use Citymapper in a bunch of other cities across the world, so, if you haven’t downloaded it yet, what are you waiting for?!

3. Stand on the Right

I have to mention travel etiquette on this London Underground Guide…

Wondering how to spot a Londoner in the wild? They’ll be stood on the right of an escalator!

Make sure when you’re travelling on escalators or moving walkways that you stand on the right. This includes not taking up the whole escalator with your suitcase! This is so people in a hurry can pass on the left of you.

Say it with me… stand on the right, walk on the left!

4. Let Passengers Off First

Another thing you should do when the train arrives at a station, is allow passengers to exit the train before boarding. Do not be that person standing right in front of the door while others are trying to get off!

This simple act of consideration is essential, particularly during busy periods, to prevent congestion and delays.

5. Travel Off-Peak

If possible, it’s best to avoid traveling during morning and evening rush hours. This includes Monday to Friday between 06:30 and 09:30, and between 16:00 and 19:00.

During rush hour the tube will be full of locals on a mission to get to work (or back home). People may barge past you and will be less forgiving if you’re not sure where you’re going. So, for a more pleasurable travel experience I would avoid travelling at these times until you’re more confident in making your way around the city.

Another reason to travel off-peak is because ticket prices vary depending on the time of day. Travel during off-peak hours (outside morning and evening rush hours) is cheaper than peak time! Giving you even more reasons to avoid the rush!

6. Try to Travel in the First or Last Carriage

Where you choose to travel on the Tube in London can significantly impact your experience. The front and back carriages are often less crowded and quieter, making them ideal for a more peaceful journey. They also allow you to disembark quickly at your destination, having less people to weave your way through.

Top tip: wondering where the doors are going to be when the train comes? Look for the scuff marks at the end of the platform. You’ll notice the paint has been damaged with more foot traffic, helping you identify where the doors will open.

7. Mind the Gap

Listen to the “Mind the Gap” announcement when exiting the train. The gap between the platform and the train can be substantial, so take care when boarding and disembarking. Particularly when the tube stops on a curve!

8. Have Your Card Ready

Londoners love efficiency and don’t like being held up. So, whenever you approach a ticket barrier or embark on a Tube journey, keep your card ready. This will ensure you’re not holding everyone behind you up. This is also important for preventing delays and congestion at the ticket barriers and gates.

Just step to the side if you’re not ready!

9. Keep Your Belongings Secure

While it’s important you’re ready at the barriers, don’t be waving your card around. Being so busy, you’re giving someone the perfect opportunity to snatch it out your hand.

It’s also important you keep hold of your belongings. I’m not saying you need one of the slash proof bags, but I would take back packs off while on the Tube. I always keep a hand on the zip of my bag, so no one can open it up without me realising.

Stay aware of your surroundings and the people around you! One common pick pocketing technique I have heard about is people grabbing your belongings just as the tube doors shut. This stops you from being able to run after them! So, be careful when using your phone when you’re right near the exit.

I’ve fortunately never a had any issues when travelling around London, but I think it’s important not to be naive and trusting in everyone.

10. Make Sure You Tap Out

While the majority of station’s have a barrier or gate you have to pass through not all do. So, make sure you tap out before leaving the station, otherwise you will be charged extra at the end of the day.

It is also worth noting then while you often do not have to tap out when changing tube lines, you will sometimes see stations asking you to tap if changing trains. It’s important you do this so you get charged the correct amount (for example, it may be cheaper if you’re avoiding Zone 1, instead of a different route that passes through).

London Underground FAQs

Is there a map of the London Underground available?

Yes, there’s an official Tube map that’s widely available at stations, on the Transport for London (TfL) website, and through various mobile apps. The map is color-coded and user-friendly.

What are the operating hours of the London Underground?

The London Underground generally operates from around 5:30 AM to 12:30 AM. However, hours may vary on certain lines and stations, so it’s a good idea to check the TfL website for specific details.

How do I transfer between different Tube lines?

Transferring between different Tube lines is typically straightforward. Follow signs for interchange or connection points, and be aware of the line colors and direction signs to ensure you’re heading in the right direction.

What are peak and off-peak hours?

Peak hours on the Tube are typically during morning (7 AM – 10 AM) and evening (4 PM – 7 PM) rush hours when trains are more crowded and fares may be higher. Off-peak hours are outside these times and offer lower fares.

Can I use the London Underground with a baby stroller or wheelchair?

Yes, the Tube is designed to be accessible. Most stations have step-free access and assistance for passengers with strollers, wheelchairs, and mobility challenges. Look for the blue wheelchair symbol on station maps for guidance.

How many tube lines are there on the London Underground?

The London Underground in made up of 11 lines covering 402km and serving 272 stations. The lines are:

Bakerloo Line: The Bakerloo Line stretches from Harrow & Wealdstone in the northwestern part of London to Elephant & Castle, located to the south of the River Thames. It is designated with a brown color on Tube maps. It consists of 25 stations on 23.2 km of track.

Central Line: Extending from West Ruislip in the western region of London to Epping in the east, the Central Line is marked by its red color coding. It consists of 49 stations along its 74-kilometer track.

Circle Line: The Circle Line follows a cirxcular route from Hammersmith to Edgware Road and then forms a loop around central London before returning to Edgware Road. Easily recognizable by its yellow color on Tube maps, this line spans 27 kilometers and serves 36 stations.

District Line: Running from Upminster in the east to Richmond in the southwest, the District Line is characterised by its green color on Tube maps. This extensive line features multiple branches and boasts the highest number of stations in the network, totaling 60. Overall, it covers a length of 64 kilometers.

Hammersmith & City Line: The Hammersmith & City Line, represented by its pink color, runs from Hammersmith to Barking in the east of London, covering a distance of 25.5 kilometers and serving 29 stations.

Jubilee Line: Operating from Stanmore to Stratford in the east, the Jubilee Line, distinguished by its silver-grey hue, is the most recent addition to the network, having opened in 1979. It spans a length of 36.2 kilometers and provides access to 27 stations.

Metropolitan Line: Commonly referred to as “The Met,” the Metropolitan Line operates from Aldgate to Amersham, and its route is marked with a magenta color on the Tube map. This line stretches for 41.4 miles (66.7 kilometers) and connects 34 stations.

Northern Line: Extending from Edgware in the northern suburbs to South Wimbledon in the southwest, the Northern Line (black) encompasses two branches that traverse central London, along with three branches in the northern regions. In 2021, two new stations, Nine Elms and Battersea Power Station, were added to the line.

Piccadilly Line: The Piccadilly Line, represented by a dark blue color, operates from Cockfosters via Hammersmith to Heathrow Terminals 123, Terminal 5, and Terminal 4. It splits into two branches at Acton Town and serves a total of 53 stations.

Victoria Line: The Victoria Line, denoted by a light blue color, runs underground from Walthamstow Central in the north through central London to Brixton in the south. It is the only completely underground line in the system, along with the Waterloo & City Line.

Waterloo & City Line: The Waterloo & City Line, known colloquially as “The Drain,” runs between Bank and Waterloo Station. Primarily used by commuters traveling to The City, this line typically does not operate on Sundays or public holidays. It is identified with a turquoise color on the Tube map and is the shortest line in the system, covering a mere 2.37 kilometers.

There are also five other lines:

DLR Line: The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) operates various routes, including those from Bank in the City to Lewisham in the east and from Bank to Woolwich Arsenal. Additionally, it offers routes from Tower Gateway to Beckton, Stratford to Lewisham or Canary Wharf, and Stratford International to Woolwich Arsenal. Commencing in 1987, the DLR has undergone multiple extensions since. This automated system, free from drivers or cabs, serves 45 stations across a track length of 38 kilometers.

Elizabeth Line: The Elizabeth Line, also known as Crossrail, is the newist addition to London’s transport network. The Elizabeth Line stretches from Reading and Heathrow Airport in the west to Shenfield and Abbey Wood in the east.

Emirates AirLine: Often referred to simply as the “Emirates Cable Car,” it is an aerial tramway that provides a unique way to cross the River Thames in London. The cable car connects the Greenwich Peninsula on the south side of the river with the Royal Docks on the north side, near the ExCeL London exhibition center. The journey offers spectacular panoramic views of the city, including the Thames Barrier and Canary Wharf, making it a popular tourist destination.

Overground: The Overground consists of several lines that connect urban neighborhoods, providing reliable and frequent train services. It’s particularly useful for travel to areas not directly served by the Tube.

Trams: The tram network includes lines that run from Wimbledon in the southwest to Croydon and New Addington in the southeast. Trams offer a comfortable and efficient mode of transit for residents and visitors in these areas.

With the knowledge gained from this comprehensive first-timer’s London Underground Guide, you’re ready to confidently navigate the Tube, explore the city’s treasures, and create unforgettable memories during your visit to London. So, mind the gap and enjoy the ride!

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