plan london underground journey

Tube Map London Underground

Hardy commuters at waterloo..

Available free on iOS and Android

Official TfL Tube Map.

Including Night and Rail maps.

early-risers on the District line.

Live line status..

The latest info from TfL, including live departure boards.

families at Charing Cross.

Offline route planner..

The easiest way to navigate the Tube.

London’s favourite app for using the Underground.

Tube Map prepares you for the journey ahead with line status updates, real-time routing to anywhere in London and of course the latest official Tube Map from Transport for London. The award winning transport app features the iconic Harry Beck Tube Map which is easily recognisable to both local commuters and tourists. With a range of great features and the latest maps available every time there is an update, the Tube Map app is the simplest way to navigate the Underground when on the go.

Official Tube Map

Tube Map includes the latest official Transport for London map, based on the iconic Harry Beck design. The Tube network is constantly changing, from closed stations to the addition of entire lines (hello TfL Rail!) Download once and know that you’ll always have the latest Tube Map ready to go.

Line status and departure boards

Tube Map’s live status about every line on the TfL network. Whether it’s a closure on the Bakerloo line or delays on TfL Rail, you’ll always be in the know. Tap on a line for further information about any delays and what stations are causing the problem. Head to the Status & Departure Boards tab on a selected station to see departure times.

– Travel Guide –

Need help planning something to do in London or have questions about using the London Underground? Read the Mapway Travel Guide to London .

Journey Planner

Planning a journey to anywhere in London? Tube Map makes it easy! Plan journeys to and from postcodes, points of interest/tourist attractions and Tube stations. Realtime routes will avoid known delays so you can travel in confidence knowing that you’re going the quickest way. Tube Map’s route planner also works without an internet connection so you don’t have to worry about using up data!

Available free iOS and Android

Accessibility information.

View how accessible each platform is with ratings for those travelling with heavy luggage, a pushchair or using a wheelchair.

 – Travel Tip –

Don’t forget to tap out with the same card you used to tap in, or you might be charged more for your Tube journey.

Tube Map London Underground review on iTunes

Robroy060 | 6th december 2021, amir haqani | 17th october 2019, rydley | 2nd september 2019, – did you know –.

You should stand on the right when using an escalator on the London Underground or risk being frowned at by the locals!

– Travel Tip –

For more travel tips tap any station in Tube Map and click Information & Facilities. You’ll find some fun facts, travel tips and things to look out for!*

*Available on Android. Feature in development for iOS.

Additional features, first & last trains.

This handy in-app purchase is an additional feature that gives you the first and last train times for each service. For more information visit “Unlocked Features Explained” .

Want to know the quickest way off the Tube and out of the exit? This helpful in app purchase tells you which carriage to use to get out first. For more information visit “Unlocked Features Explained” .

Walking Routes

The walking routes shortcut is a map overlay that shows which stations are quicker to walk to and how long it will take.

Need to catch a ride once you get off the Tube? We’ve partnered with Uber to offer you a quick way to catch a ride once you’ve finished your journey.

Live Twitter Feed

In the side menu Tube Map includes a live Twitter feed with information from all of the official TfL accounts. These helpful tweets are packed with travel information and can be shown on the map view of the app.

Easy Illustrated Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use the London Underground for the First Time

If you have high anxiety like me, you’re probably wondering how to use the London underground for the first time.

The London tube system is massive and complex – where do you even begin? 

For anxious travelers like us, navigating a huge city like London can be overwhelming. If you’re worried about how to take the tube, you’re not alone.

I’m going to explain how to use the London tube: from maps to tickets to stepping on the train, I’ve got you covered.

Here’s my step-by-step guide for how to use the tube for the first time. 

Let’s start with the basics.

📖 London Underground Guide to Words and Phrases

Londoners use many of these common words and phrases when referring to the Underground.

Let’s look at the most common ones you will encounter and may need to understand.

• London Underground (or “The Underground”) : The official name of the public rapid transit system of London.
• Tube or “The Tube”: Nickname that has become the unofficial name for the London Underground. You can say either “tube” or “underground.” 
• Train: The trains that run within the underground network. Not to be confused with National Rail, which is the above-ground trains that run all over the UK. People usually say “I’m taking the tube” when they’re talking about the Underground, and “I’m taking the train” when making a longer journey out of London. 
• Carriage: the individual train cars that you board on the underground. A series of carriages make up the train. 
• Tap In/Tap Out: Touching your Oyster card or contactless payment card on the yellow card readers at the start and end of your journey to pay for your fare.
• Mind the Gap: A famous audible and visual warning to remind passengers to be cautious about the gap between the train door and the station platform.
• Oyster Card: A reusable, credit card-sized smartcard used to pay for journeys on public transport in London. It can be topped up with credit.
• Top Up: To add credit to your Oyster Card ( put more money on it either in the app or at a machine inside the station).
• Platform: The area in a station where passengers wait for the train.
• Lines: These refer to the different tube lines on the London Underground, each identified by its own name and color on the map. ( you might say “I’m taking the Piccadilly line to Covent Garden”) .
• Zone 1, Zone 2, etc.: The tube network is divided into fare zones (1-9) with Zone 1 in central London and higher numbers on the outskirts. Fares vary by how many zones you travel through.

Now that you know all the terms I’ll use here, let’s get into how to use the Underground!

🧭 How to Use the London Tube Map

The London tube map looks confusing, but it’s actually pretty simple. Every tube line is color coded, and every station is mapped with what lines connect through it.

If you’re visiting London, you don’t need to study or memorize the tube map.

Most travelers coming to London will have a mapping app (I like Citymapper the best ) that can tell you exactly where you are and where you’re going.

If you don’t have a phone or mobile data in London (I highly recommend you do!), then you can use the tube map to get around.

Alternatively, you can download maps within your navigation app when you’re on wifi, then use them when you’re out and about.

🧭 London’s Tube Lines Are Color-Coded

Each London Underground line has its own color so the routes are easily identifiable.

Follow your color through the station and onto the train. It’s that easy! (I’ll show you some photos from inside of a tube station and how to find the correct platform down below).

Just don’t call London’s tube lines “the blue line” or “the yellow line” – they are only referred to by their names.

🧭 Riding the Tube in London: Zones & Fares

The Underground’s zone and fare system is a bit more complicated, but for visitors, you don’t need to understand the whole thing.

The basic system is this: the transport zones categorizes areas of the London Underground by their proximity to Central London.

Zone 1 is the most central, Zone 2 is a bit further out, Zone 3 is even further out, etc.

Here’s what you need to know as a visitor about zones :

• The further out from Central London you go – the more zones you travel through – the more you pay in tube fare.

Here’s what you need to know as a visitor about fares :

• For each zone, there is a daily and weekly fare cap.
• If you’re using pay-as-you-go ( simply tapping in with a contactless or oyster card ), you’ll never pay more than the cap for the farthest zone you traveled to.
• The most central zones are cheapest, and the furthest zones are the most expensive, since you’re traveling farther.
• There are peak and off-peak fares, but these don’t affect the fare cap.
• You can use TFL’s Fare Finder to calculate a fare, or if you use Citymapper , it will tell you the price right in the app.

💳 How to Pay for Your Tube Ticket

Visitors to London can get overwhelmed by the amount of tube ticket varieties: daily or weekly Travelcards, Visitor Oyster Cards, single journey tickets, and more. It’s unnecessarily complicated.

✅ See my full guide to Oyster Card tourist options HERE. ✅

For MOST London visitors, you should just use Pay as You Go. That means simply tapping in and out with any any form of contactless payment .

Simply tap your phone or contactless card on the big yellow circle and the gate will open.

There’s generally no need to buy a ticket, an Oyster Card, or a Travelcard. These options are usually more expensive for visitors.

Tap again on the way out, and you’ll be charged the correct fare! When you use pay-as-you-go, you will automatically be capped at the daily maximum, no matter how many rides you take.

Make sure you have a different contactless payment method for each member of your party to avoid being drastically overcharged.

💳 Paying for the Tube When Traveling with Family or Groups

Don’t have enough contactless payment methods for everyone?

You can double the amount of contactless methods simply by adding your debit or credit card to Apple Pay, Google Pay, or any digital wallet – those are counted as separate payment methods from the physical credit or debit card.

Keep in mind children under 11 travel free and don’t need any type of payment method, as explained in detail below.

For example:

• Traveler #1: Uses debit card A to tap in and out.
• Traveler #2: Uses Apple Pay connected to debit card A to tap in and out.
• Traveler #3: Uses physical credit card B to tap in and out.
• Traveler #4: Uses Apple Pay connected to credit card B to tap in and out.

💳 Do I Need an Oyster Card?

No. Unless you don’t have enough different contactless payment methods for everyone in your group, you don’t need to buy an Oyster card or any kind of travel pass or ticket.

Oyster Cards cost £7 for the card itself, along with however much money you want to load onto them. You can avoid this hassle by just using the contactless payment methods you already have.

However, if you’re traveling with children between 11-18, it may be smart to buy them an Oyster Card and have TFL staff apply the child discount to that card. Children’s fares are cheaper, but only using Oyster, and under 11’s travel free .

👩‍👩‍👧‍👦 How to Take the Tube with Kids

Riding the tube with kids under 11 is easy!

Locate the largest ticket barriers marked with blue signage.

Tap in with your contactless payment method, and the gate will open.

Your child or children walk through the barrier with you at the same time.

Do the same thing when you tap out at your destination. Done!

🚇 London Underground Guide: Exactly How to Ride the Tube for the First Time

Now that you know all about the maps, colors and payment methods, let’s go through exactly how to ride the London tube.

Have your mapping app and your contactless payment method ready for the journey.

✅ Step 1: Plan Your Journey

Riding the tube in London is easiest when you use a navigation app to guide you.

My favorite London navigation app is Citymapper , but you can also use Google Maps.

Plug in your destination, and the app will tell you which tube line you need and which station to catch the train at. 

Make your way to the station you need for your journey. 

Look out for travel alerts on your journey: an alert icon will come up if there are delays, strikes, or stoppages.

✅ How to Use the Tube for the First Time Step 2: What to do at the Station 

Once you reach the station, you will see a line of ticket barriers. If you have never gone through one before, just stand out of the way and watch what others do. 

When you approach the gate, have your contactless payment or Oyster Card ready.

Tap it on the big yellow circle and the gate will open. The little electronic display will tell you how much the fare is and the balance left on your Oyster Card (if you’re using one). 

Go through the gate and look for signs to the line that you need. 

✅ How to Take the Tube Step 3: Finding Your Train 

In your navigation app, find out which train line you need. They are all color coded : follow signs to the correct color. 

Going down the escalators, stand on the right and walk on the left.

DO NOT stand still on the left hand side of the escalators; this will block people who are going down the escalator in a hurry. 

At the bottom of the escalators, there will be more signs.

Look on your app to find out which direction your train is going (Northbound, Southbound, Eastbound, or Westbound). 

Locate the direction you need and follow the signs.

At some point you will reach a sign that has all of the stops that your train is going to. Make sure your stop is on that sign, and if it is, you can be sure that you’re taking the correct train !

✅ Riding the Tube in London Step 4: On the Platform 

Wait on the platform (well behind the yellow line) until your train arrives. There will be an electronic reader board that tells you when the next trains are arriving. 

When the reader board flashes, that means the train is approaching. Stand back. 

The doors will open, and passengers will get off. When no one else gets off, you can board the train. 

As the train approaches, it may be loud coming through the tunnel and you may feel a big gust of wind. There may also be a squeak as the brakes engage. 

You will hear and read the common warning “mind the gap”: this means to be aware of the gap between the train and the platform. Some gaps are big, and some you won’t notice at all.

✅ How to Use the Tube for the First Time Step 5: Finding a Seat 

You can sit in any open seat, including seats for disabled, elderly, or pregnant passengers, as long as no one else needs the seat.

If someone boards the train who needs that seat, make sure to get up and offer it to them. 

If the train is very crowded, like during morning and evening rush hours, you may need to stand and hold on to a railing. 

✅ London Underground Guide Step 6: Getting off the Train

Stops are announced both over the speaker and on the screen.

You can also look out the windows when you’re entering the station to see which station it is on the roundel logos (the red/blue circle logo that signifies the London Underground). 

Once you’re at the correct stop and get off the train, look at the signage.

If it’s your destination station, look for the exit signs. 

Once you step off the train, pull over out of the way to look at the signs directing you to where you need to go.

If the station is very crowded, just wait a minute by the wall. The passengers will clear out and you can more easily find the signs you need.

If you’re transferring to another line, look for the signage to that line. Transferring may involve more escalators, lifts, and walking through the station.

Just keep following the signs to the line you need, then repeat the same as above when you found your first train. 

✅ Riding the Tube in London Step 7: Exiting the Station

If you’re using Citymapper , it will tell you which station exit is best (if the station is large it may have multiple exits). 

Follow the exit signs, and tap out with the same card you used to tap in. Make sure you use the exact same card so that the fees will be charged correctly. 

If from here you want to connect to a bus, read my guide on how to catch a London bus.

Etiquette for Riding the Tube in London

There are lots of subtle courtesies Londoners use when riding the tube, but as a visitor, these ones are the most important for you to follow.

• Have your contactless card ready at the barriers. Don’t block the barriers while fumbling to take out your card, especially if the station is very busy.
• On escalators, stand on the right and walk on the left. Do not block the whole escalator – many, many people walk on the escalators (on the left) instead of standing still.
• Don’t be oblivious to someone who needs a seat. You can sit in the priority seats if no one needs it, but if anyone enters the carriage who needs it more than you do, give them your seat.

How to Use the London Underground for the First Time: Final Tips 

Using the London Underground for the first time might seem daunting, but with this step-by-step guide, you can confidently explore the city.

It’s absolutely the easiest, fastest, and cheapest way to get around in London.

Simply plan your journey in advance, use contactless payment, and follow the signs within the stations. If you get lost, ask any Underground employee for help!

Remember, London’s Underground is a safe, efficient, and exciting way to see the city, so take a deep breath, embrace the adventure, and enjoy your journey!

More on Navigating London

The Best Oyster Card Tourist Options to Save Money

How to Catch a Bus in London for the First Time

Where Can I Charge my Phone in London? Local’s Ultimate Guide (2024)

What NOT to do in London: The Truth About these 15 Tiring Tourist Traps

The Ultimate London Underground Quiz: Can you Pass? 

How to Travel in London During a Tube or Rail Strike

The Best Navigation App for London to Download Now 

How to Use Google Maps in London

The Best Free Viewpoints in London 

How to Use the London Tube: FAQ

How do i use the london tube ticket machine.

The ticket machines in every station are very easy to use. First select your language, then follow the prompts. If you need help, TFL staff are always happy to assist you.

Does the Tube always come from the left?

For the most part, yes, but not always. Tube trains run on the left hand track (tracks are like a road underground; there are left tracks and right tracks) so they generally enter the station from your left when you are standing on the platform. But this isn’t true for all stations. 

Do I need a card for the tube?

Not necessarily. You just need some type of contactless payment method. 

Do I need an account to use contactless on the tube?

No. Just use your contactless card or digital wallet on your phone to tap in and out. There’s no need to register an account! 

Does the tube take cash?

No. The London Underground only uses contactless payment methods at the ticket barriers.

You CAN use cash to purchase an Oyster Card at some ticket machines inside stations, but not all ticket machines accept cash.  

Is it cheaper to use Oyster card or contactless?

The rate you pay for your journey will be the same whether you use Oyster or contactless. But if you buy a physical Oyster Card, it costs £7 for the card, not including any money you put on it.

If you have a contactless card for each member of your party, there is no need to purchase any Oyster Cards. 

Is the Tube faster than the train?

The tube and train are two different things. The “tube” refers to the London Underground network. The “train” in London is referring to National Rail, which are trains that run to and from London.

You will rarely have a journey where you can take either the tube or the train to the same destination; it’s usually one or the other. 

Can you just use a debit card on Underground?

Yes, as long as it’s contactless. You’ll know if you have a contactless card by the chip on the front of the card.

If your card does not have a chip, it is not contactless and you will need to either set up a digital wallet (like Apple Pay or Google Wallet) to tap in and out of the tube, or purchase an Oyster Card. 

What is the cheapest way to use the Tube in London?

Fares vary by zone: which zone you start in and how many zones you travel through. There is no “cheapest” way for a single journey: the cheapest way is simply to use a contactless card to tap in and out (always use the same card).

Never buy a travel card or a single journey ticket at the ticket machines. These are rip offs. 

What to do if you forget to tap in on the tube?

It’s unlikely that you’d forget; you won’t make it through the ticket barriers unless you tap in and out. 

What is the cost of a day Travelcard in London?

Travelcards start at £15.20. The daily fare cap is usually less than this , so don’t buy a travelcard. 

Do all tube stations have ticket machines?

Yes, every tube station in London has a ticket machine. Rarely they will be out of order and you will need to find one somewhere else.

What happens if I touch in with one contactless card and touch out with another on the same journey?

You’ll be charged for two incomplete journeys. Always tap in and out with the same card. 

Can 2 people use the same contactless card on the tube?

If you each have different physical cards on the same bank or credit account, that’s fine: you have two different cards. But you can’t tap in with the card then hand it to the person behind you to tap in, too. That would really mess up the prices and you’d be overcharged. 

How do I pay contactless without a card?

If you don’t have your physical card with you, you can set up a digital wallet like Apple Pay or Google Wallet. If you don’t have a credit or debit card at all, purchase an Oyster Card.

Can you bring food on the tube?

Yes, but try not to bring really smelly foods (a tunafish sandwich, for example) or messy foods. 

Do I need to register my contactless card to use on underground? Do I need to register my debit card for London Underground?

No, just tap in and out. No need to register for anything. 

Can I just tap my card on the tube?

Yes! If it’s a contactless card, just tap in and out with the same card. 

Can I charge my phone on the London Underground?

The Elizabeth Line is currently the only line that offers charging ports on trains, but many stations offer charging stations and battery rentals.

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How to Use London Underground: A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

The London Underground, affectionately known as the ‘Tube,’ is more than just a transit network; it’s an iconic part of the city’s heart and history. I have used the London Underground countless times and it is my favourite mode of transport to move around the city.

As a tourist, understanding the Tube is key to unlocking the full potential of your London adventure. The Underground connects you to the most iconic sights in the city.

Now, as you go on this journey, keep in mind some cultural nuances. Londoners value their ‘ Tube etiquette ‘ – things like standing on the right side of the escalator and allowing passengers to alight before boarding. These small gestures go a long way in blending in and experiencing the city authentically.

Understanding the London Underground System

Planning your journey, purchasing tickets and oyster cards, how to use the london tube:, accessibility features of london tube:, safety and etiquette rules of the tube:, exploring london’s attractions by tube, tube’s common challenges and solutions.

Alright! Let’s delve into the world of the London Underground, a system that’s not just about trains and tunnels, but also rich in history and culture.

Now, let’s talk about navigating this sprawling network. The Underground is split into nine zones , radiating out from the heart of London. Zones 1 to 3, often called Central London are where you’ll find the big-ticket attractions, while the higher numbers take you further afield.

But why should you care about zones? Simple: they determine your ticket prices. Traveling across more zones usually means a higher fare, so understanding this system can be a real wallet-saver.

Each Underground line has its distinct flavor. Let’s start with the classics: Circle Line (Yellow) , looping around central London like a yellow ring, and the Piccadilly Line ( Deep Blue) , your gateway to landmarks like Buckingham Palace and the British Museum.

Then there’s the Central Line (Red) , slicing through the city, perfect for shopaholics heading to Oxford Street. Each line is a different color on the map, making it a breeze to follow your route.

Beyond the main lines, the London Underground offers lesser-known routes that are treasures in their own right. The Jubilee Line (Grey) , with its sleek, silver trains, is a perfect route for history buffs heading to the Tower of London.

Meanwhile, the Hammersmith & City Line (Pink) takes you through the heart of London’s vibrant arts scene. Stops near the famous Tate Modern and the eclectic markets of Portobello Road are perfect for those who love culture and quirky finds. Then there’s the District Line (Green) , offering a direct route to Kew Gardens , an oasis of tranquility and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Not to be overlooked is the DLR (Docklands Light Railway) – Two Green Lines , providing a futuristic journey through London’s regenerated Docklands area. Here, you can enjoy stunning views of the modern skyscrapers of Canary Wharf.

Each of these lines not only connects different parts of the city but also encapsulates different aspects of London’s diverse character and history. As you plan your journey, consider venturing beyond the well-trodden path to uncover these hidden gems of the Underground.

Next, let’s chat about planning your Underground adventure to go from point A to B within the city. Our main goal here is not to get lost and make your journey longer than it should be.

Remember, if you are crossing the whole London via Tube (East to West), it can take you around or more than 2 hours!! Believe me, I tried it! It was probably the longest train/tube ride I have ever done.

First up, your secret weapon: the Transport for London (TfL) website and the TfL Go app . These tools are like having a personal guide in your pocket. With just a few taps, you can map out your entire journey.

You’ll get a list of options with the estimated travel time and even walking directions to and from stations, which can be very convenient for tourists on the go.

Some Underground stations have no mobile data network, however, the TFL and mobile networks are working towards providing coverage within the whole Underground network or you can connect to their free Underground public WIFI.

Now, let’s decode the London Underground map ( You can download it here for free ). At first glance, it might look like a colorful bowl of spaghetti. But fear not! Each line is color-coded, making it easy to track your path.

The stations are marked as dots along these lines, and the interchange stations, where you can hop from one line to another, are highlighted with a special symbol. It’s like connecting the dots in a vibrant puzzle.

Navigating rush hour can be a bit of a challenge, but I’ve got you covered. The busiest times are typically from 7:30 to 9:30 AM and 5:30 to 7:30 PM. If you can, try to travel outside these hours it’s a bit quieter and more relaxed.

If you do find yourself traveling during these times, don’t worry. Just be prepared for a more crowded experience and remember, it’s all part of the authentic London adventure.

Now, let’s the world of tickets and Oyster cards. Think of it as a treasure hunt where the prize is the most cost-effective way to travel around this magnificent city.

First, let’s talk about your options. You’ve got pay-as-you-go Oyster Card , Travelcards , and contactless payments – each a trusty companion on your Tube travels, but with their special powers.

Pay-as-you-go Oyster Card is like your flexible friend; you only pay for the journeys you make and then will stop on your daily cap. Then there’s the Travelcard, a sort of ‘all-you-can-travel’ pass for a set period. Contactless payments? Well, that’s just using your bank card or a Travel Money card like Wise like a magic wand to tap in and out of the gates.

BEST TRAVEL MONEY CARD

If you are looking for a reliable, safe, and convenient travel money card that has different currencies in one app and card, I highly recommend Wise Travel Money Card . They have the best forex rates and minimal fees plus transfer your money in an instant.

So which one is the best? I wrote another article that can discuss this in full detail you can read it here — Contactless, Travelcard or Oyster card: Which is Cheaper and Best for Tourists .

Now, let’s get into the heart of the London travel game – the Oyster card . This little blue card is your golden key to the city. You can pick one up at any Tube station, and topping it up is a breeze.

Just find a ticket machine, choose how much to add, and you’re ready to go. It’s like loading up a gift card for yourself but for trains and buses! You can also keep it as a London souvenir after your trip.

For my savvy tourists out there, here’s how you can save some pounds. The Oyster card has a daily cap, which means once you hit a certain amount, you won’t pay a penny more for the rest of the day.

It’s like getting a bonus round in a video game! And don’t forget to look into special passes like the Visitor Oyster card, which offers additional discounts on attractions and dining. For more tips, check out my budget travel tips in London .

Using the Underground – Practical Tips

As we continue our adventure through the London Underground, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of actually using this iconic transit system. Think of it as a backstage pass to the most efficient way of zipping around London!

First things first, let’s walk through using the Tube, step-by-step:

• You’re at the entrance of a Tube station.
• Have your Oyster card, travel Card, or contactless payment card at the ready. If you need to top-up (put credits on your Oyster card) you can do so at the machines before the tube’s barrier gate.
• You tap it on the yellow card reader or for Travel cards, insert it into the ticket slot at the gate, and hey presto, the barrier opens!

Now, you’re in the labyrinth of the Underground. Follow the signs to your desired line – they’re color-coded to match your map. Look for the arrows pointing you toward the right platform, especially at larger stations where multiple lines intersect.

It is important that you familiarize yourself with the tube system, and where in London you want to go. Getting your bearings on North, East, West, and South would be tremendously helpful in navigating your way within the London Underground network. Otherwise, you can get lost here pretty quickly!

For those who might need a little extra help, the London Underground is continuously improving its accessibility features. Many stations now have lifts, ramps, and tactile paving to assist travelers with disabilities.

It’s always a good idea to check the Transport for London website for the latest accessibility information for specific stations. It is marked with an Accessibility icon (♿︎) next to the station name. You can check the image above for the Index to London Stations.

Now, let’s chat about safety and etiquette – the unspoken rules of the Tube. One golden rule? Stand on the right side of the escalators, leaving the left side free for those in a hurry.

On the platform, mind the gap between the train and the platform edge – it’s a bit of a London catchphrase for a reason! It is also imperative to let the people off the tube first before pushing your way into the Tube. When this unwritten rule is violated, British people find it so rude!

And remember, no matter how packed the train is, it’s always good manners to offer your seat to someone who might need it more than you.

Moving on, let’s embark on an adventure exploring London’s most iconic attractions by the trusty Underground. Imagine zipping around the city, hopping off at stations that lead you straight to the doorstep of history and culture.

Sounds exciting, right? Let’s dive into an example itinerary for a day packed with exploration and fun.

Start your journey at Buckingham Palace . If it’s summer, you might be lucky enough to peek inside the Staterooms, you can book this tour for that . You check out my experience review of the Buckingham Palace Staterooms tour when my husband and I visited it last summer.

Just a short walk through the splendid St. James’ Park, and you’ll find yourself gazing at the architectural marvel of Westminster Abbey . Remember to book a guided tour to fully appreciate its grandeur.

🚇 Nearest Underground: Green Park and St. James’s Park. I wrote another article about 5 Ways How to Get to and Nearest Tube to Buckingham Palace .

Next, take a stroll to the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben . Fun fact: Big Ben is the name of the bell, not the tower! There is also a guided tour of the House of Parliament worth doing to see around the iconic political heart of Britain.

From here, it’s a hop, skip, and a jump to the London Eye . If you fancy a bird’s-eye view of the city, make sure to book a spin at this iconic London attraction .

🚇 Nearest Underground: Westminster

Now, let’s weave through the streets to Trafalgar Square , followed by the vibrant Leicester Square for West End shows and the dazzling lights of Piccadilly Circus . These places are perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots! Continuing the journey, you’ll reach the charming Covent Garden, a haven for foodies and shoppers alike.

🚇 Nearest Underground: Charing Cross, Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus

After refueling, head towards St. Paul’s Cathedral . Its magnificent dome is a sight to behold.

🚇 Nearest Underground: St. Paul’s

Next up, London Bridge and the historic Tower of London , where you can delve into centuries of British history. And don’t miss the chance to visit Tower Bridge , where you can explore the museum inside.

Fancy a view from the top? The Shard’s viewing deck is your go-to spot. For naval history enthusiasts, HMS Belfast is a must-visit. And for a unique twist, consider a River Cruise along the Thames. It offers a picturesque view of the city’s landmarks from a different vantage point.

🚇 Nearest Underground: London Bridge, Monument and Tower Hill

If time allows, there are more gems to uncover. Oxford Circus buzzes with shopping excitement, while the British Museum offers a dive into the past, and it’s free!

🚇 Nearest Underground: Oxford Circus, Tottenham Road Court, Holborn, Goodge Street and Russell Square

Remember, this itinerary is ideal if you’re content with a quick stop and photo opportunity at each landmark. If you wish to delve deeper into each attraction, you’ll need more time. Always book in advance to snag those online promotions. You can check out more examples of a one-day itinerary in London .

Finally, let’s tackle some common challenges you might face while navigating the Underground and how to smoothly sail through them. Think of it as learning some secret spells to magically solve any Tube trouble!

First up, service disruptions – they can be a bit like unexpected plot twists in your travel story. Maybe there’s maintenance work, or perhaps a signal’s gone on a bit of a holiday.

But fear not! The key is to stay informed. Check the TfL website Status Updates or the handy apps before you set off. They’ll give you real-time updates on all lines, so you can reroute your journey if needed.

Now, let’s talk about a traveler’s mini-nightmare: lost property. Imagine you’ve left your bag on the Tube, and it’s now traveling solo across London. First, don’t panic. Items found on the Underground are sent to the Lost Property Office .

Head to the TfL website to report your lost item . It’s like sending out a search party for your beloved belongings.

Sometimes, you might need a helping hand, and that’s totally okay. If you’re ever in doubt or need assistance, the staff at Underground stations are your go-to heroes. Look for anyone in a TfL uniform – they’re usually near the ticket barriers or wandering the platforms.

They’re like friendly guides in the labyrinth of the Underground, ready to help with directions, accessibility information, or even just to answer a curious question about London.

Always keep an eye on the departure boards for real-time updates and listen to the announcements. They’re not just background noise; they’re the voice of the Underground, keeping you in the loop.

So there you have it! With these tips up your sleeve, you’re more than ready to face any challenges the London Underground might throw your way. Embrace these solutions, and you’ll be zipping around London like a pro in no time!

Have you ever experienced the London Underground before? Tell me your story about your experience in the comment section below.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Everything Zany

Everything Zany Travel Blog exploring the UK and beyond. Sharing travel guides, tips, history, and culture. Our travel media brand is founded by travel and hotel industry expert – Ryazan Tristram, a Dual Citizen (British–Filipina) based in Birmingham, UK. Everything Zany is a reputable and award-winning travel blog. Our work and contributions have been featured in the Huffington Post, CNBC, Discovery Channel, GMA, Readers Digest, and Lonely Planet. Our mission is to build a great travel community and resource of travel tips, visas, and travel guides for travelers. Join us as we travel around the UK and beyond with a mission to share the best of the world.

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How to use the London Underground

Despite Londoners’ moans, it’s a good service considering it’s the world’s oldest underground system.

There are 12 separate colour-coded lines (including the Docklands Light Railway) that run in northbound, southbound, eastbound or westbound directions.

You’re never far from an underground station in central London – they’re pretty easy to spot.

The new Elizabeth line is actually a train running east to west through central London.

Tube maps and journey planners

View a Tube map or download a PDF version .

Free pocket-sized tube maps are available from underground stations.

The TFL Go app has a ‘live’ tube map, which makes it easy to locate your closest tube station (if location services is turned on), and find the next departure times.

The CityMapper app has a tube map which shows the zones.

Journey planners

If you can’t work out which route to take by looking at the tube map, or if you want door-to-door instruction, see our guide to planning journeys in London .

How to find the right platform

The direction will normally be obvious by looking at the tube map, but if it’s not — here’s what to do:

• Before going through the ticket barriers, or just after the barriers at some stations, look at the destinations list signs to find the tube station you’re travelling to.
• Your destination will be listed on a sign that gives you the direction (eastbound, westbound etc.) at the top.
• Follow the signs and check you’re on the right platform by looking at the destination list on the platform wall.

If you do travel the wrong way, don’t worry, just get off the train and change platform. You won’t pay anything unless you go through the ticket barriers and leave the station.

Some lines have different branches. For example, the westbound Piccadilly line goes to Heathrow, Rayner’s Lane or Uxbridge. Check the display on the platform to make sure you take the right train. You don’t want to end up in Rayner’s Lane if you’re catching a flight from Heathrow.

Tube timetables

The tube does not run to a strict timetable during the day, but you won’t wait long. Most tube trains within central London run every few minutes or so.

If you need more precise information on departure or arrival times, the TfL Journey Planner has a ‘leaving’ or ‘arriving’ option.

Tube first and last times

The first tube trains start running from around 5.00–5.30am. The last tube trains leave central London around 12.30am (see the Night Tube below). Most trains start at least an hour later on Sundays.

The exact start and finish times vary according to each individual underground line. Posters at tube stations give the first and last train times from that station. Alternatively, check the tube timetables on the TfL website for the exact times.

If you need to travel after the tubes have finished, take a bus . Some routes run for 24 hours. If they don’t, there are special night buses.

The Night Tube

There is currently a 24-hour service on Fridays and Saturdays on the following lines:

Some stations on these lines are not served, so check the TfL website before travelling.

The rush hour

There is a morning and evening peak on the underground when the tube trains, tube stations and platforms are extremely busy. The peak times for travel are roughly 7.45am–8.30am and 5.00pm–7.00pm Monday–Friday.

During these busy times you won’t have much room to stand and you definitely won’t find a seat, especially in central London. If you can, wait until after 9.30am before starting your journey.

The TfL Go app tells you if a station is busy or quiet.

Check for delays

You can check if the underground is working normally or if there are any delays on certain lines on the status updates section of the TfL website.

Check for planned engineering work at the weekend

The underground network is being modernised. Engineering work is carried out at weekends and Bank Holidays and sometimes whole sections of the tube are out of action.

When this happens, a replacement bus service run and underground tickets/passes/oyster cards are accepted on the bus. The replacement buses follow the route of the underground line, stopping outside each station, but it might be quicker to travel to your destination by another bus route.

Check TfL’s service update  if you travel by tube or the ELizabeth line at the weekend, especially if you plan to travel to or from Heathrow airport.

Related pages

• Guide to London transport tickets and passes
• Underground tickets and Travelcards
• Oyster cards
• Contactles cards

Last updated: 14 February 2023

Getting around London

• How to use the London underground
• How to use London buses
• London cycle hire scheme
• Walking in London
• London trains
• London taxis & minicabs

Useful information

• Plan your journey
• London transport zones

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London Underground: How to pay fares & use tube trains

How much is a London train fare?

• Adult train fares 2024
• Senior train fares 2024
• Child train fares 2024

You can buy tickets using cash, your contactless card , or by getting hold of an Oyster card , Visitor Oyster card or travelcard .

Tube journey planner

Get information about a station:

Plan a route between two stations (remember to check for tube strikes and delays ):

Where can you get a tube map?

Free maps can be picked up inside tube stations in the most central, touristy parts of London. The best online map is at the TFL website: tfl.gov.uk/standard-tube-map.pdf .

Where can you get London underground timetables?

Paper timetables – You can get paper timetables from one of the Visitor Centres at Heathrow airport, Euston station , King’s Cross , Liverpool Street , Paddington , Piccadilly Circus and Victoria .

Online timetables – You can also look them up on the TFL website at tfl.gov.uk/travel-information/ – or this very website, by selecting a station from the dropdown menu above.

Download the TFL app – The official TFL app is worth downloading onto your phone because it comes with a tube map and route planner. Check out their website for details: tfl.gov.uk/maps_/ .

When is rush hour on the London underground?

Rush hour on the London Underground is slightly different to peak time , and runs roughly from 7.30 AM to 9.30 AM, and 5 PM to 7 PM – don’t expect to get a seat during rush hour!

Peak time is used to work out the fare, and applies from 6.30 AM to 9.30 AM, and 4.30 PM to 7 PM (Mon-Fri). Weekends and public holidays are always classed as off-peak . Note: Between the 8th March and 31st May 2024 TFL are running a trial called ‘Off-Peak Friday Fares’, where Fridays will be classed as off-peak all day.

How often do London underground trains run?

How often London underground trains run will depend on which line you’re using and the time of day you’re travelling, but a good rule-of-thumb is every 5-10 minutes in zone 1, going up to every 2-5 minutes during rush hour. Trains outside zone 1 can be anything from 10-30 minutes.

Services typically operate between 5 AM and 00.30 AM (Mon-Sat) and 7 AM to 11.30 PM (Sun), but some of the busier lines operate 24 hours a day on the night tube.

You can view of a map of the night tube routes on the TFL website .

When does the night tube operate?

Central line – Trains run roughly every 10 mins between White City and Leytonstone, every 20 mins between Ealing Broadway and White City, and every 20 mins between Leytonstone and Loughton/Hainault. There’s no night service between North Acton and West Ruislip, Loughton and Epping, or Woodford and Hainault

Jubilee line – Trains run roughly every 10 mins

Northern line – Trains run roughly every 8 mins between Morden and Camden Town, and every 15 mins between Camden Town and High Barnet/Edgware. There’s no night service on the Mill Hill East branch or Bank branch

Piccadilly line – Trains run roughly every 10 mins between Cockfosters and Heathrow T5. There’s no night service on the T4 loop, or between Acton Town and Uxbridge

Victoria line – Trains run roughly every 10 mins

How can you avoid lifts and escalators on the tube?

Avoiding tube stations with lifts and escalators is harder than you’d think because a lot of them are very old and don’t have lifts, or even escalators, so the odds are pretty high that you’ll find yourself facing a long flight of stairs at some point.

If you look on a tube map then the stations showing a blue wheelchair symbol have step-free access between the train and the street, so these ones should be accessible for practically everybody, but the ones with a white wheelchair symbol only have step-free access between the platform and the street, so you might need some help getting on and off the actual train.

The journey planner on the TFL website will let you search for a route with extra options like ‘Use escalators but not stairs’ – tfl.gov.uk/plan-a-journey/ .

How can you avoid tunnels on the London underground?

If you’d rather avoid tube tunnels on the underground then you’re out of luck in central London because the journeys in zones 1 and 2 are practically all underground.

Once you get out to zone 3 and beyond then it’s the total opposite, because most of them are above ground.

Check out this handy map on the TFL website which shows you which parts are above ground: tfl.gov.uk/tube-map-with-tunnels .

Can you take a bike on the London underground?

Non-folding bikes are banned on large parts of the London underground because the tube trains are so busy. Check out this handy map on the TFL website showing you which stations allow them: tfl.gov.uk/cycles-on-public-transport-map .

How do you get through the ticket barriers?

The first thing that you need to know is that you can’t get through every single barrier at the station. You can only use the ones that are showing a green arrow or yellow arrow next to the gate. If it has a red cross or yellow cross then it won’t accept your ticket.

The yellow circles in front of the gates are called Oyster readers. If you have an Oyster card or contactless card then all you have to do is wave it near the reader and the gate will open automatically. If you have a paper ticket, or a paper travelcard , then you have to insert it face-up into the slot beneath the Oyster reader. The same ticket will then pop out of the slot on the top. The gate will open automatically when you remove your ticket from this slot.

Note: If you’re carrying some bulky bags or you’ve got a pushchair with you, then you might struggle to fit through the barrier. So just look for the extra-wide barrier which is usually positioned at the far end for wheelchair users. This one is also useful if your child is travelling for free because they won’t have their own ticket.

How can you find the right platform?

To find the right tube platform you need to know your direction of travel. If you want to travel from Piccadilly Circus to Oxford Circus on the Bakerloo line, for example, then you need to look for signs saying Bakerloo Northbound , because that’s the direction you travel on the ground. If you’re returning in the opposite direction then you’d need Bakerloo Southbound . Other journeys might say Eastbound or Westbound .

If an underground line branches in two different directions then you also need to look for the last stop on the line. So if you want to travel from Westminster to Kew Gardens on the District line, for example, then you need the District Westbound to Richmond – because Richmond is the last stop on the branch which goes to Kew Gardens. If you boarded the District Westbound to Wimbledon then that would be the wrong one, because that branch doesn’t go to Kew Gardens.

The Northern line is a bit more confusing because not only does it split in two, but each branch also has the same final stop. So what you have to do then is look for the words Bank loop and Charing Cross loop . If you look on a tube map then you’ll see that one branch goes past Bank station , whilst the other goes past Charing Cross .

And bear in mind that the Circle line doesn’t actually go around in a circle, like its name implies (welcome to London!). If you ride it round as far as Edgware Road then you’d actually have to get off and board another train to Baker Street .

What is a National Rail train?

A National Rail train is an overground train that goes outside London to other parts of the country.

There are lots of different companies that operate National Rail trains: Chiltern Railways, East Midlands, First Great Western, Great Northern, Merseyrail, South West Trains and Thameslink , to name just a few, but they all come under the umbrella of ‘National Rail’.

Each company will have their own individual website, but we recommend using the official National Rail website at nationalrail.co.uk , because it allows you to search all of the different companies together.

Where can you catch a National Rail train?

Here’s a list of the main National Rail stations in central London, with some of their most popular destinations.

Trains heading north – City Thameslink for Luton Airport, St. Albans – Euston for Birmingham, Glasgow, Liverpool, Manchester, Watford – King’s Cross for Cambridge, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Nottingham, York – Marylebone for Birmingham – Moorgate for Hertford – St. Pancras for Luton Airport, Nottingham

Trains heading south – Blackfriars for Ashford International, Brighton – Cannon Street for Ashford International, Margate – Charing Cross for Canterbury, Dover, Hastings – Farringdon for Brighton – London Bridge for Brighton, Canterbury, Hastings – St. Pancras for Brighton, Eastbourne, Eurostar to Paris – Victoria for Brighton, Dover, Eastbourne, Gatwick Airport, Margate – Waterloo for Bournemouth, Canterbury, Dover, Hastings, Portsmouth, Southampton

Trains heading west – Paddington for Bath, Cornwall, Heathrow Airport, Oxford, Plymouth, Wales – Waterloo for Cornwall, Salisbury

Trains heading east – Fenchurch Street for Southend – Liverpool Street for Stansted Airport

Good manners and bad etiquette on the train

If you’re new to the London Underground then here’s a quick little guide to tube etiquette:

Getting through the barrier – Tube stations are very busy places and you should always try and have your ticket ready before you reach the barrier. If you stand there for a few minutes rifling through your pockets and bag then expect to get some withered looks.

Standing on the escalator – The biggest sin that a tourist can commit on the tube is blocking up the escalator by standing on the left. If you want to stand still then use the righthand side. The lefthand side is for people who want to save some time by hurrying up it.

Not quite as annoying (but pretty close!) is when people get to the end of the escalator and then just stand there, totally oblivious that a whole bunch of people are about to crash into the back of them.

Standing on the platform – Underground platforms are usually quite long but lots of people just stand by the entrance corridor, not bothering to move down. If the station is busy then you should always try and move along to make more space.

Getting on the train – It’s good manners (and good sense) to let passengers off the train before you try and board it. You should also try and move down inside the carriage once you’re onboard.

Your comments and questions

Jean I'm traveling with my 15 month old daughter how easy is it to access the underground as I have a buggy

Staff Hi. They always have extra wide gates for wheelchairs and buggies at the entrance, so you can get through there okay, but a lot of underground stations still have stairs. If you enter your route into the journey planner dropdowns above it will tell you about the lifts, escalators and stairs at each station

John Hardman Transport for London is so good, people in London don't realise how lucky they are to have such a great transport system and with reasonable fares. True I am talking about being retired and travelling off peak. Recently stayed 5 days in Crystal Palace. Travelled into London each day by train and fully utilised the tube system. I almost enjoyed that as much as looking around London

Margaret49 Good morning, We are using the tube for the first time for an overnight stay, as we are not local we will need to use the self service ticket machine for Zone 1-4, do the machines take cash or credit cards? So we know what is appropriate for our journey which will involve a peak time inward and off peak return

Staff Some machines accept cash and cards but other ones will be labelled 'cards only', so you have to look at the top to see what it accepts. All the peak and off-peak prices for zones 1-4 are listed on our train fares page - city-guide.london/​transport/​adult-train-fares.php

Sammy Hi, what are peak times as underground cheaper tickets are off peak, but what times are peak so we know when you avoid them?

Staff Hi Sammy. For Oyster and contactless peak time is 6.30 AM to 9.30 AM and 4 PM to 7 PM (Monday to Friday). For travelcards peak time is before 9.30 AM (Monday to Friday). Weekends are always off-peak.

Tom What are 'off-peak' times on the London Underground on a weekday please?

Staff Hi Tom. For Oyster and contactless cards off-peak is outside the hours of 6.30 AM to 9.30 AM and 4 PM to 7 PM (Mon-Fri). For travelcards off-peak is any time after 9.30 AM (Mon-Fri). Fares are based on what time your journey starts. So if your journey starts during off-peak hours, it will be charged as off-peak. It doesn’t matter what time your journey ends.

David MB Two retired people from US in London (no senior discounts for non-Londoners, boo!), travelling on probable multiple trips between Zones 1 and 2 back and forth from Aldgate East. We understand fares are one way and with the limit on Oyster Cards being less than double the one way fare, what is the cheapest way for us to use the underground? We will buy tickets to and from airports separately

Staff Hi David MB. Oyster will likely be the cheapest (a weekly travelcard can also work out cheaper depending on how many days you're staying and how many journeys you're making). The maximum you will pay each day is the daily cap for the zones you travel through, Any money left on your card which you don't spend you can get refunded at the end. If you're flying into Heathrow then you can even use it for that as well (but only for travelling on the tube, not the Heathrow Express)

Jagroy Is there any charge for a pushchair on the tube

Staff Hi Jagroy. There's no charge for pushchairs or luggage, but bear in mind that a lot of underground stations are quite old and you might have to descend a flight of stairs

Gary Tamplin Generally speaking, what is the cheapest way of getting around London for a day on the tube, if you are travelling between most of the zones, a day Oyster card or contactless?

Staff Hi Gary. Oyster and contactless are the cheapest (they're both the same price), but you have to pay an extra £5 deposit the first time you buy an Oyster card, so maybe contactless will be cheaper for you if you haven't already got one

Adriana How do I get from ealing broadway to hammersmith by train

Staff Hi Adriana. You can just get the district line - city-guide.london/​transport/​train-journey.php?from=ealing-broadway&to=hammersmith

Anthony Pike What platform do I use for the jubilee line from waterloo to baker street

Staff Hi Anthony. The jubilee westbound at Waterloo is platform 5 - city-guide.london/​transport/​trains.php?station=waterloo

John Barmby I am travelling from Tower Hill to Stratford on the District line and Central As these trains use the same platform at Mile End , do I need to tap out at Mile End before boarding the Central line to Stratford

Staff Hi John. No, you don't have to tap out when changing trains. You don't have to pass through any barriers when changing trains/platforms. If you did go through the barriers at Mile End then that would be the end of your journey

John miller I’m travelling from kings cross train station to white hart lane, what tube station do I get off at?

Staff Hi John. Get the Victoria line to seven sisters, then the London Overground to White Hart Lane. It’s about a five minute walk from there

Liz Is Euston station tube to Clapham Common direct

Staff Hi Liz. It is direct, yes - city-guide.london/​transport/​train-journey.php?from=euston&to=clapham-common

David Hi - How do get the easiest way with large suitcases from Liverpool Street station to Southwark tube station. Thanks in advance!

Staff Hi David. I would forget the tube and just get the 344 bus which goes between the two. Because you'd have to change trains twice if you want to go by tube. The bus only takes 16 mins

David Thanks - is it ok to take large suitcases on the bus number 344? - Can we pay with Oyster-cards? Thanks! ?

Staff It's fine to take big suitcases. You can just stand with them in the wheelchair space if it's not being used. Its okay to use Oyster cards as well

David Thanks very much for your help! This was important to know! ?

David Hi - One more question. We arrive by National Express coach to Liverpool Street station bus stop. - Where abouts in the area is the nearest bus stop for number 344 going to Southwark. Thanks once again! ?

Staff It goes from Stop B down the side of the station. I think the National Express drops you off at either Stop E or G on the other side.

David Thanks again for great service! ?

Bruce Hello - is there easy access when changing from Central line to Jubilee line at Bond Street. How far must one walk? Is a lift available? All relevant info is welcome. Thanks.

Staff Hi Bruce. It's step-free but you have to take two different lifts down to the jubilee platforms and walk about 110 metres

Bruce Thanks - that helps to know.

Mark Rookie question (I’ve never used Contactless on the Tube before, I’ve always used paper Travelcards as I’m from outside London). Anyway, in terms of using Contactless, if I want to go from Paddington to Mile End am I correct in thinking I tap in at Paddington Elizabeth Line, tap out at Whitechapel Elizabeth Line, tap in again at Whitechapel District Line, tap out Mile End District Line, and the system will calculate this as an Adult Single between Paddington and Mile End?

Staff Hi Mark. You only tap down at the beginning and end of your journey. You shouldn't have to go through any barriers when changing trains in the middle. If you do that then you'll end up paying for two separate journeys, because the computer will think that you have exited the station at Whitechapel

Sonia Hi, If I travel with 2 suitcases (a 20 inch and a 28 inch), from Victoria to Gatwick airport, which one will be cheaper - the National Express coach or the Gatwick express (as I read from the website that they will charge 8 GBP for 1 extra suitcase)?

Staff Hi Sonia. It looks like it's the Gatwick Express by about 6 quid, but that's without knowing when you're going, or how far in advance you're buying your ticket.

Anton John Hi, What would be the most cost effective way to get from Bromley by Bow station to Gatwick Airport ? Thanks

Staff Hi Anton. I would get the underground to Victoria and pay by contactless (or buy a single ticket from the machine if you haven't got a UK bank card), and then buy a Gatwick Express ticket online in advance

Faye McPherson I want to travel to London Heathrow Terminal 3 from Russell Street Station on 22nd February as I will be coming from Edinburgh on the sleeper to Euston where do I buy a ticket to get to Heathrow

Staff Hi Faye. The easiest thing would be to just use your contactless bank card, and tap it down on the gate - city-guide.london/​transport/​contactless-cards.php (assuming you've got a UK bank card) - but if it's just a one-off journey then you can also buy a ticket from the self-service ticket machine in the station. You just tap the screen and choose your destination

Faye McPherson Thank you and I take it the tube takes me to terminal 3 at Heathrow

Staff It does yes, there are three stations at Heathrow and one of them is for Terminals 2&3 - city-guide.london/​transport/​train-journey.php?from=russell-square&to=heathrow-terminals-1-2-3

Chris For our upcoming visit to London, we are staying in a flat near Shepherd's Bush. It looks like the easiest (fewest changes) route from Heathrow would be the Elizabeth Line to Ealing Broadway and then the central line to Shepherd's Bush. Would this be feasible with 4 people and their luggage?

Staff Hi Chris. You'll have a flight of 20 stairs and an escalator at Shepherd's Bush, but that's about it. If you don't mind the extra money then you could get the Heathrow Express to Paddington and a £25-£30 taxi to Shepherd's Bush (you can fit five in a taxi, so four plus luggage will probably be okay, but it depends how much luggage you've got)

Cp On the underground should my 15 year old just use a contacless card to pay or is there a better method?

Staff Hi CP. he can do, if he’s got his own card. You can’t share one card between two people

shirley How oftern to the trains go from Heron quays to waterloo

Staff Hi Shirley. They go every 2-5 minutes

Evelyn Barry Hi I have my Irish staff privilege card and 4 box coupon tickets . Can I use either of these on Heathrow express and London tubes. Thanks

Staff Hi Evelyn. We’d like to help but we’ve never heard of either of those things. If it’s a TFL staff card then I would try contacting them

Mike Copp As an electric wheelchair user (wheelchair not scooter) I will arrive at Waterloo Train station and have booked assistance off the train, will someone be available to assist me on to the underground to Euston station? where I have booked assistance onto a train to Birmingham? I am used to how assistance works with overground trains but not the underground. I believe my ticket is valid not only for overground but also between mainline stations using the underground.?? Any information, tel no appreciated

Staff Hi Mike. You can only prebook assistance on the London Overground and Elizabeth line. On all other tube lines they do something called ‘turn up and go’, which basically means you have to go up to a member of TFL staff at the station and they will arrange for someone to come and help you to the platform and help you board the train. There is a help desk at waterloo. after you come off the national rail train look for the big central clock hanging off the ceiling and its next to that. More information about ‘turn up and go’ here - tfl.gov.uk/​transport-accessibility/​help-from-staff . We cant tell if your ticket includes the underground as well without seeing what you've bought, but assuming it does then you’ll probably receive a separate ticket for it.

Jane What's the best line to use to travel from Paddington station to Greenwich?

Staff Hi Jane. Assuming you just want to go to Greenwich, the place, rather than the actual station, I would get the Elizabeth line to Canary Wharf and then the DLR to Cutty Sark

Vijay kumar I am travelling first time to London.Which u/g line i should follow from T4 to Queensway u/g stn.I do not have travel cards.

Staff Hi Vijay. i would probably get the Elizabeth line to Paddington and then walk 15 mins to Queensway. Otherwise you”ll have to get off at Bond Street instead and change onto the Central line for Queensway

Jane Hi my grandson and I are going to Wimbeldon tennis this year and haven’t a clue on the underground tubes.we are travelling from Northampton train station to Euston station.can you please let me know what tubes we use ,if we change tubes and what stops to get off and platforms .

Staff Hi Jane. It's quicker to go to Southfields station (15 min walk to the tennis) rather than Wimbledon itself (20 min walk). So from Euston you can get the Victoria line to Victoria (southbound platform), then change to the District line to Southfields. But make sure you get a District line train that says it's heading towards Wimbledon. If it says it's heading towards Richmond or Ealing Broadway then it will be the wrong one. It will say where it's heading on the LCD board on the platform

Elizabeth wills Which platform at farringdon station do I need to get to kings cross please?

Staff Hi Elizabeth. It's westbound, platform 2 - city-guide.london/​transport/​trains.php?station=farringdon

Paul G Going underground from Clapham Common to Westminster abbey and Buckingham palace using contactless card. Do we get off at st James park or is there a closer station and do we need to pay twice for changing from northern line to district line. Thank you

Staff Hi Paul. St James's is the closest to Buckingham Palace. Westminster is the closest to Westminster Abbey. Personally, if it was me, I would just stay on the Northern line and walk it from Charing Cross because it's not very far. You can walk past Trafalgar Square down Whitehall, have a look at Horse Guards and Downing Street, then do Westminster Abbey, and walk through St. James's Park alongside the lake to Buckingham Palace. You don't have to pay twice for changing trains. You'd only pay twice if you actually exited through a ticket barrier and left the station.

Joe Hi. Visiting London next week for first time and need to get from King’s Cross to Covent Garden Seven Dials. What tube line and can it by accessed directly from Kings Cross? Thanks

Staff Hi Joe. You can get the Piccadilly line straight to Covent Garden - city-guide.london/​transport/​train-journey.php?from=kings-cross-st-pancras&to=covent-garden

Mary I’m travelling from London City Airport to Westminster early December and as I’m a novice it feels a bit stressful. Can you please advise me of the best way to travel and is it straightforward? Thank you.

Staff Hi Mary. I would get the DLR to Canning Town (DLR = Docklands Light Railway, which is really no different to using the London Underground, it’s just above ground), and then change trains onto the Jubilee line for Westminster. You can use a lift plus escalator to change trains at Canning Town - city-guide.london/​transport/​train-journey.php?from=london-city-airport&to=westminster —- westminster is a fun stop to arrive into London at, because when you come out you will have Big Ben literally right in front of you

Mandy How to get from st pancas to king henrys rd

Staff Hi Mandy. Assuming you mean the one by Primrose Hill, you could get the northern line to Chalk Farm and then walk it from there. It's about a 10-15 min walk

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> Forum: London Buses, Taxis & Trains

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

What is the TfL Journey Planner and how to use it?

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With more rail, tube, and bus strikes potentially on the horizon, getting around London can prove troublesome during industrial action. However, there are ways to plan your journey effectively in advance to help minimise disruption.

The latest tube maps (including stations that avoid stairs, accept cycles, and more) are published on the TfL.go.UK website for when services are running.

However, for smartphone users, the official TfL Go app helps you plan tube, bus, and rail journeys around the capital (including an update for the newly opened Elizabeth line ) and live reports on service disruption across London.

If, for any reason, you are unable to access the app, the TfL Journey Planner is also available via the browser on your PC, laptop, phone, and more.

What is the TfL Journey Planner?

The TfL Journey Planner is a website run by Transport for London that works similarly to the National Rail Enquiries page. It allows you to search and plan your journeys across London in advance. 

However, the journey planner seeks to be an all-encompassing solution for transport that goes beyond rail travel.

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For example, it will show you options for cycling, cycle hire, bus routes, and more. The site also gives you walking routes, with the option to view written directions or to open the path in Google maps.

The app encourages users to walk or cycle where possible and also gives the option to discover quieter times to travel, which can be particularly useful if you are not in a rush to make your trip.

How to use the TfL Journey Planner

Beginning on the TfL Journey Planner homepage , you can input your potential journey details based on geographical locations, underground stations, bus stops, and more.

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This allows you to pinpoint your starting place and destination. The site also gives you the option to pick from any journeys you’ve recently entered. Any updates or strike action will also be listed in a yellow banner at the top of the homepage.

The default allows you to plan a journey departing now, but you can alter the departure time if you are planning your trip further in advance.  

Once you have entered your journey details, you’ll be presented with options like ‘cycling and other’ (which will include cycle hire and walking), ‘fastest by public transport and ‘Bus only’, with the option to amend your journey details, look at services later or earlier in the day and even find nearby taxi ranks.

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You can filter journeys via the least walking, fewest changes, and complete step-free access.

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London Underground

The London Underground is the most recommended form of transport to get around the city thanks to its 11 lines. It is the world’s most extensive underground train network and was inaugurated in 1863. Although the official name in English is London Underground, those who live in London call the London Underground “Tube”.

Don’t worry if it seems complicated at first; we have prepared a guide so you know how to pay to use the London Underground and find your way around London. In this article, you will find information about London Underground timetables, Maps and Prices.

What you should know about the London Underground

The London Underground map has over 270 stations divided into 9 zones to work out travel fares.

There are 11 tube lines; each has a different name and colour, so they can be easily identified on the London tube map. In addition to the tube lines, on the London Underground map, you will also see the DLR (docklands light rail), Elizabeth Line, London Overground, London Trams, Cable Car and Thameslink trains that are available through central London.

London Underground lines

Zones of the london underground.

As we have commented above, the London underground has 9 zones , each identified with a number. The most central zone of the London Underground is number 1, while zone number 9 is on the outskirts of London.

The different zones of the London Underground are used to determine the fares of journeys between stations in each zone. In other words, the price of the ticket increases as the number of zones you cover on your journey does.

In which zone are the main attractions and airports of London

The main attractions and monuments of London are within Zones 1 and 2 . If you want to visit places like Oxford Street, Regent Street, Piccadilly Circus, Covent Garden , Trafalgar Square, the London Eye , Big Ben, Buckingham Palace , Hyde Park or Notting Hill, you can do so without leaving Zone 1 of the London Underground.

As for Zone 2, the most visited attraction in Zone 2 is Camden Market . There are other places of interest in Zone 2, such as Highgate Cemetery .

The airports in London are located all around the city, in different areas of London. We recommend choosing a hotel that is easy to get to from the airport and avoid booking accommodation on the opposite side of the city.

In which London transport zone are the Airports?

The airports located within the nine zones of the London Underground are Heathrow and London City Airport . Therefore, to get to these airports, you can use a London transport card (oyster or travelcard) or using contactless payment .

Stansted and Luton airports are located outside of the London Transport Zones. Therefore, you must buy a specific train or bus ticket to get to central London from these airports. Gatwick Airport is located outside the London Transport Zones, but it is currently possible to use an Oyster card or contactless payment to travel from this airport to the centre and vice versa.

London Underground Map

As you have probably seen, the London Underground map has a somewhat quirky design with all those coloured lines crossing over each other in all directions and probably making little sense the first time you look at it.

The London Underground map represents more than 400 kilometres of London Underground lines, with over 270 stations and nine travel zones, as well as Overground lines and other transport networks in the city. The London Underground map was designed by Harry Beck, an English draughtsman, in 1933. It would later be adopted by subways in other cities around the world.

Very importantly, the London Underground map is schematic. It does not represent the distance between stations, as a street map normally would. It may seem that two stations are very close to each other on the map, but this may not actually be true!

You can download the different versions of the official metro map from here:

• Download the standard London Underground Map
• Download NIght Tube Map
• Download step-free London Underground Map

Sometimes, there are cases in which walking on the surface will take less time than going by tube, such as going from Leicester Square to Covent Garden. You can check the walking distance between stations here: Walking Tube Map .

How to use the London Underground map

You enter the station thinking, “ Well, let’s go in and look at the map “, and as soon as you enter, there are signs for three different lines with different colours. And as you keep walking you see they divide into “Northbound” and “Southbound” or “Westbound” or “Eastbound”.

At this point, I´d recommend not to panic –  we’ve all been here once. I do remember thinking that there was absolutely no way I would find my way around without help the first time I stepped into an underground station in London, but I promise it just takes a bit of time to get used to how everything works, and within a few hours you´ll be pro!

To use the London Underground map and not get lost along the way, the first step is to have your journey planned beforehand. Go into the station knowing what line you need, and the name of the station you need to get to. If you know this before entering the station, the signs you will find along the way from the station entrance to the platform will be easy to follow, and it is less likely that you’ll get lost.

I know it sounds obvious, but when you don’t know the names, it’s easy to confuse “Green Park” with “Hyde Park” or “Queen’s Park” and end up wandering around the tube network.

How to navigate the London Underground

The first thing is to identify our route on the map; for this, we must first look for the entry and exit stations. To do this, you can look at the following Underground map:

Example: Let’s say we want to go from King’s Cross station to Westminster station. The first thing we do is look for these two stops on the map. As you will see, they are not located on the same line, so to get from one to the other, we will have to transfer at some point and change from one line to another. Sometimes there will be several possibilities, so choose the one that involves the least changes, for example.

Thus, in our example, we will take the light blue line (Victoria Line) at King’s Cross and travel from King’s Cross to Victoria. We will then change at Victoria station to the green line (District Line ) or the yellow line (Circle Line) to travel from Victoria to Westminster:

• In King’s Cross, we will follow the signs that indicate where the Victoria Line is, and as you can see on the map, we need to go south. So we will have to take the Piccadilly Southbound line. The last stop on that journey is Brixton, so we want to go on the Victoria Line towards Brixton, and this will be what the signs on the train will say.
• When we get to Victoria, we will leave the train and follow the signs for the District Line or Circle Line. And in this case, we will need to go West. Therefore, we must go Westbound. In this case, the green line train (District line) will go towards Upminster, but we will get off at Westminster.

Overground, DLR, Elizabeth Line, Trams and Cable Car on The London Underground Map.

The London Underground Map, in addition to the London Underground lines, also shows the routes that the Overground, DLR, Elizabeth Line, London Overground, London Trams, Cable Car, and Thameslink trains as they go through central London. All these modes of transport are part of the London public transport system and work exactly the same as the tube or underground. Some differences are that the Overground is a train that goes overground, and the DLR is the Docklands light rail, which also goes overground most of the time.

Schedules and Frequency of the London Underground during the day

The timetable of the London Underground will vary depending on the station and the day of the week. London Underground trains generally start from 5:10 a.m. and run all day until approximately 12:15 a.m., past midnight.

As for the frequency of the London Underground, trains on most lines average a frequency of between 3 and 6 minutes. In some central London stations, such as Victoria, you’ll see that trains during peak hours are very frequent, and there are trains every 1 or 2 minutes.

Night Tube: London Underground at Night Time

During Fridays and Saturdays, there are 24-hour night tube services on the Victoria line (Light Blue), Jubilee line (Grey) and most of the Central line (Red), Northern line (Black) and Piccadilly line (Dark Blue ).

• Victoria line : Trains run with an approximate frequency of 10 minutes.
• Central line : Trains run approximately every 10 minutes between White City and Leytonstone and approximately every 20 minutes on the rest of the line. There is no service between North Acton and West Ruislip, Loughton and Epping and from Woodford to Hainault.
• Jubilee line : Trains run approximately every 10 minutes on the entire line.
• Northern line : The trains run with a frequency of about 8 to 15 minutes.
• Piccadilly line : Trains run approximately every 10 minutes between Heathrow Terminal 5 and Cockfosters stations. There is no service between Terminal 4 and Acton Town and Uxbridge.

How to pay on the London Underground

The fares of the London Underground vary depending on the time, time and length of the journey since the fares are calculated according to the number of zones you travel through. To compare the prices of the London Underground, the following aspects must be taken into account:

• “Single ticket” or “Oyster Card” : When using the London Underground, you can buy a single ticket for each journey from one of the self-service ticket machines at any Underground station. But, this is something we do not recommend at all, as it is the most expensive way of using the Underground. It is much cheaper to use an Oyster Card , or if you are staying in London for a week or more, you might be interested in the London Travelcard .
• Using contactless debit or credit card : You can use a contactless credit or debit card to pay for the London Underground, or any other form of transport in London, just as if it was an Oyster card. The fares charged for each journey are the same as if you used an oyster card, so nowadays, using contactless payment to pay for London’s public transport is the most common way to pay. If you have a British contactless card, this is what I’d recommend using. If you’re travelling to the UK from abroad, I wouldn’t recommend using a foreign card as your bank may charge you commission or transaction fees every time you use it – so it can work out very expensive! In this case, we would recommend creating and using a  Revolut account . Check out our article using contactless on London Underground .
• Peak or off-peak : Peak rates are applied from Monday to Friday from 06:30 to 09:30 and from 16:00 to 19:00. Weekends and bank holidays are always Off-peak.

London Underground Fares

Tips for using the london underground.

First recommendation: Find the closest underground station to your hotel. The best way to find out this is to simply go to Google Maps . If you have read our article Where to Stay in London , you will have seen that we usually recommend hotels in central London, zones typically 1 and 2. You don’t want to spend your entire time commuting to central London if you are visiting London.

Always to the right:   When you use the corridors or the escalators of the London Underground, you will find signs constantly reminding you to Stand on the right . If you don’t, some Londoners arriving late for work won’t be very pleased! You need to think that the left side is a fast lane.

Accessible stations:   If you travel with a stroller or a wheelchair, check which stations are step-free to make your journey easier. Many stations are not adapted and have lots of stairs. Check our article Travelling in London with kids .

Best London Underground Mobile Apps

Although in all stations you will find paper maps everywhere, the easiest thing to do is to use our mobile phone. This way you will know if there is a problem with any of the lines, the duration and price of your journey.

Some of the best mobile apps for using London public transport are:

• TFL Go : The simplest option, it works in real-time, it detects where you are and which tube stations or bus stops are closest to you. Useful if you want to have the London tube map at hand, with real information about stations and tube or bus lines. You can also enter an address or a metro stop and it tells you how to get there step by step. It works with iOS and Android.
• Citymapper : It works on both iOS and Android phones and combines almost all of London’s transport options, including UBER. It tells you when the next underground train is due or if there are any problems or delays on the lines, and it will also give you directions to get to your destination.
• Google Maps : It works in real-time but you can also download a route in case you don’t have 4G or Wi-Fi coverage.
• Oyster TFL App : If you have an oyster card, with this app you can register your oyster and top up your oyster easily with your phone as well as see your travel history, add a travelcard, etc.

Related Posts

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Tube Map - London Underground 4+

Tfl map and journey planner‪.‬, mapway limited.

• #14 in Navigation
• 4.5 • 86.4K Ratings
• Offers In-App Purchases

Screenshots

Description.

Tube Map is the award-winning navigation app that includes the official TfL (Transport for London) Tube Map. Tube Map - London Underground works both on and offline and is the #1 Tube Map with over 22 million downloads! Key features: Uses the official TfL iconic Harry Beck London Underground map design. Includes additional map views for the TfL Night Tube and Rail Network. Plus a bonus map that we have created that is more geographical.  An easy to use journey planner that works with and without an internet connection. Check line status for delays, closures and service changes. See what time the next Tube is due with live departures from TfL. National Rail arrivals and departures. Journey planning made easy with real-time routing around closures and delays. Use step-by-step directions in the journey planner to find your way around London. Save your favourite routes for quick selection when on the go. Save your Home and Work stations for up to date station, line and route information. Find your closest Tube station wherever you are in London. Tube Map – London Underground Apple Watch app available. Line status widget Travel Guide Exclusive features also available; First & Last Tube Times, Tube Exits, Premium Line status widget and Priority Support. NEW - Remove advertising subscription With over 60 million downloads worldwide, there's a Mapway app for many of the busiest transport systems in the world including New York Subway, Paris Metro, Bus Times London and Berlin Subway. Plan. Route. Relax. Please note: whilst we endeavour to ensure that Line Status notifications are delivered in a timely manner we can’t guarantee this 100% of the time. There may be occasions when the functionality isn’t available due to technical reasons outside of our control. Continued use of GPS running in the background can dramatically decrease battery life. Tube Map Premium available as an in-app subscription: 99p weekly, £3.99 monthly or £9.99 annually, or as a one-off purchase of £24.99. Prices may vary by location. Cancel at any time, for any reason. Payment will be charged to your iTunes Account at confirmation of purchase. Subscription automatically renews unless auto-renew is turned off at least 24-hours before the end of the current period. Your account will be charged for renewal within 24-hours prior to the end of the current period, at the cost of your chosen price tier. Subscriptions can be managed and auto-renewal may be turned off by going to Account Settings in your iTunes Account. Any unused portion of a free trial period, if offered, will be forfeited when a subscription to that publication is purchased, where applicable. Read our terms in full at https://www.mapway.com/terms-conditions/

Version 7.3.7

Thank you for downloading the app. We regularly update the app to make it better for you. This release includes an updated map and some bug fixes and improvements for you. To make sure you don’t miss a thing, just keep your updates turned on. Got a question? Tap Support in the About section in the app.

Ratings and Reviews

86.4K Ratings

Essential for any Tube traveller

I really rate this App, the journey planner is great, particularly the indicator for which carriage to be in for exit at interchange and destination - if TFL were to number carriages or the platform (Virgin Trains did this) as well as indicating the direction of travel life would be even easier in terms of knowing where to head for on the platform. I also like the station status and updates, great for figuring out when to head to the station for minimal waiting time, I am slightly spoilt as my nearest tube station is 2 minutes walk away. Enhancements I would like would be for the map to automatically centre the station I am closest to. Also indicate when empty trains are scheduled, again slightly spoilt by being close to Northfields tube station which is the start point for a couple of Eastbound services most hours of the day. If you are a transport geek the little nuggets about each station are great, I had never noticed the painted columns at my nearest station that acknowledge the local football team until I read about it in the app.

Adverts make you wait 30sec before you can use the app. Directions are bad too.

Terrible ads that you can’t close for 30seconds. You have to close 3 ads in a row, and they don’t have easy to spot “close” buttons, and even when you do find the close button it’s tiny and half the time it thinks you’ve clicked on the ad and takes you to the App Store. I get it, you need to make money from ads, but you’ve pushed it to the point where the app is a chore to use, so I’m deleting and just using TfL app even though your map COULD be better. Just tone it down lads. Also when you click on a station to make a route it uses that station as the start point? Obviously can switch it around easy enough, but just makes me think you’ve put very little effort/consideration into user experience. Also, dodgy route suggestions: searched for Stratford to Boston Manor, it told me the journey was -1105 minutes long (?), and even though it’s 2:30pm now it thought the next option was at 11:33pm. And can’t change time of departure. Got a long way to go to match Google maps capabilities.

Cashing in!

I used to love this app. Worked well every time. Had live info and you could open it quickly when needed. Then they introduced ads. Not content with the banners, we now have ads which you can’t close for about a minute, and when you do another bit of the same ad pops up. When you’re on a train and need to look for a route quickly, it’s not only frustrating (you can’t see any close buttons for ages), but you end up missing stops or trains as you can’t figure out where you need to be quickly enough. The past week or so I’ve had the same COOP advert debacle every time I’ve opened it and I’ve had enough. I’ve had this app for years and I'm now going to delete it and look for an alternative. I appreciate developers need to make money to survive and produce quality products, but this feels like they got a new head of advertising in who is tasked with increasing revenue and isn’t thinking about user experience. And reading the recent reviews, it looks like I’m not alone.

Developer Response ,

Hi. Many thanks for taking time to leave such a full review, and I'm sorry for what you've experienced. We have been doing some work with the ads recently to make them less intrusive, but clearly still have some work to do! As ever there are subscription or lifetime purchase options available, which remove adverts and enable extra features. Best regards, Team Mapway

App Privacy

The developer, Mapway Limited , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Used to Track You

The following data may be used to track you across apps and websites owned by other companies:

• Identifiers

Data Linked to You

The following data may be collected and linked to your identity:

Data Not Linked to You

The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:

• Diagnostics

Privacy practices may vary based on, for example, the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Simplified Chinese, Spanish, Traditional Chinese

• Premium Yearly + Trial £9.99
• Premium Yearly £9.99
• Premium Monthly £3.99
• Premium Weekly £1.99
• Premium Lifetime £24.99
• Remove Ads Yearly £7.99
• Developer Website
• App Support
• Privacy Policy

Family Sharing

Some in‑app purchases, including subscriptions, may be shareable with your family group when family sharing is enabled., more by this developer.

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How to Get Around London: A Guide to the London Public Transport System

T his comprehensive guide to getting around london will help you understand and navigate the london public transport system so that you can spend more time enjoying the city instead of deciphering underground maps.

First of all, if you’ve decided on visiting London, let me congratulate you on your excellent taste. It’s my favorite major city in the world and one of my all-time favorite destinations. While there are a million things to do in this amazing city, I want to be sure you know how to get around London before you go.

Our family spent several months living in London without a car and also several months living outside the city, and we have also been back to visit several times. Using London public transport is one of our favorite things to do in London and I think it’s actually part of the fun of this city and what makes it so special. While the London transport system is as extensive as the human nervous system, it can also be simplified and easy to use.

Since it’s such a huge city, getting around London can consume a good portion of your trip, but I’m going to share some tips that will help you to understand your options and make the most of your time. Sometimes transportation in big cities can be kind of a drag, but in this city, it’s all so iconic, clean and easy that it makes getting around London part of your true experience. Here are some tips to help make getting around London life go smoothly.

Don’t have time to read a bunch of reviews and blog posts? Here are our top picks for visiting London:

Wanderlust london guide.

If you’re traveling to London, you’ll want to have a solid itinerary that will help you organize your time in the best way possible and maximize your time and money. I’ve created this 5-day London itinerary that will help you see the best sites in London along with some hidden gems. It contains open-and-go day-by-day schedules and expert advice from me!

Our favorite Hotels in London

• Marriott County Hall
• Georgian House Hotel (Harry Potter Chambers)
• The Mad Hatter Hotel
• H10 Waterloo

Must Have: London Pass

Our Favorite London Activities

• Hop On Hop Off Bus
• Tower of London
• Harry Potter Studio Tour

How to Get Around London: The London Public Transport Zones

London is conveniently…or maybe just confusingly…divided into 9 different zones that determine your fare on most public transport. The zones are circular with 1 in the center and 9 being the outer circle. Zones 1 and 2 are contained in central London. In the London transportation system, the fare generally gets more expensive the more zones you cross.

How Much Does it Cost to Use London Public Transport?

Getting around London is fairly affordable, especially if you’re traveling with kids , since ages 10 and under ride anything that uses an Oyster Card for free, including the Underground and the Bus. Fares for riding each mode of transportation differ. The London buses cost around £1.5 per ride. A single tube fixed price is £2.40 with an Oyster card, but the card has a daily cap and even weekly cap which you can see in the chart below, which means that if you’re riding London public transport all day long you are saving a ton of money.

Different Types of London Public Transport

• Underground
• National Rail
• Heathrow Express

I know that list seems long and scary, but don’t be worried, it’s great to have options and you don’t need to use all of these! I’m going to break down each option so you’ll know the ones that will work best for you.

1. The London Underground

The most well known, and most used London public transport is the London Underground, also known as “the Tube.” It is the oldest underground transportation network in the world, first opening in 1863, and carries over one billion passengers a year. The system is vast, with over 250 miles of track and over 200 stations.

The London Underground is the best way to get around London if you want to move quickly across a large area. And thanks to its efficiency, trains are usually on time.  You can easily find “Tube Stations” all around the city that will allow easy access to its 11 different colored lines. The stations are easily recognizable with the big red circle with “UNDERGROUND” written across it.

Trains generally run at least every 10 minutes between 5 am and midnight, some lines offering 24-hour lines. You can plan your journey on the London Underground here or you can use Google Maps on your phone. To ride the London Underground, you’ll need a ticket or an Oyster Card. Oyster cards are plastic credit card like passes that you can “top up” (add money to) at any time. 

They work on the underground, bus systems, and some National Rail.  Children 10 and under ride the bus and tube for FREE ! To buy your Oyster card, find a machine in any Tube station or ask an attendant. To ride the Tube, hold your Oyster Card over the indicated area on the barriers on your way in and out. The barriers will automatically deduct your fare from your card.

2. Black Cabs

Of course, you can’t leave London without getting a ride from a London Cabby. The cabbies are required to take a difficult test to get this job. It can take years to study and pass the test and they must know the streets of London like the back of their hand! If you want to know about something you pass, ask the cabby, he most likely knows a bit about everything! London cabs seat 5 in the back.

They can get quite expensive so we try to save them for a rainy day (literally). Some cabs take credit cards, but about 80% of the ones we took were cash only. Fares are metered and paid upon completion of the journey. As a common courtesy, it’s always a good idea to go to the passenger window of the cab before getting in and telling them where you’re going to be sure they are willing to go there, especially if it’s far.

When the Taxi sign is lit, the cab is empty. To hail a cab, stand on the curb and hold your hand up. Also, look for designated Taxi pick up spots and be sure not to stand on a “zebra crossing” because they are not allowed to stop there.

My personal favorite way of getting around London is in the iconic red double-decker buses. With over 2 billion journeys a year taken by bus in London, this is the most popular mode of transportation in the city, and for good reason. Here are a few reasons why I think the bus is the best way to get around London:

• Cheap: There is a set fare per journey, so even if you’re going from one end of the city to the other, your fare is still only 1.50 pounds! Also, kids 10 and under ride free!
• Convenient: There are literally bus stops on almost every corner of London and the buses run continuously throughout the day and night, even stopping where there may not be an Underground station.
• Accessibility: If you’re getting around London in a wheelchair or with kids in strollers, the bus is the most easily accessible mode of transportation, lacking the necessity of stairs. If you have a stroller you can just wheel it right on to the bus.
• Oyster Card: You can pay for the bus using your Oyster Card by simply touching it to the yellow reader. You only need to use it at the beginning of your journey.
• The View: Riding the bus in London provides you with incredible views of the city and allows you to see more of London while in transit than you otherwise would by being underground on the Tube. Yes, it’s slower than the Underground due to being restricted by traffic, but I think the trade-off is worth it.

4. River Bus

Guess what else you can use your Oyster Card on? That’s right, you guessed it: the riverboats of London known as the Thames Clippers River Bus. I feel like this is one of the most underutilized modes of transportation in London. Maybe because it’s a little pricer or because the boats don’t run as frequently as the buses or the Tube, but the riverboats can be a convenient way to get across the city while seeing it from a truly unique perspective.

5. Overground

The London Overground is pretty much the Underground, but, you guessed it, above ground (even though much of the Underground is also above ground). The overground is fairly new and basically covers areas that the Underground does not. You can use your Oyster Card on the Overground and the fare system with zones is the same as the Underground.

6. DLR (Docklands Light Rail)

This fully automated rail system (without any drivers) services mostly the East and South of Central London near the docklands area of London. It works just like the Underground and Overground and you can use your Oyster Card.

7. National Rail

What?! More trains? Yes! Most national rail services consist of several different lines that connect London to the rest of the country. Many commuters use these rail lines to commute from the suburbs surrounding London. Your Oyster Card will not work on National Rail lines and children 10 and under are not free, but usually ride at a discounted rate. There will be machines at the station where you can purchase rail tickets and usually a ticket office where you can talk to a human.

8. TramLink

This small tram system services South London, so if you’re staying there you’ll need to know about this one. The TramLink has a fixed fare and works like the bus so you only need your Oyster Card on the way in, not the way out.

9. Heathrow Express

If you’re coming to London you’re most likely flying into Heathrow Airport, London’s largest international airport. If so, taking the Heathrow Express is the fastest way to get into the city center. Don’t make the newbie mistake of taking a cab all the way into London! Book your tickets ahead of time online here to get the best deal. Fares range from £5-£32 depending on when you book.

10. Ride Share

• UBER : UBER is regularly used and accepted in London. It’s an easy way to book and pay for transportation and you can now split fares with your travel buddies. It’s not quite the same experience as riding in a Black Cab in my opinion, but just as efficient. When we were there we found the price to be about the same, but you don’t have to worry about having cash on you for UBER at least. If you’ve never used UBER, don’t worry it’s fun, safe, and easy. Here’s a coupon for $5 off your first ride. 
• Free Now : Despite its name, Free Now is not free, but it will save you a few pence! What I like about Free Now is that you can call a regular car or a black cab, which is much easier than trying to hail one down on the street! I’ve also found it to be a bit cheaper than UBER. Download Free Now for Apple . Download Free Now for Google .

Biking around London can be a really fun and inexpensive way to see the city and get you from place to place on a nice day. The bikes with “Santander” written on them are affectionately known as “Boris Bikes” after Boris Johnson who was the Mayor of London when the bike program launched.

The bikes only cost £2 to access the bikes and the first 30 minutes are free. You could technically bike somewhere for 30 minutes, check in your bike, then check out a new bike and ride it for 30 minutes and so on, potentially paying only £2/day for your bike. There are  750 docking stations and 11,500 bikes to rent around London. You can use a credit card or the app to pay for your bike. 

London has also recently put in millions of pounds to creating more bike lanes around the city to help the environment and the flow of traffic. They’ve done a nice job and you’ll see dedicated lanes for bikes all around the city, and especially in the most congested areas.

If you want to know how to get around London on a bike, you can learn more about the London Bike Scheme here .

12. Walking

Walking is a great way to see a lot of London. Most things in central London can be seen by walking and it’s a great way to make more room for all those delicious foods you’ll be eating! Plus, if you’re on a budget it’s the best way to get around London. Be sure to check the distance between you and your destination on Google Maps. You’ll be able to see a different view of London by walking the city. London is full of beautiful parks and they can make great short-cuts and lovely walks.

What is the Best Way to Get Around London?

While there’s no right or wrong answer to this questions, I definitely have my favorite ways of getting around London. As I’ve stated above, the bus is my personal favorite way to travel in London, but the Underground may be the fastest. If you’re lucky, you’ll have the chance to use every mode of transportation during your time there.

Do You Need an Oyster Card to Travel in London?

Having an Oyster Card in London is not strictly required, but I would highly recommend getting one. A London Oyster Card is the cheapest way to get around London, it covers journeys across London’s public transport networks including the Tube lines, buses, overground train station, and DLR, and can be used any time of the day throughout the week.

It makes life easier and will be more affordable. There is actually a price cap currently of £9.80 for zones 1-4. So you know that you won’t be paying more than that each day you are in London, regardless of how many times you ride.   This article from London Toolkit about the London Public Transport fares was really helpful.

Go Contactless

Use your contactless card, phone, or watch to pay for the tube map. Now riding the tube and bus is even easier with contactless payment. Just use your card, phone, or watch as you would when making a purchase. Be sure to “swipe” in and out using the same contactless card so you’ll be charged the correct fare.

Tips for Getting Around London

• Buy an Oyster Card or Prepare Contactless Payment in Advance:  Having an Oyster Card is a great option as it will allow you to ride multiple forms of transportation around London without having to purchase single-ride tickets.
• Download Google Maps App  and use it! Even if you have to look up directions before you leave wifi. I recommend using google maps public transit directions. These have almost never failed me! The app gives you train or bus times and even track numbers, alternate train times, bus stop letters, and exit names. Google Maps will also provide you with several options for public transportation around London. You can see below that to get from the Tower of London to Westminster Abbey using public transportation you have the option to take the Underground or the River Boat.Along with detailed public transport maps and directions, Google Maps will also provide detailed walking directions from the transit stop to the destination.
• Mind the Gap: Those signs everywhere that say “Mind the Gap”…they’re no joke! During my last trip to London, my nephew got stuck in the gap. It was pretty scary, so just be careful.
• Stand on the Right: When riding on the escalators, stand on the right or walk on the left.
• Travel During Off Peak : Try to avoid using public transportation between 7-9 am and 5-7 pm when trains and buses are crowded.
• Try New Things: Don’t be afraid to try different types of transportation like riverboats.

More London Resources

If you need more help planning your trip to London, check out these great resources!

7 Day London Itinerary

London With Kids

Paddington’s Guide to London

Christmas in London

FAQ on How to Get Around London

There are several ways to get around London on a budget. The best way to save money is by taking public transportation such as the Tube, buses and overground trains. You can also rent a bike or walking is always free. Getting an Oyster card and using contactless payment are great ways to pay for your journeys. Additionally, look out for special offers and discounts when travelling.

The current price is £7 and £9.80 for zones 1-4. You can always top up your Oyster card with cash whenever you need.

It costs £20 for the Visitor Oyster card. This allows you to save £1.75 for a single journey with £5.25 as a daily cap. That’s why many tourists and even locals opt for the Visitor Oyster card when travelling around London.

Yes, as the underground stop is usually within walking distance from most places, it makes traveling around London easy. Trains always arrive in 10 minutes and the system is well connected. Additionally, there are Uber rides that are perfect for sharing in groups and other taxi services.

I hope this guide to getting around London has been helpful. You are going to love this city, and now that you know how to navigate it you’ll feel more comfortable and be able to enjoy seeing the sites without stressing about how to get between them. If you have any questions about how to get around London, please ask! You can message me on Facebook or Instagram . -Vanessa

The post How to Get Around London: A Guide to the London Public Transport System appeared first on Wanderlust Crew .