The London Underground is the most efficient, fastest, and cost-effective way to navigate the city. Having said this, it is also important to recognise the fact that navigating the London Tube can be difficult for first-time travellers or beginners. This is why, we have decided to write this helpful guide on how to use the London Tube to ensure a smooth travel experience for all. Read on and plan your Tube journey right!
The London Tube Zones and Timings
The London Underground is divided into nine zones, with Zone 1 for Central London. Eleven Tube lines run through these zones. Tube services run from around 5am until midnight on most services, while Night Tube services on some lines run throughout the night on Fridays and Saturdays.
The Tube Map
The London Tube map has been in use ever since it was devised by Harry Beck in 1933. The map provides clear indications to understand the train directions (westbound, southbound, northbound, and eastbound) along with the interchanges that may occur. You can access free Tube maps and guides on the Transport for London (TfL) website or pick up a map at any Tube station to help you get around.
The Fares for Tube Journeys
The fare you pay on the Tube depends on a variety of factors, including the payment method you choose and how far you intend to travel. Oyster cards and contactless payment methods are the cheapest ways to pay for single-fare Tube journeys. Cash is typically the most expensive payment method for your travel, especially when it comes to single fares, plus, London is mostly cashless now.
Get yourself an oyster card available at all Tube stations, Oyster Ticket Stops, London City Airport DLR station, and most Overground and Elizabeth line stations. If you are planning to use a contactless payment card issued outside of the UK, make sure to check for bank charges and any transaction fees applied.
Navigating the London Underground
Whether you’re planning to take the Tube for work visits, close to your meeting place near Piccadilly Circus or explore a different neighbourhood of your choice, grab a London Tube map before starting your journey.
Take the time to plan your travel and follow the signs throughout the station to reach your Tube line. Some stations also serve more than one line, so, keep an eye out for signs pointing to the line you need to take (these signs will also show the colour of the line, so make sure to remember it).
Once you’ve reached the platforms for your line, keep track of the direction you’ll be travelling in. Find your destination on the map and look out for the digital signs on each platform, showing the train that will arrive next.
Essential Travel Tips
Here are a few tips to make your journey on the London Tube easier:
- Always check the signs on the train before boarding to make sure you’re heading in the correct direction.
- Avoid travelling on the Tube during rush hours to avoid crowds and peak hour fares. On weekdays, the rush hour extends from 7am to 8.45am and 4.30pm to 6.45pm.
- When using the escalators at any Tube station, always stand to the right. This gives enough space for the people in a rush to run up the escalators on the left side.
- While waiting for the train, stand behind the yellow line on the platform to maintain your safety.
- Always offer your seat to anyone who is elderly, pregnant or travelling with younger children.
London Luggage Storage Facilities at Tube Stations
If you’re looking for temporary storage of your luggage, left luggage facilities and services are available at London’s main train stations, including:
- Platform 10, London Liverpool Street
- Platform 12, London Paddington
- Unit SU64, London Bridge
These locations remain open from 8am to 9pm from Monday to Thursday and 8am to 11pm from Thursday to Sunday and the chargeable fee is based on the duration and the size of the luggage you want to store.
Travelling with Children on the London Tube
If you’re travelling with kids on the London Underground, up to four children under the age of 11 can travel for free, accompanied by an adult with an Oyster card or Tube ticket. Children who are 16 and above are counted as adults, so, a separate fare will be calculated for them.
While it is worth using the London Tube to explore the best attractions and experiences near your stay at The Piccadilly London West End in the heart of London’s Theatreland, don’t hesitate to ask for help from the London Underground staff members to navigate your way when you arrive at the nearby Tube station. Make use of the insider knowledge to travel around London using the Tube and have a great experience exploring some of the capital’s best sights and attractions near your luxury hotel stay!
