London Underground generally known as the 'Tube' has a long history being the first metro system in the world, having begun operations in 1863. More than 4 million passengers travel on the Underground every day amounting to over 1 billion passenger journeys per year, The Underground has 11 lines and 270 Stations, most of which connect the suburbs to Central London. There are many more Tube stations north of the river than south because historically the north London was more developed than the south.
The Tube has different Zone,travelling between the zones increase the price of the ticket.The famous London Tube map was designed by Harry Beck in the 1930s and even though it isn't to scale it remains the iconic map for the Underground.
It is safe to say that the 'Tube' is the best and quickest way to travel around London..
Travelling in peak hours on the Tube is more expensive in these hours which are roughly 5am till 9.30am and 4pm till 7pm in the evening, as well as expense you should try to avoid the morning 'rush hour' between about 7.30am and 9.30am and the evening peak time which is between 4.40pm and 6.30pm.
It is also important to remember that the 'Tube' is not a 24 hour service, although there are plans to introduce a 24 hr service at the weekend on some lines. Most trains start from around 5am and the services stops between 11.30pm and 12.30am.
Tube Etiquette
Here are a few tips that will make you feel like a local.
If you are going to walk up an escalator, walk on the left-hand side of the escalator.
If you choose to stand, make sure that you always stand to the right-hand side.
Always stand behind the yellow line, when the train arrives always allow people to get off the train before attempting to get on the train.
Offer your seat to old, infirmed and pregnant women .
VLG Tip: If you are in London for more than a couple of days get an Visitor Oyster Card or Travelcard or pay using Contactless payment cards which are debit, credit, charge or pre-paid cards which can be used to make quick, easy and secure payments for everyday purchases of £20 and under. There's no need for a PIN or a signature, just touch your card on a contactless card reader. Must have contactless symbol on card and overseas must check if acceptable.
Contact Us info@visitinglondonguide.com