Table of contents
The London Underground is almost a rite of passage when you arrive in the British capital. Practical, fast and sometimes even chaotic at peak times, it is the essential means of transport for getting around the city of Big Ben. But you still need to know how to use it without getting lost in this underground labyrinth. Between the different lines, the timetables and the little tips to avoid the crowds, it’s best to be prepared before getting on the Tube.
The London Underground: a puzzle that’s quickly mastered!
I’ll admit it. If you’re looking at the London Underground map for the very first time, you’re likely to be in for a shock! It looks more like an abstract work of art than a map. All you will see is a tangle of colored lines crossing and overlapping each other. Don’t panic! Once you understand how it works, it will be easier to navigate than it seems. Each line has its own color and name, and each station is clearly indicated.
I’ll let you in on a trick: always look out for the terminus. Because yes, several lines serve the same stations, but they don’t necessarily go in the same direction. So check the last stop to make sure you get on the right train. If you do make a mistake, don’t panic! All you have to do is get off at the next station and take the train in the opposite direction.
How can you pay for your journey without breaking the bank?
The London Underground is not cheap. Clearly, if you buy a paper ticket for each journey, the bill will quickly mount up. Between you and me, the solution is to use a contactless travel card or a compatible bank card such as Visa, Mastercard or Amex. Each time you travel, the system will automatically calculate the cheapest fare with a maximum weekly limit, so there’s no risk of paying more than a weekly pass.
Planning to take the metro several times a day? Then opt for the daily fare cap offer! Once the threshold is reached, you can take this transport as many times as necessary without paying anything more. If you plan to stay in London for several days, also consider looking into season tickets. This way you will save money.
How can I avoid the crowds in the metro?
The capital’s metro has quite long opening hours: from 5 a.m. to midnight on weekdays, with some lines open all night at weekends. In theory, there is a train every two to three minutes during the day. In practice, it all depends on the line and the time.
Be warned, between 7 and 9 a.m. and 5 and 7 p.m. are peak hours. Taking the metro will be a real combat sport. Avoid these slots if you don’t want to have to fight your way through the crowd. The Central Line, for example, is a real furnace at these times. If you can, try to stagger your journey or opt to walk if the distance is not too long.
Which stations are essential to know?
Some stations are worth lingering at, especially because they have their own character. Others are tourist traps to be avoided at all costs! Here is the information you need to keep in mind about them:
King’s Cross St Pancras
If you arrive by Eurostar, this is where you will get off. The station also serves several underground lines, so you might as well get used to the hustle and bustle. I suggest you find out in advance where you need to go next, so you can avoid going around in circles.
Oxford Circus
Unless you like crowds and jostling, avoid this place at all costs during rush hour. On the other hand, if you plan to go shopping on Oxford Street, it’s the perfect stop. Take the right exit from the start, otherwise you risk ending up at the wrong end of the crossroads;
Leicester Square
This station is the ideal place to end an evening in London. This is where you should get off to see a show in the West End or enjoy the lively atmosphere of Chinatown.
Camden Town
Want to explore Camden Market and its unique atmosphere? This is the place to be. Be warned, however, that at the weekend the station sometimes closes to traffic to avoid the human traffic jam. I therefore advise you to go there outside rush hour or to get off at Chalk Farm to avoid the crowds.
Canary Wharf
If you are curious to see a different side of London, come here. This is the district of skyscrapers and financiers in suits and ties. It has nothing to do with the historic center, but the modern architecture and the banks of the Thames are definitely worth a visit.
Where to stay in London? My tips, neighbourhood by neighbourhood
London Underground: the traps to be avoided at all costs!
We have all made the mistake of going the wrong way on the underground. However, there are other common mistakes to avoid. Standing at the doors when they open is one of the most frequent. The rule is simple! You must let other passengers get off before getting on. If you linger in the entrance to the carriage, you are likely to be called to order with a withering glance.
Another trap: don’t anticipate your exit. Some stations are real labyrinths, such as Bank or King’s Cross. So remember to check in advance which exit to take to avoid finding yourself at the opposite end of the station to your destination.
Finally, don’t forget to validate your ticket when you leave, as this can be expensive. With contactless cards, if you don’t validate your journey when you exit, the system will apply the maximum fare. A quick check before leaving the station will save you any unpleasant surprises.
