There are many ways to make your way around London, from a guided tour to a traditional black cab. You will have also heard of the London Underground (more commonly known as the Tube) which, to first time users, may seem particularly intimidating. But once you have learnt how to navigate the Tube, you’ll get from A to B without any problems. We have put together some top tips to help things run as smoothly as possible during your visit to the Capital.
1. Check the map
Before your journey, you should check the map a couple of times to ensure you are boarding the right train line and heading in the right direction.
2. Stand to the right of the escalator
If you prefer to stand still when going up or down an escalator, make sure you stick to the right so that others can pass without any trouble.
3. Stand behind the yellow line
For safety reasons, it’s a good idea to stay behind the yellow line.
4. Always let people off the tube first
When the platforms and carriages are busy, the best thing to do is let passengers exit before you board.
5. Mind the gap
Just as the voiceover advises, when boarding or descending the carriage you should be careful of the gap between the train and the platform to avoid any accidents.
6. Take care of your belongings
In any public place, particularly a large city such as London, it is wise to be wary of pickpockets.
7. Try to avoid rush hour
If you can help it, it’s best not to travel on the underground on weekdays between 7.30am and 9.30am and 5pm and 7pm, when commuters are travelling to and from work (there are around 3 million of then per day!). This is simply because the trains and platforms can become fairly crowded and you are unlikely to get a seat.