How to Navigate the London Underground

“Mind the Gap" is heard on the London Underground, reminding riders to be careful of the space between the platform and the cars. The London Underground system, known as "the Tube," while not quite as tourist-friendly as some others in Europe, is easier to navigate than the New York City system and can be a quick and inexpensive way to get around London.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Pick up an Underground map at any Tube station or download one online from the "Visit London" Travel Maps section or "Transport for London" website. The various Tube lines are designated by different colors. Directions are indicated—north, south, east or westbound—and interchanges are clearly designated. London travel information centers also can be found at all Heathrow Airport terminals and at the Britain and London visitor center.
2. Check the Transport for London website for operating hours. There are 12 Underground lines in greater London. Generally, the trains run Monday to Saturday from 5 a.m. to midnight with fewer trips on Sunday.
3. Plan your Underground trip online using Transport for London's Journey Planner. Type in your starting point and your end destination. You can even choose routes with the fewest changes and routes with the least walking between stops. Also check the Tube map and the street map.
4. Find the station you need above ground by looking for a red circle surrounding a white circle with a blue bar stating "UNDERGROUND" in white running through the center. Look for landmarks as you exit so you can find your way back.
5. Buy your ticket before boarding a train. Fares are designated by zones with Zone 1 and 2 in Central London and Zone 6 at the outer edge.
6. Check the front of the incoming train for the end destination to be sure you are heading in the right direction. The trains themselves have maps inside so that you can be prepared to exit before you reach your destination.

Tips & Warnings

• Stand to the right side of escalators to leave room for "walkers."
• Avoid traveling during rush hours, as the tubes are crowded and can be more confusing.
• Tube stations can be difficult for passengers with mobility problems. There is generally a step, either up or down, between the platform and the train. Disabled passengers should board the first car so that the driver can see them. Wheelchair users cannot use escalators unless they are able to stand because they cannot ride the escalator while seated.