The oldest subway system in the world is the London Underground, better known as the Tube. Considering the amount of congestion on the city streets, it’s often the fastest and most direct way to get to your destination. It’s relatively inexpensive, and added benefits are exercise (yes, there are stairs to climb, escalators to negotiate, and rushing crowds of people trying to get to work on time and home again!) and extreme people watching.

Despite the horrific events of 7/7/05’s terrorist bombings, the London Underground seems to be safer than ever. More closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras are in operation, security is high, and the commuters themselves are much more vigilant. Thousands of Londoners and tourists alike travel via the Tube every day in what Transport for London’s website states are “over 3 million passenger journeys a day.”

The electric train system runs over more than 250 miles of track. There are nearly 275 Tube stations in and around London, marked by the world-famous “roundel” logo – a red circle with a horizontal blue bar. The logo itself is nearly 100 years old. The stations are found along on twelve different “lines.” The lines are named and color-coded, and a tube map is a must-have for any London visitor (most tour books provide you with one). Service runs from approximately 5:30AM to 12:30AM Mondays through Saturdays and 7:30AM to 11:30PM on Sundays. Maintenance work occurs in the wee hours of the morning to keep the trains running safely and regularly, but night buses are available.

Oddly enough, nearly half of the Underground system actually runs above ground!

Most likely, you will need to change trains once and sometimes twice to get to your ultimate destination. If the station you are traveling to is not on the same line as the one where you start your journey, you need to change trains at any of the many stations where two or more lines meet.

What you’ll experience on a typical Tube journey: Once you’ve purchased your ticket, or if you have your pass, continue through the automated ticket machines (keep your ticket handy – you’ll need it when you exit as well). On escalators, stand to the right and walk on the left to allow people to continue moving. This is especially important during peak travel times. Platforms are clearly marked with color-coded signs, and trains are identified as northbound, westbound, southbound and eastbound. The signs are helpful because they show upcoming stops, which can help you avoid going in the wrong direction. Once on the platform, keep moving. Locals and visitors tend to bunch up at the entrance and exit points, but there is plenty of room all along the platforms. Stay behind the yellow line for your safety. It’s likely on your journeys in the Tube system that you’ll hear the phrase “Mind the Gap.” Trains are sometimes unable to pull flush with the platform, leaving a space between which drops below to the track, and many a traveler has tripped or fallen due to these gaps.

When the train arrives, allow people to leave before attempting to board. This is easier said than done, especially during rush hour, but it’s a necessary courtesy. Once on board, take a seat quickly or stand as far away from the doors as possible. Put large bags on the floor and keep a careful eye on your possessions at all times. The Tube is safe overall, but London is a big city and distracted tourists could be considered easy prey.

When you exit the train, the same rules apply about standing to the right and walking on the left of an escalator. Some stations have lifts (elevators) instead and you’ll need to queue up (line up) and wait your turn to get on. Have your ticket ready to put through the automated machine so you don’t delay people behind you.

While there can be delays, especially during the busy morning and late afternoon hours, and there can be closures for work on the weekends, the Tube is an amazingly reliable way for people vacationing in London to see the sights and have an “experience” in the process. Check back soon for how to purchase Visitors Travel Cards before you leave for London!