Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Different London Transport Services
The London Underground
11 different Underground lines traverse London, supplemented by an array of overground
rail services and the Docklands Light Railway in East London. It's useful to download the
Underground map to your phone from
www.tfl.gov.uk/maps
. Large Underground maps are
also found outside and inside every station. Fares are organized using a geographical zone
system, with Central London considered Zone 1. Most parts of London for tourists are in
Zone 1 and 2. Fares increase when you travel between zones. For example, a two stop jour-
ney in Zone 2 is cheaper than a two stop journey from Zone 2 to Zone 1.
It's relatively easy to navigate as each line has its own color. Bear in mind that most under-
ground stations are very close together - particularly in Central London they're rarely further
than 10 - 15 minutes walk apart. At the same time, changing lines at a major Underground
station can involve ten minutes of walking and lots of escalators. Being flexible with the
station you alight at can also save a lot of time. London Underground staff are often very
helpful and well versed at dealing with confused tourists, so don't worry about asking ques-
tions. On most lines it's rare you'll wait more than four minutes for a train. However, it can
get horribly crowded during rush hours (7 - 9am and 4:30 - 6pm), especially anywhere in
Zone 1.
