When you think of London, you might picture red buses or a black cab zipping down the street. But for us locals, there’s another star: the London Underground—or “the Tube.”
The Tube has been ferrying Londoners and visitors since 1863, making it the oldest underground railway in the world. It’s a living museum with stations that are time capsules of London’s evolution.
The Tube is a lifeline for explorers, connecting you to museums, markets, landmarks, and neighbourhoods you might not discover otherwise.
I’ll show you everything you need to know to survive the Tube and make the most of it.
1. Visit iconic tube stations
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Stations: Westminster, Canary Wharf, Baker Street
Contact: +44 343 222 1234 (Transport for London)
Operating Hours:
- 05:00–midnight (varies by station; check TfL for specific timings)
Price: £
How to Get There: Use the Jubilee, District, Circle, or Bakerloo lines to access these stations easily.
The London Underground is also a gateway to some of London’s most iconic spots. At Westminster Station, you’ll emerge to jaw-dropping views of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament—a perfect introduction to London’s historic grandeur.
Over at Canary Wharf, you’ll step into a futuristic architecture with glass ceilings and spacious platforms.
Meanwhile, Baker Street Station is steeped in history. Opened in 1863, it’s the oldest Underground station and a nod to Sherlock Holmes fans, including murals and a statue outside.
Pro tip:
Plan visits during off-peak hours (from 09:30 am to 4:00 pm and after 7:00 pm on weekdays) to explore the architecture without the commuter rush. Take your time—each station offers unique photo opportunities and a slice of London’s story.
2. Ride the Elizabeth Line
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Stations: Heathrow, Paddington, and Canary Wharf
Contact: +44 343 222 1234 (Transport for London)
Operating Hours:
- 05:30–23:00 (times vary; check TfL schedules)
Price: £
How to Get There: The Elizabeth Line connects Heathrow directly to Paddington and Canary Wharf. It’s accessible via other Tube lines for transfers.
The Elizabeth Line is a fantastic way to travel quickly and comfortably across London. The trains are spacious, quiet, and spotless. Plus, there’s an air conditioning that’s a lifesaver on hot days.
The stations are impressive too. Canary Wharf is sleek and modern, surrounded by the buzzing Docklands, while Paddington is a perfect blend of old-world charm and futuristic design. Bond Street makes shopping trips effortless with quick access to Oxford Street.
Pro tip:
Plan a day trip to Reading for a unique experience, all within a short ride from Central London.
3. Discover and shop at Harry Potter’s Platform 9¾
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Station: King’s Cross
Operating Hours:
- Mon-Sat: 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
- Sun: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Price: £
How to Get There: Take the Tube to King’s Cross St Pancras (Northern, Piccadilly, or Victoria lines). It’s easy to find once you’re inside the station.
Any Harry Potter fan must visit Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station. With its trolley disappearing into the wall, the magical photo spot lets you feel like you’re heading straight to Hogwarts. You can even choose your house scarf for that perfect picture—it’s an unforgettable experience.
Next door, the Harry Potter Shop is a dream come true. Packed with wands, robes, and exclusive collectables, it feels like stepping into Diagon Alley. The shop’s attention to detail, from themed displays to unique merchandise, makes it a treat for fans of all ages.
Pro tip:
Arrive early or late to beat the queues, and pre-book your photo slot for a hassle-free visit. Don’t leave without a wand—every wizard needs one!
4. Explore tube art and history at Art on the Underground
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Stations: Tottenham Court Road and Southwark
Contact: +44 343 222 1234 (Transport for London)
Operating Hours: 05:00–midnight (times vary by station)
Price: Free
How to Get There: Use the Northern, Central, or Jubilee lines to access these art-filled stations.
Exploring the Tube Art on the Underground is a chance to experience some of London’s most exciting public art.
Some stations, like Tottenham Court Road, are practically galleries. Here, you’ll find Eduardo Paolozzi’s vibrant mosaics covering the walls in a dazzling display of colour and pattern. It’s a burst of art you’d never expect underground.
At Southwark Station, the striking blue glass panels by artist Richard MacCormac create a serene, modern aesthetic that contrasts beautifully with the bustle of the city above.
Pro tip:
Avoid rush hours (from 07:30 to 09:30 am and 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm on weekdays) to enjoy the artwork fully. Take your time exploring—these stations are as much a destination as the landmarks above.
5. Use the tube to access major markets
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Website
Stations: Borough, Camden, and Portobello Road Markets
Operating Hours:
- Borough Market: Mon-Sat (times vary; check website)
- Camden Market: Open daily
- Portobello Road Market: Sat (main market day)
Price: Free to enter
How to Get There: Borough (Northern line), Camden Town (Northern line), Ladbroke Grove (Circle or Hammersmith & City lines).
London’s markets are some of the most vibrant spots in the city, and the Tube makes visiting them easy.
Borough Market is perfect for food lovers. It offers fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and incredible street food. Located near London Bridge Station on the Northern and Jubilee lines, it’s a great stop for a midday bite.
Camden Market is full of energy, with stalls selling alternative fashion, handmade jewellery, and food from around the globe. Just a short walk from Camden Town Station on the Northern line, it’s a fun place to explore for unique finds.
Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill is ideal for vintage enthusiasts. It has antique shops, retro clothing, and quaint cafés. You can get there via Ladbroke Grove or Notting Hill Gate Stations.
Pro tip:
Bring cash, as some smaller stalls don’t take cards.
6. Learn about tube history at the Transport Museum Depot
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Address: 118–120 Gunnersbury Ln
Contact: +44 343 222 5000
Operating Hours: Open during special events or open weekends (check the website for details)
Price: £
How to Get There: Take the Piccadilly or District line to Acton Town Station, then a short walk to the depot.
The Transport Museum Depot in Acton showcases vintage carriages, old station signs, and historical Tube maps that tell how London’s iconic transport system evolved.
Walking through the collection feels like stepping back in time, giving you a glimpse into the lives of Londoners over the decades.
You’ll also find rare artefacts like early ticket machines and original posters, offering insight into how the Underground shaped the city’s growth. Special events and guided tours provide even more detail, making it perfect for curious minds.
Pro tip:
Book tickets for special open weekends to see exclusive exhibits.
7. Explore nightlife with the Night Tube
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Stations: Victoria, Jubilee, Central, Northern, and Piccadilly
Contact: +44 343 222 1234
Operating Hours: 24-hour service on Fridays and Saturdays
Price: £
How to Get There: Use the TfL Go app to check Night Tube services and find routes to your destination.
The Night Tube is a lifesaver for late-night adventures in London. It runs on Fridays and Saturdays across key lines like the Central, Jubilee, Northern, Piccadilly, and Victoria.
Whether enjoying Soho’s buzzing nightlife or grabbing a late dinner in Shoreditch, the Night Tube keeps the city accessible and alive after dark.
One of my favourite experiences was catching the last show at a West End theatre, then hopping on the Piccadilly line to get home without worrying about time.
The trains are reliable, well-lit, and feel safe thanks to staff and regular passengers making their way home.
Pro tip:
Avoid peak late-night hours (1:30–2:30 am) when trains are busiest. Keep an Oyster Card or contactless payment ready for seamless travel.
8. Ride the Emirates Air Line (Cable Car)
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Stations: Acton Town Station
Contact: +44 343 222 1234
Operating Hours: 07:00–22:00 (daily; check for seasonal changes)
Price: £
How to Get There: Take the Jubilee Line to North Greenwich Station. The cable car is a short walk from there.
The Emirates Air Line cable car is one of London’s most underrated experiences. Floating high above the Thames, it offers breathtaking views of the city’s skyline, from the O2 Arena to Canary Wharf.
I hopped on at Royal Victoria Dock, and the smooth, quiet ride felt like an escape from the bustling streets below.
It’s a fantastic way to take in the beauty of London from a new perspective, especially during sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle.
Each ride takes about 10 minutes, giving you ample time to snap photos or soak in the views. It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking for a unique experience.
Pro tip:
Visit in the evening for stunning sunset views. Pair your ride with a visit to the O2 for dining or entertainment.
