The London Underground is the most widely used means of public transportation in the city.
The Underground, also known as The Tube, has become an iconic part of London. It is so entrenched in London life that there is a whole subculture that revolves around riding the Underground.
If you’re a tourist, chances are that you won’t really get the whole etiquette that revolves around it. But read on and we’ll give you tips on how to navigate the London Underground like a true Londoner:
Keep Right and Give Way
When going through the Underground and navigating its pathways, escalators and platforms, always remember one thing – always keep to your right. For example, when you’re getting on the escalator, you should keep to the right side if you’re not in a hurry. The left side is reserved for people who are rushing and want to walk up or down the escalator – so they can go through the escalator unimpeded.
When waiting to board the Tube carriage, you should stand to the side so that those who are going to get off won’t get blocked.
Be Ready to Give up Your Seat
As a general rule men are not required to give up their seats because they might be seen as creepy or patronising. But there are some exceptions to this rule. Women who are traveling with a baby, those who are pregnant, the elderly and those with disabilities are usually given seats.
Quiet, please
Commuters are expected not to make a lot of noise when inside the carriages. This means loud music, boisterous conversations, even the ringing of mobile phones, are frowned upon. Another thing you should be aware of is not to establish direct eye contact with fellow passengers. You must develop that blasé, detached demeanor that is characteristic of the London commuter.
Be space considerate
During peak hours, expect the carriages to be crammed full of people. Don’t make any grand gestures that could likely poke someone’s eyes out. Refrain from reading over a stranger’s shoulder because it is extremely annoying. If you’re carrying a backpack, take it off when you’re in the carriage and place it at your feet so you won’t knock against people with your bag. Also, be considerate of your fellow commuters and always wear deodorant. Finally, if you see that the carriage is already full, don’t try to squeeze in. The Underground is very efficient. During rush hour, the services are quite regular and trains arrive quite often.
Don’t eat
One thing that is extremely annoying and a sure sign you’re a tourist is when you start eating inside the carriage. Refrain from doing this even if you’re extremely hungry.
Speaking of the Underground, Clarendon has many serviced apartments in London that are located near various Tube stations. This makes it easy to go around the city. In fact, we have some apartments that are situated right across the Tube station. Isn’t that convenient?