Insights & Guides

In-depth articles about the London Underground, Overground, and getting around the city.


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Deep dive

When Will the Tube Be Fully Automated?

An evidence-based analysis of driverless trains, covering Grades of Automation, platform edge doors, costs, and what TfL documents say.

Guide

Is the Tube 24 Hours? Night Tube Guide

Which lines run all night, when they operate, how often trains come, and your alternatives when the Tube shuts.

Deep dive

Why Is It So Hot on the Tube?

TfL platform temperature data (2013–2024), the physics of tunnel heat, what London has tried, new Piccadilly line AC trains, and practical advice.

How Does the Tube Turn Around?
Explainer

How Does the Tube Turn Around?

How London Underground trains reverse direction at termini using loops, sidings, and crossovers.

How Deep Is the Tube?
Explainer

How Deep Is the Tube?

Explore depth variations across stations, historical construction methods, and comparisons to other metros.

How Fast Does the Tube Go?
Explainer

How Fast Does the Tube Go?

Maximum speeds per line, the technology behind them, operational factors, and interesting comparisons.

How Does the Tube Work?
Explainer

How Does the Tube Work?

A technical guide to power systems, signalling, maintenance, and the innovations that keep the Tube running.

Delays & Disruptions Explained
FAQ

Delays & Disruptions Explained

Why delays happen, how TfL communicates them, and tips for navigating disruptions on the Tube and Overground.

Fares, Passes & Pricing
FAQ

Fares, Passes & Pricing

Everything about Oyster, contactless, Travelcards, daily caps, and how to pay the least for your journey.

Maps & Route Planning
FAQ

Maps & Route Planning

How to read the Tube map, plan your journey, and use the tools that make navigating London easier.

London Underground vs the Subway
FAQ

London Underground vs the Subway

Why some people call it the subway, how the system compares worldwide, and the terminology differences.

A Beginner's Guide to the Tube
Guide

A Beginner's Guide to the Tube

A comprehensive guide for newcomers and visitors covering ticketing, journey planning, and local etiquette.