London Tube
The London Underground rail network, or "the Tube" is a great way to travel to and from Central London and will be an integral part of most people's stay in the UK capital.
Greater London is served by 12 Tube lines, along with the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) and an interconnected local train network. Underground trains generally run between 5am and midnight, Monday to Saturday, with reduced operating hours on Sunday. Later in 2015, a 24-hour Tube service will become available on Friday and Saturday nights on the Jubilee, Victoria and most of the Piccadilly, Central and Northern Tube lines. Exact details depend on the station and the line, so it's worth checking the Transport for London website.
For more detailed information on which stations to use and suggestions for the best route to reach your destination, use Transport for London's Journey Planner.
Zones and Tube Fares
London's public transport network is divided into nine travel zones. Zone 1 is in Central London and zones 6 to 9 are on the outskirts of the city.
Free London Tube Maps and Guides
Transport for London produces free maps and guides to help you get around. You can pick up a London Underground Map upon arrival at any London Tube station. London Travel Information centres sell tickets and provide free maps. There are centres at all Heathrow Airport terminals, major stations in London and at Tourist Information Centres.
You can also download a handy Tube and bus map designed for visitors in our Travel Maps section.