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The London Underground is not only the oldest and biggest metro system in the world, it's also one of the most modern and convenient, running for 20 hours every day. Each Underground line has a different name and colour. This makes it easy for you to follow your route on the map in this leaflet. When you arrive at a station, look for the colour-coded signs which will direct you to the line you need.

The Underground system is divided into 6 fare zones. The city centre is in Zone 1. The price of your ticket depends on how many zones you travel through. You can buy your ticket from a ticket machine or ticket office at any Underground station. You can buy a ticket for a single or return journey, valid for travel on the date shown on the ticket. Travelcards offer the best value.

If you know what you want, why not use the ticket machines- they can save you time. Just follow the instructions. They usually give change, but please try to use the correct money if you can. It helps to keep change for customers who really need it. Many stations, mostly in Central London, have ticket gates. You pass through them to enter and to leave the system. To pass through the gates simply insert your ticket (face upwards) into the slot on the front of the machine. Your ticket will pass through the machine and appear from a slot at the top. Take your ticket from the slot and the gates will open to let you through.If you have completed your journey (and your ticket is used up) the gates will open but the machine will retain your ticket.

Remember, you must buy the right ticket for your destination before you begin your journey or you will be liable to a £10 Penalty Fare. Try to avoid the busiest times between 08.00 and 09.30 and 17.00 to 18.30, Mondays to Fridays. If you have a pushchair, wheelchair or heavy luggage, a special gate is provided, please ask a member of staff for assistance.

On escalators, take extra care with children, pushchairs or buggies. Where possible, fold the pushchair but always hold on to children. Be careful when you step on and off the escalator, especially when you are carrying luggage. Stand to the right and hold onto the handrail. Avoid standing near the edge of the steps.

The Underground runs until approximately 00.30. After this time you can use of the extensive system of Night Buses. Nearly all Night Buses pass through Trafalgar Square and serve theatres, cinemas and entertainment areas.

Some Key Points
1. Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the Underground.
2. Flash photography is not allowed.
3. Please keep the stations and trains clean. Take your litter and put it in a bin when you leave the system.
4. You must keep your bags and luggage with you at all times. This helps us to avoid security alerts and delays.