Tube - Accessibility

Stairs, Lifts and Escalators at Tube Stations

Many deep-level Tube stations have escalators to platforms. Nearly all of these stations with escalators or lifts also have stairs between street level and the ticket hall and/or between the escalator/lift and the platforms.

Most lifts at Tube stations are automatic and generally give an audible tone when the doors are open. At some stations it may be necessary to call the lift by pressing a button located near the entrance to the lift. Many lifts have doors located on both sides, and you may have to leave the lift from the opposite side to the one by which you entered.

Tube Trains

When boarding Tube trains, you should be aware that there is generally a step of up to eight inches, either up or down, between the platform and the train. If this is problematic, you are advised to travel in the first carriage, so that the driver can see you more clearly, and allow enough time for you to get on or off.

If you are a wheelchair user and are planning to make a journey by Tube involving any station without step-free access, you are advised to travel with sufficient helpers to get you to and from platforms, and on and off Tube trains.

You should also be aware that as a wheelchair user, you can only travel on escalators if you are able to stand on the escalator. You cannot travel on an escalator whilst seated in your wheelchair.

In each carriage of every Tube train there are usually certain seats near the doors, identified by special notices, which people are requested to give up if they are needed by an older or disabled passenger.

More About Tube Accessibility

For more information, call Transport for London Access and Mobility on +44 (0)20 7941 4600, email travinfo@tfl.gov.uk. If you have a textphone, contact the customer services team on +44 (0)20 7918 3500.