by Max Lehmann

Created on: February 01, 2010   Last Updated: February 17, 2010

The London Underground is the world's oldest subway network and as such it is well used and often crowded. In order to use it effectively and without irritating the locals, there are some simple rules to follow, but essentially it boils down to being courteous and avoiding hindering others. Some of the rules are spelt out for you, while others are picked up by reading up on the system ahead of time, following those around you, or unconscious osmosis! This article attempts to prepare you!

Rule 1: Keep left. Or right. Whatever the signs happen to say. Nope, it's not necessarily going to be obvious. As a nation we drive on the left, but there's no set rule for pavements, no set rule for the underground, and many of the stations set out to confuse by putting up signs that tell you which side you should be on, but not co-ordinating that side with the surrounding stations. There is often a long trek between platforms or into and out of the depths of the station itself - it will make everyone's life a lot easier if you don't try to walk against the flow.

Rule 2: Stand on the right. This one is universal across the system. If you're using the escalators you're welcome to stand still or to walk, but if you choose to stand you should be on the right. If you make the mistake of blocking other passengers by standing on the left the reactions will vary. Some people will simply tut loudly and try to push past you. Others will tell you the rules, possibly pointing at the small signs that inform you that you should stand on the right. Some will stand behind you, bewildered, allowing the whole escalator to become a queue of irritated commuters. None of these things will increase the goodwill towards people like you. Play nice, be a good example, move fast, or stay out of the way.

Rule 3: Let people off the train first. That means all of the people, right off the train. There is absolutely no point trying to push past them to get into a carriage, they WILL simply push you off the train. You will garner no sympathy because sympathy on the underground is strictly rationed and handed out in small doses to pregnant women and people carrying heavy loads. Likewise, though, if you're approaching your stop, get yourself ready to exit. Everyone out there wants to get in, they can't until you're out of there, and if you're going to stare dazedly into space and only remember at the last moment that you're meant to be alighting you're going to make no friends.If you're waiting to board

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