London's tube is frequently moaned about, but is generally quite efficient with trains appearing every 2-5 minutes. In peak times it will be packed and be very uncomfortable, so always take a drink with you to keep cool in the summer. Although the tube network is immense (13 lines), south London is not very well covered and people tend to rely more on rail and buses. The tube runs from early morning (06.00-07.00 depending on each line) to late evening (about 00.30).

Tickets can be bought from machines or from ticket booths in the station entrance hall and from newsagents. For those living in London, getting an 'Oystercard' is worthwhile, for visitors however, the card tickets are fine. A travel card is the best option for anyone taking more than two journeys in the day and can be used on buses, trains and the DLR. The Tube is generally quicker than the bus, simply because of London's legendary traffic jams.

It is worth noting that since 2006 paper tickets have become more expensive then the same journey being paid for on an Oystercard. A single fare within zone 1 is £4 with a paper ticket, but is £1.50 by Oyster (information correct from April 2007). This is being done to help encourage more people to use the new payment system. The cards themselves can be purchased for around £3 and used without a travel ID card, so for some visitors it may pay to get an oystercard upon arrival. The Oystercard can also be bought online overseas from agents.

One last thing to note, the tube map is a design classic, but it's very deceptive. Some places are a lot closer (and easier to walk) than it appears on the map, check that A-Z!