Underground Train Travel (walking with assistance)

Underground train travel as someone who can walk with assistance

Using the underground with a disability is possible and we would encourage members to try it.

Travelling by underground train, whether in London or elsewhere, is a cheap and fast way to get around a city. However, there are a number of important points to consider when you have spinal cord injury (SCI) or cauda equina syndrome (CES). 

The underground transport system relies on many stairs, lifts and escalators. It also relies on connecting services and lines, with connecting tunnels and walkways between stations. This also means there is more distance to walk or wheel than you may think. For this reason it is best to plan ahead and find out about the accessibility options available. Transport for London (TFL) who operate London Underground have created accessibility services to enable people with mobility limitations to travel on their trains.

This page covers basic details about booking, managing your equipment and your personal care needs during underground train travel for further information download our Underground train travel information sheet. 

Planning your journey

For those who walk/use mobility equipment for some/all of the time, planning ahead will make your journeys more accessible.

Key questions to consider:

How do you want to travel?
Will you use a mobility aid or require assistance? What type of aid will you be using?

Things to think about:

Your entire journey, door to door:
Could journey planning tools or passenger assistance services make things easier? Consider using apps like TfL Go or Passenger Assist from National Rail.
Activities during travel:
Will you be walking or standing for extended periods? Will you need to carry luggage?
Your physical comfort:
Think about how the journey might affect you—fatigue, pain, or muscle spasms can impact your experience.
After you arrive:
Consider how you’ll feel once you reach your destination, so you’re able to enjoy your planned activities.
Route planning tools:
When using apps like Google Maps, include keywords such as “step-free” or “least steps” to find routes that minimize walking.

Personal and care needs

Planning for personal and care needs is vital for a smooth travel experience. This is a basic list of things to consider – for a more a detailed list download a copy of our information sheet.  ​

• Find out where the toilet is, look for signs or ask for help and carry a RADAR key for accessible toilets. ​
• Maintain skin care routines to prevent pressure ulcers during travel. ​For more information about pressure relief download a copy of our Pressure ulcers – the basics fact sheet
• Allow for rest periods to manage tiredness and fatigue.
• Prepare for emotional wellbeing by informing staff of your needs and ensuring assistance is arranged.

Rights and problem-solving strategies

Knowing your rights and how to address issues is important for a stress-free journey.

• Take a moment to pause and take a breath. This will really help you think more clearly and speak with calmness.
• Document any issues for future reference or complaints. For example take a photo if its appropriate and safe to do so and make a note of the time day and location.
• Understand that frustrations with accessibility are valid and seek support when needed. ​It’s ok to feel frustrated and your are not inconveniencing anyone by expecting basic access services.
• Report safety concerns to staff or the British Transport Police.