Taking the Tube

The London Underground was the world's first underground railway, opening as the Metropolitan Railway in 1863. It had gas-lit wooden carriages powered by steam engines, and reportedly, it was not a pleasant ride, due both to the inadequate ventilation and the fact that men (and it was men at that time) were allowed to smoke on the train. I'm glad that's no longer the case.

We're big fans of the Tube, because we seldom have to wait more than a few minutes for a train, especially during the daylight hours. However, to be fair, I must mention one criticism: not every Tube station is friendly to those with mobility problems. Granted, the newer lines are much more accessible, and it can't be easy to add lifts (elevators) to stations that are more than 150 years old. Fortunately, there is a map that shows which stations have lifts and escalators, and often it's possible to plot a course to a station that has an interchange, if you need to change lines, or you can catch a bus to a more accessible Tube stop.

I mention this because my wonky knee acted up last week from taking long walks and climbing multiple stairs. As a result, I had to use my cane for a few days and avoid staircases. Wouldn't you know, our closest station had closed the lifts to one of its two main lines for repairs. The lifts won't be serviceable again until after we leave!

Note: Having had various knee and ankle surgeries, I have a fervent wish that everyone would have to use crutches or a cane, temporarily, at least once. If that were the case, I think accessibility would improve immeasurably. The U.K. isn't alone in failing to meet the needs of those with disabilities, however. Once, when I was on crutches, I found the SeaTac elevators shut down with no signs advising passengers with mobility problems how to proceed. And, at another airport, I waited in the rain for a requested wheelchair that was not there when I exited the plane. That gives me a lot of sympathy for people with permanent disabilities.