First, the big reveal: the average speed across the entire network is just 20 miles per hour (about 32 km/h). Yep, you read that right. You could probably cycle faster on a good day, especially if you’re dodging potholes and angry taxi drivers. But wait—don’t cancel your Oyster card just yet.
That average speed includes every stop, every slow crawl through a tunnel, and every “we are currently being held at a red signal” announcement. The top speed is a different story. Most modern trains can hit 50 to 60 mph (80–96 km/h) on the express sections, like the Metropolitan line out towards Amersham. That’s like a cheetah on a tight schedule.
But here’s the kicker: those high speeds last for maybe a minute or two before you have to brake for the next station. It’s like driving a Ferrari to the corner shop. Impressive, but a little anticlimactic.
Why So Slow? Let’s Blame the Tunnels and the Bends
The Tube is old, my friend—like, Victorian-era old. The tunnels were dug by hand, often following the curves of streets above. Those sharp bends force trains to slow down to a crawl, sometimes as low as 10 mph. It’s not a bug; it’s a feature of history.
And then there’s the signalling system. Much of it is ancient, relying on trains being spaced far apart to avoid a crash. Newer lines like the Jubilee and Victoria use automatic train control, which lets them run faster and closer together. But on the Bakerloo line? You’re practically sending smoke signals.
Also, let’s not forget the heat. Speeding up creates friction, which heats up tunnels that are already hotter than a dragon’s armpit in summer. So going slower actually keeps passengers from melting into puddles of sweaty despair. You’re welcome.
London Underground Tube Train | High Speed Video Captured | 1080p - YouTube
