1. Length: The London Underground network spans over 400 kilometers (250 miles), making it the most extensive underground railway system in the world.
2. Stations: There are 270 stations on the London Underground, serving various parts of the city and its suburbs.
3. Lines: The Underground consists of 11 lines, each identified by a different color on the iconic Tube map. These lines include the Bakerloo, Central, Circle, District, Hammersmith & City, Jubilee, Metropolitan, Northern, Piccadilly, Victoria, and Waterloo & City lines.
4. Passenger Traffic: The London Underground is one of the busiest transit systems globally, with an average of over 1 billion passenger journeys made annually.
5. History: The first section of the Underground, the Metropolitan Railway, opened in 1863 between Paddington and Farringdon Street. It was initially powered by steam locomotives but later converted to electric traction.
6. Iconic Stations: Some of the most recognizable and architecturally significant stations on the Underground include Westminster, with its grand Edwardian Baroque design; Bank, featuring its vaulted ceiling; and Embankment, known for its art deco architecture.
7. Public Art: The London Underground has a long history of incorporating public art into its stations. Notable artworks include Henry Moore's bronze sculptures at the Bond Street station, Eduardo Paolozzi's mosaics at Tottenham Court Road, and David Hockney's murals at the Charing Cross station.
8. Ghost Stations: There are several abandoned or "ghost" stations on the Underground, which have been closed to regular passenger service. Some of these stations are occasionally opened for special events or tours.
9. Mind the Gap: The iconic "Mind the Gap" announcement, warning passengers of the space between the train and the platform edge, is a registered trademark of Transport for London (TfL), the public body responsible for the capital's transport system.
10. Night Tube: In 2016, the Night Tube service was introduced on selected lines, providing 24-hour service on weekends. This service has significantly improved transportation options for Londoners and visitors during late-night hours.