London transport today

London Underground carries more than three million passengers a day. The numbers are rising: one billion passenger journeys were recorded in a 12-month period for the first time ever in 2006/7.

Providing a safe and comfortable travelling environment for so many people is an enormous challenge to planners and operators of the network. 'Understanding the Underground' is an interactive space in the Museum where you can find out more about how the Tube works: drive a train, explore the map, help other customers and check out the safety systems.

Through substantial investment, Transport for London has improved service considerably since its formation in 2000. Nearly 5% of Londoners have switched from private car use to public transport - unprecedented in a world city. Innovations like congestion charging, Oyster smartcard ticketing and the online Journey Planner have all had positive effects. Underground stations and trains are being refurbished, use of river services is rising, and the city has seen a 50% increase in cycling.