If you, like millions of other Londoners, rely on the Tube to get you to work or your evening plans, you may need to find an alternative method of travel for the upcoming Tube strike. The RMT has announced a week of rolling strikes on the London Underground and DLR starting Friday, September 5, 2025.
While there may be some added logistics required, you can still get in and out of town through various other modes of transport. Consider the below for your commutes that week.
How To Get Around London During The Tube Strikes
1. Consider Carpooling With Colleagues
Driving in London during a tube strike might sound intimidating, but with a bit of planning, it can be surprisingly efficient.
- Plan your route: Use Waze or Google Maps for live traffic. Factor in Congestion Charge and ULEZ zones.
- Carpool: Share rides with colleagues, neighbours, or through platforms like BlaBlaCar. Organise this in advance, as availability may be limited during peak strike days.
2. Book Your Parking Ahead of Time and Drive In
Hunting for a parking spot in Central London is always a headache, with massive congestion and a lack of availability in traditional car parks. But reserving a space ahead of time will guarantee you a spot and likely save you time and money as well.
- Reserve in advance: JustPark lets you guarantee a space, avoiding the stress of circling for hours.
- Tailor your booking: Search for EV charging, gated security, disabled access, or long-term rolling spaces if you need flexibility.
3. Use Alternative Public Transport
- While Tube and DLR services are down, London’s wider network will still run.
- Buses: Expect packed buses, but they remain one of the most reliable options. Download CityMapper or TfL Go for live updates. Remember: contactless payment works, no Oyster required.
- London Overground: Lifesaver for many commutes, though busier and slower than normal.
- Elizabeth line: A good substitute for key routes (and Heathrow), but likely overcrowded.
- Cycle or scoot: Santander Cycles, Lime bikes, or e-scooters are ideal for short-to-medium trips across central London.
4. Stay Flexible
During a tube strike, you're going to have to accept that some routes will take much longer or will be less accessible during that time period. You can take a few approaches to reduce the stress of the inconvenience:
- Work from home: If your work allows for it, discuss remote work options with your employer for the applicable days.
- Explore alternate routes: Drive part of the way, then switch to Overground or National Rail. Parking near a station can cut your stress.
- Check updates: TfL, National Rail, and Trainline apps are essential for live info.
5. Prepare for longer commutes
Lastly, prepare yourself for busier buses, longer walks or possible reroutes.
- Pack essentials: Snacks, headphones, water and patience.
- Events impact: Gigs (including Coldplay at Wembley on Sept 7–8) will be heavily affected, leave far earlier than usual. Reserve parking near Wembley Stadium with JustPark.
Whether you're carpooling, using public transport alternatives, or pre-booking parking with JustPark, you'll conquer the obstacles of a closed tube network with no problem.
Now you're ready to journey ahead in navigating London's hustle and bustle, even when the tube takes a breather!
