London Underground etiquette: 8 things you shouldn't do on the Tube | Metro News

London Underground etiquette: 8 things you shouldn't do on the Tube | Metro News:

London Underground etiquette is very important. From standing on the right on the escalator when getting to the Tube to let speedy commuters fly down the left, to giving up your seat to someone elderly or pregnant once on board.

Richard Madden of Game of Thrones fame drew criticism this week for his gross misuse of personal space on the Tube. His legs were more widespread than the Bubonic plague. The excuse that it can be uncomfortable for men to have their legs closed on the Tube is a poor one. A subtle ‘reshuffle’ and it’s really not an issue and at best you’re going to be sat down for maybe twenty minutes or so. Think of a better reason next time, Richie.

In honour of this incident here are some things one shouldn't do whilst on the Tube…

1. The escalator

Don’t stop suddenly on the escalator unless you want to cause a suits pile up. (Picture: File)

Before you have even made it on the Tube adhere to the unspoken rules of the escalator. If you get to the bottom during rush hour do not stop completely to extend the handle on your mini suitcase. Unless you want to cause a pile up of angry, suit wearers.

2. Food

You’d better not be taking that on the Tube with you mate. (Picture: REUTERS)

Do not bring your stinky takeaway on board, I don’t care how hungry you are. The air circulation is limited enough and I don’t wish to smell your Double Angus with extra mature cheddar.

3. Heavy petting

Embarrassing PDAs on the Tube should be avoided. (Picture: MTV)

Carried over from old fashioned swimming pool poster etiquette, heavy petting is a big no no. Watching a couple in a busy, confined space fawning all over one another is not how anyone wants to spend their commute home after a hard day.

4. Music

It’s a personal stereo. The clue is in the name. (Picture: AP)

The Tube can be loud, there is no denying it. However, it doesn’t give you the right to have your music up so loud the whole carriage can hear it. Get rid of your crappy headphones and invest in some people friendly ones. The key is in the name, PERSONAL stereo.

5. Backpacks

There’s nothing wrong with wearing a backpack on the tube, as long as it’s not banging into me every five seconds and blocking the exit. (Picture: Getty Images)

Remember that if you are wearing a back pack, you are wearing a BACK PACK! Take it off so you can actually see it and are not inadvertently assaulting people by suddenly rotating 180 degrees without warning.

6. Newspapers

There’s not enough room to read a broadsheet on the Tube without getting in everyone’s way. (Picture: Getty)

Do not attempt to read a broadsheet newspaper at any time. It takes up two seats, gets in everyone’s way and trying to turn the page is more difficult than wiring a plug with a spatula. (FYI Metro isn’t a broadsheet so keep on reading!)

7. Reading over someone else’s shoulder

We know when you’re doing it, so just don’t. (Picture: REUTERS)

Following on from number 6, if someone is perusing some print media, don’t be the guy/girl reading over their shoulder. They don’t want your breath on the back of their neck or to hear that tiny sigh when they turn the page and you haven’t quite finished reading about where Miley Cyrus’ bum is today.

8. No pushing

Be nice to each other. (Picture: AFP/Getty Images)

No argy bargy. If you want a seat that badly, you should probably take a look in the mirror and channel that aggression into a physical hobby. Then when you are fitter you won’t care so much about standing up for ten minutes. Lazy…

Happy commuting!