Thousands of commuters have experienced nightmare journeys home from work as Tube services are wiped out by a staff walkout.
Hardly any London Underground trains were operating this morning with a complete wipeout over the rush hour, as a five-day run of strikes by members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) kicked in.
The nightmare continued for commuters in the evening rush hour. As of 5pm most lines were still suspended completely, with only the Central, Northern and Metropolitan lines open at all, with services only running on small sections.
The industrial action kicked off on Sunday with limited services running but levels of disruption are ramping up through to Friday.
To compound the travel misery, station closures have also affected the Elizabeth line on Monday, with early-morning trains not stopping at Liverpool Street, while the DLR was not running between Bank and Shadwell.
Walkouts are also set to bring the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to a standstill on Tuesday and again on Thursday.
London mayor Sadiq Khan on Monday evening refused to intervene in the strike action depsite the misery it is bringing commuters.
Follow the latest updates below…
Key Points
- Tube strikes enter their second day as thousands of Londoners struggle to get to work
- Monday mayhem leaves commuters facing 'absolute nightmare' journeys
- TfL apologised to customers after website and app appear to crash due to high demand
- Thinking of cycling or walking to work during the Tube strikes? Here's what the weather will be like
End of coverage
Monday 8 September 2025 21:21 , Bill BowkettThank you for tuning in to this live blog. We are suspending our coverage tonight and will return first thing tomorrow morning on the third day of the RMT’s walkout.
Charing Cross and St Pancras Kent services disrupted
Monday 8 September 2025 21:11 , Bill BowkettFollowing a shortage of signalling staff between Ashford International and Dover Priory in Kent, all lines have reopened between these stations. However, as service recovers, trains may still be delayed by up to an hour or revised.
Trains from London Charing Cross and and London St Pancras International were unable to stop at stations between Ashford International and Dover Priory.
All Tube lines now closed after partial openings
Monday 8 September 2025 21:00 , Bill BowkettCurrently, all lines on the Underground network are suspended. The Central, Metropolitan and Northern lines were partially open earlier, but are now fully closed.
The Docklands Light Railway is also not stopping between Shadwell and Bank due to strike action.
The Mildmay line on the Overground is also suffering minor delays to prevent overcrowding at Stratford Station and an earlier faulty freight train.
There is a good service on the rest of the Overground, as well as the Elizabeth line.
Limes bike experience rental surge
Monday 8 September 2025 20:57 , Bill BowkettLime said there was a 58 per cent increase in the number of trips taken between 7am and 11am compared to the same time last week.
Sadiq Khan refuses to intervene in strike
Monday 8 September 2025 20:19 , Matt WattsSir Sadiq Khan has made clear that he is not prepared to intervene in the Tube strike despite it being set to bring six days of closures and chaos to the London Underground.
Our transport editor Ross Lydall has interviewed the Mayor of London where he sets out his reasons - despite the misery it is bringing Londoners.
Marylebone disruption expected until end of day
Monday 8 September 2025 17:50 , Bill BowkettFollowing a fault with the signalling system between Wembley Stadium/Harrow-on-the-Hill and London Marylebone, the line has now reopened.
Trains running to and from Marylebone may be delayed by up to 15 minutes, cancelled or revised.
Trains between Aylesbury Vale Parkway and Marylebone will only run between Aylesbury Vale Parkway and Great Missenden.
Disruption is expected to continue until the end of the day.
Obstruction causing hold-up in west London
Monday 8 September 2025 17:48 , Bill BowkettAn obstruction on the track between Feltham in Hounslow, west London and Staines-upon-Thames, Surrey means train are having to run at reduced speed on some lines. As a result, services may be delayed by up to 40 minutes or revised. Disruption is expected until 8pm.
Mass cancellations at Waterloo due to obstruction on track
Monday 8 September 2025 17:40 , Bill BowkettSouth Western Railway services to and from Aldershot/Shepperton/Weybridge/Windsor & Eton Riverside and London Waterloo have been cancelled. This is due to an obstruction on the track.
Revealed: How Londoners are commuting without the Tube
Monday 8 September 2025 17:21 , Bill BowkettTransport for London has revealed travel data for this morning, on the second day of the RMT’s week-long Tube strike:
- Contactless and Oyster cards activity is down a fifth when compared to this time last year.
- Commuters using their cards on buses has increased by 12 per cent compared to the same Monday.
- Demand for Overground and Elizabeth line services went up by a third.
- Santander Cycles usage has risen by 61 per cent compared to 12 months ago.
Tube strikes latest
Monday 8 September 2025 17:11 , Bill BowkettAs of 5pm on Monday, with rush hour underway, Tube lines are impacted as follows:
Bakerloo Line: No service on the entire line due to strike action. Passengers are advised to use the Lioness line on the Overground to complete their journeys.
Central Line: There are trains running between West Ruislip/Ealing Broadway and White City, as well as between Stratford and Epping/Hainault via Woodford.
Circle Line: No service on the entire line due to strike action.
District Line: There is no service on the entire line due to strike action.
Elizabeth line: There is a good service on the Elizabeth line but trains are expected to be very crowded.
DLR: There is a good service on the DLR.
Hammersmith and City Line: There is no service on the entire line due to strike action.
Jubilee Line: There is no service on the entire line due to strike action.
Metropolitan Line: Trains are running between Amersham/Chesham and Rickmansworth, and between Watford/Uxbridge and Harrow-on-the-Hill only.
Northern Line: Trains are running between High Barnet/Mill Hill East and East Finchley, but there is no service on the rest of the line.
Piccadilly Line: There is no service on the entire line due to strike action.
Victoria Line: There is no service on the entire line due to strike action.
Waterloo & City line: There is no service on the entire line due to strike action.
London Overground: Trains are running on all the London Overground lines but some services may not stop at all stations or run to their normal destination as Tube stations are shut.
How are the strikes affecting you?
Monday 8 September 2025 17:02 , Bill BowkettYou can tell us how the strike action has affected your commute by emailing bill.bowkett@standard.co.uk.
Traffic 'slow' near Battersea Bridge
Monday 8 September 2025 16:57 , Bill BowkettTraffic is slow on all approaches to works with northbound delays on Battersea Bridge Road back to Prince of Wales Road. There are eastbound delays on Cheyne Walk back to Edith Grove and westbound delays on Chelsea Embankment back to Royal Hospital Road. Expect delays.
Drivers in Trafalgar Square advised to use 'alternative route'
Monday 8 September 2025 16:49 , Bill BowkettTrafalgar Square (Eastbound) at the junction of (A4) Strand is closed at the roundabout for gas works. Southbound access from St. Martins Place onto the roundabout is also shut. Drivers are advised to use an alternative route.
'Very heavy traffic' in Marylebone
Monday 8 September 2025 16:46 , Bill BowkettMarylebone Road in Westminster, which runs runs east–west from the Euston Road at Regent's Park to the A40 Westway at Paddington, is down to one lane westbound at Baker Street. Very heavy traffic on approach.
'Serious delays' in Greenwich
Monday 8 September 2025 16:45 , Bill BowkettThere are queues in both directions on Blackheath Road in Greenwich, south east London. Westbound has tailbacks from Wat Tyler Road and eastbound from Deptford Street. Expect serious delays.
Various lane closures and temporary traffic signals are in operation to facilitate signal, bollards, paving, new kerb and lighting works.
RMT 'enormous sympathy' for those affected by strikes
Monday 8 September 2025 16:30 , Bill BowkettThe trade union behind the week-long Tube strike said it has “enormous sympathy” for those affected by the walkouts.
"It's not something we enjoy doing, our members lose all their pay as well and we do have enormous sympathy for people going about their business," RMT London Transport Regional Organiser Jarred Wood told the BBC.
He said Transport for London’s unwillingness to engage is why "we find ourselves in this position".
"People do 04:00 (BST) starts, 01:00 finishes...bank holidays are all normal working," he claimed. "People are exhausted and they want that issue addressed".
Forest sees a 100% increase in demand for rides during morning rush hour
Monday 8 September 2025 15:58 , Megan HoweDemand for Forest rides has surged today, the e-bike operator has said, as they expect to see 60,000 active users.
During this morning’s rush hour (between 7am and 8am), Forest experienced a 100% increase in rides - double the usual volume for that time of day.
On a typical Monday, Forest expects to have 27,000 active users.
But today, they are expecting to have 60,000, representing a 122% increase.
Forest is expecting 15,000 new active users per day during the strikes this week.
A look at the latest disruption
Monday 8 September 2025 15:49 , Megan HoweWith rush hour fast-approaching, commuters will be starting to think about the best way to get home. Here’s a look at the current service status for each line as of 4pm.
- Bakerloo - Suspended
- Central - Part suspended
- Circle - Suspended
- District - Suspended
- Hammersmith & City - Suspended
- Jubilee - Suspended
- Metropolitan - Part suspended
- Northern - Part suspended
- Piccadilly - Suspended
- Victoria - Suspended
- Waterloo & City - Suspended
- DLR - Good service
- Elizabeth line - Good service
- Liberty - Good service
- Lioness - Good service
- Mildmay - Good service
- Suffragette - Good service
- Tram - Good service
- Weaver - Good service
- Windrush - Good service
Lime steps up operations as demand for e-bikes surge
Monday 8 September 2025 15:34 , Megan HoweLime has said it has prepared for the Tube strikes this week by ensuring that its driver team is on standby to keep vehicles in service, as well as extra foot patrols around high-demand areas.
Kaan Tas, Managing Director at Lime said: “From previous strike weeks we know demand for Lime surges as Londoners look for alternative means of transport. To prepare, we’re stepping up operations across the city.
“Our driver team is on standby to keep vehicles in service - whether that’s with fresh batteries, or rebalancing overcrowded bays.
“We’ll also have extra foot patrols in central London to keep high-demand areas clear and bikes available. The goal is to make sure the service runs as smoothly as possible, even when the rest of the transport network is under pressure.”
Tories accuse Sadiq Khan of 'complete abdication of duty'
Monday 8 September 2025 15:17 , Megan HoweTories have criticised London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s approach to the industrial action affecting transport in London.
Keith Prince, City Hall Conservatives transport spokesperson said: “Where is Sadiq Khan? While millions of Londoners suffer through transport chaos, our Mayor has gone missing in action.
“He can find time to comment on arms fairs and international issues, but when it comes to the transport strikes bringing misery to his own city, Khan is nowhere to be seen.
“This is a complete abdication of duty. The Mayor's deafening silence while London grinds to a halt shows he has completely lost control of the situation.
“If Khan can't even be bothered to speak up during the worst transport crisis in years, what exactly is he doing as Mayor? Londoners deserve leadership, not empty silence from City Hall.
“Khan's refusal to engage publicly with this crisis, despite his willingness to grandstand on other issues, shows his priorities are completely wrong. He should be leading from the front, not hiding away while the city he's supposed to serve grinds to a halt.”
Thinking of cycling or walking to work during the Tube strikes? Here's what the weather will be like
Monday 8 September 2025 14:49 , Jacob PhillipsThe Met Office has forecast a stretch of relatively dry days with warm temperatures this week — a small comfort for commuters facing widespread travel disruption due to Tube strikes.
Severe disruption is expected across the capital, with hardly any Underground services running as members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union stage a five-day walkout.
But while travel headaches mount, the capital can look forward to warm, sunny spells throughout the week.
You can read more about this week’s weather forecast in the story below.
What's the weather forecast for London commuters battling the Tube strike?
Downing Street calls for RMT union and TfL to end the Tube strike
Monday 8 September 2025 14:31 , Jacob PhillipsDowning Street has called on the RMT union and Transport for London to get back to the negotiating table to end the Tube strike.
The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said: “I think Londoners will rightly be fed-up with the disruption from Tube strikes this morning – as parents try and drop their kids off at school, get to hospital appointments, get to work – and RMT and TfL need to get back around the table, work together to resolve this dispute in the interests of passengers.”
The Government’s Employment Rights Bill could reduce barriers to strike action but No 10 insisted this was because it wanted a more constructive relation with unions rather than the “scorched earth” approach under the Tories.
“We’ve always said in introducing our reforms that we want to, unlike the previous government, have a more constructive relationship with the unions and also a more secure workforce is good for the economy, it’s good for productivity.
“But we want to see RMT and TfL get back around the table when it comes to these strikes, work together in good faith to resolve this situation in the interests of passengers.”
Boats busier than normal as Londoners travel down the River Thames to get to work
Monday 8 September 2025 14:23 , Jacob PhillipsUber Boats has confirmed that services are busier than usual on Monday as commuters found alternative routes to get to work during the London Underground strikes.
An extra shuttle service was set up between Canary Wharf and London Bridge to take office workers down the River Thames.
An Uber Boats spokesperson told the Standard: “Extra sailings have been added to help meet demand, including a shuttle service between Canary Wharf and London Bridge.
“We continue to monitor the situation closely and review capacity at our piers to ensure passengers are supported across our network where possible."
Why are the strikes happening? The Standard's Transport Editor explains
Monday 8 September 2025 14:17 , Jacob PhillipsOur Transport Editor Ross Lydall has been at King’s Cross station this morning reporting from the picket lines.
Three million journeys will not be made on the London Underground on Monday as a result of the strikes.
The Tube network remains mostly down this afternoon, with trains only running at a small number of stations in the outer parts of the city.
You can find out more about the Tube strikes in the video below.
Night time economy could lose £150m over strikes
Monday 8 September 2025 13:47 , Jacob PhillipsA leading business group has warned that London’s night-time economy could lose £150million due to the strikes.
Responding to the Tube strikes, Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, said: “Since 2022, rail and tube strikes have cost the UK’s night time economy billions in lost revenue, with forecasts indicating a further £150 million could be lost during this week’s strike period alone.
“This devastating projection comes at a point when the sector is relying heavily on consistent week-to-week trade to stay afloat.
“Consumer confidence in transport is already at an all-time low, with many people no longer assured that they can travel safely and reliably at night.
“Recent research by Obsurvant highlights that for 18–30 year olds in particular, the guarantee of getting home safely is a fundamental condition for staying out later.
“Without that confidence, people choose to stay closer to home, cut nights short, or not go out at all.
“The impact is clear: major events have been disrupted, footfall across towns and cities has fallen, and pubs, clubs, restaurants, hotels and theatres are seeing significant declines in trade.
“At a time when rising costs are already squeezing operators, ongoing transport disruption is compounding the pressure further.
“As the government reshuffle takes shape, we hope to see fresh momentum in driving meaningful support for our sector.
“Without reliable transport services and targeted backing, we risk stifling growth, losing audiences, and undermining the vibrancy of our nightlife.”
Commuters battle to work on trains, buses and bikes... as RMT threatens more walkouts
Monday 8 September 2025 13:34 , Jacob PhillipsHundreds of thousands of Londoners have defied the Tube strike and battled into work on Monday morning – as the RMT warned that more walkouts could be on the cards.
Many commuters turned to the Elizabeth line, London Overground and national rail services – while extraordinary numbers took to two wheels, many of them on Lime hire e-bikes.
Others battled to board buses, walked or tried to drive – sparking widespread chaos during the morning rush hour, with New Oxford Street, Holborn and Clerkenwell Road gridlocked.
Read more about what has happened so far on Monday below.
London defiant! Commuters board trains, buses and bikes but more Tube strikes likely
Recap: Tubes strikes cause transport chaos across London
Monday 8 September 2025 12:29 , Jacob PhillipsAerial footage shows many tube trains stacked at Upminster rail depot where they are likely to remain while the underground strikes are underway.
The strike has impacted most of the network with no services running on the Tube between Sunday and Friday.
Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) voted to strike after failed negotiations with Transport for London (TfL) over pay and working conditions.
At 09.30am there was reportedly a queue of 85 people waiting for buses at Waterloo station. All e-scooters near the queue were taken by Londoners opting to cycle to work.
Post Malone and Coldplay concerts have been rescheduled due to the strikes, which would make it “impossible” for fans to get to and from the event.
Jared Wood, London Transport regional organiser for the RMT, said to Nick Ferrari on LBC that interest rates “rose significantly faster” and that “over that period our members have experienced a real-terms pay cut.”
Major disruption on trains to Marylebone
Monday 8 September 2025 12:22 , Jacob PhillipsNational Rail has warned trains to Marylebone station have been hit by hour-long delays due to a signalling failure.
Trains are delayed by up to 60 minutes due to the issue in west London and are expected to continue until 2pm.
National Rail has said the signalling failure issue happened between Wembley Stadium/Harrow-on-the-Hill and Marylebone.
Services between stations such as Birmingham Moor Street, Oxford and West Ruislip have been hit by the disruption.
Post Malone fans left “gutted” after concert re-scheduled due to strikes
Monday 8 September 2025 11:54 , Jacob PhillipsA group of Post Malone fans spent over £1000 to come down from Scotland and see the singer perform at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
But the night before the gig they discovered it had been postponed by a week due to the strike action.
Jonathan Ewing said he and two friends were left “gutted” by the gig being moved.
Although the price of his ticket was refunded, Mr Ewing, 33, who works in retail, said: “I’m a bit gutted as it was too late to get a refund for the hotel and flights.
“And I can’t get more time off work for the concert next weekend.”
The group still travelled to London to do tourist activities, such as visiting the Natural History Museum.
Along with the concert cancellation, the trio were hit by strike action again this morning as they were forced to walk 20 minutes from their hotel in Kensington to Paddington station in order to get the Elizabeth line to Liverpool Street to board the Stansted Express for their flight home.
Spike in demand for e-bikes during Tube strikes
Monday 8 September 2025 11:24 , Jacob PhillipsForest bikes have said they have been working hard to cope with the spike in demand for e-bikes during the Tube strikes.
Alex Berwin, Head of Policy at Forest: "By 9am this morning we were already doing four times our usual demand, as commuters looked for alternative ways to get to work.
“Our team has been working hard to prepare for the spike in demand, with additional on-street staff and e-bikes available - especially in the busiest commuter hubs - to support Transport for London and keep the city moving."
Sir Sadiq Khan calls for RMT and TfL to get around the table and sort dispute
Monday 8 September 2025 11:06 , Jacob PhillipsThe Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan has called for the RMT union and Transport for Lonodn to get around the negotiating table and solve their dispute.
In a post on X, Sir Sadiq said that “nobody wants to see strike action” adding that it causes disruption to Londoners, business and visitors alike.
Nobody wants to see strike action - it causes serious disruption for Londoners, businesses and visitors alike.
— Sadiq Khan (@SadiqKhan) September 8, 2025
I continue to urge the RMT and TfL to get around the table and resolve their dispute.
In the meantime, please check @TfL for the latest updates before you travel.
Commuters turn to hire bikes and boats as Tube grinds to standstill
Monday 8 September 2025 10:57 , Jacob PhillipsCommuters trying to get to work have opted for alternative methods of transport as Tube services are wiped out by staff walkouts, writes our reporter Alice Lilley.
Londoners have been forced to pack onto busy trains and buses with many opting for Lime bikes.
Others walked several miles to get to work while some got on Uber boats across the capital.
The Elizabeth line is operating but is much busier than usual with many commuters opting to travel using the line.
Commuters said they would be “screwed” without the Elizabeth line, one of the only services running on Monday.
Commuters were spotted speeding through central London on Lime bikes as they tried to get to work on time.
Other commuters have opted to travel by boat.
Uber Boat by Thames Clippers stops at 24 piers along the Thames between Barking Riverside Pier in the East and Putney Pier in the West.
Services run from early in the morning until late at night seven days a week and are running as normal.
But not everyone was upset by having to take a different mode of transport.
Tube strike means my favourite London transport ⛴️ pic.twitter.com/CGMK1wEoGP
— Del (@VegasDelUK) September 8, 2025
Liverpool Street station completely swamped with hundreds queuing for the Elizabeth line
Monday 8 September 2025 10:46 , Jacob PhillipsLiverpool Street station remains absolutely swamped with queues for the Elizabeth line stretching up the escalators and into the station foyer, writes our reporter Charlotte Ambrose.
Hundreds of passengers are trying to make their way down onto the Elizabeth line platform as the chaos continues.
The Elizabeth line is one of the few lines running on Monday due to the strike action and there is currently a good service on the line.
Liverpool Street is the busiest railway station in the country and has four Tube lines running through it, on top of Elizabeth line and London Overground services.
Tube staff working more "extreme shifts" to keep London moving, says RMT
Monday 8 September 2025 10:35 , Jacob PhillipsThe RMT union has said that its members are having to work more extreme shifts to keep London moving.
In a post on X, the union described how some Tube workers are having to begin work at 4am and finish at 1am.
“Fatigue and understaffing are a dangerous mix”, the post adds.
The union said that the Tube is operating with 2,000 fewer staff than before the Covid-19 pandemic.
Monday mayhem leaves commuters facing 'absolute nightmare' journeys
Monday 8 September 2025 10:19 , Jacob PhillipsLondoners have told the Standard about their commuting misery as they faced “absolute nightmare” journeys into work on the first weekday of a five-day Tube strike.
Some journeys were three times their usual length as commuters had to find alternative ways to get to work due to the RMT walkouts.
Many were left fighting their way onto crowded buses and packed-out DLR and Elizabeth line services.
Queues six people deep were spotted at Stratford station while the queue at one bus stop near Waterloo station was reportedly 85 people long.
You can read about all of the action so far in our round up here.
Monday mayhem leaves commuters berating 'disgusting' Tube strike
Liverpool Street remains extremely busy and chaotic
Monday 8 September 2025 10:11 , Jacob PhillipsLiverpool Street station is extremely busy and chaotic at 10am as huge flurries of people rush to get onto the Elizabeth line, writes our reporter Charlotte Ambrose.
Hundreds of people can be seen flooding through the station, hurrying to get onto trains, with many consulting TfL staff or station line maps to plan their routes.
While the Overground is in service, commuters arriving from the Elizabeth line are having to leave the station and re-enter through an alternative entrance due to Tube line entrance closures.
Meanwhile, Elizabeth line trains continue to be completely packed out as Londoners head into the city centre.
TfL apologises after website and app crash due to higher demand
Monday 8 September 2025 09:54 , Jacob PhillipsTfL has apologised to customers after its website and app appeared to crash due to high demand during the Tube strikes.
A TfL spokesperson said: “We apologise to our customers for the current disruption affecting the Journey Planner website and the TfL Go app, due to higher than usual demand.
“We are aware that both services are currently experiencing issues, and we understand the inconvenience this may be causing to those planning their journeys across London.
“Our technical teams are working urgently to identify and resolve the problem as quickly as possible and we apologise again for any disruption caused.”
More trains running on the Central Line
Monday 8 September 2025 09:35 , Jacob PhillipsMore trains have begun running on the Central Line. Services are now running on sections of the line in both west and east London.
Trains are now running between West Ruislip/Ealing Broadway and White City as well as between Stratford and Epping/Hainault via Woodford.
There is no service on the rest of the line due to the strike action.
Huge crowds at West Brompton station
Monday 8 September 2025 09:23 , Jacob PhillipsEarlier on Monday, commuters were dealing with large queues at West Brompton station on the District Line.
The stairs at the station were turned into a sea of people, with one passenger asking for better crowd management.
The entire District Line remains suspended.
Trains begin to run on section of Northern Line
Monday 8 September 2025 08:59 , Jacob PhillipsTrains on a section of the Northern Line have begun running just before 9am on Monday.
Services are now operating between High Barnet/Mill Hill East and East Finchley, speeding up journeys in north London.
But trains are still not running on the rest of the line, or on most other Tube lines.
Commuter's journey time tripled in east London
Monday 8 September 2025 08:51 , Jacob PhillipsOne Londoner living in Stratford has warned that her journey time has been tripled due to the Tube strikes.
Marie usually travels for 20 minutes on the Central Line to get to work, but today is having to take the 25 bus from Stratford station for at least an hour to get to work in St Paul’s.
The 27-year-old said: “I understand why they’re striking for fair compensation, we’re in a ‘cozzie lives’ [cost of living crisis] as the youth say.
“It is an inconvenience but a necessary one.”
She will have to travel into the office for two days this week, taking the bus which takes three times as long as her Tube trip.
Signal failure creates further disruption during rush hour
Monday 8 September 2025 08:45 , Jacob PhillipsCommuters are facing further disruption this morning as a signal failure is creating 30-minute delays in west London.
Trains running to London Marylebone may be cancelled or delayed following the fault with the signalling system between Wembley Stadium and the busy station.
Disruption is expected through rush hour until 9.15am.
It's the Elizabeth line to the rescue
Monday 8 September 2025 08:40 , Jacob PhillipsThe Elizabeth line has come to the rescue of thousands of commuters, writes our Transport Editor Ross Lydall.
Tottenham Court Road looked extremely busy shortly after 8.30am on Monday as a sea of passengers tapped out of the station in central London.
Earlier today trains had not been stopping between Whitechapel and Bond Street on the Elizabeth line due to the strikes, knocking key stations like Liverpool Street and Farringdon out of action.
But there is currently a good service on the line.
Lizzie line to the rescue: thousands of commuters are using the Elizabeth line to get to work on Tube strike Monday pic.twitter.com/h84Ko0rXiT
— Ross Lydall (@RossLydall) September 8, 2025
Cost of strikes could run into hundreds of millions of pounds, says business leader
Monday 8 September 2025 08:26 , Jacob PhillipsA major business group has said the Tube strikes are “hugely frustrating” for Londoners and warned it could cost London millions of pounds.
Muniya Barua, the Deputy Chief Executive at BusinessLDN has warned the strikes will hit hospitality, retail and culture sectors particularly hard.
She said: “This is hugely frustrating for Londoners that rely on the Tube to get around the city.
“It will hit firms that rely on footfall especially hard, particularly those in hospitality, retail and the cultural sector.
"At a time when the economy is weak and firms are already reeling from a National Insurance hike, the economic cost of these strikes could run into hundreds of millions of pounds. It also sends a really poor message to visitors and investors.
"We urge both sides to reach an agreement urgently and put an end to these damaging strikes.”
TfL website back up and running
Monday 8 September 2025 08:14 , Jacob PhillipsAt around 7am this morning we were really struggling to access information on the TfL website.
Some pages on the website had crashed while some links on the TfL homepage stopped working.
However, things appear to have returned to normal around an hour later.
And good news, more trains now appear to be running.
Trains are running between West Ruislip/Ealing Broadway and White City on the Central Line - but there is still no service on the rest of the line due to the strike action.
There are now trains on the Metropolitan Line between Amersham/Chesham and Rickmansworth, and between Watford/Uxbridge and Harrow-on-the-Hill.
There is now a good service on the DLR but there are minor delays on the Lioness Line.
Thick queues spotted by Elizabeth line in Stratford
Monday 8 September 2025 08:05 , Jacob PhillipsThe queues to get the Elizabeth line in Stratford are currently six people deep as Londoners look for alternative ways to get to work.
The Elizabeth line is one of the few lines running on Monday morning as the whole Tube network is brought to a standstill.
Science teacher Sharon Dhillon is one of the many people who is late for work as she tried to travel from Stratford towards Leytonstone.
She told the Standard: “It’s an absolute nightmare. I think it’s fair that they’re striking for more pay, but it’s not fair the impact it’s having on my journey.
“I’m going to be late for school and someone else will have to cover for me.”
Commuters were left frustrated on Monday morning when they discovered the Elizabeth line was not stopping at a number of central London stations due to the strikes.
We are now hearing that Tottenham Court Road station has just opened.
Queues build outside Stratford station
Monday 8 September 2025 07:49 , Jacob PhillipsHoardes of commuters and school children were seen queuing for buses outside Stratford station this morning before 7.30am, writes our reporter at the scene Charlotte Ambrose.
TfL ambassadors have been sent to usher and assist people onto crowded buses.
One of the many commuters trying to get to work was Theo Ivy.
The 49-year-old usually makes a 35-minute Tube journey from his home in Upton Park to work but on Monday he is having to take two buses.
Mr Ivy explained his journey time has doubled due to the Tube strike and he is expecting it will take him over an hour to arrive at his workplace.
He told the Standard: “I will be late for work... I can’t use the Tube, I am forced to use only the bus. It has added 35-40 minutes to my journey so I’m not so happy.”
Union members spotted on the picket line
Monday 8 September 2025 07:37 , Jacob PhillipsMembers of the RMT union have arrived at a picket line at King’s Cross St Pancras Tube station.
The union has been attempting to secure a 32-hour working week and a 75 per cent discount on nationwide ticket fares.
Around 10,000 TfL staff are expected to take part in the industrial action.
TfL website appears to crash as rush hour approaches
Monday 8 September 2025 07:26 , Jacob PhillipsTransport for London’s website appears to have crashed ahead of rush hour on Monday morning.
The Standard was unable to access the latest tube information shortly after 7am and was met with several error screens.
Thankfully the homepage of TfL’s website still appears to be working and shows which lines are suspended. However, passengers are currently unable to find out more information about which lines remain open.
To recap all Tube lines are suspended and there is no service between Bank and Shadwell on the DLR.
The London Overground should be running as well as the Elizabeth line.
Queues building outside Victoria Station
Monday 8 September 2025 07:04 , Jacob PhillipsQueues have built up at bus stops near Victoria Station as commuters are unable to use the Victoria, Circle or District Lines.
Dozens of workers are instead having to walk past closed gates and cram onto buses to finish their journeys.
Commuters greeted by shut gates at Tube stops across London
Monday 8 September 2025 07:01 , Jacob PhillipsCommuters across London have been met by shut gates as they try to get to work.
Meanwhile, queues are beginning to build up near Victoria Station as workers arrive in London.
Liverpool Street station shut due to strikes
Monday 8 September 2025 06:54 , Jacob PhillipsCommuters trying to use the Elizabeth line to get to work as an alternative to the Tube will not be able to get off at Liverpool Street station early in the morning.
Transport for London has warned that Elizabeth line trains will not stop at London’s busiest railway station before 8am on Monday.
Week of travel chaos gets under way
Monday 8 September 2025 06:45 , Michael HowieWondering which public transport services are impacted by the five-day walkouts? This TfL poster on display at Woolwich station this morning rather neatly - and depressingly - sums it up...
Good morning
Monday 8 September 2025 06:24 , Michael HowieGood morning. We’re resuming our live coverage of the Tube strike which is paralysing London Underground services for most of the the week.
We’ll give you all the latest updates as commuters battle to get to work amid the RMT walkouts.
Day centre for homeless 'forced to close early'
Sunday 7 September 2025 18:42 , Bill BowkettA day centre in west London that supports people that are on low income, homeless or vulnerable to mental health issues has warned it may be forced to reduce working hours and services due to the Tube strike.
The Barons Court Project in Hammersmith and Fulham said: “Due to the tube strikes this week our services may be limited for the next four days. We will open each day, tomorrow at 10.00am and we may need to close a little early. We are sorry for any inconvenience caused.”
Revealed: Tube journeys that are quicker by foot
Sunday 7 September 2025 18:15 , Bill Bowkett
A few years ago, transport bosses unveiled the first official map showing the walking times between Tube stations.
Designed to highlight time it takes to travel on foot between the stations on London’s Underground network, the map informs tourists and residents of the journeys you simply needn’t bother swiping your Oyster card for.
West End operator flags Tube strike disruption
Sunday 7 September 2025 18:09 , Bill Bowkett
Delfont Mackintosh, which owns eight London theatres, has asked audiences to “allow extra travel time” for shows during the Tube strikes, with other modes of transport, such as buses or e-bikes, suggested as possible alternatives.
A spokesman for the West End operator said: “All performances are going ahead as scheduled. Ahead of your visit, we strongly advise planning your journey and giving yourself plenty of time to arrive at the theatre.”
Delfont Mackintosh’s venues include:
Khan promised 'zero days of transport strikes' as mayor
Sunday 7 September 2025 17:52 , Bill Bowkett
Sadiq Khan previously promised “zero days of transport strikes” as Mayor of London. The then-Labour candidate said in 2016:
“Strikes are ultimately a sign of failure. Every day there's a strike it caused huge misery and inconvenience to Londoners. As mayor what I'd do is roll up my sleeves and make sure that I'm talking to everyone who runs public transport to make sure there are zero days of strikes.”
Lib Dem peer: Strikes 'making life hell for people'
Sunday 7 September 2025 17:48 , Bill BowkettMajor Khan has vanished? Hey Sadiq - there’s a tube strike making life hell for people and businesses and venues - and not a word from you. Where’s the Mayor! AWOL. @MayorofLondon
— Lynne Featherstone (@lfeatherstone) September 7, 2025
Who is Eddie Dempsey?
Sunday 7 September 2025 17:38 , Bill Bowkett
The RMT’s Eddie Dempsey is just as bolshy and matter-of-fact as his predecessor, Mick Lynch.
Maddy Mussen tells you everything you need to know about the south London-born trade union boss.
First Tube network shutdown in two years
Sunday 7 September 2025 17:31 , Bill Bowkett
The last time the entire Underground network shut down due to worker’s walking out was in March 2023.
Mick Lynch, the RMT's general secretary, said at the time: "Our members will never accept job losses, attacks on their pensions or changes to working conditions in order to pay for a funding cut which is the government's political decision."
Tube strike 'will deliver a £230m blow to London’s economy'
Sunday 7 September 2025 17:16 , Bill BowkettThe Tube strike could deliver a £230 million blow to London’s economy, according to a study carried out for The Standard.
Research by the London-based Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR) estimates the walkouts will cause a direct hit to the capital’s economy, and countless millions more in indirect impacts.
Ross Lydall, The Standard’s Transport Editor, has the exclusive here.
Hospitality staff 'losing out' during Tube walkouts
Sunday 7 September 2025 16:48 , Bill BowkettHospitality businesses are being hit hard by tube strikes in London this week.
— UKHospitality (@UKHofficial) September 7, 2025
On @LBC our Chair @UKHospKate outlined the three-fold hit to the sector:
👉 Staff can't get to work
👉 Businesses are quieter
👉 Events and meetings being cancelled pic.twitter.com/sjUEgBOF9E
Ex-transport secretary calls for driverless trains to avert strikes
Sunday 7 September 2025 16:45 , Bill BowkettFormer Conservative MP Grant Shapps, who was Secretary of State for Transport between July 2019 and September 2022 , has called for “driverless trains that cannot strike”.
As Transport Sec I warned: cave in to union barons & more strikes will follow. Labour caved & London now faces 5-days of Tube chaos.
— Rt Hon Sir Grant Shapps (@grantshapps) September 7, 2025
It's high time to move to driverless trains that cannot strike! https://t.co/oLXcrEU2pV
But the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) in east London — which works as a driverless, computerised network, with trains run by a Passenger Service Agent (PSA) on board — has also been hit because of a strike by RMT members in a separate pay dispute. On Tuesday and Thursday, there will be no service on the DLR.
Thousands march against antisemitism in spite of strikes
Sunday 7 September 2025 16:31 , Bill Bowkett#BritainsMarchAgainstAntisemitism has arrived at Parliament Square.
— Campaign Against Antisemitism (@antisemitism) September 7, 2025
Britain is the mother of Parliaments and of modern democracy.
But with elected officials hounded by extremists and the House of Commons forced to amend its procedures to appease the mob, the fabric of our civic… pic.twitter.com/uRCvwwNDsB
Despite the Tube strikes affecting services into central London, thousands of demonstrators managed to march through Westminster on Sunday to denounce rising antisemitism in the UK.
The event, which was organised by the Campaign Against Antisemitism, began at Hallam Street and paused outside New Broadcasting House.
Speakers included Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp, Reform UK’s deputy leader Richard Tice and Chief Rabbi Sir Efraim Mirvis
How to get around London this week
Sunday 7 September 2025 16:19 , Bill Bowkett.jpeg)
Badenoch blames Labour 'mismanaging' economy amid strikes
Sunday 7 September 2025 16:15 , Bill BowkettLast year Keir Starmer put up taxes on struggling businesses, but gave inflation-busting pay rises to unions, promising to end strikes.
— Kemi Badenoch (@KemiBadenoch) September 7, 2025
A year later doctors are voting to strike for the second time this summer and London tube drivers walking out, piling more misery on us.… https://t.co/tqlEPfOIGD
Post Malone postpones London concerts over walkouts
Sunday 7 September 2025 16:08 , Bill Bowkett
It is not just Coldplay who have cancelled their London gigs because of the Tube strikes.
Rapper Post Malone said he had to reschedule his two upcoming shows, due to be held at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, because the industrial action would make it "impossible" for fans to get to and from the event.
Strikes force 'sorry' Coldplay to reschedule Wembley shows
Sunday 7 September 2025 16:01 , Bill Bowkett
Coldplay have been forced to reschedule the final two dates of their 10-concert run at Wembley Stadium due to strikes on the Underground.
The band said the RMT walkouts starting today had made it impossible for the gigs to go ahead tonight and tomorrow evening.
‘We’ll be an hour late’: Commuters share frustration over Tube strike travel
Sunday 7 September 2025 15:20 , Sami QuadriMany Londoners are concerned about the week ahead and how the strikes will affect their commute.
Rugile, 23, and Saif, 34, say: “The Elizabeth line is still working but once you get to the station you’re forced to get a bus to get to work.
“So you’re stuck with all the other people during rush hour time which is obviously quite difficult.”
Saif says during strikes, it’s typical to expect to get into work an hour late. “You’re forced to leave your house an hour and a half earlier than usual,” he said.
Rugile says she’s worried about the replacement services being adequate, which might make her late into the office.
“A lot of the time, you do end up missing the train because it’s over packed.” Saif added: “And even then, if you get your bus, you’re not guaranteed you’ll get on it! You might miss the first two, or three. You might make it onto the fourth one, and even then, it’s gonna be rammed.”
Rugile expressed concern about trains having system failures, leaving commuters stranded during an already uncertain week. “Then it’s even more of an issue getting to work”, she said.
Both were relieved that more companies are embracing flexible work from home policies, which spares them from the stress of commuting during strikes. Saif added: “If they let us work from home - maybe for two days - that would be ideal.”
Tourists swap Tube for buses as strikes cause confusion in London
Sunday 7 September 2025 14:32 , Sami QuadriFrench tourists Ilona and Valentin, 26, are in London for the first time and have enjoyed seeing Big Ben and Buckingham Palace today.
They said they would usually take the tube and instead are taking buses from place to place. Valentin is “more used to public transport” and both are a little uncertain about how to navigate London.
“It’s not very easy the first time” says Ilona. “We knew there would be strikes so we took the bus everywhere.”
Both are relieved that the disruptions have been limited. “We were eight minutes late this morning - otherwise it has been okay”.
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Elizabeth line running as normal at Bond Street despite Tube strike
Sunday 7 September 2025 14:09 , Sami QuadriThe Elizabeth line is running smoothly through Bond Street on Sunday afternoon as much of the London Underground network ground to a halt due to strike action.
Unlike the Tube, the Elizabeth line is not directly affected by the RMT walkout because its drivers and staff are covered by separate agreements. Transport for London has confirmed services will continue to operate, although trains are expected to be much busier than usual as passengers seek alternative routes.
TfL has also warned that some Elizabeth line stations shared with the Tube may face restricted access or temporary closures if staff at those sites choose to strike. Planned engineering works could also lead to additional delays.
Passengers are advised to plan ahead, allow extra time for journeys and check live travel updates before setting out.
Pictured: Bakerloo line platforms shut at Oxford Circus amid strike disruption
Sunday 7 September 2025 13:04 , Sami Quadri
Tube strikes leave London tourists stranded as buses struggle to cope
Sunday 7 September 2025 13:01 , Sami QuadriThe strikes have spelled trouble for tourists too, who are visiting the capital at the tail end of the summer high season.
At a bus stop outside Leicester Square station, Florian, 45, said he was worried about fitting in a busy day of sightseeing. “We are trying to take the bus and we’re not sure if we’ll get there on time at all,” he told The Standard.
Darienne, 35, added: “So far there have been two delays. We have another visit this afternoon. We’re waiting for the bus and we don’t know if it will come.”
How to get to London’s airports during the Tube strike
Sunday 7 September 2025 12:11 , Sami QuadriHeathrow
The Piccadilly line will be closed during the Tube strike, so travellers should use the Elizabeth line to reach Heathrow. The Heathrow Express also runs from Paddington, while National Express coaches operate from several points across the capital.
Gatwick
Gatwick can be reached via the Gatwick Express and Southern trains from London Victoria. Thameslink services also run from Blackfriars, Farringdon and St Pancras, although they will not call at Farringdon before 7.30am from Monday to Thursday, or after 10.30pm on Monday and Wednesday.
Reaching these stations may be more difficult during the strike, as the Circle, District, Hammersmith & City, Victoria, Northern, Piccadilly and Metropolitan lines are not running. Buses, however, remain in service, and National Express also operates coaches direct to Gatwick.
Stansted
The Stansted Express runs from Liverpool Street and Tottenham Hale. Liverpool Street is served by the Elizabeth line, while Tottenham Hale can be reached by National Rail services or local buses.
London City
London City Airport is usually served by the DLR, which will be affected by strikes on 9 and 11 September. During those days, passengers are advised to take the Elizabeth line to Custom House and then transfer to a short bus journey — routes 473 or 300. Routes 129 (Newham to Woolwich) and 474 (Canning Town to Manor Park) also serve the airport.
Luton
Thameslink trains from central London run frequently to Luton Airport Parkway, where the Dart monorail connects to the terminal. The Luton Airport Express also runs from London St Pancras International. In addition, National Express coaches operate from Victoria Coach Station and Paddington.
Pictured: Piccadilly Circus station deserted as Tube strike shuts lines
Sunday 7 September 2025 11:35 , Sami Quadri
Oxford Street deserted as Tube strike leaves shops shuttered and streets empty
Sunday 7 September 2025 11:05 , Sami QuadriLondon’s West End looked eerily quiet today as the Tube strike emptied Oxford Street of its usual weekend crowds.
Photos show rows of shops with shutters down and pavements that would normally be packed with shoppers almost deserted. A handful of people could be seen walking past closed storefronts, while buses and taxis made up most of the traffic.
The strike has caused severe disruption across the Underground network, with major lines shut down, making it difficult for people to reach central London. Retailers in one of the capital’s busiest shopping districts appeared to be feeling the impact, as footfall slumped and stores closed their doors.
Pictured: Oxford Circus Bakerloo Line entrance deserted during Tube strike
Sunday 7 September 2025 10:58 , Sami Quadri
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How much do Tube drivers earn and what hours do they work?
Sunday 7 September 2025 10:54 , Sami QuadriAs of November 2024, Transport for London confirmed that the fixed salary for a full-time Tube driver is £68,096.
Drivers typically work a five-day week of around 36 hours, averaging seven hours and 12 minutes per shift, plus an unpaid 30-minute meal break. One hour a week is usually “banked” to be taken at a later date.
Shifts can start as early as 4.30am and finish as late as 2am, while Night Tube drivers work overnight from 11pm to 7am.
Annual leave includes at least 29 days plus public holidays. Drivers are also entitled to free travel on the TfL network for themselves and a nominated partner or family member, along with discounted Eurostar tickets.
What have the RMT union and TfL said about the September Tube strikes?
Sunday 7 September 2025 10:14 , Sami QuadriThe RMT union has accused London Underground bosses of failing to “engage seriously” with its demands on pay, fatigue management, extreme shift patterns and a shorter working week. The union said its members “voted in overwhelming numbers to take strike action.”
Eddie Dempsey, general secretary of the RMT, said: “Our members are doing a fantastic job to keep our capital moving and work strenuous shift patterns to make sure Londoners get to their destinations around the clock.
“Fatigue and extreme shift rotations are serious issues impacting on our members’ health and wellbeing – all of which have not been adequately addressed for years by LU management.”
TfL rejected the union’s claims, insisting its offer is fair. Claire Mann, TfL’s chief operating officer, said: “We call on the RMT to suspend this action, put our fair and affordable offer to their members and continue discussions with us. Our pay deal is in line with other offers accepted by the RMT across the rail industry, so it is disappointing the RMT is planning to disrupt Londoners without giving their members a say on the offer.
“We remain open for discussions about any part of our offer, and we are committed to making sure our colleagues are treated fairly. We welcome further engagement from all of our unions about managing fatigue across the network, but a reduction in the contractual 35-hour working week is neither practical nor affordable.”
How to get around London during the Tube strike
Sunday 7 September 2025 09:37 , Sami QuadriThe London Overground, Elizabeth line, buses, trams and National Rail services will continue to run as normal, as their staff are covered by separate agreements.
The DLR will also be operating, except on 9 and 11 September when strikes will affect services.
TfL is warning that all available routes are likely to be far busier than usual. Planned engineering works on the Overground could add to delays, and some Elizabeth line and Overground stations may have limited access if staff there choose to strike.
Passengers are advised to plan ahead, and where possible consider walking or cycling. Further advice on strike-proof routes can be found on the TfL website.
Which Underground lines are down?
Sunday 7 September 2025 09:21 , Sami QuadriWhich lines are down?
- Bakerloo Line: No service across the entire line.
- Circle Line: No service across the entire line.
- Metropolitan Line: No service between Baker Street and Aldgate.
- Piccadilly Line: No service between Rayners Lane and Uxbridge.
- Central Line: No service between Liverpool Street and Woodford/Newbury Park on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September (including Night Tube).
Other Underground lines are operating, though services are expected to be heavily disrupted and much busier than usual. The Victoria Line is running with minor delays after an earlier trespasser incident at Warren Street. TfL has advised passengers to check before travelling and to use Night Buses and other lines where possible.
Why are Tube strikes taking place?
Sunday 7 September 2025 09:14 , Sami QuadriThe RMT union has called the walkouts in a dispute over pay and conditions. Transport for London has offered staff a 3.4 per cent pay rise, which three other unions have accepted.
The RMT is holding out for a reduction in the working week from 35 to 32 hours and an expansion of staff travel concessions.
TfL says cutting hours would cost “hundreds of millions every year” and argues the demands are unaffordable.
