The Metropolis

Most annoying habits on London public transport

Mike Pollitt | Tuesday 9 November, 2010 10:12

For all the moaning that goes on, public transport in London isn’t all that bad. But it could be so much better. Here are five things Londoners do on the move which drive Snipe spare. So cut them out, and let your fellow travellers love you just a little bit more.

Lack of spatial awareness
This one covers a multitude of sins: Not moving down inside the tube carriage; not going on the deserted top deck of a bus in rush hour, instead crowding downstairs so new passengers can’t get on; when two people try to squeeze off a train on either side of you simultaneously, making you the pâté in a horrific tube sandwich; general dawdling in tight spaces leading to raging bottlenecks. Just…just be more aware, folks. Look around you, that’s all Snipe asks.

Excessive fidgeting to warn that you’re about to get off
So you’re getting off at the next stop. How do I know? Because every 2 seconds since we left the last stop you’ve been rearranging your bags, faffing with your coat and looking nervously in my direction. I get it. You need me to move. I will do so when the train stops, and you’ll have plenty of time to get off. In the meantime, chill out!

Repeatedly pressing the open door button on the overground before the light comes on
More pointless impatience and rabid insecurity. The door will open. It’s opened at every stop so far, just wait. Wait for the light and the little buzz. The system will work. Don’t be so narcissistic as to assume that the only person it won’t work for is you. Are you one of those people who jab repeatedly at the button at pedestrian crossings, even though the WAIT light is already lit? That’s annoying too. Leave your control issues at home.

Failing to open ventilation windows
Slightly less of an issue now we’ve left the summer swelter behind, but still a rush hour concern. Open the windows, just a bit will do. The breeze is good for all of us. It’s also great for achieving that just-got-out-of-bed-look for your hair, so there’s an added reason for sorting this one out.

Being annoyed at someone reading the Metro over your shoulder
It’s one thing if you’ve paid a quid for The Times and someone is trying to steal the precious words with sly glances and covert looks, but ffs the Metro is free! All you’ve done is pick a copy up from the neighbouring seat. Share, why don’t you? Just share the newsy goodness. That way we can all get along.

Follow Mike
Twitter: @MikPollitt
Email: michael.pollitt@snipelondon.com

---