The London Underground map has become something of an unofficial mascot for the capital, but the familiar refrain that it’s just not physically accurate remains.
Despite this, the classic straight lines and sharp angles of the 1933 template by electrical draughtsman Harry Beck have endured, regardless.
Until now that is…
This is how London's complex transport network really winds its way around the city
According to City Metric, one James Burbage has managed to prise a geographically accurate map of the network from Transport for London – using a Freedom of Information request.
The map is in stark contrast to the 1933 template of classic straight lines and sharp angles by electrical draughtsman Harry Beck
His request, dated 13 August 2014, can be viewed online at government and public sector watchdog What Do They Know? Crucially it acknowledges any information which could pose a concern for health and safety will be omitted.
Dear Transport for London,
Please supply a geographically accurate map of all the stations platforms, lines and tracks that form the London Underground, London Overground, Docklands Light Railway and National Rail services where applicable, which is updated as of August/September 2014.
Omit information which could pose a concern for health and safety.
Yours faithfully,
J. Burbage
The map which TfL responded with shows all London’s railways – including a few which have not yet been built.
Croydon’s tram routes are also on the map, as are main roads and major parks. To view the map in all its strangely cluttered and knotty glory, click here.
Unofficial stabs at more geographically accurate versions of the TfL map have been made before – including this effort by Hong Kong-based Wikipedia user Sameboat, which includes Crossrail, the future Battersea extension of the Northern Line and the Watford branch on the Metropolitan Line.
Click here to see the map in all its glory
A new official Tube map was released by TfL earlier this year and features 28 new London Overground stations taken over from National Rail services – thus populating it with a whole lot of extra orange...
The London Underground updated its official map in May. Click to enlarge
SEE ALSO:
- Cherry, Wet Chalk & Monkey Nuts: This Is What London Underground Stations Taste Like
- Animals On The Underground: From The Wapping Whale To The Hammersmith Pig
- At Last! London Is Getting A 24-Hour Tube Service And Here's The Map
- Beat The Tube Strike With This Fantastic London Underground Walking Map #WalkLondon
