It presents the network in a different light
12:00, 06 Sep 2026
The London Underground is of course used by a lot of people, and, some may navigate the network differently to others. Transport for London (TfL), therefore, provides a series of maps, each catering to the particular needs of its London Underground customers.
One of these maps is drastically different to the iconic multi-coloured diagram that we all know and love, as it is entirely black and white. Designed for colour blind travellers, it, instead of each line’s assigned shade, uses different patterns to differentiate between the Tube’s different routes and services.
Further, it is presented in a larger print. So, even for those with 20/20 coloured vision, this map could be seen as a welcome relief from sometimes having to squint at the pocket-sized guides. Others may also prefer its relatively modest feel as opposed to the bombardment of colour on the original map of trains.
Otherwise, the way this diagram is set out presents the Tube network in a fascinating light that is rarely seen, as the striking, contrasting monochrome lines stride confidently across the page.
The Northern line, for example, retains its solid black colour – or perhaps absence thereof. But other routes, such as the Bakerloo, Circle, Victoria and Elizabeth are still easily found, despite not displaying brown, yellow, turquoise and purple.
Instead, horizontal or vertical lines at different frequencies and of differing amounts help get customers moving in the right direction.
The colour blind map can be downloaded via TfL’s website here. For those who are blind or partially sited, the authority also provides an audio guide for the network, which can be listened to on Soundcloud.
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