Rail Enthusiast Ranks All London Underground Trains, Worst is 53 Years Old
A railway enthusiast has compiled a definitive ranking of every type of train operating on the London Underground, from the absolute worst to the very best. Tom Lamon, who describes himself as "just some guy who likes trains", shared his detailed assessment in a recent TikTok video, highlighting the stark contrasts between aging carriages and modern fleets across the network.
The Bottom of the List: Aging and Unloved Trains
At the very bottom of Tom's ranking is the stock on the Piccadilly line, which has been in service since 1973, making it 53 years old as of 2026. "They're loud and ageing," Tom explains. "Plus they're the second-oldest trains on the network, and nobody likes them." However, he notes that these trains are soon to be replaced by the brand new 2024 stock, which should offer a significant improvement.
In seventh place is the 1972 stock on the Bakerloo line, which Tom identifies as not only the oldest on the Underground but across the entire UK. "They're littered with graffiti everywhere, the lighting is super dim, and the trains always have a bumpy ride," he says. Despite these drawbacks, Tom points out a redeeming feature: the seating is remarkably comfortable, with transverse seating that allows passengers to sit facing forward. According to London TravelWatch, these trains are unlikely to be replaced until the 2030s.
Mid-Tier Trains: Mixed Reviews and Refurbishments
Taking sixth spot are the Northern line trains from 1995. Tom comments, "There is really nothing special about them at all. The seats are hard, they get really hot, and there's no air conditioning." In fifth place, he identifies the 1992 stock servicing the Central and Waterloo and City lines, noting they are similarly unremarkable but benefit from ongoing refurbishments that include new interiors and improved accessibility.
Securing fourth place is the 1996 stock on the Jubilee line. Tom says, "They're more modern, less warm, and overall nicer trains than anything lower on the list. Also, they have the capability to work with platform edge doors, which they do at many of the newer stations."
Top Performers: Modern Comfort and Efficiency
Claiming the bronze medal, Tom placed the 2009 Victoria line stock in third position. "They're definitely the best of all the deep level tube lines," he notes. "They have pretty good seating, aren't too loud, and accelerate very rapidly, which, combined with updated digital signalling, allows them to run extremely fast and frequently."
Narrowly missing out on first place is the S7 stock, operating on the Circle, Hammersmith and City, and District lines since 2012. Tom praises its air conditioning, fast acceleration, walk-through carriages, high ceilings, and ample space, firmly giving it second place.
The Crown Jewel: S8 Stock on the Metropolitan Line
Taking the crown is the S8 stock, which has served the Metropolitan line since 2010. Tom explains, "They're a better version of the S7 stock. They have transverse and longitudinal seating, and are a car longer than the S7 stock so that they can accommodate an even higher number of passengers. Furthermore, they have four wheelchair bays for improved accessibility and they feel super spacious and open, more like a mainline train than something on the London Underground."
One viewer questioned why Tom hadn't included the Elizabeth line, launched in 2022. Tom clarified that this is because the Elizabeth line isn't part of the Underground network, but instead "it's own thing", highlighting the distinction between different rail systems in London.
