Transport for London (TfL) has launched a new set of walking maps to encourage more Londoners to travel by foot — part of the Mayor’s goal to see 80 per cent of journeys in the capital made on foot, by bike or by public transport by 2041.
The maps, released during National Walking Month, are designed to highlight how short many of the journeys are between TfL stations across central London. They show walking times, distances in metres, and include information on nearby attractions and areas of sloping terrain to help those with accessibility needs.
Maps are available for the City of London, the West End, and a broader Zones 1–2 network based on the standard Tube Map. Landmarks such as Hamleys, Barbican and the Tate Modern are marked on the maps, alongside key amenities.
TfL says the aim is to encourage people to swap shorter journeys by Tube or car for a walk, helping to improve public health, reduce congestion, and promote cleaner air.
Will Norman, London’s Walking and Cycling Commissioner, said: “Walking, especially when combined with public transport, is one of the most effective ways to reduce our reliance on cars. It also improves air quality, reduces congestion and road danger and connects communities. I encourage Londoners to swap part of their journeys for walking and use TfL’s new walking maps to explore more of what our city has to offer on foot.
“Making it easier for people to walk, cycle and use public transport is central to building a safer and greener London for everyone.”
TfL says the initiative supports the Mayor’s long-term vision for a healthier and more sustainable capital, outlined in the Mayor’s Transport Strategy.
Christina Calderato, TfL’s Director of Strategy, said: “Walking has so many advantages, from keeping us fit and healthy, to reducing congestion on our roads. In London we’re also spoiled with so much history and intrigue on our streets, which makes travelling by foot all the more rewarding as we discover cobbled streets, hidden parks and neighbourhood restaurants we never knew about. With the warmer weather with us, now is the perfect time to download one of our new maps and get exploring.”
The initiative comes as part of a wider push by TfL to promote walking in the city. In March last year, it launched the Green Link Walk, a 15-mile route between Epping Forest and Peckham, linking 40 green spaces across multiple boroughs. And in September, it launched a series of self-guided walking routes with Go Jauntly, linked to the newly named London Overground lines.
The latest campaign also aligns with Living Streets’ annual National Walking Month, which raises awareness about the health benefits of regular walking.
Tanya Braun, Director of External Affairs and Fundraising at Living Streets, said: “Walking is one of the easiest ways to get more activity into our everyday lives. Just a 20-minute walk can have fantastic benefits, helping to prevent certain cancers, type 2 diabetes and depression.
“Jumping off the Tube a stop or two early is a good way to fit more movement in and will ensure you arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and energised for having squeezed in some steps. And as these new maps show, it might not even add that many minutes onto your journey!”
TfL’s new walking maps are available to download now at tfl.gov.uk.
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
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