This London Underground station is notorious for its 193 step workout – and there’s even a warning sent over the tannoy.
Covent Garden is a hotspot for tourists visiting London, home to some of the most iconic streets and dining spots in the capital. But for those hoping to get there via tube, be warned of the intense workout you have ahead of you.
The busy station is often packed at weekends and during peak times, and with only two options to get from the platform to the exit, some may think taking the stairs is quicker.
Unlike most underground stations, Covent Garden has the choice of either a lift or spiral staircase to reach the surface. With no escalator in sight, many opt to take the trip up the staircase rather than wait for space in one of the lifts.
And while 193 steps might not sound like a lot, be warned that a break may be necessary halfway to the top.
There is actually a voiceover warning you to only take the stairs if you’re fit and able, reminding you that the 193 steps is equivalent to 15 floors.
While going down the stairs isn’t a problem for most, climbing them can take some time. Passengers are regularly caught taking breaks on one of the many platforms to break up the journey up the steps.
And with the staircase following a spiral design, it can leave some feeling dizzy and disorientated as they continue up the bleak stairwell.
In fact, signs suggest the stairs should only be used in an emergency, though they are used daily by commuters and those looking to avoid the lifts.
One person who visited urged others to “take on the challenge”, while another joked: “I love walking up the stairs at Covent Garden tube station. My wife however has a different opinion to me.”
Another said they felt like there were “1,000 stairs not 193”. Meanwhile, another tourist said the stairs left them “genuinely terrified”.
Someone else wrote: “The 193 stair descent to the platforms is a bit of a trek. They advise you to use the lifts but there is often a queue for them. Stairs should only be used in the event of an emergency but you’ll find many people use the stairs at all times.”
