
From Ealing Broadway where I had just finished my short exploration of TfL Rail and the new Class 345 Aventra, I needed to head back to London Zone 1 or 2 in order to maintain the low fare cap on my Oyster card, to get back within the time limit provided, and to avoid paying the maximum fare of up to £10.50 in Zones 1-9. Without heading back to London Paddington, the only station in Zone 1 on the TfL Rail which would get me charged an even higher penalty of 2 maximum fares, I used the London Underground Central Line instead, which would definitely get me to a different station in Zones 1 or 2.


The island platform of the Central Line at Ealing Broadway.


The first train out, which I let pass since it was getting full.


The next Central Line train pulled in quite quickly after the first train departed.

The interior of the Central Line 1992 Stock.

The train has longitudinal seating throughout, and the middle 2 seats are not flushed with the rest.


Perch seats are available at the end of the train cars by the door.

The route map of the Central Line.

The almost empty train as the train departs.

Once I get to North Acton, I’m safe with my fare and fare cap. But let’s see how far I can get back towards Zone 1 with a time limit of 1 hour and 10 minutes.

The District Line splitting off towards Ealing Common after Ealing Broadway.

The Central Line Ruislip Branch approaching the main line before North Acton.

Making a brief stop at North Acton where the Ruislip and Ealing Branches merge, forming the main high frequency section of the Central Line through London.

Entering the tunnel after White City towards Shepherd’s Bush.

Alighting at Notting Hill Gate as my 1 hour 10 minutes is almost up. Looks like I made it back into Zone 1 after all.

Touched out of the system just in time, which resulted in the National Railcard Zone 1 Off Peak fare of £1.60 charged to my Oyster.
Here, I explored the area a little bit and bought some souvenirs before continuing on my journey through London.

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