Most days, you’re lucky to find standing room on the Tube, let alone a seat. But on those rare occasions when you have your pick of the carriage, where do you choose to sit?
This was the question posed by London Underground passenger Olamide Grace in an Instagram video that sparked a debate about the ‘best seat’ on the train. Two seats emerged as popular choices, but only one could be crowned the winner.
Olamide weighed up the pros and cons of different seating options, starting with the seat next to the door and glass shield. She said: “This seat is great because you only sit next to one stranger and you can rest your head on that window. But imagine the amount of bacteria that you are building up. And you’re close to the door in case of danger as well.”
Most people liked the end seat, but were mindful that it must be given to those most in need
(Image: Marilyn Root/Getty)
She went on: “The middle seat is great because you get both arm rests but you’re always moving your feet and people are always stepping on your creps. And if they take both armrests you’re left like one squashie in the middle. The ledge is great but do you sit on it or do you stand? Because my legs are always dangling like humpty dumpty over the wall.”
She continued her talk by mentioning the “sticky” pole and quizzed her followers on number five: the sneaky little ledge at the end of the carriage by the door. Many pegged number five as the outright favourite, branding it “underrated”.
A commenter said: “Last one in the corner is the best. You get the door, window for air and standing chair and around less people.” Another person remarked: “100% 5. No need to worry about giving up your seat, and you’re first to leave.”
Some London locals also hailed the first seat next to the door as prime real estate but pointed out it’s a priority seat that ought to be given up for those more in need. One passenger stated: “Definitely 1. I can rest my head if tired and don’t have to worry about dozing off and leaning on somebody.”
“Number one is great,” another person chimed in, “but you got be willing to give it up for someone who actually needs it.”
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