Covent Garden station is famous for having 193 steps between its platform level and the street.
The station serves the Piccadilly line and opened in 1907. Its platforms are deep below the surface, so passengers historically had to use a long staircase or lifts to reach the ticket hall. Modern visitors are strongly advised to use the lifts, particularly because the staircase is narrow and involves 193 steps.
The warning has become part of the station’s popular identity, although the exact passenger experience depends on whether the lifts are operating and which route is open. Covent Garden’s location near the market, theatres and Royal Opera House also makes it one of the Underground’s busiest tourist stops.
Hampstead is deeper overall, while Elephant & Castle and Russell Square have their own lift and stair arrangements. The 193-step figure is specifically associated with Covent Garden.