Angel station in Islington is home to the London Underground's longest escalator, a 60-metre (197ft) moving stairway that lifts passengers from the Northern line platform to street level. The escalator's vertical rise is 27.5 metres, making it one of only fourteen stations on the network with escalator-only access to the platforms.
According to The Royal Academy of Engineering, which published a report on the mathematics of the London Underground, escalators on the transport network travel at 0.75 metres per second. At that speed, a full journey up Angel's escalator would take one minute and 20 seconds.
The escalator is the second-longest in the entire UK, surpassed only by Heathrow Airport's Terminal Five. Angel station first opened its doors in 1901 and has frequently experienced congestion owing to high passenger volumes.
Infamous Ski Stunt Draws TfL Condemnation
In 2007, a man recorded himself trying to ski down Angel's escalator towards the platforms, according to the BBC. The Norwegian individual launched himself nearly 200 feet down the moving stairway, reaching speeds of around 30 miles per hour. His footage became a viral sensation on YouTube.
London Underground did not find the daredevil action funny. They condemned his behaviour in a statement: "This is a dangerous, stupid and irresponsible act that could have resulted in serious injury or death to not only the individual concerned but also other passengers."
London Underground also warned that they would press for the police to take the strongest possible action against anyone attempting a similar act on the Tube network.
Escalator Etiquette and Daily Demand
Millions of commuters use the Tube every day, placing enormous demand on these escalators to transport people to their destinations as swiftly as possible. Commuters are well accustomed to navigating the labyrinthine network of the Underground and adhering to the strict, unspoken rules of escalator etiquette.
Whether you're the type to relax on the right-hand side and let the escalator do the work, or someone who prefers to dash down the left-hand side to catch the earliest possible train, escalators remain an integral part of travelling around the capital.
Station's Notable Features and Historical Context
While certain Tube stations are celebrated for their gorgeous tilework, striking lampposts or distinctive artwork and vintage posters, Angel holds the prestigious title of having the longest escalator on the entire Underground network. The station's location on Islington Road has made it a key transport hub since its opening in 1901.
Despite the station's historical significance, its escalator remains a practical challenge for many commuters, often described as a "mountain to climb" due to its length and steepness. The 2007 ski incident highlights the potential dangers of such a long and steep escalator, which can pose risks not only to those who misuse it but also to other passengers.
