TfL Tube slang: Meanings behind phrases 'ride the cushions', 'PNR' and more on London Underground

While many London underground users may be familiar with phrases like 'Lizzy line' or 'Jube Tube', terms like 'PNR' and 'up the cushions' may leave some scratching their heads.

If you've not heard of the above phrases, you're not alone. You will have likely only heard of the slang terms if you're a Tube driver or know someone who is.

However, thanks to TikToker @wheretoadventures, Londoners were recently let in on the meanings behind a few new underground slang terms. The Tube driver documented her day on the tracks with her almost 10,000 followers on the video platform and slipped in some of the colloquialisms while sharing her work day.

In the post, some of the few Tube lingo terms featured were 'bring one out the yard' and 'up the Cross'. But what exactly do the terms mean?

We break down some of the Tube slang meanings so you can impress the next Underground driver you see.

Tube slang meanings terms explained - from 'PNR' to 'Up the Cross'

'Bring one out the yard' - To take a train out of the depot. 

'Up the cross' - 'Cross' referring to Charing Cross. This means a driver operated the train via the Charing Cross branch of the service. 

'PNR' - The acronym stands for Physical Needs Relief, aka a toilet break or food stop.

'Ride the cushions' - This means the driver is meant to sit on the non-driving or passenger seat.