Tube strikes: RMT drivers to walk out on eight days, including before Christmas

Updated 6 Nov 2026, 14:03 · First published 6 Nov 2026

Tube drivers in the RMT union will strike on eight days between now and February, starting on Thursday 26 November. The walkouts, in a row over plans for a four-day week, would hit Christmas shopping, office parties and New Year travel across London.

Why are Tube drivers going on strike?

The dispute is about London Underground’s plan for a four-day working week for drivers. The RMT says it would mean longer shifts, earlier starts, later finishes and changes at short notice, and fears it could lead to job cuts. General secretary Eddie Dempsey said the company is trying to dress up “a wholesale attack on drivers’ working conditions” as a voluntary four-day week.

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What does London Underground say?

London Underground says the four-day week is voluntary and drivers can choose to stay on five days. Nick Dent of London Underground said the company had “engaged with our trade unions for months” on the plans. The other drivers’ union, Aslef, supports the changes and is not taking part in the strikes.

Will the Tube run during the strikes?

London Underground has not yet said what service will run. Because the strikes start at noon, disruption is likely from the middle of the day and into the next morning. Buses, the Overground, the Elizabeth line and the DLR are run separately, but they are likely to be much busier. Business groups have warned the December dates could hurt shops, pubs and restaurants in the run-up to Christmas.

Strikes can still be called off if talks make progress. We will update this page when TfL publishes its travel advice.

Sources: RMT, London Underground / TfL, City AM, Evening Standard.