Commuters on the London Underground this weekend are in for an unusual sight, as the capital's annual No Trousers Tube Ride makes its return. The event, scheduled for Sunday, 11 January 2026, will see hundreds of participants travelling across the network wearing just their underwear.
A Tradition That Divides Opinion
The stunt consistently sparks fierce debate on social media. Critics have labelled the spectacle 'horrific' and 'disgusting', with some stating the very idea would make them feel unwell. One common complaint is that such scant clothing is inappropriate in a crowded public transport setting.
However, supporters argue there is little difference between the event and being on a beach, and point out that London's annual naked bike ride is far more revealing. Despite the controversy, the tradition persists, with London now noted as one of the few global cities still hosting such an event in 2026.
Origins and Rules of the Bare-Legged Journey
The London event was inspired by the original No Pants Subway Ride which began in New York back in 2002. It has been a fixture in the capital since 2009, only pausing during pandemic lockdowns.
The key to the event is the participants' behaviour. After gathering fully clothed at a meeting point, they remove their trousers or skirts and board the Tube, acting as casually as if they had merely forgotten to get dressed. The aim is to maintain a completely straight face.
Organisers enforce a few basic rules to keep things from becoming too extreme: no thongs, overly small underwear, or see-through garments are permitted. Participants are expected to go about a normal journey, reading, chatting, or listening to music.
Event Details and Changing Organisation
For the 2026 ride, participants will meet at 2:45pm at the old pagoda spot in Chinatown, Soho. They must be fully clothed and bring a bag to store their lower garments. At 3pm, groups will depart for the Underground to begin their journey.
Interestingly, the event's original organisers, The Stiff Upper Lip Society, ceased their involvement in 2023, believing the ride had 'run its course'. Since 2024, the event is thought to have been taken over by a former member, Dave Selkirk, ensuring the trouserless tradition continues for another year.
