Mind the gripe | These are the things Brits hate most about their daily commute

Crowded underground train with passengers

Speaking loudly on the phone, playing music out loud and poor hygiene, are among Britain’s biggest commuting dislikes. 

A study found other distasteful acts, or “pet peeves”, on the commute to work include chewing loudly and sitting next to someone even when there’s other seats available.

The research by tombola, surveyed 2,000 British workers to analyse what grinds their gears when it comes to travelling to work, and whether this plays a part in them wanting to go to the office altogether.  

The number one dislike is people speaking loudly on the phone, with almost half (42%) of working Brits regarding this as the most infuriating thing that can happen on a commute. Make sure to be mindful of others next time you’re taking a call on the train! 

Continue reading for FREE!

Sign up for a myGrapevine account to get:

  • Unlimited access to News content
  • The latest Features, Columns & Opinions
  • A full range of specialist HR newsletters to choose from

Welcome Back

Sign up for myGrapevine

* By creating an account you agree that you have read and agree to our Terms and Conditions and that Executive Grapevine International Ltd and its partners may contact you regarding relevant content and products. You will also be added to the HR Grapevine newsletter mailing list.

Sign up to our daily newsletter

Have content like this delivered directly to your inbox.


Recommended

'Always-on' work culture is pushing employees to breaking point, new study finds
HR Grapevine
HR Grapevine | Executive Grapevine International Ltd
  • News

Work-life balance | 'Always-on' work culture is pushing employees to breaking point, new study finds

England's 1am kick off - how HR can tackle a Monday morning World Cup sickie surge
HR Grapevine
HR Grapevine | Executive Grapevine International Ltd
  • Feature

Matchday management | England's 1am kick off - how HR can tackle a Monday morning World Cup sickie surge

World Cup 2026 - are employers missing a morale open goal?
HR Grapevine
HR Grapevine | Executive Grapevine International Ltd
  • Opinion

Sickies & warnings | World Cup 2026 - are employers missing a morale open goal?

Proven programmes: How top UK employers are using CSR to drive employee engagement
HR Grapevine
HR Grapevine | Executive Grapevine International Ltd
  • Webinar

Proven programmes: How top UK employers are using CSR to drive employee engagement

The 2026 Benefits Refresh: How to reduce hidden workforce health costs
HR Grapevine
HR Grapevine | Executive Grapevine International Ltd
  • Resource
  • Download Guide

The 2026 Benefits Refresh: How to reduce hidden workforce health costs