London is on the top of many a bucket list, and why not? The city is great to visit, full of culture, history and art. However, the city also has the reputation of being complicated to navigate, which can be true if you don’t acquaint yourself with the transport available ahead of time. We’ve created the list below to help you get started finding your way around London.
Oyster Card is King
A Visitors Oyster Card is a quick and easy way to pay when you get on and off public transport while offering lower costs per trip. It’s also essential as some modes of transportation, such as buses, no longer accept cash, so a card or debit card is a must. However, using an international debit card will often hit you with fees, so avoiding these with an Oyster Card is best. For more information, visit the website.
The Underground
The London Underground rail, known as The Tube, is a great way to travel around central London, with a multitude of stops and stations that will have you zipping around quickly and easily. Some stations are near the surface, while others require an elevator trip (or several thousand steps) to get you to your deep subterranean station. These trains run regularly during the day but not every night – avoid getting caught out if you are planning a late night out.
London Buses
An iconic double-decker bus ride is a convenient and cheap way to travel around London while also providing plenty of sightseeing opportunities. Just be aware that London buses are card only with no cash payment available. Unlike other modes of London transport, a single bus journey costs £1.65 and covers multiple buses within one hour. An entire day is capped at £4.95, making bus travel economical.
Docklands Light Railway (DLR)
The driverless Docklands Light Railway (DLR) is undoubtedly an interesting travel experience, especially if you can get a seat up the front and feel like you’re the driver. The aboveground sections also provide some unique views of the city’s older and industrial parts, including the huge Tate and Lyle factory.
Riverboat Services
Travelling by the river is a great way to beat traffic and enjoy fantastic views of famous landmarks along the Thames. So jump aboard and head up or downstream, soaking in what the city looks like from the water.
London Overground
The London Overground is a network of suburban routes that will give more than a view of a tube tunnel for further out areas of London while also interchanging with the Underground. There are excellent services to the east and north while also connecting to major stations such as Victoria.
Plan Your Way Around
For more detailed information, including train times and journey planning, visit the Transport for London website. For accommodation central to transport links try Bower House Hotel, near Victoria Station. It’s a perfect location for those seeking a well-connected base that won’t cost the earth.
