Planning a trip to London soon? Great choice! London is a city that will compel you to return for more. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and endless attractions, you’re in for a virtual treat! In fact, thanks to its excellent public transport system, getting around London is super easy and affordable, only if you know how to do it right. Book yourself a stay at the exquisite Park Grand London Lancaster Gate in the heart of the city and enjoy easy access to the London Underground stations, bus stops and more!
Getting Around the City
It’s safe to say that you can trust London’s marvellous transport system to travel literally anywhere from your central London accommodation. The public transport system in London is operated by Transport for London (TfL), with various ways to pay for your travel (the most common one is the Oyster Card.)
You can buy the user-friendly Oyster card at an Oyster Ticket Shop, at several newsagents, almost all tube stations, and most Elizabeth line stations. You can even use a contactless card to pay for the travel, all you need to do is simply tap your card on the reader while you enter and exit a station.
It’s necessary to purchase an Oyster or have a contactless card when using the London Buses, as they don’t accept any cash. Plus, this saves you time from long queues or getting in and out of unmanned stations. The Oyster card is also valid on most of the London Overground stations and the TfL ferries that run on the river Thames.
If you are in London for only a few days, you can always buy an individual ticket, available for single or return journeys. However, if you are planning on using public transportation more extensively, you may want to purchase a travel card as they offer unlimited travel time on all TfL services.
A bonus tip: Plan your journey using the easy-to-use TfL website or app to stay up to date about the possible delays, changes and more.
The Tube
The London Underground, also known as the Tube, is the oldest underground tube network in the world. It has been operating since 1863 and is one of the most efficient ways to get around London. The tube has 11 lines and over 270 stations, so you’re never far from a stop.
But wait, there’s more!
It’s always a good idea to avoid the London Underground during rush hour. This is when the trains are the most crowded, and it can be difficult to find a seat. Rush hour typically runs from around 7:30 am to 8:30 am in the morning, and from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm in the evening.
Taxis
London has no shortage of spectacular modes of transport. But somehow, one of the most iconic ones is the black cabs.
Taking the black cab to get to your choice of place in the city is sure to be a memorable experience. Now, how do you get a taxi in London? Well, all you need to do is wave when you see a cab and if available, the driver will illuminate the taxi light and stop for pick up. Black cabs are, however, on the more costly side as compared to other TfL-regulated transport forms. If you are travelling in groups though, the fares work out to be cost-effective.
Note: Taxis in London do not accept Oyster cards, so keep some cash or a credit card handy!
The London Overground
A comparatively newer rail network to the London Underground in the city, the London Overground serves North, East, and South zones within London city. And the best part, in most cases, you don’t need to touch in and out when switching from Overground to Underground services given the same fare zone. This makes it easy to get around London, be it for exploring touristy attractions, shopping, dining at a famous restaurant in Lancaster or just exploring the vibrant London city!
Buses
Fun Fact! Did you know that buses are the most used form of public transport in London, with over two billion journeys taken each year?
The buses in London cover the entire city and are available round the clock. You can get to almost anywhere in London by a bus ride. If you’re using an Oyster Card, the fares are also cheaper, irrespective of the distance.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, London’s transport system will make your trip a breeze!
Be it exploring the city’s top sights, getting back to your hotel for a delectable chocolate afternoon tea, or taking a shopping spree, you’ll find it easy and convenient to get around.
