A holiday in London is no less than a dream! With so much to see and explore in this vibrant city, it’s important that you prepare to find your way around the huge city! What if you have mobility requirements or other needs? Can you still easily get around and enjoy all that the city has to offer? The answer is yes!
London has a comprehensive and accessible public transport system that makes it easy for people with all types of needs to get around. From riverboats and London buses to the Tube, there are a variety of accessible and wheelchair-friendly ways to travel around the city using public transport. It is always best, however, to book your stay with the luxurious and amenity-rich Park Grand Lancaster Gate, nestled in the heart of the city, so that you don’t have to think twice before travelling to your favourite bucket-list destination.
The London Tube and DLR
The London Underground (Tube) and the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) offer a variety of accessible facilities and services for all travellers with different mobility requirements.
- Step-free access
Over 90 Tube stations in London and all DLR stations offer step-free access. You can check the Transport for London (TfL) journey planner to see which stations have step-free access.
- Quieter Times to Travel
If you prefer to travel at less busy times, download the TfL Go app, and check TfL’s recommendations for quieter times to travel and plan a step-free journey with real-time information. You can also follow the TfL Access Twitter account for travel updates!
- Priority Seating
All Tube trains have priority seats if you need them. If you wish to sit down during the journey, feel free to ask any passenger in these designated spaces.
- Other Accessible Facilities
Most Tube and DLR stations have tactile markings on platform edges, contrast-colour facilities for travellers with low vision, audiovisual announcements, and information points. TfL also offers a range of accessible travel guides, including an audio Tube map, a large print, and a step-free Tube map for you to use.
London Buses
London buses are a convenient and accessible way to get around the city without using the Tube. All buses are low-floor vehicles with retractable ramps, making them a great travel choice for wheelchair users, buggies, and other passengers with mobility requirements. Bus travel is free for wheelchair users, so, explore at your own pace and stop to dine in for a scrumptious meal at a restaurant near Lancaster Gate!
There is room for one wheelchair on each bus, all you need to do is simply press the button next to the door that has the wheelchair icon. The driver will then extend the ramp so that you can board the bus. Once you are on board, the driver will secure your wheelchair in place.
London Taxis
No trip to London is complete without a ride on the iconic black cab, one of the most convenient and accessible ways to get around the city! Most black cabs have additional accessibility features, such as wheelchair ramps, intermediate steps, swivel seats, induction loops and intercom systems. So, enjoy a hassle-free ride to your favourite high-street markets and historical attractions by simply hailing one of the taxis on the street.
Riverboat Services
Riverboat services are a great way to get around London and see some of the city’s most iconic landmarks at the same time. All London piers are wheelchair accessible, except for Cadogan Pier, London Bridge City Pier, and Wandsworth Riverside Quarter. All river buses and larger riverboats have step-free access and wheelchair spaces.
In fact, the staff will help with boarding and disembarking from riverboats, but people with disabilities who are travelling as a group are advised to provide advance notice to ensure adequate support is available. Enjoy a relaxing riverboat sightseeing tour with City Cruises and maybe even a flavoursome Indian afternoon tea, later, as you take in the majestic views of the London Eye, Big Ben, and Tower Bridge. Wheelchair users and a companion also receive a discount on tickets, and riders with vision impairment can travel free of charge!
London Trams
All London trams have step-free access, two dedicated wheelchair spaces, and priority seats if you’re travelling with the elderly or with children. The wheelchair spaces are located next to a specially sited intercom, which allows users to speak to the driver in case of an emergency. There is also an easy-to-reach stop request button next to the wheelchair spaces and all tram doors have an opening button at an accessible height for utmost convenience.
If you’re planning to visit London, look out for the best London hotel packages and reserve yourself an exquisitely comfortable stay, enjoying a prime location. Moreover, be sure to take advantage of the many accessible travel resources near you to easily travel around the exciting capital city and make memories!
