London Transport

Getting around London is generally pretty easy, but not always the most pleasant experience; the underground suffers from chronic over-crowding at peak hours, and traditionally buses are unreliable with traffic on the roads severe. Things have been changing in recent years though, the elected mayor of London has made real improvements in bus services, and the congestion charge has eased some of the traffic problems.

By Underground

Although it comes in for plenty of criticism and certainly has its problems, the London Underground (The Tube) is an extraordinarily extensive transport system, with almost every attraction easily reached on one of its 12 lines. At peak times travelling by tube can be an unpleasant experience, but after the morning rush hour and throughout the day, its usually fine. The tube map can look a bewildering mesh of colours and lines, but is actually quite simple to follow. A one-day travel card, for use after 09:30am, allows unlimited travel on the underground and buses.

By train

There are a few overland rail networks for areas not covered by the underground, but in reality visitors will probably find the underground serves all their needs. Thameslink trains run from Bedford to Brighton and serve a number of London stations as well as Luton and Gatwick Airport, and Silverlink trains provide some useful connections around north London and beyond.

By bus

Londons famous double-decker Routemaster buses have been virtually phased out, remaining only on the number 9 and 15 routes. There are bus connections all over the capital, and it is considerably cheaper than travel by underground. The services have been steadily improving in recent years, but can still get bogged down in traffic at times. The modern, cleaner buses generally in use now make bus travel a more pleasant experience than previously. A number of the routes run for 24 hours, with an N in front of the bus number signifying a night route.

Taxis

London taxis can be a pleasant way to get around, but are also rather expensive, especially at night or at the weekend. Drivers of Londons black taxis have a legendary reputation and there is certainly a good chance you can enjoy some good banter and get some useful information or advice. Minicabs can be booked over the phone, but be sure to use a licenced and reputable firm, if you are unsure ask in your hotel or someone who knows the city well.

Tourist services

There are a number of travel card and discounted tickets available; one day and three day travel cards are very useful for extensive sight seeing, and if you intend to just use buses, consider buying a book of tickets in advance. Passes can be bought at stations and many newsagents shops throughout the city.

Ferries

There are a number of destinations served by ferry and it can be a fun way to get around. One of the most popular routes is to visit Greenwich by river ferry; tickets can be purchased on board.

From the airport

There are good transport connections to all of Londons airports, with express trains running to Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted, and London City and Luton both accessible by regular rail routes. National Express coaches provide services to all the airports, as well as some connections between airports.