… so when is the best time to visit?

The British relish Summertime. When the grey skies finally open up and the sun is shining everyone in The UK is walking on cloud nine. In a city where you can spend weeks under dark skies people drop everything when the sun finally comes out. During the summer the rooftop bars fill up. The classy open air theatres are in full swing. People lounge at cafe’s and lie out in the parks. When there is sunshine what more do you need?

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London Eye – South Bank

Autumn time brings a different feel to the city. London’s parks are at their best when the trees begin the change colour and the air is crisp. Remember to grab something warm to wear and sip on some mulled wine. If you are lucky enough to be in London (and The UK in general) in early November you are in for a great time. On the fifth of November England celebrates Bonfire Night (a.k.a. Guy Fawkes Night) After dark the entire city (and Country) is lit up with gorgeous fireworks displays.

Halloween is another great time to visit the city. Get ready to have a scream at the ‘Haunted Medieval Banquet’ in St Katharine Docks.  Ready to rock your best Halloween look?  The mystery ball at the ‘Haunted Mansion’ is one of the coolest events on earth.  Held in a secret venue that is announced only 48 hours beforehand.

London Underground Sign

WHAT CAN LONDON OFFER?

To see all the sights London has to offer would take you a substantial amount of time and there is no way I could write about everything. This blog on London is based on my own itinerary and exploration of the city.

LEICESTER SQUARE AREA

UNDERGROUND: Take the Black (Northern Line) or Blue (Piccadilly Line)

London’s home of entertainment is world class for its diverse offering. Here you can enjoy one of many shows on offer or witness the glam of red carpet premieres at one of the infamous cinemas averaging one premiere every week!  The Square attracts Hollywood actors from around the world who come to walk the red carpet.

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Leicester Square is also a great place to sit back and relax in one of the many restaurants and bars – many offer special events or menus during premieres and pre or post theatre menus.

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A great place to visit is M&M World and Ripley’s Believe it or Not! museum.   London is were you can keep everyone entertained.  Finish the day with a meal in one of Leicester Square’s  restaurants like The Rainforest Cafe.  I kept it simple – Pizza Express.

COVENT GARDEN AREA

UNDERGROUND: Use the Blue Piccadilly Line

The world famous Covent Garden is buzzing with the excitement and is a destination for food lovers and fashionistas.  Covent Garden is a Square fringed by cobbled streets and alive with street performers.  Tucked away inside is a great little market selling all kinds of locally made items.

If you have time make your way towards 33 Rose Street, Covent Garden. Here you’ll discover a dimly lit 18th Century pub named ‘The Lamb and Flag’. It has a varied history but it was a venue frequented by Charles Dickens.

Another pub to consider to recharge those batteries from all the sight-seeing is The Salisbury at Covent Garden located at 90 Saint Martin’s Lane. It’s a great little 18th Century pub offering lots of choice, bar food and a great atmosphere.

A further great little pub to visit near Holborn tube station is The Ship Tavern. It’s warm and homely with a live band occasionally playing.

​Neal’s Yard

Just off Covent Garden down Monmouth Street is a little hidden gem. This narrow alleyway opens up into a vibrantly coloured courtyard with small independent shops, a dairy, coffee shops and a bakery. Even if you don’t wish to purchase anything the yard is a quaint area ideal for photographs.

Charing Cross

When Covent Garden has been exhausted rather than spending exuberant prices on refreshments consider taking a walk in the direction of Trafalgar Square to the Arches Shopping Arcade at Charing Cross.

Charing Cross was named after the site of an old village on the Thames river and has a tall monument outside of the train station in memory of Kind Edwards I’s wife Queen Eleanor.

The Arches Shopping Arcade is a short pathway that runs beneath the Arches that is lined with shops, however, tucked away at the exit to the arches is a pub that split into two called the Ship and Shovell offering far more agreeable refreshments without the buzz from tourists.

ST JAMES’ COURT

Head to 54 Buckingham Gate to the ‘A Taj Hotel’ and to the side of this impressive hotel is a little area known as St James’ Court. Make time for a drink or simply wonder in and take some photographs with beautiful buildings as a backdrop.

WESTMINSTER AND THE SOUTHBANK AREA

UNDERGROUND: From Covent Garden I took the Black (Northern Line) South to Embankment where you will find yourself on the banks of the River Thames. I did a lot of walking from here!

LONDON EYE

Standing 442 feet high in a fairly flat city, the London Eye offers views 25 miles in every direction, weather permitting. Each rotation, or ‘flight’, takes a sightseeing 30 minutes. At peak times (July and August) it can feel like you will spend more time in the queue than in the capsule. Book premium fast-track tickets to jump the queue.

THE HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT AND BIG BEN

UNDERGROUND: The closest stations are Westminster (Yellow Circular Line, or, Green District Line) and Waterloo (Grey Jubilee Line)

A visit here is a journey to the heart and Power of UK democracy.  Officially called the Palace of Westminster, the Houses of Parliament’s oldest part is 11th Century Westminster Hall, one of only a few sections that survived a catastrophic fire in 1834. Its roof was added between 1394 and 1401. The palace’s most famous feature is its clock tower officially the Elizabeth Tower but better known as ‘Big Ben’.

Westminster Tour

If you find politics interesting or merely interested in where laws are made why not take a tour of the inside of Westminster? Either guided or self tours are available with an audio guide takes you room to room. Tickets cost £26 (self guided audio tour) or £33 (guided tour).

ROYAL HORSE GUARDS AND WHITEHALL

Located along Whitehall the Royal Horse Guards dressed in red sit mounted on horse back impervious to tourist, selfies and requests to smile. Whilst photos are allowed be mindful they are on duty and should not be touched.

DOWNING STREET

For the past 275 years Downing Street, especially Number 10, has been the home of the British Prime Minister. Sadly, security is high so the closest you’ll stand is from behind black iron gates and a walk of police officers.

SHAKESPEARE GLOBE THEATRE

UNDERGROUND: Closest Station is Tower Bridge (Yellow Circular Line or Green District Line)

Located along the River Thames near the Millennium Bridge (famous in the Harry Potter films).  Unlike other venues for Shakespearean plays the new Globe was designed to resemble the original as closely as possible that means having the arena open to the London weather leaving the audience open to the downpours.  

Visits to the Globe include tours of the theatre (half-hourly) as well as access to the exhibition space that has fascinating exhibits on Shakespeare and theatre in the 17th Century.

CLEOPATRA’S NEEDLE AND VICTORIA EMBANKMENT GARDENS

UNDERGROUND: Closest tube station for both is Embankment on the Yellow Circle Line and the Green District Line.

Take a stroll through the Victoria Embankment Gardens and continue towards Cleopatra’s Needle. It’s a lovely area offering just a little time-out from the crowds.

ST PAULS CATHEDRAL

UNDERGROUND: Closest tube station is Black Friars or Mansion House on the Yellow Circular Line, or, Green District Line.

One of London’s most fascinating buildings this cathedral has been a place of Christian worship for over 1400 years. You can enter this building free of charge. Inside there are tombs fringing the periphery of the main hall with Lord Nelson buried directly underneath the cathedral dome.  

Blackfriars Pub

From St Paul’s Cathedral take a stroll towards the River Thames to Blackfriars and make time for some food or a drink at 174 Blackfriars Pub. Built in 1875 on the site of a former Friary. It’s friendly and charming.

20 FENCHURCH STREET (‘WALKIE-TALKIE’ BUILDING) AND PUDDING LANE MONUMENT

UNDERGROUND: Closest tube station for both is Monument on the Yellow Circle, Green District or Black Northern Lines.

20 Fenchurch Street is a commercial skyscraper that takes its name from its address but is more commonly known as the ‘Walkie-Talkie’ building from its distinct shape. Personally I think it’s a more interesting building than the Shard (that people tend to flock to) that is located on the opposite side of the Thames.

At the top of the building is the ‘Sky Garden’. You will need an admission ticket to visit but tickets are free. Click here to visit the website. Why not stop for a bite to eat or sip on a glass of wine and enjoy the atmosphere.

Pudding Lane Monument is a short walk from Monument underground station and is a permanent reminder of the Great Fire of 1666 that started inside a bakers shop. The Monument commemorates one of the most significant events in London’s history.

LEADENHALL MARKET

Head over to 20 Gravechurch Street and you’ll discover Leadenhall Market. Leadenhall Market is a beautiful and airy market in the heart of the city that boasts a selection of boutiques, shops, restaurants and bars. Leadenhall Market is a hidden gem with rich heritage and stunning architecture dating back to the 14th century.

QUEEN ELIZABETH I STATUE

If you like statues and monuments there is a unassuming modest statue of Queen Elizabeth I dating to the 15th Century perched in an alcove of Saint Dunstan’s church on Fleet Street. Once standing at Ludgate it was moved in1760 to its current location when Ludgate was taken down.

OLD BANK OF ENGLAND

A short stroll from Queen Elizabeth I statue along Fleet Street is the old bank of England. Once a branch of the Law Courts built in 1866 it converted into a pub serving delicious food in the mid 1990s.

BATTERSEA DISTRICT

UNDERGROUND: Closest tube station is Battersea Park Road (10 minute walk away) on the Black Northern Line. There is a direct Pier off the Thames by using the Thames Clipper service from any of the Thames Uber Clipper services.

Battersea has become one of the most sort after areas of London due to it’s fantastic transport links and green spaces that is popular with young families and professionals.

The Battersea skyline is dominated by an ex-power station with four towering chimney’s, of which one has been transformed into a viewing area. Tickets can be found here. The site has now been heavily developed into sort after private residences and indoor shopping arcade, often holding festivals over bank holidays.

TOWER BRIDGE AND THE TOWER OF LONDON

UNDERGROUND: Head back onto the Yellow Circular or Green District Line to Tower Hill Station to take in the history and the sights of Tower Bridge and the Tower of London.

TOWER OF LONDON

Whilst visiting Tower Bridge take a stroll across to the Tower of London. The unmissable Tower of London is actually a castle offering some rich history.  Built in 1070 and added to over the years has seen some great things within its walls.  The Tower of London over the Centuries has been a royal residence, treasury, mint, armoury and zoo. It is perhaps now most remembered as the prison where two kings and three queens met their deaths.   Come here to see the colourful ‘Beefeaters’, the spectacular Crown Jewels, and the ravens.  

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To get your bearings take one of the entertaining free guided tours offered by the Beefeaters.  If you want greater detail and history book an hour-long tour that leaves every 30 minutes from the bridge near the main entrance. The last tour is an hour before closing.  Details of the tours can be found at www.hrp.org.uk/toweroflondon

TRINITY GARDEN

A short stroll from the main entrance side of the Tower of London you will discover a small area with a rich history known as Trinity Gardens. The gardens are home to the National memorials to the Merchant Seamen who died in both world wars. There is also a memorial to those executed on the former Tower Hill scaffold. This was an spot were prisoners were publicly executed for all to witness.

ROMAN WALL

From Trinity Gardens find your way to the Leonardo Royal Hotel. Walk through the open area adjacent to the hotels restaurant towards the back of the hotel and you’ll discover part of London’s Roman past. A wall section rising 32 feet (10m) dating back to 200AD.

SAINT OLAVE’S CHURCH

Within walking distance of the Roman Wall on Hart Street you’ll come across Saint Olave’s church dating back to the 13th Century. It’s one of the last standing medieval churches that survived the Great fire of London in 1666, dedicated the the Norwegian King at the time. As you approach the churchyard notice the three skulls above the entrance.

THE PROSPECT OF WHITBY

If you’re looking for a cool pub that offers a great atmosphere where the locals hang out then take the 1.5 mile stroll across to the area of Wapping. There is an overground station not far from the pub if you jump on the District tube line that dissects the Wapping line.

TRAFALGAR SQUARE

UNDERGROUND: Use the Black Northern Line or Blue Piccadilly Line to Leicester Square Station.

Trafalgar Square always amazes me and definitely a must see destination for visitors to London. Trafalgar Square is home to Nelson’s Column – a monument commemorating Admiral Horatio Nelson who died in the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805 adorned by Majestic stone lions at the base of the column.  All roads leading to London throughout the whole of The UK are measured in miles distance from here.

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At various times throughout the year Trafalgar Square hosts many events and performances, and, it is also home to the biggest Christmas tree in London over the festive period. An annual gift from the city of Oslo, Norway.

BENJAMIN FRANKLIN HOUSE

Yes, you read that correctly. Benjamin Franklin, one of the founding fathers of the United States of America lived and worked in London for sixteen years. Now a museum this 17th Century Georgian house can be found at 36 Craven Street. His grave can now be found in Philadelphia.

HYDE PARK AREA

UNDERGROUND: Hyde Park is served by numerous stations. Stations on the Red Central Line are Queens Gate, Lancaster Gate and Marble Arch. On the Blue Piccadilly line use stations Hyde Park or Knightsbridge.

Hyde Park is New York City’s equivalent.  I absolutely adore walking around the Lake and watching Swans and ducks playing in the water.  

Hyde Park, in my opinion, is one of the greatest city parks in the world spanning 350 acres adorned with huge trees, a large lake, a meadow and ornamental flower gardens. Sometimes, especially in the Summer months, you can often forget you are in a major world city. 

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Hyde Park in London has something for everyone. You can enjoy swimming, boating, cycling and skating. There are pitches for team games, tennis courts, tracks for horse riding and a children’s playground.​

The Park has two lakeside restaurants that are licensed and serve everything from a three-course meal to a quick cup of coffee. Hyde Park is home to a number of fascinating buildings and monuments, such as The Serpentine Bridge, the Joy of Life Fountain and the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain.

KENSINGTON AND CHELSEA AREA

UNDERGROUND: Use South Kensington Station on either the Blue Piccadilly Line, Green District Line, or Yellow Circular Line.

Kensington is an area with stately Victorian buildings and embassies. Tourists come to see dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum and Kensington Palace. The grand Royal Albert Hall hosts concerts from classical to pop.

THE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

This is a free venue and has to be one of my all time favourite places to visit in The Capital.  The National History Museum is a colossal and magnificent looking building. The Dinosaurs Gallery (Blue Zone) is a must see. Gawp at the animatronic T-Rex, fossils and excellent displays. There is an intriguing Treasures exhibition in the Cadogan Gallery (Green Zone), that houses a host of unrelated objects each telling its own unique story from a chunk of moon rock to a Dodo skeleton.

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At the centre of the museum is Hintze Hall.  In the centre is a life size fossil of ‘Dippy’ the Diplodocus. However, in 2017 the Dinosaur will be replaced by a life size skeleton of a Blue Whale whilst Dippy goes on a tour of The UK.  That said, Dippy has returned and will be on display again shortly. To find out what exhibitions are on display during your visit visit this link www.nhm.ac.uk

Woburn Street

If you fancy a stroll down a London street that has hardly altered since Charles Dickens make your way towards St. Pancras Station and search for Woburn Street. Not very long but worth a photo of the old building facias.

KENSINGTON PALACE

Synonymous with royalty Kensington Palace has been the home for the Prince and Princess of Wales for generations. Once the home of King Charles III and Princess Diana it is now home to Prince William and Princess Catherine.

Kensington Palace is open to the public to view. Tickets can be purchased here.

NOTTING HILL DISTRICT

UNDERGROUND: The nearest tube station is Notting Hill Gate and can be accessed on the (Yellow) Circular, (Green) District or (Red) Central Lines.

Notting Hill is a vibrant, trendy area, with casual cafes lining bohemian Portobello Road, famed for its busy market selling antiques and vintage fashion.

Churchill Arms – I must do whilst in this area is to stop and have a drink at the Churchill Arms located at 119 Kensington Church Street. This building is dripping hanging flowers and memorabilia. The building has stood since 1750 and was frequented by Winston Churchill’s grandparents.

GREENWICH VILLAGE DISTRICT

UNDERGROUND: Use Cutty Sark station on the DLR (overground railway) from Canary Wharf station on the Grey Jubilee Line.

Greenwich is one of my favourite areas of London. Part of the city yet with its own unique identity. The Royal Borough of Greenwich is a fascinating place to spend the day or even a weekend. It is often used as a location setting in films such as the Marvel films and James Bond.

Greenwich has been a significant site in British history since the 15th century. The Palace of Placentia that once stood there was the birthplace of Tudor King Henry VIII and Elizabeth I.

These buildings are now home to some of the best museums in London and are set in lush green parkland with spectacular views of the city.

Perhaps best known for its role in British maritime history Greenwich is the home of the Prime Meridian – Longitude 0° – that separates East from West, which provides the definition for global time zones. There are several other attractions in Greenwich highlighting the area’s strong connection with the sea.

The Cutty Sark – An unmissable sight on your visit to Greenwich is the restored clipper Cutty Sark. The 19th century ship towers above the concourse next to the Thames and houses a wonderful museum dedicated to its history. One of the last clippers built before steam powered ships became the norm during its sailing history the Cutty Sark was used to transport tea from China and wool from Australia.

Tickets for an adult cost GB£22. Visit their website here

Maritime Museum – With numerous exhibits the Maritime Museum is the largest of its kind in the world. My favourite sections of the permanent collection include the Armada portrait of Queen Elizabeth I and the Horatio Nelson Exhibition.

Here you will see the coat Admiral Nelson was wearing complete with bloodstains and shrapnel damage when he was fatally wounded on board the HMS Victory during the Battle of Trafalgar. Entry is free.

Royal Observatory – Founded in 1675 with the first foundations laid by King Charles II, 2025 marks the 350th anniversary of the Royal Observatory. Walking up the steep hill to the Royal Observatory is rewarded with some of the most spectacular views of London and the Thames. Visit the museum to experience having one foot on either side of the meridian line and explore the history of maritime timekeeping.

Note: the museum does get very crowded so arrive early.

Next door at the Planetarium watch one of several shows exploring our galaxy and universe.

Greenwich Market – The 18th Century market is a must do for all visitors to Greenwich. Greenwich Market is home to a variety of traders selling everything from antiques, art, crafts and design goods and gourmet food.

When the sun is out you’ll discover street food stalls spill onto the streets.

CAMDEN DISTRICT

UNDERGROUND: Use Camden Station on the Black Northern Line.

Open from 10am to 6pm Camden Market attracts millions of visitors each year and is one of London’s most popular attractions. There are three main market areas – Buck Street Market, Camden Lock Market and Stables Market. Although they seem to all blend together with the crowds meandering the streets. You will find a bit of everything: clothes, bags, jewellery, arts and crafts, candles, incense and decorative knick-knacks .

If you have time stop for a refreshing drink at The Hawley Arms located towards the end of the main strip. This pub was frequented by Amy Winehouse as her local.

Camden Food Market

Make your way towards the canal docks near the food market and nip into the courtyard crammed with wooden food stands.

A recommendation is the Yorkshire pudding burrito. Filling, tasty and warming in the colder months.

SOUTHWARK AREA

UNDERGROUND: the best station is Southwark on the Grey Jubilee Line.

Southwark (pronounced Suth-ick) has increasingly become one of my favourite districts of London.It stretches from central London along the River Thames through a very historic part of the city. Southwark is becoming a very up-and-coming area with lots of investment served with a similar feel to that of Camden. It’s demographically diverse with a plethora of independent food and drink establishments.

One of its highlight is the very busy Borough Market and Borough Yards that is one of London’s oldest and largest food markets dating its roots back to the 12th Century.

If you’re feeling hungry there are numerous stalls offering all kinds of delicious items. I tried the salted beef roll and apple crumble.

Whilst in Southwark why not stop and refresh at The George Inn. Once frequented by William Shakespeare and Charles Dickens the George Inn is the oldest and last remaining operational coaching inn that dates back to 1676.

THE SHARD

Standing at 1,016 feet tall The Shard is the 7th tallest structure in the world. This free-standing glass pyramid structure has an observation deck that’s open to the public with tickets costing anything from £28.50 upwards.

I’m going to be bold and say I feel the Shard is over-rated and it’s seen as a social ‘status’ symbol. For me, the Walkie-Talkie building is far more impressive… And it’s free.

SHOREDITCH DISTRICT

UNDERGROUND: The closest tube station to Brick Lane is Aldgate East using the (Green) District Line and the (Pink) Hammersmith lines.

Shoreditch is what’s described as the capital of cool in London with street art around every corner and trendy bars and gastropubs.

Stroll the Spitalfields area and explore the independent stallers at Spitalfields Market whom have been trading for over 200 years.

From here, navigate your way to the Brick Lane area that’s lined with all sorts of independent venues offering something for everyone.

Be sure to make time for a bagel at Brick Lanes most famous 24 hour bakery named ‘Beigel Bake’. Their salted beef and gherkin bagel is absolutely delicious!

If it’s a pint you’re in search of then take a stroll over to 12 Toynbee Street to the Duke of Wellington. A pretty cool pub where the locals hang out.

BUCKINGHAM PALACE

UNDERGROUND: the best two stations are Hyde Park Corner on the Blue Piccadilly Line, or, St James Park on the Yellow Circular Line.

Built in 1703 for the Duke of Buckingham, Buckingham Palace replaced St James’s Palace as the monarch’s official London residence in 1837. Since the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, King Charles III divides his time between here, Windsor Castle, and during summer, Balmoral Castle in Scotland. If the King is in residence the Royal Standard flag is flown. If not, the Union Flag waves.

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The King opens the doors to his home at certain times of the day/year. Check out the website http://www.royalcollection.org.uk/visit/the-state-rooms-buckingham-palace

LITTLE BEN

Not far from Buckingham Palace in Westminster head towards Victoria Station; located on Victoria Street you’ll discover a miniature cast iron clock known as ‘Little Ben’, built and erected in 1892.

CANARY WHARF

UNDERGROUND: Use the (Grey) Jubilee Line for Canary Wharf tube station.

Canary Wharf is a major financial hub to the East of London. It’s an area of money, fancy designer shops, high end restaurants, trendy cocktail bars, and hosts The Arts events.

SOHO DISTRICT

Soho is served handsomely by the underground system.

Use Piccadilly Circus (Blue Piccadilly Line), Oxford Circus (Red Central Line), Tottenham Court Road (Black Northern Line or Red Central Line), Leicester Square (Blue Piccadilly Line or Black Northern Line)

Soho is situated in the heart of London’s West End.  Soho is bordered by Oxford Street, Regent Street, Leicester Square and Charing Cross Road. Soho is a great place to find live entertainment, interesting food and pulsing nightlife. Browse the boutique shops, relax in Soho Square, or treat yourself to a West End show, a meal and a delicious cocktail.

Soho is also known for its ‘naughty’ vibe. This is where you will find many of London’s sex shops, burlesque shows and gay and lesbian bars.

Shopping in Soho is just awesome.  For flagship fashion and electronics stores you will find the best shopping along Oxford Street and Regent Street. You can take a walk down legendary Denmark Street that is otherwise known as “Tin Pan Alley” for its incredible collection of musical instrument shops. One of my favourite areas to shop is down Carnaby Street. This area is a hive of high street stores and independent shops.

A great spot to consider for a quick drink and recharge is the Louche Soho located at 5 Greek Street. It’s a lovely little spot with stained-glass windows, chandeliers and low-lighting offering outdoor seating and indoor booths and live music.

THEATRE

London’s theatre scene is Mainly focused around the West End.   Numerous Soho theatres – such as the Prince Edward Theatre and the Prince of Wales Theatre – have been entertaining visitors for a very long time.  From big-budget musicals and classic plays, to quirky cabaret and stand-up comedy, there is a Soho show to suit every taste.  

You can book tickets to see The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre, Les Misérables at the Queen’s Theatre or Harry Potter at the Palace Theatre.

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BAR SCENE

Soho is at the heart of London’s live music and clubbing scene but you can also find everything from casual pubs to secret bars. Popular bars such as The O Bar and Bar Soho provide plenty of cocktail opportunities on a night out in Central London. If it’s a late night coffee you crave Bar Italia is a lively place to hang out.  You will also find cool music venues with a rock’n’roll history such as Borderline and 100 Club in Soho.

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Soho can claim to be London’s  hotspot for the gay and lesbian scene with a high concentration of gay clubs and bars.

FINAL THOUGHT

London is an amazing city to visit brimmed full of old history and modern angles. No blog could ever cover everything this city has to offer, nor, could anyone possibly fit everything into their itinerary unless you live in this city. Go with an an idea of your top attractions and add to those if time permits.

 Always aim for an evening show in the West End or Covent Garden you will be happy you did. The attractions above I managed to fit into my 3 days, however, I am not going to say it was easy.  I heavily relied on the London Underground system to criss-cross the city quickly; I easily clocked up miles and miles of walking and left the Guesthouse for 10am every morning and did not return until 11pm most nights.​

Enjoy the city.  It truly is a remarkable place to be surrounded by.  Use the tube – it really is super easy (once you master the tube map)

GETTING AROUND LONDON IN DETAIL

London has excellent public transportation and getting a travel pass is cheaper than buying single tickets all the time.

TUBE – The tube system is not for the faint hearted. It can be extremely confusing at times however once you master it all it’s actually pretty simple. A one way fare on the tube will cost you £4.90 but getting a Visitor Oyster Card will reduce tariffs to £2.40. No matter how many trips you take per day your Oyster Card will cap at £7. This is applicable across all public transit including buses and trams.

BUS – The bus system in London also uses the Oyster Card and costs £1.50 per ride. However, a day of unlimited bus or tram only travel will cost a maximum of £4.50.

TRAM – The tram system in London works the same way as the bus system with rides costing £1.50 each direction and a day of unlimited travel costing no more than £4.50 (on buses and trams only). In addition, you can take unlimited buses or trams for free within one hour of beginning your initial journey.

BICYCLE – London’s public bike sharing program is Santander Cycles and you can find docking stations all over the city. You can rent a bike from as little as £2. Keep in mind, however, that London isn’t particularly bike friendly.

TAXI – Taxis are everywhere and cost about £6 per one mile but the price decreases the further you go. As I always suggest if you have Uber then use this service as it’s usually a little cheaper.

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