Public transport in London is one of the largest and most sophisticated transport networks in the world. Many people use the public transport in the city to get around, commute, and see the biggest tourist attractions. There are also many people who have their own means of transport too, from their own vehicles, to their own environmentally friendly ways of travelling.
There are various means of transport you can use to go around and within London. From buses, tubes, taxis, personal vehicles, cycling to walking, there are several options you can choose from. If you are a tourist, this article will give you tips and advice that are useful in finding your way in London.
Travel options in London
- London underground: the tube
One of the most effective and efficient ways of travelling around London is the London Underground rail system. It’s best for travelling to, from, and around Central London and runs from around 5 am till midnight. Whether you are travelling around the city for leisure or business, the tube is one of the fastest ways to get around.
- River bus services
If travelling underground or through the city streets isn’t what you’re after, you could also travel by river too. London city has a regular river bus service that can take you down the River Thames and is a great way to beat traffic while also experiencing amazing city views.
- Docklands light railway
Sometimes the tube doesn’t cut it so another great transport option is the Docklands Light Railway, also known as the DLR. These exemplary, innovative light railway systems are self-driven and can take passengers to London City Airport, Lewisham, Canary Wharf, and much more.
- London overground
As well as the underground, the city also has an overground train system too. Passengers can use the local overground trains to access the city beyond where the tube reaches. There are six overground routes that serve many locations in the capital such as Barking, Euston, Stratford, and Clapham Junction.
- Buses
The double-decker buses in London are a convenient and affordable means of transport with amazing scenery of the city. Transport for London manages a huge fleet of over 9,300 buses and operates across 675 bus routes. With an Oyster card, buses are just as easy to hop on and off at stops just like the London underground.
- Driving
As well as public transport, commuters and tourists can also get around the city via car too. With their own vehicles, drivers need to be aware of congestion charges and charges in the ultra low emission zone (ULEZ) that operates in the city. There are also many areas of the city where people can learn to drive and get used to city driving. Aditdrivingschool.com offer manual and automatic driving lessons in a wide area of West London including locations such as Feltham, Hounslow, and Slough.
- Emirates airline cable car
If you would like to get amazing views of London, you can opt to use the airline cable car that will get you to your destination in no time. While there are single and return tickets, there are also discovery experience and night flight experience tickets for passengers to purchase too. With this mode of transport, passengers get to see spectacular views of the city, the River Thames, and the O2.
- Taxis
Another great way to travel in London is by taxi. From the iconic black taxis to the local minicabs, you can consider choosing one that will suit your liking. Around every street corner you will find lots of taxis available for travel where you are able to use card payments and contactless to pay.
Eco-friendly London transport options
The city of London is also keen on providing eco-friendly options for travellers. By 2041, the Mayor of London aims to have 80% of all Londoners’ trips to be made by public transport, foot, or by cycle. The future of green transport in London will involve ways to reduce vehicle emissions and to encourage people to walk and cycle more in the city.
- Cycle hire
There are many bike lanes throughout the city of London where people can ride their own bicycles or rent a Santander Cycle. Cycling is a great way for people to get from A to Z and it provides plenty of exercise. There are many cycle parking spots and Santander docking stations across the city for people to safely store their bikes.
- Walking
There are many places for people to walk in London as there are plenty of shops and attractions to explore. There are even plenty of family-friendly nature walks in green spaces across the city, from Crystal Palace Park to Hammersmith Bridge & Park Trail. Walking through the city allows people to see more scenery and get some fresh air while also helping to reduce vehicle emissions.
