Transportation in London
London is among the few countries in the world with the best transport system. The vast range of transport networks and their accessibility makes it easier to get around. And it’s no wonder there are millions here living within the city. Contact us to learn more about flat rentals london
From road networks to railway networks and air networks, there is hardly any form of transport that you will fail to find here. Maybe that’s why it’s very rude to keep somebody waiting for you for over 10-15 minutes.
So, if you need insight on transportation in London or how to get around, let’s start:
Underground
Many people know this railway transport as underground, but we call it the tube. It’s one of our oldest transport networks within the city and across the world. Unveiled in the 1800s, it has been around for centuries.
It covers more than 245 miles around the city and has more than 200 stations. Therefore, it’s the best way of covering large distances around the city quicker. What’s more, its efficient operation within strict time intervals makes it convenient.
Some of the lines work 24/7 but some start working as early as 5 am and close at midnight. So, if you will be out past midnight, you can use Piccadilly lines, Northern line, Jubilee, Central, and Victoria line.
Payment: Oyster Card, Debit Card, and Contactless Credit Card
Buses
It’s one of the iconic systems of transport, especially the double-decker design of these buses. It covers an extensive area some of which are inaccessible to the tube. And it’s one of my favorite transport systems. And here are the reasons:
The fare is inexpensive and you pay it per journey. Thus, with around 1.5 pounds, you can journey midway or across the city with the same amount. And if you have kids under 10 years, it’s a free ride for them.
Second, it’s convenient. There is hardly any street within the city without the bust stop. As such, you can access them anytime you need to get somewhere. And when it comes to operation time, some are available 24/7.
The third is accessibility. While the tube can cover a large area across the city, its track doesn’t reach everywhere. And here is where the bus has the upper hand. And in terms of getting in, it’s easier for the handicap to board the bus. So, people who have wheelchairs just get in with ease without assistance.
Payment: Oyster Card or Contactless Card
Taxi
It’s another efficient way to get around the city. However, they are pretty expensive and get ready to pay according to distance and time. Unlike buses and tubes, you can decide to travel privately by taxi. That said, there are two taxi systems of transport:
Black Cab
Black Cabs are iconic taxis of the city and one that stands out as one of London’s identities across the world. And due to the in-depth training of their drivers, there is no corner of the city they don’t know.
Payment: Oyster Card, Credit Card, Cash
Uber
The second Taxi is Uber which most people know. They support both private and ride-sharing. So, if you want to save cash, then choose ridesharing.
Payment: Cash, Credit Card, Oyster Card
River Bus
River Buses are right there when we need an efficient ride across the city through the river. However, they are not as convenient as Tubes and Buses. They are relatively expensive and the most underutilized transport system. But if you need a place of peace, calm, and a unique view of the city, it’s the best ride.
Payment: Oyster Card
Over-ground
Where the tube doesn’t get us but we still need to use the rail, then over-ground is available. It covers areas beyond the CBD that are out of reach for the tube. And both have the same fare according to zones.
Payment: Oyster Card
Docklands Light Rail
To some of us who are living within the dockland region, we use Docklands Light Rail (DLR. It’s a light rail transport system that relies on automation. Operates like Over-ground and Underground and very convenient to use.
Payment: Oyster Card
Tramlink
Found within Southern London, there are 39 tramlink stations that we use. So, locals and visitors within this region can use them conveniently. Covering 17 miles, it covers significant distances. Like the bus, you pay per journey irrespective of whether you will stop midway or complete the whole distance.
Payment: Oyster Card
Walking
In short distances, we prefer walking. It’s free, healthy, and faster. So, if you are not leaving central London, don’t have luggage and where you’re going is near, just walk.
Bike
There are specific lanes and segregated routes for cycling. And it’s not just for recreation; we also use these bikes for transport to work. For less than 2 pounds, anyone can hire the bike for a day. And within the city, there are more than 20 thousand parking spaces for bikes. Compared to riding the bus, cab, or taxi, they are convenient and not affected by traffic.
Payment: Cash, Credit Card, Debit Card
Cable Car (Emirates Air Line)
If you want to cross the river with style, then hop into one of the Cable Cars. It takes about 10 minutes to cross the river. And there is a breathtaking view of the city to keep you engaged throughout the trip. But we often use it in rush hours when the speed is quicker and the trip takes 5 minutes. Daytime, most travelers are tourists coming to admire the city’s top view from this point.
Payment: Oyster Card or Contactless Card
At last, there are multiple forms of transport in London we use to get around. So, the choice of which to use depends on convenience, speed, and fare. So, if you are in a hurry, you can use a bike, water bus, or railway. They are not limited by traffic and travel fast across the city.
If you need privacy, you will have to use the Taxi but keep in mind that traffic can occur anytime. Walking is good but for short distances like covering several blocks or streets. And if the fare is a concern, you will save a lot with the bus transport network.
