A trip to London can be one of the most exciting city breaks in the country – with so many attractions and sights on offer, people of all ages can have a whale of a time during a visit. With great deals on London accommodation from Travelodge, you can benefit from some awesome deals on hotels in the city, which will place in close proximity of the main attractions.
While a central hotel will be nearby many of the sights and sounds, sometimes, you will need some sort of transport to get around the city. With an excellent transport network in the city, including bus, train and tube options, you will never be without a travel option – even if it is relying on your good old feet.
London Transport: Which to Choose and the Best Way to Do It
London Underground
As the oldest underground train system in the world, the Tube has expanded so much that nowadays, there are almost 300 stations which will ensure you’re never too far away from a ride.
With several fare options, you can be sure to purchase the best option for you. Pick from a pre-paid Oyster card, cash or Travelcard, depending on your travel requirements. Your journey around the city will vary in cost, depending on the ticket type you choose. Oyster cards are the cheapest option, but perhaps not sensible if you’re only going to be visiting London once in the foreseeable future.
Get to grips with the tube map – you don’t need to learn it completely, but having a fair idea of the layout will help prevent you looking too much like a tourist. There are six zones, with central London being zone 1. As the zones increase in number, you move further away from the centre and fares will inevitably cost more.
You can pick up a free map at most tube stations, or you can find them online and as device apps too.
Buses
Sometimes, the Underground system isn’t the best thing to use. Perhaps there are accessibility issues, or you’re travelling with children making your descent into the tube system a little awkward.
London has one of the largest urban bus networks in the country and provides an awesome way to see the city as well as get around. The two heritage routes, 9 and 15, drive past several of London’s iconic landmarks, perfect for anyone who hasn’t seen the sights before.
Plan your journey before you travel so that you know where to go to catch the buses you need. Travelcards and Oyster cards are valid for bus rides too, or you can pay with cash. You can also buy your fares in advance using the ticket machines by the major bus stops. They are often cheaper than a ride on the tube, but obviously, you will have the joys of London traffic to contend with.
Trains
These are particularly useful if you’re travelling in to the city from the suburbs. The London Overground Network is an excellent way of getting to central London from outer regions.
The best advice would be to avoid bringing your car. Driving in the city can be a major stressor and isn’t worth it when you have so many fantastic travel options available.