 Like any other big city, London has a huge network of tubes, overland trains and buses. Choosing the right route could prove hard and it depends in many factors. Reliability wouldn't be the most outstanding quality of London's public transport. Fares depend on where you are going. London is divided in 6 zones as you can see on their network maps.
TRAINS– They run from major stations such as Paddington, Kings cross st pancras, Victoria... and from smaller local stations all around the outskirts. They provide access to suburbs in Greater London (apart from major cities nationwide). These trains connect usually with normal underground lines.
Have a look at the main map, the rail lines are the white routes. You can see the rest of the overland trains here
TUBE – The (usually) fastest way to get around town. It is also a bit expensive unless you purchase the Oyster card (read below). Some lines share the same platform so you need to be careful and always read the front of the trains and the screens with information not to get into the wrong train. It can be confusing to start with but eventually one can get used to it. The fares depend on what zones are you cross and what time of the day you catch the tube. It is hard to calculate the exact time a journey is going to take as there are daily delays and problems with the old railway system of London. Most Londoners check online or listen to the radio in the mornings on their way to work to make sure the lines they are going to use are working properly.
Apart from single or return fares, you can buy a Day travelcard for multi-trips and weekly or monthly passes. Children 10 and under can travel free all day every day on the Tube.
Check for live updates here, for fares here and for the tube map here.
BUSES – Cheaper and more entertaining than the tube, the buses are a good option if you have some time to spare or if you prefer to enjoy the view. Frustrating at times and overcrowded at peak times, buses are still a big reference to the London scene with the double-deckers. Maps are here and the fare is £2 flat rate within the city. If you have Oyster, again you would save some cash. It is convenient you check if there is a machine at the bus stop where you buy the ticket before boarding the bus, as some drivers won't sell you inside of the bus.
An all-day pass is £3.50, a 7-day pass is £14 and there is an option to buy a 6 trips "Bus saver" – which will cost you £6 and can be used by various travellers at the same time to travel across London. A good option if you are a small group of people visiting the city and you don't want the hassle of arranging an Oyster card.
TAXIS – There are two types of taxis in London. The historical Black cab, with the tall roofs (to allow the gentlemen to get in without taking off their bowler hat), runs on a taximeter. The black cab taxi drivers study for years and know every street in the city! More expensive but safer and reliable they are a good option for a rainy day!
There are also 'mini-cabs'. These are usually independent cars that work for a taxi station. You contract them by phone or at the station, some are excellent service like Addison Lee, which has good cars with great service though at a price. However, whatever you do, try to avoid the taxis approaching you on the street. They can be cheaper but many times they don't know their way around, they drive carelessly and they can be dangerous (mugging and rape have been mentioned).
BY THE RIVER–A great option to commute and see the city at the same time, there are a few boat-taxis running along the Thames to take you to your destination. Check fares and timetables here
 OYSTER CARD – The best option if you are going to spend a few days in town or if you have just moved here. The Oyster card gives you the cheapest fares on the public transport and also re-calculates your expenditure and adjusts to day travel cards if you reach the right amount. You can buy an specific pass (tube or bus weekly, monthly or yearly) or just pre-pay it and use it until you run out of credit. You can re-charge it anytime in tube stations, news agents or online.
|
