London's public transport is one of the largest transport networks in the world, serving hundreds of thousands of passengers every day. Not surprisingly, since the city has a multimillion population, with huge distances that workers have to cover every day. Of course, the options vary, depending on the needs and financial capabilities of the people. We present you brief information about public transport in London to make you feel confident if you are visiting for the first time.
Train
London Overground was launched in 2007 and is one of the best-developed networks in Europe. There are 112 stations on several routes. The first passenger railway was opened here. The good news is that smart cards used in buses or subways also apply to trains, so you can get from point to point easily and without paying extra.
Metro
The London Underground is the oldest in the world. It is known as “Tube”, has 11 lines in different colors and about 300 stations. It is divided into 6 zones located in concentric circles. Travel in zones 3, 4, and 5 is cheaper than in zones 1 and 2 (Central London falls into zone 1). However, you need to pay for all the areas you pass through while traveling. Everywhere in the metro stations, there are maps that are free and would make your trip lighter and easier to navigate. The subway is one of the easiest, most convenient, and fastest ways to get around in a cosmopolitan city like London.
The bus
If it is your first time in the city and want to see the sights, then bus travel is the best choice. London has one of the largest and most well-developed city bus lines. It is mandatory to get on a double-decker bus - a symbol and a great attraction for tourists. An interesting fact is that the ascent is from the front door and the descent - from the back. In order to get on such a bus, in most cases, you have to signal to the driver or wave, as in the case of a taxi stop, as some buses simply pass through the stop. You could orient yourself in advance by the background shown at the respective stop - if it is red, the stop only happens "on request". Most of the buses are open 24 hours a day and night, which is a great convenience.
Ship
Ships and ferries are an important part of the transport network, which should not be neglected in any way. If you want to take a walk on the Thames you can choose a boat trip - another great way to enjoy the city. The downside here is that this option is a little more expensive, but it is certainly worth spending a little more money, for which the city will certainly repay you.
Taxi
London's black cabins are the emblem of the city. Undoubtedly, they are a huge attraction and we recommend that you use their services at least once. On most of the cars the color is black and the rental is done when you see the inscription "for hire" - free. Taxis are also quite expensive and their daily use is rare. The current tariffs are several:
On weekdays, from 06:00 to 20:00:
the first 250 meters - 2.4 pounds
the next 130 m - 20 cents
after reaching 17 pounds, every 90 meters - 20 cents
On weekdays, from 08:00 to 22:00:
the first 200 meters - 2.4 pounds
the next 100 m - 20 cents
after reaching 20 pounds, every 90 meters - 20 cents
On public holidays, as well as every day from 22:00 to 06:00:
the first 166 meters - 2.4 pounds,
the next 85 m - 20 cents
after reaching 25 pounds, every 89 meters - 20 cents.
Bicycle
Cycling is an increasingly popular and environmentally friendly method. A great option to combine it as a sports activity. There are many bike lanes, and the city ranks first in terms of bicycle rental.
The cycling fee for 1 day is £ 2. Once you have paid, the first 30 minutes of your trip are free. Another option is to invest by buying your own bike and embarking on faster movement and a healthier lifestyle.
The plane
You can also reach different points in the country by boarding a plane, which guarantees you an easy, fast, and convenient trip.
There are five airports in London: Heathrow, Stansted, Gatwick, London City, and Luton. Heathrow is the largest and busiest airport in the UK worldwide.
Ticket prices and tickets
Transportation in the UK is paid for at a distance, with ticket and ticket prices depending on where you go. In some areas, it is cheaper, and in others much more expensive. The time of day you travel is also crucial. We definitely recommend smart cards as they are significantly cheaper than paper tickets. The price of a bus ticket is £ 1.50 if you travel with a Visitor Oyster card, Oyster card, or contactless credit or debit card. Paper tickets are much more expensive. Students enjoy a reduction in transport, which is about 30% of the price of the weekly travel ticket.
Oyster Card
This is the most popular and cheapest electronic card, which is used instead of a paper ticket in public transport in London. If you are a resident of the city, it is desirable to have such a card. It can be used for a single trip by bus, subway, or tram, as well as for multiple use, and recharges after the available amount is exhausted. The card is valid for 1 week, 1, 3, and 6 months or 1 year. It is for sale at bus stops, airports, or you can order it online. You are initially paid £ 5 as a deposit, which is refundable the moment you decide to stop using it and return it.
Whichever way you choose, we believe that life in the Kingdom will be an unforgettable adventure and you would certainly try each of the travel options, promising you different and varied experiences.
Official website of public transport: