Getting to London

The London Underground, or 'the Tube' as it is universally known to Londoners, is normally the quickest and easiest way of getting round London.

Tube Travel Information
Plan your route online with Transport for London's Journey Planner.
For detailed information on the Tube, buses, the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), trams or local trains within London visit the Transport for London website or phone the 24 hour Travel Information Service on +44 (0)20 7222 1234.

Free Tube Maps and Guides
Transport for London produces free maps and guides to help you get around. You can pick them up upon arrival at any Tube station. London Travel Information centres sell tickets and provide free maps. There are centres at all Heathrow Airport terminals, major stations in London and the Britain and London Visitor Centre.

Buses are a quick and convenient way to travel around London, providing plenty of sightseeing opportunities en route.

Bus Information
The Central London bus guide will be sufficient for most travellers. This map is available from transport travel information centres at larger Tube stations.

Night Buses
Night bus services cover the period between the close of the Tube and the start of daytime bus services. In addition, many bus routes run for 24 hours. If you're not familiar with the routes, head to Trafalgar Square (the hub for night buses) or check one of the bus-stop information boards. Other than Friday and Saturday nights, services tend to be infrequent. Night buses stop on request only: you need to indicate your stop clearly to the driver when boarding or alighting.

Bus Fares
There is a flat fare throughout the bus network, £1 with pre-pay Oyster card and £2 if you are paying by cash. Travelcards are valid on buses.

Walking is a fantastic and environmentally-friendly way to get around London. You can beat the traffic while getting some exercise and taking in the view.

Travelling within Central London on foot can even save time, as many landmark locations are closer to each other than you might think. Ever changed lines to get the Tube between Covent Garden and Leicester Square? Actually they're only 5 minutes walk apart!

The Mayor of London is committed to making the city one of the most walking-friendly cities in the world and plans are already underway to improve the pedestrian environment. These plans include improving the accessibility of London's streets and facilities to people with special needs and restricted mobility.