all areas Central London North London North West London North East London South London South East London South West London East London West London Greater London The Country london home > getting around GETTING AROUND   Bicycle   On Foot   Boat   Taxi   Bus   Train   Driving   Travelcard   Maps   Underground London offers many means of transportation, with all the attendant advantages and disadvantages. Each is capable of occasionally leaving even life-long Londoners wondering exactly where they are, so, no matter how you travel, carry a good map! The Underground rail system, along with the bus, is the most common way to get around the city. It will take you almost anywhere you want to go. It does not run after midnight. In order to maintain your belief in the innate British sense of order and politeness, avoid the Underground during rush hours -- 07.00-09.30 and 16.30-19.00. Bus As long as you are not too concerned about getting anywhere in a hurry, the classic double-decker red bus (some now painted other colours) is a wonderful way to travel around London, especially considering the limited, maybe non-existent, viewing opportunities offered by the Underground. Taxi The most expensive and often most convenient form of London transportation, particularly late at night or in the outlying boroughs. Drivers of the traditional black cabs are extremely knowledgeable, though they have been known to pull out a map! Minicabs are cheaper but less dependable, and their drivers may know London as well as you do. Train The Brits like to complain about the high prices and delays associated with their rail network. In fact it links the major cities in Britain with an efficiency that amazes many Americans. Boat Although many locals know no more about traveling the Thames than they do the Mississippi, one way to get around London is by riverboat - at times more comfortable and faster than other modes of transport. Driving Owning a car in London is best avoided - unless you frequently leave the city at weekends, or spend a lot of time bringing home ancestral portraits bought at outdoor stalls! If you do prefer the convenience, you can easily buy, lease or rent a car. Finding a place to park is yet another story! On Foot Walking is perhaps the most pleasant and economical way to get around London, especially when you discover that a typical two-mile journey by taxi costs £6. Bicycling Despite recent attempts at improvement, London is still not a bike-friendly city. But, if you must… Remember that the Underground, buses, and trains do not operate on Christmas Day - which may be the reason Santa first resorted to using reindeer for transport! TBC HOTLINE The Train, Bus & Coach Hotline number provides information for anywhere in Britain. The TBC gives train times and fares, National Express times and fares, and you may purchase a ticket, which will be mailed to you. Ring 0891 910 910. recommend a new service provider > © cityQuicker. All rights reserved.