General Information » Getting Around » Getting Around

It might look like an initmidating sprawl, but once divided into north, south, east and west, London is surprisingly easy to navigate, despite not having the grid layout of other cities. The public transport system gets a hard time, sometimes deservedly so, but it is generally reliable; a TripAdvisor survey recently judged the city to be the best overall for public transport, ahead of New York and Paris. Further improvements are promised in the run-up to the 2012 Olympic Games, including expansion of the underground (or tube, as it is commonly known) in London’s currently neglected East End, and a tram system running from north to south.

There is a dense network of buses, including routes that operate through the night, and this can be a cheap and convenient option – once you figure out which one goes where. There are extensive roadworks planned over the next few years, making driving in the capital not particularly adviseable – most people soon find that the tube is the quicker option. Parking restrictions (policed by over-zealous wardens and accompanied by high penalties), coupled with the Congestion Charge, make motoring even less appealing.

Cycling on the streets of the city centre can be a slightly stressful experience, but it’s certainly practical for many commuters – the number of cyclists in London has rocketed in recent years. Those who like the feel of a free-wheel might find a pedicab journey more rewarding; around 200 three-wheel rickshaw-style cabs have been operating in London’s West End for several years and it’s an enjoyable ride, especially after a drink or two, although the fee should be agreed upon before boarding. The same goes for

minicabs, which must be booked in advance; black cabs, however, operate metered fares and can be hailed from the street.

Transport for London’s extensive website provides up-to-the-minute information on all modes of London transport and its Travel Information Centres are located at stations throughout the city, including Piccadilly Circus, Victoria and Liverpool Street, plus Heathrow airport. The website’s Journey Planner feature (www.tfl.gov.uk/journeyplanner) tells you the best routes to and from specific locations, by rail, tube, bus, bike, or on foot.