Travel may seem like an uninspiring but necessary part of your trip to London, but did you know that there are in fact a multitude of different ways of getting from the luxury hotels near Hyde Park to the attractions along the southside of Regents Park; and that getting from your accommodation near Paddington Station to the London Eye and other Southbank destinations can be as exciting and immersive as you choose?
The fact is transport is as much an experience in London as the attraction itself – with the shortest distances sometimes making for the biggest experiences. Here are some of our favourite methods of transport and the destinations to look out for along the way.
Travel is when you can often see the most
Starting with breakfast near Paddington London, if you have time to spare then movement above ground is the best way to see the city and uncover destinations you knew little about. While it takes minutes to get from Waterloo station to Tower Hill on the tube, by walking along the Southbank you can enjoy a series of other sights along the way – including Shakespeare’s Globe theatre and Tower Bridge as it rises up in the distance.
Does where you stay matter?
It doesn’t matter which of the London hotel special offers you have decided to opt for, every area of London boasts its own beauty, its own experiences, and its own unique look at London life.
For those who want to minimise travel and simply arrive at their destination as quickly as possible, the London underground has a station in most areas of the city and a multitude of trains running every minute of the day (and through some of the night). The tube is an experience in itself and presents an authentic look at the movement of London commuters, partygoers, and tourists all in one place.
Become a tourist for the day
Love them or hate them, the London red buses sure do put on a good show for tourists – especially if you stumble across one which combines its transport status with a tour and lots of great and interesting information about surrounding sights and attractions.
Look for an open top bus for a truly immersive summertime experience, or keep your eyes peeled for the iconic afternoon tea bus with tables and delicious treats.
Hire Bikes
If you want to enjoy the fresh air and take in the sights and sounds of London, but don’t have the time or energy to walk, hiring bikes from the Boris Bike stands is a great way of moving more quickly but enjoying complete control over where you go and when. Taking a bike also means you can enjoy the parks and their various cycle paths – giving you great insight into the intricate blend of city life and natural beauty that can be found in and around London.
On your next weekend or visit to London, pay more attention to the way you travel. You never know what you might be missing!
