{"id":10649,"date":"2023-11-14T14:31:00","date_gmt":"2023-11-14T10:31:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.headout.com\/?p=10649"},"modified":"2024-02-13T20:36:20","modified_gmt":"2024-02-13T16:36:20","slug":"london-travel-tips","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.headout.com\/blog\/london-travel-tips\/","title":{"rendered":"15 London travel tips & hacks no one told you about"},"content":{"rendered":"

In the bustling metropolis of London, the pace can leave you breathless as you strive to keep pace with its energy. Yet, amidst its dynamic atmosphere, there are several simple tips for travelers to bear in mind. London, a city steeped in history, brimming with culture, and pulsating with life at every turn, rewards careful planning with the avoidance of tourist traps and the maximization of enjoyment. Although it may initially appear daunting, securing your tickets in advance serves as an excellent initial stride towards ensuring a seamless visit. Here are some invaluable travel pointers to ensure your time in London is unforgettable.<\/p>\n

\"\u2764\" London Essentials<\/span> <\/a> \"\u26c5\"Best Time To Visit<\/span> <\/a> \"\u2728\" Tips & Hacks<\/span> <\/a> \"?\"Save Money in London<\/span> <\/a> \"?\"Top 10 Attractions In London<\/span> <\/a><\/p>\n

London Essentials<\/h2>\n

Starting with the essentials, here’s what you must know before getting to London<\/a>. Don’t forget the pack the right adapter and maybe brush your British English! Also, get yourself used to British high tea maybe.<\/p>\n

Read our complete London Travel Guide here<\/a><\/p>\n

\"?\"<\/p>\n

LanguageEnglish<\/span><\/p>\n

\"?\"<\/p>\n

Time zoneGMT+1<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\u260e\"<\/p>\n

Country Code+020<\/span><\/p>\n

\"?\"<\/p>\n

Socket Type G<\/span><\/p>\n

\"?\"<\/p>\n

CurrencyPound (\u00a3, GBP)<\/span><\/p>\n

Best Time To Visit London<\/h2>\n

March to May<\/b><\/p>\n

London’s weather can be unpredictable, requiring both sunglasses and umbrellas at different moments! While Spring is often considered the optimal time to experience London’s charm, don’t worry if your plans are set for other seasons; each one offers its own distinctive allure. From March to May, temperatures fluctuate from chilly to pleasantly warm, making it an ideal window to explore the city. Be sure to carry a jacket to navigate the occasional weather shifts. Alternatively, if you’re enchanted by the magic of Christmas, bundle up and visit between December and January to witness the city’s spectacular festive celebrations.<\/p>\n

Read our complete blog on the Best Time To Visit London<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"Paris<\/a>Jan \"Paris<\/a>Feb \"Paris<\/a>Mar \"Paris<\/a>Apr \"Paris<\/a>May \"Paris<\/a>Jun [tcb-script src=”..\/”][\/tcb-script] [tcb-script]$(document).ready(function(){$(‘.icon[data-bg]’).each(function(i, e){$(e).css(‘color’, $(e).data(‘color’));$(e).css(‘background’, $(e).data(‘bg’));})})[\/tcb-script] \"Paris<\/a>Jul \"Paris<\/a>Aug\"Paris<\/a>Sep \"Paris<\/a>Oct \"Paris<\/a>Nov \"Paris<\/a>Dec [tcb-script src=”..\/”][\/tcb-script] [tcb-script]$(document).ready(function(){$(‘.icon[data-bg]’).each(function(i, e){$(e).css(‘color’, $(e).data(‘color’));$(e).css(‘background’, $(e).data(‘bg’));})})[\/tcb-script]<\/p>\n

London Travel Tips 101 – A First Timer’s Holy Grail<\/h2>\n

Below are the tips and hacks you’re here for. Read on and thank me later!<\/p>\n

#1 Keep right on the escalators<\/h3>\n

\"London<\/p>\n

Though it might seem peculiar, there’s an unspoken convention in London advising individuals to stick to the right side of escalators to allow others to pass. In a bustling metropolis like London, where everyone’s racing against the clock, even the smallest gesture of politeness can make a significant difference!<\/p>\n

#2 Get yourself an Oyster card<\/h3>\n

\"London<\/p>\n

An Oyster card offers both convenience and affordability, making it a smart choice for saving money during your city visit. Easily obtainable from the airport or your local station, simply top it up as needed. With an Oyster card, navigating London’s subway network, known as The Tube, becomes effortless, eliminating the need to rush around or wait in lengthy ticket lines.<\/p>\n

Here’s all you need to know about using an Oyster Card in London<\/a><\/p>\n

#3 London is the home of Hop On Hop Off Buses<\/h3>\n

\"London<\/p>\n

With an excellent network and cost-efficient transportation, these buses will make sure you get acquainted with London in the best possible way! With a number of buses connecting and dropping you off at key attractions, Hop on Hop Off bus<\/a> is ideal for those who want to explore the city at their own pace. Apart from that, these buses also provide you with an audio guide so that you don\u2019t miss out on anything important during your journey.<\/p>\n

#4 Crossing the streets are a task in London<\/h3>\n

\"London<\/p>\n

The sidewalks and streets are labeled \u2018Look Right\u2019 or \u2018Look Left\u2019 to help you remember where the cars are coming from. Following traffic rules in London can help you escape unwanted fines, apart from keeping you safe. Keep in mind that cars are driven on the left side of the street in England and that designated pedestrian walkways exist on busy streets at all times.<\/p>\n

#5 Tipping in London is not customary<\/h3>\n

\"London<\/p>\n

Although considered a mandate in the US, tipping in London is not really a requirement when you\u2019re dining at the restaurants. The service charge which is otherwise provided in tips is usually included in the cost of your bill in London, so don\u2019t sweat it by trying to tip big money at restaurants! However, if you do feel like appreciating the service, a couple of pounds can be a nice gesture.<\/p>\n

#6 Book ALL your attraction tickets in advance<\/h3>\n

\"London<\/p>\n

While it is possible to avoid the crowd on the weekdays, some of the popular attractions of the city witness crowd throughout the week. Booking well in advance or getting yourself a skip the line pass could help you avoid the queues that are two to three hours long. This could not only help you save time but could also save you a good amount of money.<\/p>\n

Check out discounted tickets to the top things to do in London<\/a> and save big money by booking in advance.<\/p>\n

#7 Pack for all weathers. Always carry an umbrella<\/h3>\n

\"London<\/p>\n

London is best known for its erratic weather changes, where it can be sunny one minute and you can wind up feeling cold after an unpredictable shower! Pack your essentials wisely so that you have plenty of layers at hand to tackle any weather. Having an umbrella at all times is advisable.<\/p>\n

#8 Keep an eye out for freebies<\/h3>\n

\"London<\/p>\n

Although an expensive city, there are several museums, art galleries and architectural marvels around that can be explored for free. Do your research to find out more about these, which can also help you save some money during your stay. You may also take a stroll into some of its vibrant street markets which won\u2019t charge you an entry fee as well.<\/p>\n

\"freeLondon on a budget<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

15 Absolutely Free Things To Do In London<\/h2>\n

<\/a>Pepper your itinerary with these free things to do in London and bring down your trip costs.<\/a><\/p>\n

#9 Sometimes walking is faster than the tube<\/h3>\n

\"London<\/p>\n

London is widely connected by the Tube, and while it seems like the best option to travel around, there are places which are accessed quicker by foot. For instance, Leicester Square to Covent Garden is located in the same vicinity and they can be easily reached by a brisk 2 to 3-minute walk.<\/p>\n

#10 Visit Oxford Street on a weekday<\/h3>\n

\"London<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re in the mood to shop, differ it till its a weekday instead of stopping by on a Saturday. Not only does the area witness an upsurge of a crowd on the weekend, but there are also times the Tube is closed down for crowd control. Enjoy a quiet, uninterrupted shopping trip on a weekday morning and make the most of your visit to Oxford Street.<\/p>\n

\"londonLondon Bucket List<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

67 Experiences You Cannot Miss Out In London<\/h2>\n

<\/a>Check out these must-do experiences in London and plan your itinerary like a pro! <\/a><\/p>\n

#11 Ride a bike around the city<\/h3>\n

\"London<\/p>\n

You may come across several bikers on a typical day in London, as bikes are quite an inexpensive mode of transport in the city. If you\u2019re someone who doesn\u2019t mind losing their way during their excursion, rent a bike which is easily available on bike-bays on the street using a debit\/credit card.<\/p>\n

#12 London follows military time<\/h3>\n

\"London<\/p>\n

While most countries follow a 12-hour clock, you may find London displaying military timings on clocks across the city. Acquainting yourself to this system will help you avoid silly mistakes that can easily occur otherwise. Make sure to double check your train and bus tickets to know if you got the right time on it!<\/p>\n

#13 Eat like the Brits<\/h3>\n

\"London<\/p>\n

London is dotted with several flashy restaurants, however, make sure you enjoy a roadside plate of fish and chips for an authentic taste of Britain. Explore markets such as Borough market amongst others, which have affordable food stalls lined up. Experience the English palate by trying out various delicious street food that London has to offer instead of picking a usual restaurant for a change.<\/p>\n

#14 Carry a type-G plug or a universal travel adapter<\/h3>\n

\"London<\/p>\n

London, unlike the US, uses a type-G plug which requires a different type of pin. It is essential to carry a type-G converter for you to successfully charge your electronics of any sort. Make sure you buy one from your respective country, as it may become expensive hunting for one in London.<\/p>\n

#15 London = West End Show is a MUST<\/h3>\n

\"London<\/p>\n

West End shows, unlike Broadway, are affordable in London and can be easily booked both online as well as offline. There are plenty of shows if you\u2019re not too picky, and you can also choose your seats according to your preference! But you simply cannot leave London without watching a Westend show.<\/p>\n

Here’s our complete guide to West End Theatre<\/a> for first timers in London.<\/p>\n

Book discounted London Theatre tickets for the best selling shows<\/h3>\n

Tips For Saving Money On Transportation In London<\/h2>\n