Navigating London’s transportation system is a breeze! Whether you’re attending a conference or exploring the city’s iconic landmarks, this guide will equip you with all the information you need to travel like a local.
Pre-Trip Planning: Making Your Journey Smoother
Before you even set foot in London, there are a few things you can do to simplify your travel experience. The London Convention Bureau, an official Transport for London (TfL) distributor, can help you organize group Oyster cards for your event. These handy cards, costing £5 each, come pre-loaded with credit and are valid for a lifetime, ensuring seamless travel for your delegates. Simply place your order at least two months in advance, with a minimum order of 50 cards.
For international travelers, new regulations will be in place by April 2025. Visitors who don’t need a visa (except British and Irish citizens) will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before their trip. The ETA costs £10 per applicant and is valid for stays up to six months for business or tourism purposes.
Feeling lost in the visa process? The UK visas and immigration website has all the information you need to find the right visa for your visit.
Choosing Your Arrival Point: Air or Rail?
London boasts a diverse network of arrival options. Choose from six international airports:
- London Heathrow: Reach Paddington Station in just 15 minutes on the Heathrow Express from terminals 2 and 3.
- London Gatwick: A 30-minute journey on the Gatwick Express will bring you to Victoria Station.
- London Stansted: Take the Stansted Express for a 47-minute ride to London Liverpool Street.
- London City: The Docklands Light Railway offers a 22-minute commute to Bank Station.
- London Luton: Enjoy a 40-minute average ride to several London stations via Thameslink.
For those arriving from Europe, consider the Eurostar. This high-speed rail service provides a fast, efficient, and often more cost-effective alternative to flying, especially for business travelers. Make your journey truly special by booking a whole carriage for your group.
Exploring London: From Tube to Trains
Once you’re in London, the transportation options are endless. The Elizabeth line, a modern marvel, connects east to west, passing through major stations and districts like Paddington, the West End, Liverpool Street, Canary Wharf, and Stratford. It’s a fantastic option for travelers arriving from Heathrow Airport, offering approximately 30-minute travel times to Paddington. You can even reach the ExCeL London exhibition centre without changing lines in about 45 minutes.
The Elizabeth line seamlessly connects with the London Underground, DLR, London Overground, National Rail, and provides links to and from Gatwick, Luton, Stansted, and Southend airports. For detailed information about fares and timetables, visit Transport for London’s website.
The London Underground, the world’s oldest underground system, is an iconic part of the city’s identity. With nine zones and 11 color-coded lines, it’s a brilliantly efficient and easy way to get around. And for those late-night events, the Night Tube ensures you can enjoy the city’s nightlife without worrying about transport limitations.
The Oyster card is your key to effortless London travel. This contactless payment card can be used on a variety of public transport, including the Heathrow Express, allowing you and your colleagues to travel around London seamlessly, without the hassle of multiple tickets.
London’s Unbeatable Connectivity: Beyond the Tube
London is known as one of the best-connected cities in the world, and its infrastructure is perfectly suited for business travel. With a 24/7 transportation network and widespread Wi-Fi availability, navigating the city is a breeze. And if you ever find yourself in a pinch, a short walk is often all it takes to reach your next destination.
