London is a fantastic city in which to live, with a great transport system stretching to every corner of the metropolis. Here we share our nine top tips for getting the greatest city in the world.
First things first though, the essential thing you’ll need is an oyster card to pay for fares. It is considerably cheaper to use an Oyster Card than pay for fares by cash. An 18+ Student Oyster card also entitles you to a 30% discount.
London’s Red Buses are one of the City’s famous icons. They go literally everywhere are often a cheaper alternative to the Tube. Interactive bus maps are available online, as well as an app providing live bus information wherever you are. In South London the tram network takes you to parts of the city where the tube doesn't go, checkout the maps online.
Like Red Buses, Black Taxis are another of London’s travel icons. In Central London it is virtually impossible to go out in the street without seeing a black cab. You can hail one on the street and they are permitted to pick you up at the roadside. Minicabs can only accept customers that have booked in advance. Never ever get into a minicab which doesn't display a license. The Cabwise App is a must have, it allows you to get phone numbers for licensed minicab operators. Other official apps are available as well.
Many people cycle around London and it is a popular travel choice for students. Make sure you take care cycling in London and always wear a cycle helmet. Information about where to safely store your bike at Imperial campuses can be found online. The Barclays Cycle Hire Scheme lets you collect and drop off a bike at thousands of docking stations around the city, with many located near to Imperial campuses. Live information on availability is available as an app, or you can use the Imperial Mobile App!
As with the centre of any major city, the roads in London tend to be very busy. There is normally little need to drive in central London but if you choose to then be aware of the congestion charge. While Imperial’s campuses fall outside the charging zone South Kensington is very close to the border. If you are moving into an Imperial Hall of Residence you do not get a parking space with your room and if you are living elsewhere you need to check with your local council about the parking restrictions.
The life blood of London for the past few thousand years has been the River Thames. Today it is as important as ever as a way of getting around. Why not jump on a River Bus to visit places like Docklands, the O2 and Greenwich. River Tours) will equip you with many useful (and perhaps some less useful) snippets about the history of London. You’ll also find London’s newest travel attraction the Emirates Air Line from the Greenwich Peninsula to the Royal Docks.
It is often as quick to walk as it is to catch a train or bus. South Kensington is a beautiful part of London, situated next to some of the most famous parks in the world. The Royal Parks website gives some great information about places to go and things to see in London’s nine Royal Parks. There are other recommended walking routes online.
If nothing else in this article inspires you then go buy a skateboard and look at this video for inspiration. Made in Chelsea's Francis shows us some sick skateboarding tricks and gives a 'word 'up' to his South Ken friends. Remember though, wear safety gear and stay safe!
