Going Around London: Public Transportation Guide

Learning to navigate a new city with a different type of public transport system may be tricky, even intimidating to international students abroad. Fortunately, public transportation in the UK is connected to each other and is varied. Thus, it is easy to travel not only within cities but also between towns and even other regions.

Also, do not be afraid to use London’s public transportation as the city is one of the safest places in the world. In fact, in the 2020 Global Peace Index, the UK ranked as one of the safest countries in the world, safer than South Korea, Greece, and France. 

If you’re a student planning to study in the UK or are already starting your journey in the UK. Here’s a quick guide to going around in London using its different transportation modes.  

Walking and Cycling

Probably the easiest, economical, and environmentally friendly way to go around the city is by walking or cycling, especially if your school, accommodation and basic services are just near each other. Moreover, walking or cycling makes for good exercise. 

When it comes to cycling, there are cycling paths you can use to go around the city. Moreover, there are also various bicycle sharing schemes you can find around the UK allowing you to rent a bike you can use to go around. In London, some famous bike-sharing rentals include Jump, Beryl, Freebike, and Lime. 

Underground

London’s underground railway, also known as “the tube” is another great way to travel around the city. The Tube, whose tunnels stretch hundreds of miles across London, is not only one of the main modes of transportation in the country, but also the first underground railway in the world.

For students aged 18 and up, you may avail of an “oyster card,” a prepaid card you can always use to pay for a ride when you board the railway. Availing this card will entitle you to a 30% discount when you ride the Tube. However, if you’re already above 25 years old, you may have to ask your institution for documentation certifying you’re eligible for an oyster card. 

Buses 

Another way to go around London is through its buses. Aside from walking and cycling, buses are one of the most accessible transport systems in London. Moreover, just like the tube, you can also use your oyster card when you board a bus. In case you don’t have an oyster card, another way to pay for the bus is through a Travelcard. 

When it comes to the fare, buses are also economical compared to other modes of transportation in London. In fact, a single journey ticket may only cost around £1.55. In case you regularly use the bus, you also have the option to avail of a weekly or monthly pass to save money. 

In case you stay out late with your friends, do not fret, you can still go home through London’s night buses. 

Learning about your host country, such as its public transportation is important so you can prepare well before you start your study program. To learn more about living in the UK, check out MSM Unify’s article on A Guide on Accommodations for International Students in the UK.