London Visitor FAQ

London is the capital city of the United Kingdom, in the south-east of England on the River Thames. It spans the historic City of London and 32 surrounding boroughs.

By air (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, London City, Southend), by train (including Eurostar to St Pancras International), by coach (National Express, Megabus), or by car via major motorways (M1, M4, M40, M25). Driving in central London isn’t recommended due to traffic, parking limits and the Congestion/ULEZ charges.

English is the official language. As one of the world’s most multicultural cities, you’ll also hear many other languages, but English is used for signs, transport, and services.

Royal landmarks, centuries of history, world-class museums and galleries, West End theatre, iconic sights (Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, London Eye), diverse food, music, sport, and fashion.

See royal palaces and historic sites, visit free museums (British Museum, National Gallery), browse markets (Borough, Camden, Portobello), watch a West End show, enjoy parks (Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, Kew Gardens), dine from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, and explore neighbourhoods like Covent Garden and Soho.

It can be, but smart choices help. Many museums are free. Use Oyster/contactless on transport for best fares. Eat well at markets and casual chains. Pick from hostels to luxury hotels to suit your budget.

Year-round. Spring (Mar–May) is mild and blooming; Summer (Jun–Aug) is warm and lively; Autumn (Sep–Nov) is colourful with fewer crowds; Winter (Dec–Feb) is colder but festive with lights and markets.

Greater London covers about 1,572 km² (over 600 sq mi) with around 9 million residents across 33 local authorities (the City of London plus 32 boroughs).

Transport for London (TfL) runs the Tube, buses, Overground, DLR, trams, and river services. Use contactless/Oyster. Black cabs and ride-hailing apps are widely available. Santander Cycles offer easy bike hire.

Yes. All London buses are wheelchair accessible; many stations and attractions offer step-free access, lifts, ramps, audio guides and assistance. Check TfL for real-time step-free info before you travel.

Generally safe. Keep an eye on belongings in busy spots, use licensed taxis, and stick to well-lit streets late at night. For emergencies call 999; for non-emergencies call 101.

Yes. Tap water is safe and high quality. You’ll also find refill points in many public places—carry a reusable bottle.

A one-square-mile historic core that’s now the financial district. It has its own authority and traditions and is distinct from Greater London.

Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) in winter and British Summer Time (BST, GMT+1) from late March to late October.

Pound Sterling (£). Cards, contactless, and mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are widely accepted. ATMs are common; some may charge for foreign cards.

Requirements depend on your nationality. Many visitors (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia) can visit visa-free for up to 6 months. Others need a Standard Visitor Visa. Always check the latest rules on the UK Government website before travelling.

Free Wi-Fi is common in cafés, museums, and public spaces. Hotels usually include Wi-Fi. Many Tube stations have Wi-Fi. Buy a local SIM/eSIM (EE, Vodafone, O2, Three) or confirm your roaming plan.