Buses and Taxis

Buses

Buses are one of the major modes of transport in London. The recent introduction of congestion charging and the increase in bus lanes means that getting around by bus is now faster than ever. It is also a much cheaper alternative to the tubes. There have been great efforts made in recent years to improve the safety and quality of bus travel in the capital, so that it is now a fast and efficient way to travel. The buses are also the best and cheapest option for night travel. Unfortunately the underground train system usually shuts down at around midnight, whereas buses run 24 hours a day. You can get discounted travel, using various savings option see Oyster & Travel Card section

Taxis

London taxis are famous and infamous; there are many stories of unsuspecting tourists taken on long tours of the city when the address they asked for is just around the corner. The iconic London taxi is known as a black cab, or more formerly a Hackney Carriage and will usually have a meter. These are the most expensive way of getting around town, but are completely safe, reliable and often quite entertaining as cab drivers are reputed raconteurs and very knowledgeable of what’s going on in the city. A slightly cheaper option is the mini-cab, these also have a poor reputation and you must be careful that the cab you get in is licensed. The driver should carry identification, which he should show you on demand and a license inside the vehicle. If you suspect that the driver is unlicensed avoid, as there have been many attacks and accidents involving unlicensed cabbies. As a rule of thumb if someone approaches you it is likely that they are unlicensed. You should call for a mini-cab most phone boxes have numbers, or call 118 500 for directory enquiries.  For both black cabs and mini cabs it is important to agree a price before getting in.