Despite being one of Europe’s largest capitals, London is a generally quick and efficient city to navigate. The extensive tube network may receive a bad press, yet it manages to transport millions of commuters to work each morning without the country falling to its knees.
For visitors to London, the tube will enable you to reach all of the city’s main attractions. Daily or weekly travel cards mean you can jump on and off the network without racking up too much cost. It will also allow you to experience an iconic and historical feature of the city, with the Underground system dating all the way back to the late 19th century.
Whilst the bulk of London’s most popular areas are fairly centralised, such is the scale of the city that there are also several districts worth visiting in the outskirts and beyond. Many of these suburban neighbourhoods fall under the banner of Greater London, and are generally well connected to the city centre by the tube and bus networks.
In these areas you will find some of London’s finest parks, as well as distinctive residential streets and a ‘village’ feel that is hard to find amid the urban chaos of the city centre.
For those intending to spend substantial time in London’s suburbs, it may be worth considering
Heathrow Airport car hire to really make the most of your visit. Having your own vehicle gives you a level of independence that is lacking when relying on public transport. It also lends a sense of adventure and allows you to tap into the pace and texture of local life. After all, it’s been said that you can tell a lot about a city by the way its citizens drive!
Having a hire car also means you can venture even further out, if you have the time and the inclination. There are a number of worthwhile towns and attractions within easy reach of London, including some impressive spots of countryside for those feeling a little suffocated in the city.
So in summary, if you’re planning to stay in central, the tube system will be more than sufficient in getting you from A to B (or indeed Z, so long as it’s on the map!). However, if you’re planning a more extensive and varied stay in the city, then hiring a car is sure to enhance your trip.
Guest Blog;
Paul Joseph is a London-based writer and author. He is currently penning a nostalgic book on his home city called “Vanishing London”. Paul also writes for tubehotels.com where users can find London hotels near train stations and theatre venues.