a double decker bus parked on the side of a road

Living in London

How to navigate London like a local

By ResLifeComms 08 Aug 2023

London, the bustling city that never sleeps! If it's your first time or if you're a regular visitor, the city's energy and constant movement can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. From the iconic red buses, black cabs to the complex tube system, we put together our insider tips to help you navigate London like the local you'll become.

1. Master the Undeground (Tube) magic 🚇

The London Underground, or as you'll hear us calling it the "tube", is your ticket to seamless transportation. Grab an Oyster card, or just use your contactless payment method (which we recommend) and you're ready to go. Each line has different colours so this could help you identify your route on the map easier. During rush hours, we do encourage you to avoid the Central and Norther lines if possible, as they tend to be the busiest.

Pro-tip: Don't forget to stand on the right side of the escalators - Londoners take this very seriously!

2. Embrace the Double-Decker Delight 🚌

Hop on the iconic red buses for a unique sightseeing experience. Buses cover routes not served by the Tube and you can see fantastic views of London's landmarks. You'll find bus journeys are also cheaper than using the tube system, but do take into consideration traffic.

Pro-tip: cash is no longer accepted, so have your contactless or Oyster cards ready.

3. Pedal Power: cycling in the city 🚲

London has an extensive cycle hire scheme called Santander Cycles. You can rent a bike and pedal your way through the many parks, or to come to campus from your hall.

Pro-tip: if you bring your own bike, you can store your bike in the bike racks in the majority of our halls.

4. Embrace river cruises 🚢

Escape the business of the tube or bus by taking a serene river cruise along the Thames. Witness iconic landmarks like the Tower Bridge, House of Parliament or the London Eye from a whole new perspective. It's tranquil and a captivating way to see London but also use it as a transport method. Look for the 24 Uber boat piers around London where services depart every 20 to 30 minutes.

Pro-tip: you can buy your ticket directly at the pier or online by the Thames Clippers Tickets or Uber apps.

5. Apps to the rescue 📱

Londoners swear by the apps, and you should too! Download now Citymapper for the best routes and real-times updates on public transport. If you're going to use the taxi way, there's many companies like Uber, Bolt or Free Now.

6. Weekend wandering: travel card 🚆

Want to explore UK and get away from the business of London? Grab a travel card and venture out. Visit Windsor Castle, Oxford or Cambridge, or event take a longer weekend to visit Scotland. Make sure you also check often the Residential Life events as our day trips are usually at discounted rates for all students in halls.

Pro-tip: save on train travel with a student rail card

Make sure you use all this tips, and step out of your comfort zone! London is such a big city with so many incredible parks, hidden gorgeous areas and something new to do every month!