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Transport in London

A blog article from Summer School student Jonathan Tam.

Jonathan Tam-20220816_LSE_SS_3083-1600x1600px

5 min read

London is an absolutely massive and historic city! What that means is that it is likely you will need to take public transport to get to campus and elsewhere - but don’t fear! London has a very extensive transport network which is extremely simple to understand, and certain lines even run for 24 hours on Fridays and Saturdays. It is easy to use public transport to get around London, and to get to LSE's campus.

Tube

There are many easy ways to pay for public transport in London: you can choose to use your debit card with contactless, Apple Pay or Google Pay, or purchase an Oyster card at any Tube station. To get on the tube, you need to tap in and out at the barriers, using your preferred payment method.

When using the Tube, have a paper map or a map on your phone downloaded, as there isn’t reception down there! London’s Underground system is one of the most historic systems in the world, with winding corridors and tiny trains, so soak in the history!

The closest stations to the LSE campus are Holborn, on the Piccadilly and Central lines, Charring Cross on the Northern and Bakerloo lines and Temple on the District and Circle lines. Lastly, remember to mind the gap!

Train

You can also travel by train in London using the same tap in and out payment method as for the London Underground. For travelling outside of London, you will need to purchase a ticket online or at the station.

If you’re staying for longer in London, it may be worth considering getting a railcard, which will get you 1/3 off fares on all trains, as well as a 1/3 off for off-peak tube travel. This can be linked to an Oyster card at any tube station - just ask a member of staff for help.

Bus

When using the bus, it’s a flat fare so you only need to tap your card once when you get on. Remember to take in London’s views by climbing up the stairs to the second floor and sitting at the front!

Walking/ cycling

Cycling is also a great way to experience the city, with many of the cycling routes through parks and along the Thames. Cycles are hireable via Santander Cycles, where you can pay by card and undock a bicycle at any of the cycle docking stations around the city. Remember to return your bike to a dock!

 

Lastly, if you’re staying in Central London, make sure to have a look at the map on your phone, as many places are within walking distance, and it will give you the opportunity to soak in the local life in London. So, wherever you’re going, remember to look at the map and make sure you’re going the right way before setting off!

 

This blog was written by one of our 2022 Student Ambassadors, who are here to share their stories and help you understand the summer school experience at LSE.