London's transport network is among the most complex and expensive in the world. The London Transport (LT) travel information office , at Piccadilly Circus tube station (daily 9am-6pm), will provide free transport maps; there are other desks at Euston Station, Heathrow (terminals 1, 2 and 3), King's Cross, Liverpool Street, Paddington and Victoria stations. There's also a 24-hour phone line for transport information, and a Web site giving real-time travel news ( www.londontransport.co.uk). If you can, avoid travelling during the rush hour (Mon-Fri 8-9.30am & 5-7pm) when tubes become unbearably crowded, and some buses become full to overflowing.

Travelcards Single fares are available for any journey although visitors will find it easier and better value to purchase a Travelcard. Travelcards are valid for use on the Underground, Bus, DLR, Tram and National Rail and also offer a 1/3 discount on River services. Travelcards are available for one, three or seven days with the one and three day available in peak and off-peak versions. They can be purchased from any station, Travel Information Centre or retail outlet. Self-service ticket machines are now available in five languages at Underground stations and this may save time waiting in line. A one day Travelcard for zones 1 and 2 costs £4.90 adult and £2.00 child (off-peak).

The tube The London Underground (affectionately known as the tube) was the first, and is now sadly the least reliable and most expensive in the world (250% more expensive than even Tokyo). Delays are frequent, and seem to occur just when you need to get somewhere urgently (often between 6 and 9pm). Escalators are often out of service (some of the lines run very deep below the streets).

Buses Travelling on the top deck of a bus is one of the best ways to experience London, with certain routes especially good for sightseeing including routes 9 and 15 which use heritage Routemasters during the daytime. London has one of the most comprehensive day and night bus networks in the world. Wherever you are, at whatever time, there is sure to be a bus to take you where you want to go.

River Services A great way to view London, night or day, is from the deck of a boat on the Thames. There are several piers for boarding and services head east towards Greenwich and the Thames Barrier and west towards Richmond and Hampton Court. Tickets can be purchased on the pier, and in some cases, on the boat. Travelcard holders receive a 1/3rd discount off most river services.

Taxis Travelling in the back of one of London’s famous taxis (black cabs) offers a unique, safe, door to door service that is readily available. Taxis can be hailed ‘on street’ or at designated taxi ranks.

Trains Not really up to the volume of commuters, but ok for tourists. Buy your ticket before you board the train in most cases, as you will either be fined or made to pay the full fare (if you have a NSE Card). It's worth remembering that the train system (which is cheaper than the tubes, especially if you have a NSE card) serves a large part of London, especially the Southeast where there are no tubes. For longer, intercity journeys, and daytrips book at least 3 days in advance (7 days is cheaper) or the fares will be high (higher than flying), you can do this on the internet here.

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