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The UK offers many transportation options so you can conveniently travel to and from various destinations. The British transport network is one of the world’s most advanced systems! Even though the UK is a heavily populated area, there are still lots of great ways to get around and miss traffic. Here’s how to get around this vast region, ranked from favorited to least desirable.
1) Car Rental
Renting a car is an ultra-convenient way of travelling around the UK. Sometimes, public transport can be a bit of a hassle if you’re on a time crunch or want the independence to go where you please. Rental cars give you the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want.
Car Rentals in UK can save you a lot of time and energy by giving you a means of transportation, at an affordable rate.
2) Train
The vast train system in the UK allows you to travel anywhere, from small towns to big cities. The British train system runs under the National Rail entity. You can find prices, itineraries, and passes by browsing on their convenient website. You can purchase tickets in advance or upon arrival to the station.
Each company offers their own routes, but you can purchase your tickets through the national rail. However, you should check the policy of whatever train you are riding on if you are transporting a bike.
3) Bus
Buses are a great alternative to trains and they can be significantly less expensive. The UK red double-decker bus is famous around London. While you may experience longer wait times for buses like these, it may be worth it because of the affordability and tourist appeal.
If you take the bus in London, you can pay your fare onboard. Drivers typically carry change, but it is common courtesy to bring the correct amount just in case they do not have change. In other parts of the UK, buses are usually owned by private companies, so the fares may vary.
Travelcards are great to have in London and they can be purchased on a daily or weekly basis. These cards give you access to the city’s busses and the Tube.
4) Taxi
Taxis are readily available in the UK’s major cities. You can find them at taxi ranks and train stations, or you can simply phone for one.
London black cabs are famous too, much like the big red buses. They are a safe and reliable means of transportation in London. They are all wheelchair accessible and they accept credit/debit payments. Expect for costs to add up if you only use this way to get around – you might as well just rent a car.
5) Underground
The underground network, also called the Tube, has over 270 stations. Tube trains run every single day except for on Christmas. They begin operating at 5:30am and run until after midnight. However, some lines even run 24 hours now.
The tube lines are all color-coded and there are detailed maps posted at every station so you can easily find your way around. If you’re having trouble with the maps, you can always ask one of the friendly people around you.
Many visitors use a Visitor Oyster card, which is a prepaid electronic card that allows you to travel around London affordably. It also gives you access to special discounts at museums, restaurants, cafes, and more. The tube is fast and convenient, but it’s limited to the London area.
6) Walking
If you plan on staying in a centralised area, walking is a great way to get around. Not only will you get some exercise in, but you’ll get to explore in a very personal way. If you walk, you can easily get a more detailed look at things that you’re interested in and make stops whenever you please.
