tube travel zone 1

London Underground 101: A guide to getting the Tube in London

Editor's Note

If you've never visited London before, navigating its iconic Tube system can be either an adventure or a confused mess of Tube lines, fare types and labyrinthian stations.

You might not have initially thought so, but there's a lot more to it than just getting to a station, hopping on a train and then exiting. Thankfully, TPG has your back, and we created this guide to the London Underground.

Let's dive in.

Related: The 23 best hotels in London

Paying for the Tube and how to save money

First of all, let's make sure the price is right.

There are many ways you can pay to travel around London via the Tube.

You can buy paper tickets from the ticket machines at each Tube, Overground and Docklands Light Railway station. One-way, return, daily and weekly travel cards are available. If you're buying tickets for single journeys, you'll probably spend more than you really need to if you take the Tube more than once.

The most convenient payment method, though, is to use your contactless payment card. Simply touch it on the yellow card readers found at Tube entrances and some platforms to pay for your ride.

These card readers also work with prepaid Oyster cards sold at all Tube and Overground stations, plus most Elizabeth Line stations and select newsstands and visitor centers throughout London, for 7 British pounds ($8.86) each. If you choose to purchase and pay via an Oyster card, you can add money to the card using the ticket machines found inside Underground stations. You can then purchase daily or weekly travel cards covering various zones.

Regardless of how you pay for your ride, you'll use the same process for confirming your payment. Use your phone (for contactless payments) or debit, credit or Oyster card to tap in and out at the barriers of your start and end stations. Remember that card readers aren't always connected to gates and are sometimes free-standing, so make sure you locate one and tap in and out to avoid getting charged for traveling through all nine zones.

To see the full details and decide exactly which payment method is right for you, check out the Transport for London website .

Daily limits

If you use an Oyster card or contactless payment to pay for your Tube journey, there is a cap on how much you can be charged, depending on the zones you travel in or between.

Say, for example, you only travel within Zones 1 and 2. For a full day of travel via the London Underground in those two zones, you'll pay 8.50 pounds (around $10.76).

You can view the prices for other zones on the TfL website .

Child discounts

All children under the age of 11 can travel on the London Underground for free, and children between 11 and 15 receive discounted fares (as outlined below). To ensure that you get a discount, you should talk to a member of the London Underground staff inside the station.

How much does travel on the London Underground cost?

The London Underground operates a peak and off-peak fare system. The amount you're charged depends on which zones you're traveling in or between.

Peak fares are charged Monday to Friday between the hours of 6:30 and 9:30 a.m. and from 4 to 7 p.m. Off-peak fares are charged at all other times and if you're traveling from a station outside of Zone 1 into Zone 1 between 4 and 7 p.m. on weekdays.

Journeys on the Tube and the Elizabeth Line to and from Heathrow Airport (LHR) are always considered peak fares if you start, end or go through Zone 1.

Travel cards

Peak and off-peak travel cards are also available in the Tube stations' kiosks. The cost of travel cards varies depending on the zones you travel in. Paying with an Oyster card or via contactless payment is usually cheaper.

An Anytime Day travel card can be used for the entire day that you purchase it until 4:30 a.m. the next day.

An Off-peak Day travel card is valid for an entire weekday from 9:30 a.m. — or any time on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays — until 4:30 a.m. the following day.

How to read the London Tube map

The London Underground map is divided into nine zones. The center of London — along with its most popular tourist attractions and iconic hotels — is in Zone 1. The outer parts of the city are in Zone 9. The zones are serviced by 11 tube lines and a handful of other rail services identified by color.

The London Underground lines are as follows:

• Bakerloo (brown) : From Harrow & Wealdstone in northwest London to Elephant & Castle south of the River Thames
• Central (red) : From West Ruislip in west London to Epping in east London
• Circle (yellow) : From Hammersmith to Edgware Road and then back to Edgware Road in a loop around central London
• District (green) : From Upminster in east London to Richmond in south London
• Hammersmith & City (pink) : From Hammersmith to Barking in east London
• Jubilee (gray) : From Stanmore to Stratford in east London
• Metropolitan (maroon) : From Aldgate to Amersham
• Northern (black) : From Edgware in the northern suburbs to South Wimbledon in southwest London
• Piccadilly (dark blue) : From Cockfosters via Hammersmith to Heathrow Terminals 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5; the Piccadilly Line has two branches, which split at Acton Town
• Victoria (light blue) : From Walthamstow Central in north London through central London to Brixton
• Waterloo & City (turquoise) : From Bank to Waterloo Station

Though not technically Tube lines, you'll also find the following rail routes on the Tube map:

• Overground (orange — double stripe) : From Watford Junction in the northwest to Croydon in the south and from Barking in the east of London to Richmond and Wandsworth in the southwest
• Docklands Light Railway (turquoise — double stripe) : From Bank in the City to Lewisham in east London and Bank to Woolwich Arsenal; there are further routes from Tower Gateway to Beckton, Stratford to Lewisham or Canary Wharf, and Stratford International to Woolwich Arsenal
• Elizabeth Line (purple — double stripe) : From Reading and Heathrow in the west to Shenfield and Abbey Wood in the east

Taking the Tube to Heathrow Airport

Depending on where you're traveling from, the Tube or Elizabeth Line will likely be your cheapest and most direct route to Heathrow Airport.

You can learn more about the best ways to reach Heathrow here .

While there's extra space on the Piccadilly Line for suitcases, trains on other lines aren't always as accommodating. Either way, traveling with multiple pieces of luggage at peak times can make for a stressful and awkward journey for you and those around you.

It's not always possible to get to Heathrow without getting on the Tube during peak times. If possible, try to leave earlier to avoid rush hour and have a far more comfortable journey.

How to plan your trip

TfL provides a range of free Tube maps that are available in most Tube stations and some small shops to help you plan your journey.

You can also use TfL's journey planner . Add in your start and end destinations, and the site will work out the nearest Tube stations and what changes you may need to take. The site will also suggest bus routes if they're faster, and it'll advise on journey times.

You can filter its suggestions to only include buses if you wish to avoid the Tube; you can also filter for routes that are accessible, routes near taxi ranks or routes that have the fewest changes or least amount of walking.

In terms of apps, many Londoners tend to use Citymapper ( iOS / Android ) or Google Maps ( iOS / Android ), both of which will provide you with up-to-date Tube suggestions, walking routes and bus options.

How early does the Tube run?

The London Underground's opening times can differ depending on the line you want to take and where you're starting your trip. Generally, though, Tube trains begin operation around 5 a.m. from Monday to Saturday, with slightly reduced operating hours on Sundays.

How late does the Night Tube run?

On Friday and Saturday nights, you can ride the Night Tube when the Central, Jubilee, Northern, Piccadilly and Victoria lines run for 24 hours. Additionally, the London Overground operates a 24-hour service on these days between New Cross Gate and Highbury & Islington.

The Night Tube is charged at off-peak rates.

The quickest route might not be the obvious one

If you're not used to London, you might think you need to take the Tube to get anywhere. The Tube is your best bet for longer journeys in and out of the city. However, shorter journeys in central London will likely be quicker on foot.

When planning your journeys, the TfL website has a handy box to help you determine which routes are quicker to walk.

By walking shorter routes, you'll not only save time but will also breathe in less thick, soupy air. The views are guaranteed to be an improvement, too.

Travel etiquette on the London Underground

Polite behavior when traveling on the London Underground can pretty much be simplified into three main rules.

Escalator etiquette

Perhaps the most important rule of Tube stations is to stand on the right on the escalators. This allows those in a rush to glide down the escalators in a flash to avoid waiting an extra minute for the next train.

Mindful Tubing

Everyone getting the Tube has somewhere to be and is likely in a rush. Letting all passengers get off your carriage before boarding will enable a smoother, quicker and more pleasant journey for everyone.

Additionally, don't hog seats if someone in need, such as elderly people, pregnant women or people with disabilities, would benefit more than you by sitting down. Checking if someone needs your seat will go a long way in making someone's journey, if not their entire day, better.

As for rides during busy commuting hours, remember that squishing as tightly as possible into the area closest to the doors doesn't benefit anyone. Move down the train. It makes for a more comfortable, less sweaty journey for everyone.

In general, queueing is somewhat of a national sport for Brits. We do it anywhere and everywhere, and anyone who fails to queue correctly will receive passive-aggressive eye rolls and tuts from all who witness it.

This also applies to the Tube, whether you're waiting to get through the barriers, waiting to get on or waiting for the stairs, escalators or elevators to leave the station. Save yourself the glares and cranky tuts of fellow passengers by falling into line.

Bottom line

Love it or hate it, London would come to a standstill without the Tube. Whether it's your first time in the capital or you're a seasoned Londoner, the above tips will serve you well. Remember, above all else, to stand to the right.

What are the different zones in London and how do you know which one you're in?

The London transport system can sometimes feel like a maze to newcomers. But once you get familiar with it, you realise it's really a piece of cake. 

London’s zones are a system of geographical zones used by Transport for London (TfL) to determine the distance of a customer’s journey and charge a fee accordingly.

London is divided into 9 zones, but most of it fits into zones 1–6. Central London is Zone 1, Zone 2 is the ring around Zone 1, Zone 3 is the ring around 2 and so on. 

Understanding the zone system is crucial for getting around the capital and knowing how much you’ll pay.

How do I know what zone I am in London?

London's tube map will help you to find out what zone you're in.

What are zones 1 to 6 in London?

Here is a rundown of what to expect in each zone. 

London Zone 1 covers central London.

In Zone 1, you'll find major attractions such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, the Tower of London, the London Eye, Madame Tussauds, the British Museum, the Science Museum, and more.

London Zone 2 is the inner city that wraps around Zone 1. It is not in the city centre but closer to the centre than zone 3. 

You can expect Notting Hill, Camden Town, and London Zoo. 

London Zone 3 is the inner zone of Transport for London’s zonal fare system. 

Zone 3 features the beautiful landscapes of Kew Gardens, the famous Wimbledon tennis championships, and the convenience of London City Airport for quick getaways.

London Zone 4 is the outer zone of Transport for London’s zonal fare system. Zone 4 rings around zone 3. London Zone 4 is only 33 minutes from Central London (Zone 1).

In Zone 4, you'll find Wembley Stadium, the fascinating RAF museum, the tranquillity of Richmond Park and more.

London zone 5 is an outer zone and rings around zone 4. 

Zone 5 offers great value as it only takes on average 15 minutes longer to get into central London than in Zone 2.

A haven for rugby enthusiasts, you'll find Twickenham Stadium here.

London Zone 6 is the outer zone of Transport for London’s zonal fare system. It is the end of the line for Central, District, Thameslink, Heathrow Express, the Elizabeth , Metropolitan, and Piccadilly lines, and the Overground.

Heathrow Airport hit with four-day Border Force strike amid M25 delays - live

Bakerloo line suspended but TfL returns to near capacity after strikes

King Charles approves crackdown on rogue pedicabs in London

Celebrate Art of London’s collaborations with women artists

RELATED LINKS

On this page, london bus maps (pdf), public transport london, fares & payments, london airport transfers, cruise port transfers, travel to / from london, most popular tours.

• Guide to hotel areas
• Bed & breakfast
• Backpacker hostels
• Airbnb London
• Central London tours
• Tours from London
• Harry Potter tours
• Stonehenge tours
• Downton Abbey tours
• Windsor tours
• Cotswolds tours
• Private tours
• Ticket & pass offers
• Central London attractions
• Attractions outside London
• Harry Potter attractions
• Tower of London
• PUBLIC TRANSPORT
• London City
• London Southend
• Southampton

London Underground - 2024 fares and how to use them

Be informed and in control using london's underground / metro system.

For the visitor to London the Underground or Tube will probably be the transport of choice to get around town. The Underground is normally the fastest way to get around town, often much faster than any taxi.

There is invariably an underground station nearby where you want to go and also your hotel and finding your way around the system is very easy. 

There are currently 13 Underground lines, with the Elizabeth Line the latest, which opened in May 2022.

Journey planner   Map   DLR, overground & TfL   Oyster card, contactless & Travelcards   Night service   Fares   Concessions   Child fares   Group tickets   Purchasing tickets   Access

Key points about the London Underground

It is still encouraged to wear a facemask when using public transport in London, but it is no longer mandatory.

The authorities penalise you heavily for buying single journey tickets. In the centre you can pay more than double the price than if you used an Oyster Card for example.

A single journey on the London Underground can involve 1 or 2 changes of train. Your journey starts when you go through the ticket barrier of the station entrance you depart from and finishes when you pass through the ticket barrier at the exit of your destination. You cannot break a journey on a single fare, once you go though an exit barrier of a station that is journey completed.

The buses, Underground, DLR and London suburban trains are managed by a central government body called Transport for London (TfL) chaired by the Mayor of London. The transport passes that nearly everyone uses, Oyster and Travelcard, allow you to travel seamlessly across all modes of transport, bus, Underground, train and DLR using the same ticket/pass.

Children under 11 travel free on the London Underground and DLR (Docklands Light Railway) at all times. Child fares are available for those under 16 and it is possible to get discounted fares if you are under 18 or studying in London with an ID card.

There are no seniors fares for visitors. If you reside in London and are over 60 you can get a pass that makes free bus and Underground travel available. If you have an English National Concessionary bus pass you cannot use it on the London Underground (but you can use it on London's red buses).

The London Underground is closed from around midnight until around 5am, getting started a little later on Sundays. However on Friday and Saturday nights, much of the Underground runs through the night. In Central London there is a very good night bus network when the Underground is closed.

You will rarely have to wait more than 5 minutes for an Underground train at any time of the day.

London Journey Planner - for all types of transport across London

Use the TfL (Transport for London) journey planner to plan your travel. The journey planner covers all public transport.

TFL Journey planner

London Underground map

The London Underground map is a classic design that when first launched was immediately taken up worldwide for similar systems. The clarity, simplicity and ease of use compromises strict geographical accuracy.

The Circle line doesn't really go around in a squashed circle and it is not apparent for instance that Bayswater Underground is only 100 yards from Queensway.

In 2016 the Night Tube was introduced. On Friday and Saturday nights only Underground trains run through the night. For lines that operate a night service see the Night Tube map linked below or on the right-menu.

In May 2022 the long awaited Elizabeth Line opened its first section. The Elizabeth Line provides a route connecting East and West London. Find out more about the new Elizabeth Line .

Underground map   Tube & rail map   Night tube map

Docklands Light Railway (DLR), overground and TfL rail trains

To the east of London in the Docklands region you will see a region covered by something called the DLR (Docklands Light Railway). You can treat this network as just another Underground line.

Not in the centre of London, but in the suburbs you will find a train network called the Overground which can also be thought of as being part of the Underground for ticketing purposes.

Commuter trains into the suburbs are very confusing for the visitor. You can still use Oysters and Travelcards on these but those lines run by the national railways only give free travel to children under 5.

In the north and east of London most of these services are now run by TfL Rail or the Overground so free travel is available to children under 11, but to the south and west of London, services are still dominated by national railways companies.

The Tube and rail map usefully shows which railway stations are in which travel zones. Travel zones are the basis for fare charges on London's railways and Underground system.

London Underground Night Service - the Night Tube

In 2016 the London Underground began to introduce a full 24/7 service on Friday and Saturday nights only. Introduction has been on a phased basis.

Night Tube services are now running on the Central, Victoria, Jubilee line, Northern line (Charing Cross branch) and Piccadilly line (but not Acton to Uxbridge branch). The Night Tube will offer a 24-hour service on Fridays and Saturdays. Standard off-peak fares are levied for travelling on the Night Tube using Oyster and Contactless cards.

Travelcards are valid from the first day of issue (using the date printed on the card), and for journeys starting before 4.30am the following day. For example, if you buy a 1-day Travelcard at 11am on Friday, you can use it until 4.29 on the following Saturday.

Night Tube map - current lines operated

London Underground fares

The London public transport system is divided up into zones that radiate from the centre. Nearly all the hotels and the main sights are in Zone 1. Heathrow Airport is in Zone 6 and the furthest zone out is Zone 9.

The majority of visitors will only travel in the two most central zones 1 and 2. The Underground Map (link above) has the stations and their zones marked.

Some stations, such as Turnham Green, are in two zones. You use whichever zone for these stations is most beneficial in working out your fare.

Underground fares

You can see from the table below there is big financial incentive not to purchase individual tickets and use an Oyster card or Contactless payment card .

The other main way of paying is purchasing a Travelcard , which is a pass giving you unlimited travel for a set time period. The cost goes up with the coverage of zones required. The more zones you require the more expensive the Travelcard.

London Underground Fares from 3 March 2024 - March 2025

Oyster cards, contactless payment cards & travelcards.

As you can see from the above fare structure the authorities do not want you to buy single tickets, they want you to purchase one of the three payment options, Oyster cards, Contactless payment cards or Travelcards.

The Oyster card is a permanent reusable electronic ticket which is topped up from time to time by its owner. Londoners also have their season tickets loaded onto Oyster cards as well and there are passes for one weekly and monthly durations. All can be loaded onto the one electronic Oyster card.

Contactless cards are standard credit or debit cards that support the contactless payment technology, the total cost of all the journeys that you make in one day is calculated at the end of the day and a single charge is made to your Contactless payment card account.

Unlike the Oyster card the contactless facility has a 7-day cap as well as the Oyster daily cap used by Oyster.

You can use Oyster cards on all of London's public transport, not just the Underground, but buses, overground, DLR, suburban rail services and some river services.

Travelcards are another alternatives. Travelcards are valid on the same modes of transport but are unlimited travel passes for a fixed flat fee. Travelcards are available for 1 and 7 days, 1 month and 1 year durations.

You can purchase and subsequently top up Oyster cards and Travelcards from Underground stations and a wide variety of other outlets throughout London including neighbourhood stores, but not Contactless payment cards.

Oyster cards - more details

Contactless payment cards - more details

Travelcards - more details

Seniors concessions

There are no seniors fares for visitors. If you reside in London and are of pensionable age you can get a Freedom pass giving free travel. If you are 60+ and live in London the Seniors Oyster ID Card that makes free bus travel available. You can apply online or get a form from your local Post Office.

Anybody with an English National Concessionary bus pass can use that on London's red buses too and travel free of charge.

If you have a Senior Railcard you can get your 1/3 discount on off-peak Oyster fares. You have to ask a member of staff to load the concession on to a standard Oyster card (note, not a Visitor Oyster card) at an Underground station after showing your Seniors Card.

If you have a Senior Railcard you can also buy a 1 day off-peak zone 1-6 Travelcard at the discount applied.

Child concessions

This is a very complex subject and is covered in detail in the table below. Generally, a child is defined as under 16 years old, but in the last couple of years it has been possible to get child fares after jumping through a few hoops up to the age of 17.

Children under 11 can travel free on the London Underground, DLR and buses without a ticket. If a child is between 11 and 15 years old, you require an Oyster 11-15 Photocard (which has a fee, see below). This allows 11 to 15 year olds to travel at child fares on the Underground, DLR, Overground and some trains, free on the buses.

If you are a short-term visitor (in London for up to 14 days) with kids between 11-15 you can take advantage of the Young Visitor Discount. This means you can get half price fares on an Oyster card on a temporary basis for your child without going through the hoops and expense of getting an Oyster ID card. You do need to read carefully the rules of this scheme though.

Children's Fare Concessions

Group tickets - 1-day group travelcard for groups of 10 or more.

This ticket is for groups of 10 or more travelling together.

This in scope is the same as a 1-day off-peak Travelcard for zones 1-6 and 1-9 providing unlimited travel on all services after 9.30am Monday to Friday and all day Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays.

The pricing is particularly attractive if you have kids in the group and those staying in one of the outer zones, however if you are staying in the centre of London zones 1 to 3 it will be cheaper to purchase individual Oyster cards.

If you are a group of 10 or more then do check out this product.

Purchasing tickets & fares levied

There are no longer manned ticket offices at Underground and DLR stations. All tickets are dispensed by ticket machines in the ticket hall and there will be a member of staff hanging around these.

The same machines will allow you to top up your Oyster cards or see what the balance is on your Oyster card and they will also allow you to cancel your Oyster card and get your deposit and any cash left on the Oyster refunded.

If you prefer talking to people selling the tickets there are Oyster ticket stops. These are many of these and typically are convenience stores or news-stands that sell public transport tickets as a sideline. These outlets will have a sign in their front window.

The fare you pay is set by which zone your departure and destination stations are in. Your journey starts when you go through the ticket barrier of the station entrance you depart from and finishes when you pass through the ticket barrier at the exit of your destination. You cannot break a journey on a single fare, once you go though an exit barrier of a station that is your journey completed.

Access to platform & luggage

To gain access to the platforms, and again to exit a station you have to pass through automatic barriers (pictured). There is always one wide ticket barrier for wheelchairs, pushchairs and people with large suitcases.

If you have a single ticket, the barrier at your destination will not return your ticket. There is a manned side gate by the barriers. If you have a Travelcard you insert the Travelcard into the same slot as for the single tickets, the barrier will check that your Travelcard is valid for both date and zones travelled.

If you have an Oyster card or Contactless payment card you swipe the card over a bright yellow pad, the barrier will check validity and will record the station you have started your journey before opening the barrier. The barrier may display the balance on your Oyster too.

At your destination station, exiting through the barrier in effect tells the system you have ended your journey and it works out the fare to be deducted from your card.

BUY VISITOR OYSTER CARD & TRAVELCARD FOR LONDON

Visiting London? Save time and money on London public transport

• Visitor Oyster Card • Travelcard for 1 day anytime / off-peak or 7 days anytime • Group day travelcards available

LONDON TUBE MAPS (PDF)

• Media kit | Following The Rivera
• Following the Rivera Privacy Policy
• Following the Rivera Disclaimer

30 must see London attractions by tube

Last updated on October 11th, 2023.

It’s not easy for me writing about the must-see London attractions.

As my second home city, I’ve a slightly different opinion as to what I think other first-time travelers should see.

Most new visitors often want to see Buckingham Palace or Big Ben, while others prefer to discover a local’s London .

This is why I’m doing something a little different in this post.

Alongside the already well-known sights, I’m listing 30 top London sights based on zone 1 tube stations.

What is zone 1 on the London Underground?

Zone 1 is the central area of London according to the tube map. The stations here consist of the most popular attractions such as Piccadilly Circus and Westminster. You won’t be surprised to find that zone 1 is also the most expensive zone in terms of ticket prices.

There are 9 zones in total on the London underground map. The further the zone, the lower the price. However, outside zone 3, most of the stations are not considered as London zip codes.

30 must see London attractions by zone 1 tube stations

London is a big and busy city, and it can be overwhelming for new visitors. Seeing the capital by zone 1 is one way to explore, while also making the most of your Oyster Card.

The list is in alphabetical order, and I’ve also included which tube lines you can take to get here.

Baker Street

Bakerloo, Hammersmith and City, Jubilee and Metropolitan lines

When you think of Baker Street, there’s probably one character that springs to mind. It’s the home of fictional English detective, Sherlock Holmes, who lived here at 221b Baker Street.

Today, the address is home to the Sherlock Holmes Museum , where you can find all the memorabilia under one roof. It’s a unique museum to see in London, and one that existing — and new — fans of the books will enjoy.

The museum’s open every day from 9.30am to 6pm. There’s an entrance cost of £15 (€17; $19) for adults and £10 (€11; $13)* for children (under 16).

Local tip : Search for 237 Baker Street when looking for the museum. It’s actually between 237 and 241, so you may just walk past it.

Map: 30 must see London attractions

Central, Northern, Waterloo and City lines 

As its name suggests, Bank is the heart of the financial capital of London. It’s something that becomes more obvious once you exit the station. One of the first buildings you’ll see is the grand Bank of England.

It’s the central bank of the United Kingdom, set in an impressive Roman temple-style building. The Bank of England was designed by English architect, Sir John Sloane, who specialized in neo-classical style.

Inside the Bank of England is a museum that’s open to the public, and it’s also free to enter. What’s more, the events cost nothing, and you can learn more about what they do.

The museum opens every day from 10am to 5pm, except bank holidays (UK public holidays). Last entry to the museum is at 4.30pm. Check the website for more up-to-date information and to better plan your visit. 

Circle, Hammersmith and City and Metropolitan lines

At the heart of the city of London is Barbican. Given its central location, you’re likely to find city workers, and also plenty of university students, especially during the week.

However, aside from work and school purposes, there are several attractions in the area you may want to visit. The Barbican Centre hosts different types of cultural events such as concerts, film screenings and art exhibitions.

More impressively, inside is a library, 3 restaurants and a conservatory. These features make The Barbican Centre the largest of its kind in Europe. Check to see what’s on during your visit.

More to see — must see London attractions 

Other attractions worth visiting while here include The Museum of London and St. Giles-without-Cripplegate. The Museum of London showcases the history of London from prehistoric to modern times. It’s a short walk away from The Barbican Centre and is located on the London Wall.

Visit one of the few remaining medieval churches in London at St. Giles-without-Cripplegate. The church has survived 3 fires, the last one happening during the blitz from the Second World War.

St. Giles-without-Cripplegate is also where military commander and Lord Protector of England, Oliver Cromwell, got married in 1620. You can find the church on Fore Street, just behind the London Wall.

Bond Street

Central and Jubilee lines

Who’s ready to shop? There’s usually only one reason to head to Bond Street, and that’s to spend big. Both exits from the train station lead onto Oxford Street, another major high street mecca. The difference between the 2, is that Bond Street has more high-end stores and boutiques.

Personally, I like getting away from the crowds and exploring behind the main shopping street area. St Christopher’s Place is a square you enter through a narrow passing off Oxford Street. It may not be so secret anymore, but this plaza, full of activity, is still a favorite meeting point.

Explore everywhere

South Molton Street is pretty to walk through, with plenty of quaint — and expensive — attention-grabbing shops. It leads to Brook Street, where you’ll find the iconic 5-star Claridge’s Hotel. While this luxury hotel may be out of your price range, a drink at Claridge’s Bar won’t break the bank.

Alternatively, you may want to have afternoon tea at its restaurant, The Foyer and the Reading Room. It’s gained a name as being one of the best afternoon teas in London, and in a historic Georgian setting. Want to know how much it’ll cost to stay at Claridge’s? Check for dates and availability .

Northern line 

Away from the posh, and back to the urban at Borough Market. Markets and eating are 2 of my favorite pastimes, and I never say no to an invitation here.

However, and this is a big however, Borough Market’s insanely busy on the weekends, and also during weekday lunchtimes. If you’re planning on visiting during these periods, be prepared for crowds of people, long lines and nowhere to sit.

Saying that, I highly recommend taking a tour , and if possible, during a weekday morning. It gives you a chance to visit and really enjoy the market, without masses of people hovering around.

Charing Cross

Northern and Bakerloo lines

The number one attraction visitors come to see in Charing Cross is Trafalgar Square. It’s probably one of the top 10 things to see in London, plus it’s free too.

The square’s where you’ll find the towering Nelson’s Column, guarded by 4 lion statues — usually with people sitting on top.

Depending on the time of year you visit, Trafalgar Square also hosts free events and shows. From musical performances to feast/international days, it all happens here.

One of my favorite art galleries is also in Charing Cross, The National Gallery . From its grand building to the impressive range of art inside, it’s a must see. Better yet, it’s free, and open daily from 10am to 6pm every day (Fridays till 9pm).

Covent Garden

Piccadilly line

From shopping to entertainment, there’s no-one I know who doesn’t like visiting Covent Garden. It’s the home of London’s theatreland, with hit musicals like Mamma Mia and The Lion King.

After taking in a show, explore the piazza of Covent Garden. There’s an endless variety of shops, eateries and bars, as well as live performances and theatrics always taking place.

Other noteworthy attractions in Covent Garden include the Royal Opera House, the London Transport Museum and the London Film Museum.

Bakerloo, District, Circle and Northern lines

There aren’t many places in zone 1 where you can escape the maddening crowds of London. Thankfully, there’s the River Thames to bring your levels back down to calm.

Upon exiting Embankment station, cross the road, and it’ll bring you straight to Victoria Embankment. It’s one of my favorite walks to do in London, and a great place to get away from the masses.

Keep walking north, and you’ll come across Cleopatra’s Needle. This historical landmark is one of 3 ancient Egyptian obelisks that were re-erected in London, Paris and New York. While all are genuine obelisks, they’ve no connection with the famous Egyptian queen herself.

Goodge Street

Northern line

Goodge Street is the cool, big brother of the neighborhoods in London. Rather than being known for one main attraction, Goodge Street is simply somewhere different to explore in London.

It’s located in the plush Fitzrovia area of the city, with an overwhelming choice of bars and restaurants to match.

My top recommendation for drinks in Goodge Street is Mr Fogg’s House of Botanicals. The bar pays homage to author Jules Verne’s fictional world traveler, Phileas Fogg. It’s colorful, with great cocktails, wine and service, plus it’s travel-themed too. What more could you ask for?

Stay here in Goodge Street: The fabulously chic Charlotte Street Hotel is my luxury boutique hotel of choice. Romantic, and a little discreet, it’s the ideal place to stay in Fitzrovia. It also belongs to the same hotel group as the fabulous Crosby Street Hotel in New York City.

Green Park 

Jubilee, Piccadilly and Victoria lines

Exiting at Green Park tube station brings you to several top London sights. As soon as you exit the station, you’ll find yourself moments from Green Park. It’s one of the Royal Parks in London, and spans across 40 acres.

From here, you can also visit Buckingham Palace and buy tickets to tour the royal palace and the Queen’s Gallery too. However, it’s only open to the public from July to October. That said, book your tickets in advance and beat the crowds.

Take in some art

The excellent Royal Academy of Arts is also a few minutes’ walk from Green Park station. Like the majority of art galleries and museums in London, it’s also free admission. However, there’s a charge for specific exhibitions, so can check the website before you visit.

I can’t write about Green Park without mentioning the luxury boutique hotel, Flemings Mayfair . This wonderful hotel is located in the Mayfair quarter of London, complete with first-class rooms, suites and service.

Local tip: visit Fortnum & Mason. Stock up on quality English tea, biscuits, jams and more at this upmarket department store. They make great gifts for family and friends, or a treat just for you.

High Street Kensington

Circle and District lines

Generally speaking, Kensington is the area where the rich and famous live. The fact that it’s situated in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea says it all.

The main reason to come to High Street Kensington is to visit Kensington Palace. The home of the young royals is open Monday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm, with last entry at 5pm.

You can beat the crowds with a smug smile by getting your tickets in advance . Kensington Palace is popular for obvious reasons, and lines get busy very quickly.

The area surrounding High Street Kensington is also worth exploring. There are plenty of great shops, small cafes and restaurants, plus entry to the wonderful Hyde Park. Speaking of Hyde Park….

Hyde Park Corner

Piccadilly line 

Hyde Park Corner’s most famous attraction is Hyde Park. It’s the largest green space in central London, and another of the 8 royal parks.

Come winter, a section of the park transforms into Winter Wonderland; an annual event with a fairground and Christmas market stalls. When summer arrives, so too do the outdoor concerts.

Hyde Park’s also near to the swanky area of Park Lane. Expect top 5-star hotels like the Intercontinental , and The Dorchester, as well as flashy sports cars parked outside.

King’s Cross St Pancras

Circle, Hammersmith and City, Metropolitan, Northern, Piccadilly and Victoria lines

Die-hard Harry Potter fans come to King’s Cross St Pancras for just one thing. Walk in the footsteps of the young wizard and visit platform 9 ¾ on a themed bus or walking tour .

From King’s Cross, there’s also the option to take a tour of the Warner Bros Studio . Your ticket price includes round-trip transportation, as well as the chance to see all your favorite sets from the franchise.

The other main reason to visit King’s Cross is to travel nationwide, or out of the country. Along with trains to other UK destinations, London St Pancras International is also the terminal for the Eurostar. Travel from London to Paris , or to Disneyland Paris, Brussels or Amsterdam, and all within a few hours.

Knightsbridge

There’s one landmark so popular in Knightsbridge that it’s become its own must-see attraction when visiting London. Harrods is a one-of-a-kind luxury department store, and just seconds away from exiting Knightsbridge station.

With more than a million sqr ft of space, 7 floors and 330 departments, it’s easy to spend a day here. However, Harrods isn’t just all about luxury goods. I personally like browsing the food section, or stopping for something to eat at one of the eateries.

Knightsbridge is also where you’ll find some of the best luxury hotels in London. The Mandarin Oriental is a 2-minute walk from Harrods, and the excellent Berkeley is about 5 minutes’ walk.

They also serve a wonderful designer-themed afternoon tea here called Pret-a-Portea . Enjoy cups of bottomless tea while nibbling on Jimmy Choos, just in cookie form.

Leicester Square

Northern and Piccadilly lines

Exiting from Leicester (pronounced Les-ter) Square brings you to the one of the busiest, and most touristic, places in London.

The main square is where film premieres take place, and where people also come for the nightlife. Though touristy, I’d still say to visit and see it for yourself.

Leicester Square also gives you easy access to London’s Chinatown, as well as Covent Garden and Piccadilly Circus.

Liverpool Street

Central, Circle, Hammersmith and City and Metropolitan lines

Liverpool Street station is always busy. The area’s another major financial district of London, so is heaving with city workers during the week.

Personally, I like coming to Liverpool Street for several reasons, the first being the markets. Old Spitalfields Market opens every day, with plenty of stalls selling clothing, jewellery and other goods.

There are also plenty of restaurants, bakeries and coffee places in Spitalfields to just take a moment. Next door is Spitalfields Arts Market, where you can browse or buy the art as you wish.

Curry houses and beer

As you explore further, you’ll reach Brick Lane. It’s generally known for the Indian and Bangladeshi restaurants, but you’ll also find bars and coffee places too. The Brick Lane Sunday Market is a weekly outdoor market that sells books and clothing every Sunday.

Another noteworthy building here is The Truman Brewery. It’s a former brewery located between Spitalfields and Brick Lane. Inside are independent boutique shops, a food hall and it’s also often used as a music venue.

London Bridge

Jubilee and Northern lines

I’ve not met anyone (yet) who hasn’t heard of London Bridge. Even though most people mistake it for Tower Bridge, the area’s one of London’s most popular attractions.

In recent years, there’s another attraction that’s become a must-see sight in London Bridge, and that’s The Shard. Standing at 306m high, this glass and steel structure’s the 5th tallest building in Europe.

Tickets are available to access the viewing platforms on floors 68, 69 and 72. It’s the highest viewing point in London, and on a clear day, it’s possible to see up to 40 miles.

The exquisite Shangri-La Hotel is also located at The Shard. Check in to one of their fabulous rooms , or simply take a drink at the bar and enjoy the views.

Marble Arch

Central line

You may not spot the famous arch in Marble Arch right away, but once you do, it’s quite a sight. English architect John Nash designed the white-marble structure in 1827 as the state entrance to Buckingham Palace.

It was later relocated to its current location near Marble Arch tube station in 1851.

Leaving Marble Arch station also brings you to the start of Oxford Street as well as Park Lane. Hyde Park is across the road, and Baker Street’s about 15 minutes on foot.

From Marble Arch, you can also easily walk to Bond Street, or towards Edgware Road. This is the street to come and satisfy your Middle Eastern food cravings, and at a reasonable price too.

Bakerloo line

To visit a location in the center of London with a village feel, come to Marylebone (pronounced Mar-lee-bone). It’s a short walk from Baker Street and is also one of the most elegant addresses in the city.

The 5-star hotel, and celebrity favorite restaurant, Chiltern Firehouse, is here, as is The Wallace Collection. Inside is an impressive gallery of French paintings, furniture and body armor from the 15th and 19th century.

It’s free entry and The Wallace Collection is open every day from 10am to 5pm. In case you want to do something super touristy, the globally recognized Madam Tussauds wax museum is also here.

Local tip : Take a detour to Marylebone High Street. I love the independent shops and quaint cafes and pubs along this road.

Notting Hill Gate

District, Central and Circle lines

You’ve seen the film at least 10 times and now want to see the inspiration behind it. Notting Hill’s in west London, and is as pretty and residential as the film portrays.

Houses are grand, expensive, and many with the colorful doors you’ve probably seen on Instagram.

Market mania

As well as exploring the tree-lined streets, many people come to Notting Hill for its markets. It’s located on Portobello Road, just a few minutes’ walk once you exit the tube station. Browse the row of stalls that sell everything from vintage clothes to fruits and vegetables. The opening times are:

• Monday to Wednesday: 9am to 6pm, Thursday: 9am to 7pm. These times are changeable depending on the weather. Check the website for the most up-to-date information.

Friday and Saturdays are the busiest days of the week. Every Friday is the antiques market, where over 1,000 dealers sell different types of antiques and collectibles.

Oxford Circus

Bakerloo, Central and Victoria lines

If you don’t like shopping, Oxford Circus may not be the tube stop for you. It’s the epicenter for a wide range of stores and top department stores. This street’s also very busy on the weekend and during the holidays — visit at your peril.

However, there’s another side to Oxford Circus, and it has nothing to do with shopping. Go behind the main shopping street, and you’ll find some quieter back roads. Here is where you’ll find some nice bars and restaurants, as well as some familiar chain names too.

Local tip : Walk along Great Portland Street until you reach the end. There are some sweet coffee shops here, as well as opportunities to window shop too. Plus, at the end of the road is another royal park, Regent’s Park, just over the crossing.

Piccadilly Circus

Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines

It’s right into the belly of the beast for this next zone 1 tube stop. Even if you’ve never traveled to London, you’ll surely recognize Piccadilly Circus by photo.

Home to the famous billboard with flashing bright advertisements, Piccadilly Circus is also where you’ll see the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain. Many people mistakenly call it the Eros fountain because of the winged statue of Anteros. It’s not hard to miss the fountain: there’s always usually in front taking a photo.

The heart of the city

From Piccadilly Circus, you can also easily access Chinatown and the trendy area of SoHo. It’s the ideal spot for dinner or a night out, with many bars and nightclubs to keep you entertained.

Boutique accommodation, Dean Street Townhouse , sits at the heart of the neighborhood. This boutique favorite may be in one of the noisiest areas in London, but it’s very surprisingly quiet inside.

Shoreditch High Street

London Overground 

For most first-time visitors to London, Shoreditch High Street may not feature anywhere on the itinerary. However, in recent years, more people are coming to check out the ‘hipster’ part of London for themselves.

You get a sense of the trendy vibe almost instantly as you exit the station. Expect to see some eclectic dress styles and plenty of vibrant street art too. It’s grittier in feel, but that’s how the locals like it.

Aside from the many independent bars and coffee shops, there’s also a small area full of Vietnamese restaurants.

Shoreditch is where the cool kids hang out, but everyone’s welcome. Head up to Hoxton Square and navigate your way across the bars around the plaza. The boutique hotel, The Hoxton , is also a short walk away, with a lobby/lounge area for guests and the public.

Sloane Square

Come and see how the other half live in Sloane Square. It’s one of the most expensive areas in London and incredibly classy too.

Though the houses may be pricey, the area’s free to explore. Expect to see pretty wide-angled streets and large houses with French windows and no curtains.

Sloane Street has plenty of independent boutique shops as well as chain brands, like Zara. The fascinating, and free, Saatchi Gallery, is also minutes from the tube station.

As you keep walking further, you’ll eventually reach the equally posh quarter of Chelsea. There’s nothing out of place here, including the people, and everything’s postcard perfect.

South Kensington

Circle, District and Piccadilly lines

One fantastic feature that London has over other big capitals, is that admission to museums and galleries are free. Though you do have to pay for exhibitions, general entry costs you nothing.

South Kensington is the museum capital of London, with 3 large buildings just minutes from the station’s exit. Here is where you’ll find the Science Museum, Natural History Museum and the V&A (Victoria and Albert) Museum .

Visiting the capital’s museums is also one of the best, and free, things to do with kids in London. While there, swing by the ‘most Instagrammable’ Elan Café , just a short walk from the museum district.

St Paul’s Cathedral

There’s good reason why visitors are drawn to St Paul’s Cathedral. This iconic church sits at the highest point in the city of London on Ludgate Hill. The current building dates back to the 17th century, but was first founded in AD 604.

Acclaimed English architect, Sir Christopher Wren, designed the current cathedral after it was destroyed during the Great Fire of London.

A shining example of English baroque style, St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s top, and most recognizable, attractions. You can enter the church if you want to attend mass or simply explore on your own. Check the website for opening times and to also see the calendar of events.

However, you may be keen instead to join one of their sightseeing tours. Your ticket price includes a guided tour of the church, and the chance to climb the dome of the cathedral. From here, you can admire London from above from the Whispering, Golden or Stone galleries. What’s more, your ticket also includes a multilingual multimedia guide, and a further year’s free entry.

Tower Hill tube station is one of my favorite stops in zone 1. The moment you exit the station building, you’re welcomed by the glorious Tower of London.

Tower of London

A palace, fortress and prison, the Tower of London is one of the best attractions to visit in the city. The palace’s exterior is already impressive from a distance, but it gets even better once you enter.

As well as the chance to see the Crown Jewels, you’ll also see the mythical ravens around the grounds. Legend has it, that if the ravens leave the tower, the kingdom will fall.

Being one’s of London’s must-see sights, the Tower of London is not only busy, but also expensive. You can save on your ticket price, and jump the line at the same time by buying in advance .

Tower Bridge

It’s impossible to visit Tower Hill without coming to see its iconic bridge. Tower Bridge isn’t just a masterpiece of engineering, but it’s also one of the top sights to see in London.

Given its symbolic status in the capital, it’s not surprising that many people mistake it for being London Bridge.

You can freely walk along the bridge deck — apart from when the bridge is being drawn — from morning to night. However, there’s an entrance fee to visit the towers , high level walkways and the Victorian engine rooms.

Local tip: Visit nearby St Katherine’s Dock. This tranquil marina’s a short walk from the Tower of London, home to offices as well as residences too. I also recommend walking up Wapping High Street, along the river.

There are some lovely pubs here with river views, like the Town of Ramsgate and Captain Kidd.

Circle, District and Victoria lines

The number one reason most people come to Victoria is to travel. As well as being one of the busiest train stations in the capital, there’s also the Victoria Coach Station nearby.

It’s also here where you take the Gatwick Express to get to Gatwick Airport. If you’re avoiding public transport, a private transfer to Gatwick may be a better option.

Royal connections — must see London attractions

The most popular London attraction in Victoria is Buckingham Palace (see section on Green Park). However, the area’s also home to the Victoria Palace Theatre, The Apollo Victoria Theatre, and the excellent Goring hotel .

Local tip: Walk down Elizabeth Street. This area, next to Victoria Coach Station, is a pretty, and rather discreet part of the neighborhood. Treat yourself to a Cronut™️ at Dominique Ansel Bakery , before checking out the small boutiques and beautiful houses.

Westminster

Circle, District and Jubilee lines

Unless you work in the area, most visitors come to Westminster to see the Palace of Westminster. Spanning over 900 years of history, it’s probably the number 1 attraction in London.

The historic building comprises of the world’s most famous clock, Big Ben, and the 2 houses of Parliament. Even if you’ve no interest in politics, I highly encourage you to book a tour of the parliament buildings . Not only is it really enjoyable and educational, but you also get a chance to see behind the scenes.

You can choose from a 90-minute guided tour, a family guided tour or even a tour with afternoon tea. It’s highly advisable to book your tickets in advance. They’re slightly cheaper, plus you also get to skip the lines and head straight through to security.

Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo and City lines

Just south of the River Thames is the buzzing area of Waterloo. For first-time travelers, it ranks high as a top destination in London given its many must-see attractions.

The area known as the Southbank is where you’ll find The London Eye as well as the Royal Festival Hall. It’s a stretch of path that runs along the river, with plenty of bars and restaurants on the way.

Ride the eye — must see London attractions

Be sure to check the calendar of events, as there’s usually something going on. The Southbank also happens to be one of my favorite spots for people watching, especially come summertime.

There are 2 things I advise if you plan on riding the London Eye. First, you’d be crazy not to buy your tickets in advance . Lines are long here, even during the less busy seasons.

Second, if you also enjoy seeing London at sunset, book a ticket for the last ‘flight’ during summer. The pods are less busy, and the colors at that time, and from that height, are mesmerizing.

How to get around the London Underground

The train system is also commonly known as the ‘tube’. You’ll hear this a lot in London, so don’t be afraid to ask for ‘the nearest tube station.’ The underground seem daunting at first, but get yourself a tube map, and don’t hesitate to ask staff for help.

I also advise getting lost on the tube — if you’ve the time to spare. It can be a fun way of familiarizing yourself with the system. If you come from another big city like New York or Paris, navigating the London Underground should be easy.

Which type of London travelcard should I buy?

Public transportation in central London is frequent, runs on time (most days) but it isn’t cheap. That’s why I always recommend taking an Oyster Card when you arrive in London. It costs £5 (€5.98; $6.85)* (a deposit you get back once you return it), and you can add any amount.

It works by tapping the yellow sign on the barrier (in the tube), or by the driver (on the bus). The Oyster Card prices* are cheaper than buying a ticket outright.

The Oyster Card pay-as-you-go fare in zone 1 for a single journey costs £2.40 (€2.87; $3.28).* Fares are capped on a daily basis and differ according to the zones. For Zones 1 to 2, the cap is £7.40. To give you an example of how it works:

• You add £10 to your Oyster Card
• After one journey, £2.40 is deducted from your Oyster Card
• Once you’ve made 3 journeys, you’ve almost reached the daily cap of £7.40. This means that the fourth journey within zone 1 to 2 will cost just £0.20p
• After this, all other journeys within this zone will be free until 4:30am the following morning.

It’s important you remember to tap your Oyster Card at every barrier, even if they’re open. If you don’t, the FULL cash fare (£4-7) will be deducted.

Children under 11 travel free on the London Underground, but they must be accompanied by an adult/s with a valid ticket.

Which of these London attractions would you like to see? Are there any other zone 1 tube station sights I missed out? Let me know in the comments below.

*Prices correct at time of publishing.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.

Like this post? Pin it!

You might also like

• 30 best London attractions by zone 1 tube stations
• 3 days in the Lake District: a complete itinerary
• 130+ best UK bucket list

LET'S CONNECT

Get your free Sicily eBook when you sign up today. Plus regular practical and helpful Italy travel guides and resources straight to your inbox.

Grazie mille! Welcome to the Italy travel tribe

Welcome to my site. I'm Lisa, an Italy-based travel and lifestyle blogger behind Following the Rivera. Find out more about me and my story.

100 thoughts on “ 30 must see London attractions by tube ”

Fantastic list of must-see London attractions by tube! 🚇 Your detailed insights make planning a breeze. Personally, I found exploring these landmarks convenient and budget-friendly. Thanks for the valuable tips!

I’m glad you enjoyed it!

is there a travel card that covers all 9 zones for the underground and includes entrance to some attractions ?

Hi Chris, thank you for your message. A good option for visitors to London is the Visitor Oyster Card. You have to add credit, but can take unlimited journeys on all Transport for London modes of travel. The visitor card also gives you discounts and special offers at selected restaurants and attractions around London. Alternatively, there is also the Day Travelcard (paper ticket). You can get unlimited travel in one day with:

Anytime Day Travelcards: use for the date on the ticket and for journeys starting before 04:30 the next day. Zones 1-6 (£18.10) Off-peak Day Travelcards: use from 09:30 (Monday to Friday), anytime on weekends or bank holidays for the date on the ticket and for journeys starting before 04:30 the next day. Zones 1-6: (£12.60)

To travel to zone 9, I believe you have to pay for an extension ticket. You can get this from any tube ticket office.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Pin It on Pinterest

Your Ultimate Guide To London Zones 1-9

Link Copied

Share on Facebook

Share on Twitter

Share on LinkedIn

Get in the zone!

London is a vast city that spans 607 square miles (or 1,572 km). Irrespective of its size, the city maintains a reliable public transportation network that connects each of the 32 London boroughs. There are several ways to get about, including the tube overground, river buses, a tram system, and even a cable car. It is expected that first-time visitors to the city could feel a little overwhelmed, but don't worry; reading the blog till the end will help you. Going forward, we're going to explore the different London zones 1 to 9, which will give you an idea of how to navigate your way through! 

What are London Zones?

At present, the London zones 1 to 9 are the most well-known. London travel zones are separated for transportation, with Zone 1 being the city centre and Zone 9 being the city's outskirts. Transport for London (TfL) uses the technology to determine a customer's journey distance and charge appropriately. Since most of London's major attractions and the city centre are located in Zone 1, most visitors won't need to venture outside. For those travelling far, it's crucial to consider how many London zones you'll pass through because this will influence the ticket you need. If you plan to travel around London as a student and are wondering what to do, our blog on student life in London can help you with a lot of insights!

What are the 9 London Zones?

Rail transportation in London is divided into London zones 1 to 9, which are being managed by London Transport. Six fare London zones are given to each station on the London Tube zones, London Overground, National Rail, TfL Rail, and Docklands Light Railway. The central core region is covered by Zone 1 , while fare zones 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 are basically concentric circles around Zone 1. Zone 7,8 and 9 , which extend into Buckinghamshire, Essex and Hertfordshire include all stations served by TfL services and some Southeastern and Greater Anglia services that are outside Greater London. However, these zones do not form complete rings around London. To purchase tickets faster, zones were created to lower pricing. In addition to navigating within the city, it's important to consider transportation options for journeys beyond the city limits, such as London airport transfers . There are various platforms providing reliable and convenient transfer services, ensuring a smooth transition to or from major airports like London’s Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and City Airport. Here’s a breakdown of the London zones 1 to 9 and their locations for better understanding:

Zone 1: London City Centre

The heartbeat of the city, Zone 1 encompasses iconic landmarks like Big Ben and the Tower of London, offering a blend of historical richness and modern vibrancy.

Zone 2: Notting Hill, Camden Town, London Zoo

Zone 2 is a cultural hub with the trendy streets of Notting Hill, the alternative charm of Camden Town, and the zoological wonders of London Zoo, along with two prominent football stadiums for sports enthusiasts.

Zone 3: Kew Gardens, Wimbledon and London City Airport

Embracing natural beauty, Zone 3 features the lush landscapes of Kew Gardens, the renowned Wimbledon tennis championships, and the convenience of London City Airport for quick getaways.

Zone 4: Wembley, RAF museum, Richmond Park

Zone 4 boasts the iconic Wembley Stadium, the fascinating RAF museum, and the tranquil expanses of Richmond Park, making it a diverse blend of sports, history, and nature.

Zone 5: Twickenham, England Rugby Union

A haven for rugby enthusiasts, Zone 5 is home to Twickenham Stadium, the world's largest dedicated rugby union venue, and serves as the heart of England Rugby.

Zone 6: End of the line for Central, District, Thameslink, Heathrow Express, Elizabeth, Metropolitan, Overground and Piccadilly

As the gateway to various transport networks, Zone 6 marks the termination point for multiple train lines, providing essential connectivity and convenience.

Zone 7: Zones A - Croxley, Rickmansworth and Watford and B - Chorleywood

Zone 7 encompasses charming towns like Croxley, Rickmansworth, and Watford in Zone A, and the picturesque surroundings of Chorleywood in Zone B, offering a mix of suburban tranquillity and urban accessibility.

Zone 8: Zone C - Chalfont & Latimer

Zone 8 features the serene locales of Chalfont & Latimer, providing a peaceful escape from the bustling city life.

Zone 9: Zone D - Amersham and Chesham

The outermost reaches of London, Zone 9's Amersham and Chesham offer a more rural atmosphere, showcasing historic charm and scenic beauty.

What are the types of London transport in London zones?

London is a massive city with various modes of transport, wherein everyone can travel on a budget and in comfort. The city provides London transport through buses, underground tubes, DLR, also known as Dockland Light Railways, Cable cars provided by Emirates, river buses, overground trains and the most efficient bicycles. With these many options, you can comfortably and conveniently travel within the zones in London, and also explore the city and visit the top restaurants in London . 

1. The Underground

First ride : 5 am Last ride : 12 am

The London Underground Zones or London Tube Zones 1 to 9 is the oldest underground rail network and one of the best London travel zones in the world. Locals call it the "Tube" because parts of the network's tunnels resemble round tubes running through the ground. Underground stations are marked with a red and blue roundel around the city. To know more, we have a detailed blog about how to use the London underground zones 1-6. London Tube zones are a hallmark of public transit in London. Take a look at our webstory on public transportation in London if you're a visual learner!

2. The Overground

First ride : 5:30 am Last ride : 12:30 am

The overground, which should not be confused with the "Tube," runs above street level and connects the city centre to the larger metropolitan area using zones in London. To improve connectivity between the zones in London, it was introduced in 2007. North and West London railways had experienced serious degradation over the years. To build a complete orbital network to serve the Capital, London Overground sought to merge these older networks into new lines in east and south London, and now is one of the best London travel zones.

3. Docklands Light Railway

Unlike the rest of London's transport system, the DLR is one of the completely driverless London zones. The DLR connects with London's cable car, the Emirates Air Line, and serves the docklands neighbourhood of London zones, located directly east and southeast of Central London. Use the Light Rail to scout out the best living areas.Talking about scouring, our blog on the 10 best neighbourhoods in London does just that.

4. London Buses

First ride: 5 am Last ride: 12 am

In addition to being a great way to view the city, buses in London travel zones have one key advantage over all other forms of London transport: they are not constrained by the "zone" system. Why does this matter? There is a set rate of £1.65 for each trip, regardless of how far or where you are going. Additionally, they benefit from the hopper fare, which allows unlimited bus rides within an hour for a fixed fee of £1.75 .

5. Emirates Air Line (Cable Car)

First ride: 8 am Last ride: 8 pm

Don't be deceived by its misleading name; the UK's only urban cable car system will only take you 90 metres above London (295 feet). Enjoy stunning panoramic vistas of London zones 1-6 as it moves from Greenwich to Royal Victoria Dock—more magnificent than helpful. You can also use a Student Oyster travel card contactless card to make payments through the TfL system, just like you would if you were travelling by bus or train.

6. Boris Bikes

First ride: all day Last ride: all day

London 1-6 zones Santander Cycles, often known as 'Boris Bikes' locally, operates a public bicycle rental programme in zones in London 1-6 with more than 12,000 bicycles and 800 docking stations. Cycling around the city is a terrific (and environmentally responsible) way to explore. In the last ten years, the number of cyclists on London's roads has more than doubled.

7. River Bus

First ride: 5:30 am Last ride: 11:30 pm

The imprecisely called 'River Bus' runs 6 routes along the River Thames between Putney in the west and Woolwich in the east, departing from 22 piers. Since departures only occur every 20 minutes, we advise scheduling your trip in advance to prevent delays in travelling in London zones 1-8. The river bus is an excellent way to go around the city and enjoy fantastic views of London's riverfront and witness the scenic beauty.

Transiting in style so why not live in style in our accommodation?

Book through amber today!

What are the London zone fares?

While travelling in London, the fare you will pay depends on the zone you are travelling in. The fare is calculated according to the London zones you pass by while reaching your destination, considers your mode of transport, and covers underground buses and trains. There are also several ways to pay for your travel between London Zones 1 to 9. Keep reading to know all about the different ways you can pay!

How to pay for London transport in London zones

Even though London's transport system is among the best in the world, a newcomer to the city could find it a little challenging to navigate. Oyster card , debit or credit card, and Apple or Contactless Pay. It is extremely important to keep in mind that every person requires their own means of payment; otherwise, you can be charged more than you are in general.

1. Apple Pay

Apple Pay is one of the most preferred options to pay for public London transport in London zones 1 to 9 and London zones 1 to 9. Except for using your phone, this payment option is much the same as the contactless. You can tap the yellow card reader with your phone just like you would for a physical card if you have your credit or debit card set up in your Apple Pay or Google Pay wallet.

2. Oyster Cards

These convenient tiny cards make navigating the city easy when it comes to figuring out how to pay for public transport in London zones 1 to 6 or London zones 1 to 9. You can purchase them at the airport, several train stations, and many convenience stores in the city. You can top up your oyster card as many times as necessary, and they cost five pounds each. The London oyster card price is around £7, which is the price of purchasing the card. 

If you use a Pay as You Go Oyster card, top it up with enough cash to either pay for a single ride across the zones you travel through or add enough cash to cover the cost of the "daily cap" if you want unrestricted travel for the day. The cost of a Zone 1–5 weekly Travelcard is £65.70 if you stay in Zone 5. A weekly Travelcard for Zones 2–5 costs £38.20 , saving you £27.50 each week. To find out more information about oyster cards, head to our blog on the ultimate guide to oyster cards .

3. Contactless Payment

Contactless payment is available for those with a credit or debit card that accepts contactless payments. Check for the "contactless" icon on the card's front (shown above) or inquire with your bank or card provider if you're unclear if your card has it. If you do have it, this is undoubtedly the simplest and most practical method for paying for London transport zones. The fare is automatically generated based on the distance you have travelled if you tap your debit/credit card on the yellow card reader at the ticket booth. To make sure that you are paying the correct fare and you are not overcharged, you should always tap it at the beginning and end of your tube ride. You simply need to tap in once on buses to begin your trip, making travelling in London zones easy for you.

4. Foreign contactless card

You may pay for transport in London with a contactless debit or credit card if you have one. If you don't have or don't want an Oyster card, it's perfect. Or if the pay-as-you-go credit on your Oyster card runs out. You tap in and out at the ticket barriers at the tube or railway station or press the yellow card reader when you board a bus to use your card like an Oyster card. The primary distinction is that the fare is deducted from your debit card or credit card the next day; you no longer need to load money onto your Oyster card.

How to save money on travel to central London zones 2-6

The London Travel card has the primary advantage of being accepted on buses across all of London, regardless of which London zones you want it for. Purchasing a weekly or monthly Travelcard that excludes Zone 1 London but includes Zone 2 is a smart money-saving move if you live in Zones 2–6 and need to travel to Zone 1 (the centre of London). Take the bus to and around Zone 1 after taking the train or tube to the Zone 2 station closest to Zone 1. You will only save some money if you use a weekly or monthly Travelcard . Have a look at these prices for better understanding:

Zone 1-5 weekly Travelcard is £69.60 Zone 2-5 weekly Travelcard is £40.50

Zone 1-5 monthly Travelcard is £280.40 Zone 2-5 monthly Travelcard is £155.60

‍ Zone 6-9 weekly Travelcard is £64.40 Zone 6-9 monthly Travelcard is £247.30

Fares for stations in two zones

Zones 1 through 9 are the nine fare zones that make up the London public transport system. Zone 1 covers the city's centre, and the remaining zones are distributed outside. A station is said to straddle the boundary between two adjacent zones when it is located on their border. This is especially true for public transportation systems like the London Underground Zones 1 to 9 (Tube) and others where the fare you pay varies according to the zones you go through.

Stations on the border of two zones are frequently marked on the tube map with a unique graphic clue to help passengers understand their location. To be more precise, the names of certain stations on the map might have a white box around them. Because these stations are situated on the border between two fare zones, they have a particular status that makes them easy to identify for travellers. It is advised that passengers may have particular ticketing concerns when travelling to or from these border stations. This can entail different rates, ticket options, or fee computations when compared to trips that take place wholly inside one zone. 

Popular places to visit outside London Zone 1

Zone 1 is a London zone which covers most of central London. However, the areas outside of Zone 1, too, are filled with tons of tourist attractions, culture, and eateries for you to explore during your stay in the capital of England. Here are some of our favourites:

1. Horniman Museum: near Forest Hill station 2. Greenwich: near Cutty Sark station 3. Highgate Cemetery: near Archway station 4. Battersea Park: near Battersea Park station 5. Oxleas Wood & SevernDroog Castle: near Eltham station 6. Brockwell Lido: near Herne Hill station 7. Broadway Market: near London Fields station 8. London Wetland Centre: near Barnes station 9. Bruce Castle Museum: near Bruce Grove station 10. Crystal Palace Park: near Crystal Palace station

You are all set to venture around London through the London zones 1-9! We hope our London zones guide will help you navigate the city easily and comfortably as a new traveller in the country. Remember to follow all the laws of the country, and don't forget to tap in and tap out to avoid any penalties on your travel cards. If you're a student planning to study in the UK, finding suitable accommodation might be a concern. Explore the amazing student accommodation options in the UK and start your journey today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there 9 zones in london, what is zone 7 in london, which areas are in zone 5 in london, which zone is buckingham palace in, can i use oyster in zone 6.

Your ideal student home & a flight ticket awaits

Follow us on :

Related Posts

Student City Guide: Boston 2024

Explore 10 Best Libraries in New York: A Reader’s Retreat!

Your Step-by-Step Guide to the German Job Seeker Visa in 2024

Planning to Study Abroad ?

Your ideal student accommodation is a few steps away! Please fill in your details below so we can find you a new home!

We have got your response

amber © 2024. All rights reserved.

4.8/5 on Trustpilot

Rated as "Excellent" • 4800+ Reviews by students

Rated as "Excellent" • 4800+ Reviews by Students

• Places to Visit
• Sightseeing
• Practical Tips
• Where to Stay

London Oyster Card

The Oyster card is a reusable electronic card which is used to pay for travel on all types of public transport in London: buses, underground, DLR (Docklands Light Railway), trams and local trains. There are two main ways to use the Oyster card:

As a Pay as you go (PAYG) Oyster card You add money to the Oyster card and use it to pay for single journeys or for travel for the whole day (the ‘daily cap’). It’s a bit like a Pay as you go SIM card for mobile phones. When you use your card (by tapping in and out at the ticket barriers), the cost of travel is deducted from your Oyster card balance. To store season tickets Weekly or monthly Travelcards or Bus Passes are ‘loaded’ onto an Oyster card.

See Travelcards or Bus tickets & passes

You can also add some extra money to your Oyster card if you have a Weekly or Monthly Travelcard. This is useful if you need to travel outside your weekly Travelcard zone.

Are you visiting London for the first time? Read our guide to London’s transport tickets and passes .

Pay as you go (PAYG) Oyster card: an overview

The PAYG Oyster card is the cheapest and most flexible way to pay for travel, especially if your visit to London is between 1–5 days. Even if it’s only for a few journeys, it’s much cheaper than paying the full cash fare.

How much does an Oyster card cost?

The Oyster card costs £7 . You then add money to the card to pay for your travel. The £7 fee is not a deposit. You do not get this money back.

How does it work?

Once you have an Oyster, you add money to it (‘ top up ‘) and the fare for your journey is taken from your Oyster card balance when you use it.

It works out the cost of the journey and how many journeys you take when you tap your card on the Oyster card reader (‘ tap in and out’ ) at a tube or train station ticket barrier, or by tapping the reader when you get on a bus.

Oyster single fares: 2024 prices

The Pay as you go Oyster card is the cheapest way to pay for single tickets on the underground. For journeys in central London (zone 1), ticket prices are more than 50% cheaper with an Oyster card.

Here’s a comparison between Pay as you go Oyster card single fares and the standard tube ticket fare from a ticket machine (‘Cash single’).

Oyster single fares 2024

See single ticket prices for travel in zones 2,3,4,5 & 6

Oyster single fares: peak and off-peak times

If you use your Pay as you go Oyster card only few times a day, the price you pay for each single journey depends on the time of day you travel.

Off-peak fares apply on Fridays from 8 March until 31 May 2024

Peak Monday–Thursday 6.30am–9.30am and from 4pm–7pm. If you travel into central London (zone 1) from an outer zone, there is no afternoon peak fare . The off-peak fare is charged. Off-Peak Off-peak fares are charged at all other times, including Public Holidays.

Oyster one-day fares: 2024 ‘daily cap’ prices

If you plan to travel by tube at least 3 times in one day, you benefit from the Oyster card ‘daily cap’. This is the maximum amount deducted from your card for travel in one day.

Oyster Daily Cap from 3 March 2024

There’s a cheaper ‘daily cap’ if you only use the buses

How does the Oyster daily cap work?

For example, if you load £10 onto your Oyster card and travel by underground in central London (zone 1- off peak):

• If you make 1 journey £2.70 is deducted from your card
• If you make 2 journeys, £5.40 is deducted
• If you make 3 journeys, £8.50 is deducted. You have now reached the ‘daily cap’ and all other journeys until 4.30am the following morning are free. £1.50 of Pay as you go credit will remain on your Oyster card

Oyster Weekly Travelcard Cap

Your Oyster card will automatically cap at the weekly Travelcard fare (this is also available on a contactless card ). The cap starts on Monday and ends Sunday, so it mainly benefits Londoners or those working in London.

How much money do I need to add to an Oyster card?

It’s up to you how much money you add to the card. The beauty of the Oyster card is that it’s flexible.

Some people add enough for a single journey, especially if they’re not a frequent traveller. Some add the price of the daily ‘cap’ for the zones they’re visiting for that day. Others just add £15 or £25 and keep an eye on the balance.

Best option for visitors

For visitors, the best option is to add the cost of the daily cap to your card x the number of full days in London. Add a little extra to cover any single journeys at the start or end of your trip if necessary. For example, to and from Heathrow airport.

If you do this then you won’t need to worry about topping up your card again. If there is money on your Oyster card at the end of your trip, you can get it back or keep it on your card for your next visit (it never expires).

Aim to have £10 or less of Pay as you go money on your card at the end of your trip and you can easily get a refund at an underground station ticket machine . Refunds are more complicated if you have more than £10 left on your card.

Where to buy an Oyster card

Oyster cards are available from the following outlets. You can usually top up your card as well.

Underground ticket machines

There are no longer any underground ticket offices. Oyster cards are available from ticket machines. The machines take notes (not £50 notes), coins and credit/debit cards.

Local shops and newsagents

Many newsagents and corner shops are licensed to sell London Transport tickets including Oyster cards. They normally have signs in the window saying ‘Oyster Ticket Stop’.

Find an Oyster Ticket Stop .

London train stations ticket machines

Oyster cards and oyster top-ups are available from ticket machines in London train stations

TfL Visitor Centres

Transport for London has several Visitor Centres at Heathrow, Victoria, Kings Cross/St Pancras International, Liverpool St & Piccadilly Circus.

How to use an Oyster card

Underground.

It’s important to touch in and out when using a PAYG Oyster card. Even if there’s no physical barrier or if the barriers are open, you still need to touch the yellow card reader when you enter and exit the station. If you don’t, the full cash fare (£4–£7) is deducted for your journey.

If you have a lot of luggage or are pushing a pushchair, station attendants will quite often push open the barrier for you. Do make sure you touch the yellow reader for the reason mentioned above. The attendants don’t always remind you to do it.

Place your card flat on the yellow card reader near the driver when you get on the bus. You do not need to touch out when you get off the bus.

How to check your Oyster card balance

If you want to check how much money you have on your Oyster card, there are several ways to find out:

From an underground station ticket machine

Place your card on the yellow card reader on a ticket machine and your remaining balance will flash up on the screen. This is the easiest way to check your balance.

Via an Oyster account online

If you register your card online with TfL , you can check how much money you have on your card.

Via the Oyster app

Check your balance on the official Oyster app. You will need to register your Oyster card. ( ios or android ).

On an underground station ticket barrier

When you place your card on the yellow card reader on a ticket barrier, the balance on your card flashes on the screen. When you arrive at your destination and touch out at a barrier, your remaining balance flashes on the screen along with the fare charged for that particular journey. This doesn’t work on all barriers.

How to get back unused money on your Oyster card

Anyone can get any unused money on your Pay as you go balance. See how to claim back unused money on a PAYG Oyster card .

The Visitor Oyster card

The Visitor Oyster Card is aimed at tourists — you might be offered one by a tour company or airline before you arrive.

The card comes pre-loaded with money and there’s a £5 fee (plus postage).

You can’t load a weekly Travelcard or Bus Pass to a Visitor Oyster, which makes it less flexible than the ‘ordinary’ Oyster. It can only be used as a Pay as you go card, and the ‘daily cap’ is still applied.

The Visitor Oyster Card is only worth buying if:

• You’re happy to pay for postage to your country and you can order it in advance
• You want to pay for your travel before you arrive
• You’re arriving after the tube stations have closed and can’t use a contactless card payment and want to use the night buses

Otherwise, just wait until you arrive in London and get an ordinary Oyster card from one of the places listed above.

Related pages

• Guide to London’s transport tickets & passes
• Oyster single tickets
• Oyster refunds
• Contactless cards
• London Transport zones

Last updated: 22 February 2024

Transport tickets & passes

• Guide to London's transport tickets
• One day & weekly Travelcards
• Zone 2–6 weekly Travelcards
• Bus tickets & passes
• Oyster card
• Oyster card refunds
• Child tickets & passes
• Local train tickets

Useful information

• Plan your journey
• London transport zones

Popular pages

• Left luggage offices
• Congestion Charge
• 2 for 1 discounts at London attractions
• Oyster cards
• Top free museums & galleries
• Cheap eating tips
• Heathrow to London by underground

Copyright 2010-2024 toptiplondon.com. All rights reserved. Contact us | Disclaimer | Privacy