travel safety london

Is London Safe For Tourists In 2024? What You Need To Know Before Visiting

Is London safe? When compared with other major cities, London is very safe. 

In fact, London is consistently in the top 10 safest cities to travel worldwide. 

But many tourists are concerned about London safety, mostly because they’ve never been here before and don’t know what to expect. 

How safe is London, really? What do you need to be careful of as a tourist? What should you look out for? 

As a woman who lives in London, I’ll tell you exactly how to stay safe in London using common sense precautions. 

Is London Safe? 

London is a very safe city overall. It’s consistently ranked in the top safest cities by Berkshire Hathawa y. 

But what does that really mean for tourists? 

It means that London is safer than many, many cities worldwide, but just as in any large city, you need to take sensible precautions. 

How Safe is London? 

London is currently ranked the #8 of the safest cities in the world. 

• Venice, Italy

London is the capital of the United Kingdom, which is ranked the #6th safest country in the world. 

• Switzerland
• Netherlands
• United Kingdom ⭐️
• New Zealand

Why You Should Feel Safe in London 

London is safe for lots of reasons, but here are some that you might not know about. 

As a tourist coming to visit London, rest assured you’ll be safe in this city for the following reasons. 

1. London Has Three Police Forces 

London has a robust police force that takes safety in the capital very seriously. Not only that, London actually has three separate police forces that together patrol every square inch of the city. 

The Metropolitan Police take care of the London metropolitan area – 32 boroughs in all. “The Met” currently employs over 34,000 officers and 10,000 support staff.

Police are always present in crowded areas, especially in more touristy parts of the city. 

The City of London Police is the second police force in London. They patrol the “square mile” of the City of London – London’s ancient centre and financial headquarters. 

The third police force is the British Transport Police , who specifically patrol buses and the Underground network. You will often see these officers at crowded stations, ensuring the safety of all passengers. 

2. Every Inch of London is Covered by CCTV Cameras 

London is surveilled by almost a million CCTV cameras . Chances are that no matter where you go, you’re on camera. 

Yes, it’s a little dystopian if you don’t live in a place where this is the norm. But in London, if a crime occurs, it’s usually been caught on camera. 

Personally, I don’t mind being surveilled because it makes me feel safer as a woman in London. 

3. Public Transport is on CCTV AND Has Its Own Police Force 

Travellers coming from other cities might not be used to public transport, and wonder if it’s safe. 

The answer is a resounding yes: London’s public transport network is one of the safest in the world. 

The London Underground , bus, and train network is patrolled by its own robust police force. 

There are also cameras covering most of the network, including on the top and lower levels of all London buses and on all tube carriages. 

The Most Common Crime in London 

Compared to other major cities worldwide, London’s crime rate is very low. 

However, there is one common crime that targets tourists and locals alike: phone theft. 

There are over 61,000 phone thefts reported to the Metropolitan Police every year. 

In a city of almost 9 million people, with 7.8 million tourists, that’s not particularly high. But not every phone theft is reported, so the number is likely much higher.

How to Protect Your Phone from Theft 

Keeping your phone safe is easy if you use sensible precautions. 

Most people will not have their phone stolen in London, but as a traveller it’s vital you keep it tucked away. Losing your phone while travelling could become really complicated. 

Use these common sense precautions:

1. Don’t stare at your phone, especially on street corners. Bicyclists  and motorcyclists can easily grab it from your hand and whizz away. 

2. If you need to look at directions, pull over and face a wall or a barrier. Keep your phone in both hands. 

3. Keep your phone zipped up in your purse or tucked out of sight in your front pocket when you’re not using it. 

4. Never set your phone down on a table at a restaurant or pub. 

5. Consider investing in a phone tether for travelling. That way your phone is easily accessible, yet tethered to your body. 

6. Be careful when taking photos. This is a prime time when you’re distracted. This is when having a phone tether around your wrist or neck is really good sense. 

Areas with the Most Theft 

If you’re going to have your phone taken, it will most likely happen in very touristy and crowded areas where thieves can slip away undetected. 

The London neighbourhoods with the most reported thefts are: 

1. Westminster: 36,754 Thefts in 2023

Westminster is the home of Big Ben, Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and many more tourist attractions.

It’s a prime tourist area where so many London visitors flock to take photos. Be extra vigilant with your phone in this borough. 

2. Camden: 9,914 Thefts in 2023

Camden is part residential area, part tourist destination.

The main attraction here is Camden Market, which can get quite packed and is prime territory for thieves amongst all the colourful distractions. 

3. Southwark: 7,864 Thefts Reported in 2023

Southwark is where you’ll go if you visit Borough Market.

I always advise tourists not to visit Borough Market on weekends as it gets shoulder-to-shoulder packed, and it’s very easy for pickpockets to slip by undetected. 

Is London Safe at Night? 

London is a very safe city to walk around in at night. 

If you’re walking Central London at night, most of the areas you will go have lots of people, lots of light, and everything is patrolled by police and CCTV cameras. 

7.8 million tourists visit us every year, and very, very few of them will ever be subjected to violent crime. 

However, just as in any major city, it’s important to take sensible precautions. 

While walking around London at night:

• Stay on well-lit streets
• Don’t use headphones or stare at your phone 
• Keep your valuables tucked away 
• Know where you’re going  
• Use black cabs if you need a lift – don’t ever get into an unmarked taxi, even if someone offers you a cheap fare. 

Is London Safe for Women? 

If you’re a female solo traveller, or having a girls weekend in London , you don’t need to worry about much. But I totally understand the worry.

Because we are women who simply exist in the world. everything can be more dangerous and scary for us. 

I advise all female travellers in London to take sensible precautions just as you would do in any other major city. 

To find out where to stay as a woman traveling to London, see my complete London neighborhood guide to find the perfect spot for you.

1. Know Your Emergency Numbers 

999 is the UK emergency number.  

If you’re on any of London’s transport networks and run into trouble, grab a member of staff or text British Transport Police at 61016.

Program this number into your phone in case you need it. It’s unlikely that you will, but it’s better to be prepared. 

2. Be careful with cocktails. 

Just as in any other place, cocktails and other alcoholic beverages can be drugged. Watch the bartender pour your drink and take it from them directly. 

Never drink anything that someone else has brought to you. 

3. Stay in Populated and Lit Areas 

This is common sense for any city. Stay where the action is. Don’t go wandering off to the dark corners and alleys. 

4. Choose a Black Cab 

In London I always prefer black cabs to Uber and other rideshares.

The drivers are thoroughly vetted and tested. They know London backwards and forwards, and have safety protocols they must follow. 

Rideshare drivers don’t know the streets as well, and could end up taking you on a circuitous route that can be worrying. 

I’ve had Uber drivers take me miles out of the way because that’s what Google Maps told them to do. If you know the direction you’re heading in, this can be alarming. 

There are several London apps you can use to get a black cab if you prefer an app to hailing one on the street.

5. Buddy Up 

It’s not always possible, but if you can, stay with a friend . Two pairs of eyes are always better than one, just to be extra cautious. 

Where Should I Not Go in London as a Woman? 

As a woman who lives in London, most of the areas I would not go at night are not within Central London. Everywhere in Central London is perfectly safe to visit for women traveling solo or in a group.

I often go – solo and with my family – to all Central London areas at night and have never had a problem. 

The worst thing that’s ever happened to me was phone theft (yes, even the most careful Londoners can have their phone snatched!).

If you want to know the areas not to visit, see my complete post on the safest and most dangerous areas of London here.

Keep in mind that most of the sketchy areas of London are not places you’d visit as a tourist anyway – they’re far on the outskirts and you’d have to make a concerted effort to get there. 

Legal Safety Devices in the UK 

As firearms are mostly illegal in the UK, so are many other “safety” devices. 

If you want to carry a safety device while visiting London, your best bet is a rape alarm. These are totally legal and make an ear-piercing screech when pressed. You’ll call attention to yourself from everyone with ears. 

Pepper spray is illegal in the UK, but spray dyes are not. These can not only temporarily blind your attacker, but they mark them with a semi-permanent coloured dye for easy identification. 

Knives are tricky business in the UK – many are illegal and you can get prosecuted for carrying them. Check the dimensions and legality of your safety knife before you travel. 

Personally, I don’t carry a personal safety device in London because I’ve never felt unsafe.

Is London Safe for BIPOC & LGBTQIA+ Travelers?

London is a dynamically diverse city with residents and tourists from all over the world. You’ll hear languages from all over the world walking down any London street, and meet people of all nationalities here.

Racism and homophobia exist everywhere, but it’s no worse in London than anywhere else. Hate crimes are relatively rare in London.

London has a huge LGBTQIA+ population and the city is perfectly safe for queer travelers. My queer and non-binary friends say they feel generally safe in all parts of London, but because I am a straight white woman, I cannot speak for how minorities feel here.

Use common sense just as you would anywhere else as a BIPOC or queer traveler, and you’ll have an enjoyable trip in our global city.

Common Tourist Scams in London 

Just like any other major city. London has its fair share of tourist scams. Be on the lookout for: 

1. Tuk Tuk Bikes 

This is the most well-known scam in London to locals, but many tourists are oblivious.

You’ll see brightly coloured pedicabs decorated with fairy lights and blaring music outside many West End venues. 

These scammers are well known for luring you  in with one price, then as soon as they drop you off, insist on 5x the fare. They can get quite aggressive if you refuse. 

Just avoid them. If you need a lift, hail a reputable black cab. 

2. Street Games 

You may see street gambling or guessing games, especially on busy Westminster Bridge and in other tourist-heavy areas. 

These guys are just straight up scammers. Don’t look, don’t play. Just walk right by and avoid them.

3. The Clear Cup Scam 

People will often sit on the pavement with a clear cup containing a few coins set in front of them, asking for money.

They use a clear cup so it’s less likely you’ll see it and knock it over. They’ll then kick up a huge fuss, saying their money was lost and you have to repay them. 

This is a common scam in Europe. If you do knock it over accidentally, just politely move along. 

4. Newspaper or Charity Donation Distraction 

You’re sitting outside on a beautiful restaurant patio in London. A “charity worker” or “tourist” suddenly approaches with a large clipboard, map, or paper and puts it on your table or waves it in front of your face. 

They’ve just distracted you, and will snatch your valuables before you’re any wiser. 

Never keep your phone on the table, and don’t put your handbag on the back of your chair when sitting outside. 

This doesn’t just happen in London, it happens all over, and it’s the oldest thief trick in the book. Just be aware of it and you’ll be fine. 

If they do approach you, stand up and call attention to yourself. They’ll quickly leave. 

5. Motorcyclists and Bicyclists on the Pavement 

If you’re walking on the sidewalk and a bicyclist or motorcyclist mounts the pavement, they’re coming for your phone or purse. 

Turn around so they can’t reach you, or pop behind a barrier. 

Sometimes you’ll see bicyclists or motorcyclists milling about, turning circles in the street. They’re waiting for an oblivious tourist with their head buried in their phone. 

Especially if there is a driver and a passenger on the bike, they are definitely thieves (one drives and one snatches). I’ve seen this happen way too many times.

Remain aware of your surroundings and you’ll be fine. 

Other London Safety Measures 

Here are some other common-sense measures to take when travelling in London and abroad. 

1. Keep your passports locked up

Don’t carry your passport in your purse. If you’re staying in a hotel, keep it in the safe. If you’re in an Airbnb , hide it somewhere (but remember where you stashed it). 

2. Keep copies of your passport in your email and luggage

Always keep scanned copies of your passport and other travel documents in your email (so you can access them even if your device is stolen), and paper copies in your luggage.  

3. Turn on Stolen Device Protection 

If you have an iPhone, Apple just rolled out a new safety feature called “Stolen Device Protection.” It offers you a second layer of protection if your device is stolen. 

4. Don’t Carry All Your Money in One Place 

If you regularly travel with multiple credit or debit cards, leave some in different places (i.e. leave one in your hotel safe or one stashed away, and carry the other one for use).

That way, if your wallet or phone (or both) are stolen, you won’t be stuck without any way to access money. 

If it makes you feel safer, keep some emergency pounds stashed away just in case.

5. Consider Travel Insurance 

My family just learned this the hard way. Our passports were stolen whilst travelling abroad, and it cost us thousands of pounds to get emergency passports, extend our hotel stay, and buy another flight home to London.

Had we been covered by travel insurance, we would have been better protected in such an emergency. 

Shop around and find the best travel protection for you.

Is London Safe Now?

With the various protests, demonstrations and national security issues in our world today, you may wonder if London is safe to visit today in 2024.

Protests in London are no different than in other major city. They very, very rarely get violent, and are heavily monitored by police.

Protests may block off small parts of the city, but they will hardly ever disrupt your visit.

London is massive and even if there is a protest on one block, it hardly ever disrupts travelers. Transport usually runs as normal, and unless you’re going to the specific street the protest is on, you don’t even notice its happening.

How Safe is London, Really? Final Thoughts 

Being from America , I feel much safer in London than I do travelling in most other parts of the world. 

If you’re coming to visit us here in the UK, take common sense precautions – just as you would anywhere else – but don’t worry too much about safety here. London is overall a very, very safe city. 

I think many people are intimidated by the sheer size and complexity of London , and are therefore worried about what the day-to-day will bring. 

Rest assured, you’re much safer in London than you are in other major cities. 

Keep an eye on your phone, use common sense, and enjoy your London travels! 

More on Visiting London

Common London Tourist Mistakes to Avoid

Safest Areas Of London: Here’s What the Data Says 

Is East London Dangerous?

Best Oyster Card Tourist Options To Save Money

Easy And Free Things To Do In London For Families

Where To Find Public Toilets In London

Is Tipping Required In The UK?

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Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to the United Kingdom.

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Is It Safe in London?

Betsie Van Der Meer / Getty Images

Considered by some to be the world's capital city, London is truly a place that offers something for everyone. While London is overall a safe place to visit, there are risks, neighborhoods, and scams to be aware of, just like when visiting any major city. London is one of the most visited cities in the world and by reading up on what to prepare for and taking some simple precautions, you can enjoy your trip just as well as the millions of other international travelers who visit each year.  

Travel Advisories

• The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" travel advisory for visitors to the U.K. Restrictions and advisories change frequently and quickly, so check for updates from the  U.S. State Department  as well as  local authorities .
• Prior to March 2020, the U.S. State Department advised visitors to the U.K. to "Exercise Increased Caution," but not to reconsider travel.

Is London Dangerous?

As with any major city, London experiences its share of crime, both violent and non-violent. Knife crimes are particularly troublesome in the city and are used to perpetrate robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides. The good news for travelers is that these violent crimes are mostly committed in the outer boroughs away from the touristic areas and are more often than not related to gangs. However, more crimes per capita occur in the popular and central Westminster and Camden neighborhoods than any other, although these are mostly petty theft or other tourist scams.

Some of the most common scams aside from pickpocketing include thieves who ride by on motorbikes and grab the bag or purse from an unsuspecting pedestrian on the sidewalk. If you're carrying a bag, keep it across your body and not dangling near the street. Another common scam includes street performers who distract passersby while an accomplice furtively steals your belongings.

London has experienced some high-profile terrorist attacks that, taken altogether, may give the impression that the city isn't safe to visit. However, the U.K. national government maintains an updated national threat level so you can stay alert to potential risks.

Is London Safe for Solo Travelers?

Lone travelers and backpackers embarking on Euro trips nearly always make an obligatory stop in the U.K. , and traveling solo around London carries the same risks as any other big city. In general, the constant crowds mean you'll hardly ever be alone and the biggest threat you should be concerned about is pickpockets. You should be hyperaware of your belongings and carry them in a safe place, especially when you're visiting popular landmarks or touristic areas.

If you're out at night and moving around the city alone, use common sense and avoid dimly lit streets with few people. Have your route planned out before you leave your accommodations, since being alone and lost in London can quickly become overwhelming. If you feel unsafe walking, don't hesitate to grab a night bus, a black cab , or another ride-sharing form of transportation.

Is London Safe for Female Travelers?

Women who live in London and visit are able to move around the city without major problems. Women walking around at night, especially when alone, should always take extra precautions, such as avoiding dark streets and trying to stay near areas with people at hand. Public transportation around London is considered to be safe overall, but night buses have a tendency to get rowdy, especially the double-decker buses. The rowdiness is usually light-hearted, but sitting on the lower level near the driver is always an option if it gets out of hand.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

London is a very progressive city and travelers across the LGBTQ+ spectrum should feel welcome. No city, not even London, is completely immune to homophobia and transphobia, and LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise normal precautions. However, taken as a whole, London is a place that celebrates sexual diversity instead of repressing it, and travelers can feel that from attitudes on the street all the way up to legal protections (the U.K. bans all types of discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity).  

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

By all measures, London is always near the top of the list for rankings of the most multicultural cities.   More than a third of London's residents were born outside of the U.K. and the diversity of the city is apparent from the shades of skin tone, the gamut of languages spoken, and the never-ending options of world cuisine.   And while for the vast majority of Londoners diversity is just a part of daily life, there are also several reported incidents of racism, Islamophobia, and anti-Semitism.

There is generally an uptick in hate crimes and intolerant acts following major newsworthy events. For example, immediately following the Westminster terrorist attack in 2017, hate crimes against Muslims in London surged.   In the week after the Brexit referendum, hate crimes in general across the city were nearly twice as high as usual.   If you're a BIPOC traveler in London, stay informed on local and global news. For emergency situations, dial 999 immediately from any phone, otherwise file a hate crime report for a non-emergency situation to notify the police of your experience.

Safety Tips for Travelers

• Public transit stations are one of the most common spots for theft, especially those with the most traffic such as King's Cross St Pancras and Victoria stations. Be extra vigilant of your surroundings when using public transit.
• Keep your travel documents, credit cards, and cash in a safe location, and consider using a money belt when walking around the city so they are less accessible.
• Be careful when crossing the street. If you're accustomed to cars driving on the right side of the road, it's easy to step in front of moving traffic.
• Walking while listening to headphones makes you less aware of what's going on around you, so consider pausing the music while you navigate the city.
• More and more bars and restaurants around London are installing anti-theft clips underneath tables, so you can safely secure your bag and make it much harder for someone to steal.
• When using an ATM—or cashpoint as they're called in the U.K.—make sure you're in a safe location and no one is hovering nearby.

CNN Travel. "The most visited cities in the world 2019." Published Dec. 3, 3019. Retrieved Jan 4, 2021.

U.S. Department of State. " United Kingdom Travel Advisory. " July 19, 2021.

U.S. Department of State. " United Kingdon Travel Advisory. " August 6, 2020.

Evening Standard. "London knife crime hits record high with more than 15,000 offences in a year." Published Jan 23, 2020. Retrieved Jan 4, 2021.

Verisure. "How safe is Camden - Crime statistics for Camden London." Retrieved Jan 4, 2021.

Citizens Advice. "Discrimination because of sexual orientation." Retrieved Jan 4, 2021.

World Atlas. "The most diverse cities in the world." Retrieved Jan 4, 2021.

London Data Store. "Londoners born overseas, their age and year of arrival." Published 2013. Retrieved Jan 4, 2021.

TellMAMA. " The Importance of Narrative in Responding to Hate Incidents Following ‘Trigger’ Events. " November 2018.

Greater London Authority. " Tackling hate crime and intolerance. " 2020.

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Is London safe to visit? A comprehensive safety guide

London is an ageless city with endless stories and an unforgettable charm. It is the capital of England and home to many major landmarks that are known around the world. Westminster Abbey , Big Ben and Buckingham Palace are some of the places that attract people from all over the globe, and it is one of the most popular European cities to travel to.

Overall about 30 million people get to know London each year, making it the third most visited city in the whole world! Considering that London also has a population density of over 9.5 million it can get quite crowded, especially during the spring and summertime when tourism spikes. The winter months can be busy, too as locals and travelers enjoy the Christmas festivities and wonderful spirit.

When traveling in a big city or somewhere unfamiliar it is extra important to be safe and aware of your surroundings. It can also be harder to keep track of your belongings in a busy city, so make sure that your things are safe in a London luggage storage location while you're out enjoying the attractions. Bounce has several spots located all around town for your convenience, so drop your bags and go have fun.

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Is London safe to visit right now?

Yes, most areas in London are safe to visit and the United Kingdom ranks with a Global Peace Index of 33. London has a similar or lower rate of crime than other popular European cities, and most of the incidents take place in rural areas. The government cautions to be on alert while traveling to the city and keep an eye out for suspicious behavior in places with big groups like sporting events, street markets, music venues, celebrations and political events.

As a tourist, the most common petty crime that you could experience is thievery in terms of pickpocketing, purse snatching and the like. You should also beware of mugging, although the chances of that happening around tourist attractions with crowds are very low.

Keep reading to learn about how to be safe in London, and remember that the safety of you and your items is your responsibility. The safety tips that we will mention may be familiar to people who have previous experience traveling. If you are new to the wanderlust life, be sure to use these points to your advantage.

Top petty crimes and scams in London affecting tourists

Even the safest cities experience some sort of crime and, as a major city, London is no different. Below are a few crimes to watch out for and some advice for staying safe in London.

Bag stealing and pickpocketing

This is the most common petty crime in London and should be taken seriously. The best way to protect yourself is by not bringing any unnecessary belongings with you, especially expensive valuables, and using a Bounce luggage locker is a great way to protect your items. Keep your wallet close and have an extra strong hold on your passport and mobile phone when you are using them, as some thieves might try to snatch them and run.

Mugging and assault may happen in some parts of the city, although the frequency decreases in highly populated areas. The best way to protect yourself from these dangers is to be mindful of your surroundings, not wear flashy clothing or expensive accessories, and not travel alone in rural areas.

Spiked drinks and food

As long as you're careful and use common sense, spiked drinks and food won't be a danger. However, it is still important to be aware of it so you are more careful. When you are out at a restaurant, club or bar you should never leave your drink unattended or in the care of a stranger, and do not accept drinks or food from new acquaintances. This includes snacks, gum and even cigarettes.

ATM and credit card fraud

If possible, it is wise to use cash when paying for things in London. ATM frauds are not too common but they do happen, and the risk is higher when you are using your credit card. To be safe, cover the keypad when you're entering your PIN and stick to using ATM machines that are inside buildings or banks. Cybercrimes can also occur, so be smart when connecting to public wi-fi networks. As a side note, be wary of fake tickets and scammers when buying entry to various attractions.

Is London safe to travel alone

As a top tourist destination and exciting city, many people will want to travel to London alone. Luckily it has a good safety rating, with a 26 on the Bounce Women Travel Safety Index . This trendy destination is a very safe city for cautious solo travelers, and even women traveling on their own should feel secure. However, the best way to make sure that you have a good vacation is to be careful and use common sense.

There are still some areas in the city that should be avoided, whether you are traveling alone or not. Be extra cautious when using public transit while traveling solo and at night. The bus station, train stations and underground tube stations have a higher risk of being dangerous for solo travelers, and you should also avoid walking around by yourself in the dark. It is best to stick to well lit main roads and highly populated areas since all the lights and people will discourage muggers from striking.

Safest neighborhoods in London

When you visit London, do some research before booking a hotel to decide which neighborhood is the best for you. Overall, anywhere in central London will be fine and West London has a good reputation as well. Below are some of the safest places to stay in this great city, as well as some areas where extra caution is wise.

Richmond Upon Thames

Located right by the River Thames, this delightful London neighborhood is not only beautiful but also a safe place to stay. It has the lowest reports of common crime than anywhere else in the city.

Harrow is a pretty borough ranked as the second safest London neighborhood, and it is rare that inhabitants in the area report non urgent crime occurring here.

You can feel safe while staying in Bexley as it is another one of the best neighborhoods in the city for safety. Consider staying here during your trip to experience its uniqueness.

As with all big cities, some neighborhoods in London are not as safe. Caution should be heightened when spending time in Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea, and Camden. They are listed as experiencing more street crime than others, so always visit in a group.

Is London public transportation safe?

Sometimes violent crime can occur while using public transportation. For London travel, this often happens when using unlicensed taxis which is why you should always be street wise and never enter a suspicious vehicle. Real taxis will be clearly labeled, and the black cabs are safe to use.

Additionally, crimes like pickpocketing and scamming can occur on public transit and in stations like King's Cross. Thieves will take advantage of the busyness of the crowded places to get away with the crime unnoticed, and you'll be a bigger target if you are distracted or look like you don't know where you're going.

To be safe, avoid wearing headphones or looking at maps so you can be more aware of your surroundings and take the usual precautions when it comes to your belongings. This includes leaving valuables in a luggage locker, not carrying lots of money on you and keeping your passport in a secure pocket. Greater caution should be taken at night time, and if you run into trouble while using the public transit services you can contact Transport For London to report a crime.

Important emergency numbers in London

Like all major cities, London provides emergency services that can connect you to the local police station or other professionals that will help you. Write them down or keep them in your emergency contacts during your trip.

• Main emergency number (police, fire department, ambulance): 999 or 112
• Non urgent crime: 101
• Non emergency medical number: 111

For the main emergency numbers you can use 999 anywhere from within the city and 112 from anywhere around the world. You will be directed to the same call center, so both numbers ultimately lead to the same place. These numbers should be used when a real emergency is happening, and the number for non urgent crime is best used to report a previous incident. When using your phone in a foreign city remember to be aware of your embassy number.

Preparing for a safe London vacation

Brick Lane, Trafalgar Square, Notting Hill, and places in the West End like Covent Garden and Leicester Square; all of these spots are waiting for you to discover. This is a huge city and crime definitely exists, but as long as you are careful and follow these London safety tips then you are going to be fine.

The best way to ensure safety in London is to be prepared, so check out these other guides on How to Get Around London and Where to Stay in London: The Ultimate Guide . Once you know how to navigate London and its different areas you will be ready to explore this amazing city.

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Is London Safe to Visit? Safety Tips for All Travelers [2024]

London, England in the United Kingdom is one of the most famous and recognizable cities worldwide, attracting millions of travelers every year. In this post w review London's safety for solo travelers & helpful safety tips for all travelers to know!

It is easy to get distracted and feel out of place when you travel somewhere new which can be particularly relevant in big cities worldwide. While being distracted might mean you take a wrong turn somewhere, it can also mean you might fall victim to common scam tactics or even theft while traveling.

We've already discussed whether  Paris is a safe city , but what about another famous European capital just across the Channel? London is a big, bustling city full of people year-round, but is it safe?

Is it safe to travel to London?

If you're thinking about traveling to London, the first thing you should know is that it's big. With over 8 million people spread out over 1,500 km

The other thing to know is that London is a sprawling city. Made up of 32 boroughs, you could find yourself in areas of London with different vibes and different levels of safety. Due to its size, you'll sometimes find yourself in large crowds when you'll need to be aware of your surroundings, and you may feel overwhelmed by people. 

Overall, London is a statistically safe place to travel. Although London is still home to more violent crimes, the most common crimes are opportunistic crimes. According to the  Crime Rate Index , the United Kingdom ranks 64th globally for crime rates. As London is the largest city in the country, it's not surprising that it would have higher crime rates than other, smaller cities. 

Where should I avoid in London?

While there are plenty of beautiful and amazing places to visit in London, if safety is a priority for you, there are some parts you may wish to avoid. Much of London is considered safe, and you're likely to feel the same way as you wander around, but as tourists frequent some areas, they can be hot spots for theft.

Even though you may not wish to avoid them completely, be extra vigilant and aware of your surroundings when visiting popular tourist destinations like Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus, or even walking down Oxford Street. These are some of the areas where pickpocketing can be rife.

Is London safe at night?

By night, as by day, much of London is safe, but as the sun sets, it's also essential to be more aware of your surroundings and remain on well-lit streets.

Areas in central London such as the West End or South Bank stay well-lit until the early hours and will allow you to feel more safe navigating in the dark. However, some areas like Camden and Shoreditch don't stay lit in the same way. With many dark, un-lit alleys, these areas should be navigated with caution at night. 

One element that helps London be safer at night is night public transport. Night buses run seven days a week, and there are night tube and overground services on select lines running through the night on Friday and Saturday nights. This means that you can party until the early hours on the weekend and still have a reliable way to get home. 

Areas outside of central London, such as Elephant & Castle, Lewisham, and Peckham, can have higher crime rates, and this statistic remains true at night. These areas, however, don't tend to have loads of tourist things to view, but it's important to keep them in mind when deciding where to go at night. 

Another thing to be aware of at night in London (and the UK) is the drinking culture. Especially during the summer, pubs, clubs, and bars can be very crowded, and the later into the night you go, the more alcohol everyone has consumed. Late-night journeys back to your accommodation can therefore be rowdy and unsafe. 

Safe places to stay in London

If you're looking to stay in a safe place in London, sticking to central London is the way to go.

Areas like Russell Square, King's Cross, South Kensington, Notting Hill, or even Westminster are well-lit, well-connected parts of the city. They are popular with tourists, but they're easy to access both on foot and by public transport, while also allowing you to be near the must-see spots of London. 

If you're still feeling overwhelmed trying to find a place to stay in London, check out what we ranked as the  top five hostels in London ! We highly recommend  Wombat's City Hostel . Located just next to Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, you're in a well-connected area and on a safe street for any late-night returns. 

Is London dangerous for tourists?

When traveling to any new place, you're usually at a disadvantage compared to locals because you do not know your way around and may potentially stick out in a crowd. This could put you at risk for pickpocketing, mugging, or scams directed at tourists.

When talking about safety in London, terrorism and knife crime are often mentioned. The average Londoner goes about their day with little to no thoughts about terrorism, and as tourists, you can rest assured that if they aren't concerned, you don't need to be either.

You may notice precautions in place like barriers on bridges or limited bins in some areas, but there should be little impact on your travels. While knife crime statistics have risen in recent years, these tend to be isolated to certain areas of London and can be gang-related, so it's unlikely to impact tourists. 

Tips for staying safe in London

To help make your time in London safer and go smoothly, here are some nice tips to make you feel more at ease:

• Always know where your purse/bag/backpack is. Never leave it unattended, and always place bags between your legs at restaurants
• Avoid putting your phone in your back pocket
• Be aware of any events during your visit (like Notting Hill Carnival, any Royal celebrations, etc.)
• Plan your routes in advance
• Blend in (use your phone to map yourself rather than a paper map)

Is London safe for solo travelers?

Since London is a safe place to travel, it is especially for solo travelers. However, as you're traveling alone, you need to be extra cautious and vigilant with your things when you're out and about. You'll want to always keep hold of your belongings and be mindful of who you ask me to take your picture with if you want some solo pics for your Instagram grid. 

When you're getting around London, stick to the lower level of the buses to be closer to the driver and other passengers, especially at night. It also means you're closer to the exit for when your stop comes or if you no longer wish to remain on the bus.

Train stations can also be crowded, so be aware of potentially crowded hours if you're headed on a  day trip  or passing through. 

Keep calm and head to London!

The best part of traveling is being open and free while you explore new destinations. Don’t let the fear of being a part of a crime ruin your trip! All you have to do is remember to stay alert and cautious. While you're planning, check out our guide to 14 Iconic London Landmarks you must see on your next trip!

If you're thinking about heading to London for your next trip, use Pilot to better help you plan your trips!

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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Is London Safe? 23+ London Safety Tips for Visitors (2024)

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Having grown up in America, I know first hand the type of coverage that makes it onto local and national news about places around the world.

If you’re asking, “Is London safe,” “Is London safe to travel?” “Is London safe for female students” or even “Is Central London safe?”, it might be because you, too, have seen the news stories and the articles over the years about “no go zones” and knife crime and terrorist attacks and whatever else.

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I’ve also lived in or near London as an American for roughly the past 7 years, and I’ve experienced walking through the city as a solo woman late at night, commuting on the tube every day, and just generally going about my life in this amazing city that so many people call home.

The first thing I want to tell you before we get into safety tips for London (especially if you’re a parent of a London study abroad student because you’re probably freaking out the most) is that, in my experience, London not only feels safe, but is safe.

Of course, everywhere has their problems and you’ll still want travel insurance when in the UK .

It’s a big city, and you have to take big city precautions as you go around town, but did you know that in 2018, the murder rate in London went to an all-time high and New York City’s murder rate hit a low?

Now you’re like, wait, what?!

I am even more terrified!

Maybe, until I tell you that that means that there were 289 murders in New York City last year and 134 in London.

A “high crime” period in London has nothing on many major US cities like New York City, Chicago, Los Angeles and others.

And maybe you’re now thinking, “Okay, but I am scared of this cities as well!”

Seriously, don’t worry.

London is an incredibly safe city and there are no such thing as “no go zones,” nowhere you could find yourself as a tourist in London that would be too terrifying to deal with, no reason that you shouldn’t feel safe and happy traveling here.

To put it in perspective, my British husband is terrified to go to America because he worries about guns, as guns are very hard to get access to in the UK and he did not grow up in a culture of shooting drills or gun crime.

But this article isn’t to teach you about London gun crime and murders because that’s not the sort of thing you need to worry about.

Instead, you’re wondering, “Is London safe?” because you want to know about your bag being stolen or walking in the dark by yourself.

So here are 23 London safety tips to keep in mind, including safety in central London and answering the question of, “is London safe at night?”

The Absolute Must-Knows (from a Londoner)

• 😍 Cheapest Way to See it All: Get the London Pass here (yes, it’s worth it)
• 🎭 Cheapest site for West End theatre tickets: London Theatre Direct
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London Safety Tips

1. how to be safe in london: keep your phone in your pocket.

One of the most prevalent crimes that happens in London are people riding up alongside pedestrians on their mopeds, snatching their phones out of their hands, and then continuing on their journey so you never see your phone again.

They aren’t out to injure you, but they also aren’t going to be gentle either.

The best way to combat this?

Simply don’t have your phone waving about as you walk along on the sidewalk.

If you do need to look at directions, go off to the side or closer to the building.

I carry my phone with me in London every day, but I just try to be aware of my surroundings and keep it closer to my body.

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2. London Safety: Mind the Gap

For your physical safety in London when you’re traveling around London , you should take note of the “mind the gap” announcements in tube stations and when stepping on and off the tube.

At some stations, there are major gaps in between the platform and the train and your foot (or your entire body in a few cases) could easily fall in there if you’re not careful.

IMPORTANT: are you coming to the UK from abroad?

In case you’re reading this from outside the UK and will be a foreign visitor here, you need to know these 2 things to stay safe and save money.

• Travel insurance – you need it when going overseas! I use this site to get the best quotes and purchase my packages from. Do not skip this – having medical coverage abroad as well as other coverage in case of missed flights, lost luggage, etc is essential. As I said, I have never gone wrong using this site .
• International debit cards without fees – do not get stuck paying extortionate foreign fees when using your card abroad (and the UK is almost all card these days). I use the Wise debit and travel card which you can apply and learn more about here .

3. How to Stay Safe in London: Don’t Bring or Carry Valuables if Not Necessary

The first way to not lose valuables or get them stolen from you in London is to leave them at home.

As someone who walks around London every day, I have never had anything stolen from me or pickpocketed.

That doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen, but just that there is not more of a risk than any other big city.

But still – really weigh up what you need to take with you to London and don’t take anything valuable that you don’t absolutely need.

Your finest jewelry can stay home, for instance.

4. Leave Your Passport in Your Hotel Room or Accommodation

Let’s talk about safety in London when it comes to your passport.

I know that it can feel scary to leave your passport behind when you’re out touring, but I truly think this is the best option.

You should be staying somewhere where you trust that your belongings will be safe there, anyway, and the chances of you either losing your belongings while out or getting them stolen are much higher than someone breaking into your accommodation and stealing your passport.

Both chances are very small, of course, but I just think taking your passport out with you is asking for trouble when you don’t need it.

5. Forget the Money Belts

Hey, look, a London safety tip telling you to not be safe?!

I feel like there is a thing where all Americans feel like they need “ money belts ” to travel anywhere in Europe to keep your money tucked away safely.

If this really floats your boat, you’re welcome to do it, but London just isn’t the place where you need something like this.

I carry my wallet around everyday in my backpack and purse and have had no issues or even the slightest instance where something could have been taken from me.

I’m probably tempting fate here, and I don’t recommend you keep valuables in outer pockets of backpacks, but there is a balance being sensible and feeling like you need to strap everything with duct tape to your skin while having 18 layers of protection over you.

6. Is London Safe? Yes, but be Aware of Where Your Belongings Are

Obviously the caveat that comes with Tip 5 is to make sure that you know where your belonging are at all times.

Particularly when on public transportation, carry your bag or backpack in your front so you can see it, and if you’re in a busy or crowded area, pay extra attention.

I wouldn’t leave wads of cash sticking out of your back pocket, you know?

7. Take Note of Serial Codes

If something does get stolen, the police will have a much easier time tracking it down if you can provide them with pictures and serial codes of the items (say laptops or phones or tablets) that were taken.

Without that, they may never be able to recover your item because this is a big city where lots of things get misplaced or go missing, not some rural town in Kentucky where there is only one theft a month.

The more information you can provide about your items, the better.

8. Plan Your Transportation Ahead of Time

London runs on public transportation, and when people want to get places faster than that, they take a cab or an Uber.

The best way to make sure you’re not stranded somewhere or unsure how to get home after a night out is to make sure that you have written down your plan to get home ahead of time.

This is a really important tip for staying safe in London.

Take a look at the maps, do some searching on CityMapper and Google Maps, and really figure out the best way to get home so you’re not left at 3am wondering which bus to take and then you end up on a bus that takes you to the opposite side of the city.

9. Don’t Leave Your Phone on an Outside Café Table

This is more prevalent in countries in mainland Europe because London isn’t often nice enough to actually sit outside at tables, but let’s say that the sun is shining and you’re enjoying a pint at the pub or a coffee at the coffee shop outdoors while browsing Instagram.

Make sure that you have your phone in your hands while on the table (if outside) at all times, or be aware of your surroundings.

Sometimes moped thieves will spot a phone lying on a table, drive up on the sidewalk to the table, swipe the phone, and then go on their way.

10. Put The Straps of Your Bag through the Chair at Pubs and Restaurants

I’ve never had a problem with things being taken or feeling like I was in danger of getting my belongings stolen in London, but I always like to be extra sure and participate in London travel safety by putting one of the straps of my backpack through my chair legs when I’m sitting down at pubs or restaurants.

That way, if somewhere were to come up and attempt to take it, they’d be foiled by the extra security!

Perhaps a bit overkill, especially if you’re in a brightly lit Pizza Express or something, but it’s not harming anything.

11. Don’t Run for Trains or Tubes

The number of times I have seen people absolutely wipe out while running to catch a closing train or tube is insane.

On the regularl, people are just slamming up against doors, getting their belongings and LIMBS caught in the doors, and it’s just not safe and not a good look.

Honestly the biggest threat to London being safe for tourists is the danger of THEMSELVES.

So plan your route ahead of time to give you enough time to not have to rush like that.

I’ve seen a woman really hurt herself wiping out on a slippery floor while running for a train and it’s not a great way to spend your vacation.

12. Carry Water with You in the Summer

London wasn’t built for extreme heat, or really heat at all and some safety in London has to do with the weather!

The tubes can get very hot, there isn’t air conditioning in 95% of buildings, and the sidewalks and roads just seem to radiate heat.

It can be easy to get dehydrated quickly, particularly when you have a long tube journey, so carry a bottle of water with you in the summer – a reusable one like this is best, if it’s going to be hot outside.

13. Take Note of Touristy-Heavy Areas and Be More Careful

In every city, there are certain areas that are more touristy-heavy that are frequented more often by people who are up to no good.

That’s because they know the vast majority of people in that area aren’t going to be on their guard watching their belongings, and it can be quite confused and manic.

Some areas like this for London include Covent Garden, Leicester Square, Borough Market , and the area around Westminster and Trafalgar Square.

These are coincidentally some of the must-do places in London, so I’m by no means advocating for avoiding them, just be aware when you might be in a busier area.

14. Write Down the Emergency Number

Did you know that the emergency number in the UK is not 911, but 999?

I say to write it down because it can be easy to forget if you’re in the midst of an emergency and keep dialing the US emergency number.

15. Carry a Tube Map with You

The tube is the best way to get around London in many cases ( check out the guide to transportation in London for more information ), but many people rely on tube maps on their phone.

This is fine, until your phone dies and you want to check the tube route without actually being in a tube station to check!

There are paper tube maps available in all tube stations and train stations that have a tube station, so pick a few up and carry them with you.

16. Carry a Portable Phone Charger with You

To make sure that the aforementioned phone dying doesn’t happen, carry a portable phone charger like this with you to ensure that you’re always ready to go.

Looking up directions and other touristy-things can really drain a battery, and these portable phone chargers are so small that you can fit them into a tiny clutch or purse if that’s all you’re carrying.

17. Make Sure You Have a Phone that Works in the UK

For your own personal safety in being able to call emergency services and for the ability to look up directions, make sure that your phone actually works in the UK before you come.

You can get an international plan, or you can get a UK sim card when you get here (pay as you go) to put into your phone for your trip, which will only cost about 10 pounds.

I recommend the sim card provider called Three.

18. Try to Walk in Pairs in the Middle of the Night

I first started this tip with “walk in pairs after dark,” which is absolutely absurd because it gets dark so early in London for much of the fall and winter that it isn’t accurate.

To be honest, I feel much safer walking as a solo woman in London at night , up until about midnight, than I do walking in my local neighborhood.

If you’re not purposefully taking back alleys and are sticking to actual streets, London is very safe to walk around.

Especially in busy districts where the theater shows and restaurants let out late, you’re going to be around other people and not aimlessly wandering the empty streets.

When the streets are empty, however, in the middle of the night – you shouldn’t really have a reason to be out anyway, but if you are, bring a buddy with you.

19. Avoid Dimly Lit Parks or Squares at Night

One place I would avoid after dark is dimly lit parks.

It’s not that they’re a breeding ground for crime or anything – many are locked up anyway so you can’t access them, it’s just that it’s never really a great idea to be in a dimly lit area by yourself when it’s dark and there aren’t other people around, is it?

20. Put Copies of Your Passport in Multiple Places in your Luggage

If something does happen to your passport while in London, whether you lose it or you’re carrying it around and your bag gets stolen, having full picture copies of your passport will help you get a new one from the US embassy.

21. Don’t Wear Earphones All the Time

We live in a culture that seems to have us always plugged in, and I fully walk to and from work with my earphones all the way in, but if you’re a visitor to London, I would try to at least keep one out so you are aware of what’s going on around you, particularly traffic.

22. Look Both Ways

How safe is London for tourists, really?

Well, so safe that one of the most dangerous things for visitors to London is that they’re not used to cars driving on the left side of the road!

Seriously, you need to look both ways before crossing since you’re not used to knowing where the traffic is coming from.

There are helpful signs on the roads that will tell you which way to look, but you can never be too safe.

23. Only Get in Prebooked Ubers, Black Cabs or Preorganized Taxis

When deciding which kind of transport to take, make sure you’re not getting in just any unmarked black car that offers to take you home.

You should either prebook an Uber or a transfer with a company like Welcome Pickups , or you should get in a “Marked” black cab which is a London cab that looks very distinct, has a light on the top and will have licenses displayed.

Terrorism in London

One of the key points I want to talk about when discussing London safety tips is terrorism in London, because I think that’s what many Americans fear.

Yes, London has had terrorist attacks, notably the incident on the tube in July of 2007 and in recent years there were incidences of van-led terrorist attacks on bridges/populated areas in Europe.

I will not downplay these incidences.

They happened, and there is no denying that.

But what I do want to address is that, first and foremost, London has gone to incredible lengths to react to these threats and keep its residents and visitors safe.

For instance, you may notice that there is hardly anywhere to throw anything away on the tube or in tube or train stations.

This isn’t to be annoying, this is because it makes it much easier for police to patrol unattended baggage in the area and deal with any threats straight away.

You also may notice bollards along the roads in heavily populated areas and bridges.

This is not for aesthetic, this is to prevent vehicles from coming onto the sidewalks.

Sure, something could happen while you’re in London and I can’t guarantee it won’t, just like I can’t guarantee that you’re not going to get hit by a bus when walking across the street tomorrow.

That is the nature of traveling, but I can absolutely assure you that facing any fears you have and coming to London is so worth it.

I also want to reiterate that the “London is in panic!” media coverage on some American networks after these events that reaches American media outlets is just not accurate.

When the Westminster bridge attack happened, the whole city did NOT shut down.

I was at work, and despite some of my coworkers taking a way home that avoided that area, we all went about our days and our lives.

Clearly Londoners thoughts were with the victims of the attack, but after living in the UK for 7 years, I’ve learned that Americans tend to sensationalize things that are happening overseas when really “on the ground” it feels a lot different (and less intense!)

London Safety Overall

Now that I’ve just gone through a bunch of ways to protect yourself in London, I want to reiterate again that the biggest dangers to most tourists will be the traffic patterns and their phones dying while they’re trying to figure out directions to the next attraction.

I spend every day in central London, not just in one part of the city where I work but all across it.

I will say, with no hesitation, that all of central London (Zones 1-2), I would walk around by myself during the day and not think twice.

The vast majority of that I would also walk around by myself well into the late night.

Do be aware of your surroundings, and do take caution, and do have a plan, but do not worry about traveling to London in terms of your personal safety.

This is a thriving, wonderful, safe city and its residents pride themselves on that.

Want more London travel guides? Check these out!

• The Definitive London Packing List for Visitors
• A Full Guide to Oyster Cards in London for Dummies
• Getting around London: Everything a Visitor Needs to Know
• Weather in London: a Visitor’s Guide
• The Best Time to Visit London: a Local’s Guide
• London on a Budget: How to Save Money in London
• Money in the UK: How to Pay for Things in London
• Exactly How Many Days to Spend in London: an Expert Guide
• How to Use the Tube in London: a Guide for Newbies
• What to Wear in London (How to Dress Like a Londoner)
• British Pub Etiquette: the must-read guide
• 49+ Expert London Travel Tips
• Visiting London with Anxiety: the ultimate guide

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink .

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

Grab my book which covers moving to the UK, struggles I faced and that you might face too, and uplifting advice to help you along the way! Available in hard copy and on Kindle.

3 thoughts on “Is London Safe? 23+ London Safety Tips for Visitors (2024)”

A delightful thing I learned from a recent first aid course is that if you dial 911 in the UK, then you will get put through to the 999 switchboard automatically. A helpful thing for overseas visitors who might go on autopilot in an emergency, and also for kids who may never have had cause to dial 999 but see people dialling 911 on TV or in films. 🙂

Fantastic tips!!! I lived and worked in London from 88 to 96 and loved it. I am taking my youngest niece to go and meet my half-sister and family for the first time. Your tips are therefore great, as I don’t always remember what to tell her about safety etc. 🙂 Thank you for telling about them. 🙂

I also find that if you look confident and don\t look too much of a tourist, you are not a completely obvious target.

Pickpockets have never taken anything from me in London, though they managed it in Paris, when I was much younger. To be safe in crowded places I normally use my shoulder bags as cross body bags, so that I feel more secure. I have also been known to carry my notes and cards in my bra…mostly while plane traveling etc. I probably am getting more and more paranoid the older I get. 😀

\Thanks so much for your great advice again. 🙂

Great read! Would you say West London (isleworth) is safe to walk from the bus station back home after dark?

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Everything you need to know before you go to London in 2024

Mar 10, 2024 • 7 min read

Make the most of your trip to London with these expert tips © FilippoBacci / Getty Images

Even though I was born and raised in London, I’ve been caught out without a brolly (umbrella) in the rain countless times. I’ve felt the scorn of others when not noticing there’s a queue, and I’ve made the costly error of driving into the city. But as a local, I’ve made these mistakes so you don’t have to; I hope my experience and top tips help inspire a smooth and memorable trip to the UK capital.

1. Know your Tube etiquette

One easy way to annoy commuters is to not follow these very easy rules when traveling around on London’s Underground. Get your ticket, bank card or smart phone ready before you reach the ticket barriers so you don’t create a queue. Stand on the right when using escalators so passengers wanting to walk can pass. Let passengers off the train first (stand to either the right or left of the doors) before you board. Offer your seat to someone who may need it more, such as a pregnant person, an elderly person, someone who is disabled and so on. And definitely don't try to strike up conversations with the locals (if you want to blend in). 

2. Skip the car

London ’s roads are small, its traffic is chaotic, and there’s hardly anywhere to park. Plus, you’ll be charged for driving your car in to the center of London – the congestion charge is £15 a day, while the separate ULEZ charge starts from £12.50 and only certain energy efficient or electric cars are exempt. The best way to get around is on public transport (although check on the TFL website or app for information on industrial action and weekend engineering works). Use the Tube, hop on a bus, or rent a bike or e-bike if in the center of the city; cycle maps, highlighting designated paths for bikes, can be downloaded online.

3. Bring layers (and a raincoat)

London’s weather is changeable – temperatures have been known to rise and fall by 20°C in a matter of days. Showers can happen any time of year so pack a brolly (umbrella) or raincoat in your day bag and wear layers that you can easily take off. In summer, always carry a bottle of water on the Tube (the deep tunnels were built before air-conditioning). And while the climate may be mercurial, don’t let bad weather put you off going about your day – simply switch to more indoor-based activities, there are hundreds of them to choose from.

4. Opt for comfort over fashion when it comes to shoes

Most people cover a lot of ground when exploring London, plus different terrains: grass in the many green spaces, long Tube escalators, slippery pavements and even cobblestones. Museums require leg work, as do bridges, boats and parks. Heels are pretty pointless in London, unless you are getting a door-to-door cab to a venue. 

5. Make reservations for top restaurants

While there are plenty of terrific places to eat that welcome walk-ins (although be prepared to queue for the best joints), many of the best restaurants are booked up weeks in advance, especially new ones or those run by celebrity chefs. More restaurants have adopted booking policies and deposits since the pandemic, so if you’re looking for a unique dining experience, you will need to book ahead.

6. Do as the Londoners do and go to a supper club

Embed yourself in London life with a dinner party with locals; a supper club is a superb way to try home-cooked local food from London’s diverse community. These are locally run endeavors, taking place in people’s homes or taking over whole restaurants – try The Bridge Club  serving British eats made with French cooking techniques in South London, Dinner Ladies putting on immersive food experiences, or Indian street food run out of local chef Dhruv Mittal’s flat.

7. Know how to order at a pub

There are unspoken rules when visiting a pub. One person – not a whole group – should go to the bar. Stand anywhere and wait your turn. If someone was waiting before you, it’s polite to signal for the bar staff to serve them first if they come over to you. When you go back to your table with the drinks, you just bought "a round". Now everyone at the table owes you a drink throughout the evening, each person has a turn at buying a round. Last orders are when the bell rings, and from this moment you have 20 minutes to finish your drink.

8. Go to a football game

Football rivalries run high in the city, with 17 football clubs, including seven Premier League teams and four Women’s Super League Teams. Giant temples to "The Beautiful Game" sit around London and are great places to feel the collective energy of the city, as locals congregate (come rain or shine) to watch their heroes on the field. You'll need to book tickets far in advance for Premier League Games, but women’s and lower league men’s games are usually easier to come by – and arguably far more fun to watch. Visit local team websites to book.

9. Be polite and embrace the art of queueing

Londoners (and British people alike) are big on manners, and not having any will get you into trouble. Say "please" and "thank you", and apologize if you bump into someone. Don’t stare at people on the Tube, and hold a door open for people behind you when you walk through one. Let people pass, and be sure to help people in need (people with buggies at the top of stairs, older people crossing the road etc). If there is a queue to the attraction you want to visit or a stall you want to buy from, join it – you’ll might not get into a confrontation if you skip the line, but you will be judged. 

10. Make a plan, but don't go overboard

London is massive, so getting from one side to the other takes a couple of hours in a car (and that's if there is light traffic). Riding the Tube is quicker, but journey times can still be long if attractions are on either side of the city. Minimize travel times by exploring by neighborhood – do a day in Central London, another day in West London and so on. Plan on spending at least a few hours in the big museums and galleries, as there is so much to see. Take many breaks, grab lunch at a cafe or pub and pause to take in the views. It’s easy to get carried away with the energetic pace of London, but sights are more enjoyable if you adopt a more leisurely approach.

11. Don’t leave your stuff lying around

Don’t leave your bags unattended at public venues like stations, buses, theaters or museums, as this is likely to cause alarm and your bag may be removed – or stolen. Only take with you what you are able to carry for several hours. Luggage storage is generally rare in London, but hotels will likely store bags once you check out. Avoid carrying mobile phones in back pockets or where they can be easily swiped from your hand in the street. Never leave your phone or purse on a cafe table, opportunistic thieves will distract you and it will be gone before you realise what's happening. 

12. It's an election year in London

The incumbent mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, will face an election race in May 2024 (he's been in the top job since 2016). This might not be particularly noteworthy for travelers, but it does mean there's greater incentive to make sure London is working well. Policing, housing and public transport are high on the agenda for all the candidates. Services have been expanded to support the rising number of "rough sleepers" in the city, with the visible issue of homelessness a concern for locals and visitors alike. Tube strikes, which brought the city to a standstill in 2023, have been averted but industrial action on national rail services in and out of the city continue. The city goes to the polls on Thursday 2 May, 2024. 

This article was first published September 2023 and updated March 2024

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Home » Europe » London

Is London SAFE for Travel? (Insider Tips For 2024)

London is awesome. If you like your European capitals with a lot of history and grand buildings, well you’ll find that here. More than that though is multicultural, vibrant, and cool London with the great food scene and amazing nightlife.

Obviously, not all of the city is going to be like that. In fact, some parts of London can be downright dangerous. There’s also the chance of petty theft and scammers in some of the biggest tourist areas and the terrorist attacks.

The British capital is a great place to visit, but our aim is to make it even better for you with this epic insider’s guide to staying safe in London. We will be covering just about everything from London’s public transport – including the famous Tube and the literally iconic double-decker red buses – all the way to how not to get a dodgy stomach from eating out in London.

So whether you’re thinking of a family trip to London, whether you want to come to this cool city on a solo travel trip, or if you’re just wondering whether or not London is safe to visit right now, we’ve got you covered with our insider’s guide. Ready? Let’s do this.

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How Safe is London? (Our take)

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London is a major backpacking destination . This is a global city that you might think is all about Big Ben  and  Harrods , but there’s so much more going on here that it’s going to literally blow your mind.

That said, it’s not always Mary Poppins. It’s also Oliver Twist and Jack the Ripper.

Pickpockets around big transport hubs and tourist hotspots (crowded places, basically) are definitely an issue. These guys will be on the lookout for shiny smartphones and bulging wallets.

Thieves on motorbikes are a relatively new thing, whereby they zoom past and grab anything of value you happen to be holding. Usually, that’s a smartphone. Also, mugging does happen here – this depends on what area of London you’re in , however.

Terrorism has occurred and is still a sensitive subject for the city. It’s been targeted by terrorists in the past so the alert is still pretty high – “severe” is the official warning, meaning an attack is “highly likely”. Your bags will be searched at places like museums, and don’t be surprised if Tube stations are closed because of bomb scares, or that a “suspicious package” being found might delay a train.

Generally, Londoners will roll their eyes, tut and carry on with their day. Business as usual. So to them, at least, London is safe.

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no different. The question of “Is London Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers.

The information present in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing, however, the world is a changeable place, now more than ever. Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism.

Here, you will find safety knowledge and advice for travelling London. It won’t be down to the wire cutting edge info on the most current events, but it is layered in the expertise of veteran travellers. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practise common sense, you will have a safe trip to London.

If you see any outdated information in this guide, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. We strive to provide the most relevant travel information on the web and always appreciate input from our readers (nicely, please!). Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe!

It’s a wild world out there. But it’s pretty damn special too. 🙂

Tourism in London is a big deal – it’s on the rise, too.

In 2018 it saw 37.9 million visitors , which is more than four times the population of the city. It’s an iconic international city that most people, probably, will want to visit at least once in their life, like Paris or Rome .

Unfortunately, along with tourism, crime is also on the rise. It had been falling consistently, but in 2014 severe police cutbacks were rolled out as well as social austerity and crime has been on the rise ever since.

Knife crime has gone up by 24%, gun crime by 42%. Theft has gone up 12%. And those moped gangs have been a trend since 2014. These gangs operate even in daylight hours in central areas like  Great Portland Street and have threatened people with weapons.

The United Kingdom itself is 57th on the Global Peace Index , which is sort of a middling – below Qatar  and just above  Montenegro .

But seriously, most Londoners live a harmonious life and just want to get on with their day.

Updated October 2019

Knife crime is on the rise across London. Most of this appears to be gang related or stemming from feueds but there have been a few “randomn” attacks of late. So far no tourists have been impacted.

Protests & Demonstrations

There is some political upheaval going on in the UK at the moment. This is causing tension between different groups of people and London has been the main stage for all of it. Even racially motivated attacks have been on the rise.

Marches and demonstrations are pretty common at the moment but are usually peaceful. However, we’d still recommend to not get involved as they can turn violent. The reason for most of it? Brexit, aka leaving – or not leaving – the European Union. It is anticpated that there will be more protests and these may become heated as and when the date of leaving the European Union approaches. It may be wise to avoid discussing this deeply divisive issue with locals.

Extinction Rebellion have also been protesting widely across the city but these protests are peaceful.

There’s also a threat of terrorism. There have been a number of incidents in recent years, with 2017 being particularly bad. London’s security services are on high alert and are reported to be stopping potential attacks in their tracks. That said, some do happen. For example, barriers have been installed on major London bridges, and outside places like the Houses of Parliament to prevent attacks on pedestrians by people driving cars and vans onto pavements.

Right wing terrorism is also a concern, with that general kind of ideology on the rise across Europe.

However, the threat of terrorism is statistically very low and you have more chance been killed by a shark, lightning. or your own toaster.

In conclusion, London is safe to visit right now. Don’t let any of that put you off. People live in London. There’s a famous picture of a man running away from a terrorist attack that occurred in  London Bridge 2017, complete with a pint of beer in hand. That gives you an idea of the attitude. Come and join in!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

London may have its issues with terrorism and crime, but that shouldn’t put you off visiting the amazing British capital. It’s a historic, exciting city that you are going to love exploring. And in general, it’s a pretty safe place. To help you stay extra safe and have an awesome time in the city, we’ve got together our top safety tips for traveling to London so you can tackle the capital like a travelling pro.

• Stay aware of your surroundings  – being oblivious to crime is a good way to become a victim of it.
• Don’t go around with your bag open  – or a handbag that’s easily accessible – especially in busy areas. Thieves dip!
• And don’t hang your bag on the back your chair  – at a cafe or restaurant – it might just go missing.
• Don’t leave your bag unattended either  – not only could it get robbed, but you may end up causing a big security alert.
• Avoid having your smartphone in hand in certain areas – places like  Dalston  may be cool, but things can go missing here.
• And don’t put your phone in your back pocket  – fine in Tokyo , not in London.
• Take note of who’s around you at ATMs – not common but having someone steal your freshly withdrawn money could happen this way.
• Walk around confidently – looking lost might attract some unwanted attention. Walking with confidence will make you look less vulnerable.
• Steer clear of drugs – London is liberal, except when it comes to drugs. Buying them is a good way to mix with some sketchy characters – and the police.
• Avoid dodgy looking streets after dark  – dodgy looking streets are usually where you find dodgy people. Be smart.
• Leave flashy stuff at home  – or in the hotel, where it will be safe. This includes wads of cash. If you want to bring some cash with you, wear a money belt.
• Try to blend in  – tourists in London always stand out. Backpacks on the front, wearing hiking gear in the city centre, having a map… All of these things and more will make you stand out as a tourist and therefore a potential target.
• Beware: London has a drinking culture  – or should we say drunk culture. Things can get very rowdy outside (and inside) pubs, bars and nightclubs. The last train home and night buses can be very raucous too. It can be fun, but things can turn ugly.
• Don’t skip the line  – Londoners queue for things, always. No one skips the line and it would be considered rude to do so.
• Pubs aren’t table service  – stand at the bar and wait for your turn. People will hate it if you “reserve” a table with your bag, too.
• Avoid wearing football shirts if there’s a big match on  – it could cause a passionate response from the opposing team’s supporters. Football rivalry + high testosterone levels + drinking = potential trouble.
• Try not to fall asleep on the last train home/night bus  – you could end up miles from where you’re staying.
• Plan your journey  – you don’t want to be lost on the Tube with a stream of commuters on your back.
• Londoners aren’t as grumpy as they’re painted out to be  – if you’re in trouble, need directions, or help, ask someone! They’ll give you a hand.
• But don’t get in people’s way  – standing on the left side of an escalator, stopping in the middle of the pavement may enrage some people.
• Learn some British lingo – for example, you may be confused when people keep saying “quid” – that’s ‘Pound’ (£) – or “sorry” to try to get past you in a busy shop or something.
• Be polite  – please, thank you, sorry. The three big words. Use them liberally – that’s how it is here.
• Understand that big events affect the city  – Notting Hill Carnival, the London Marathon, some gig in Hyde Park. Not only are roads closed, but crowds gather and the atmosphere changes, which can affect your trip – and your safety. Check what’s going on!

Those were our tips for staying safe in London. Keep them in mind, and you’ll be bound to have an awesome time exploring this multicultural hub of heritage and the modern-day. Eat food from all over the world but stay in one city. Stop for a pint (or two) in the pub with everyone else. London, away from all the warnings, is a pretty safe city. Remember to be polite, use your common sense , and enjoy!

You’re travelling and having an amazing time. Then suddenly your wallet is missing. How the…? Exactly. Pickpockets and petty thieves can hit you when you least expect it and leave you with no money.

London may not be the pickpocketing capital of the world, but stuff like this can still happen. The answer is having nothing in your pockets to pick in the first place. We’re talking about a  travel money belt .

There is a ton of choice when it comes to purchasing your very own money belt. But in London, or anywhere really, you’re not going to want something with a million pockets that’s uncomfortable, hard to access and obvious-looking.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

There is a load of reasons why you’d want to travel by yourself. Challenging yourself, getting to do whatever you feel like doing, levelling up as a person, seeing the world… All good reasons to go solo. Of course, there are going to be things that aren’t so good about it, too.

But we would say: don’t feel scared about travelling solo to London. It’s actually a pretty friendly place. London and its inhabitants see its fair share of foreign travellers and is a pretty cool mix of cultures, too. Here are some tips to help you ace your time in the city.

• Make yourself some friends. There are different ways to do this, obviously, but the best way is going to be booking yourself into a social hostel in London . You should definitely read reviews though and find the place that’s going to suit your style.
• Do some research on what area you want to be in . East London  is the hipster-friendly area, whilst Central is all about the big streets and big sights and the West is mainly affluent. What you want to get up to in the city will influence where you want to stay. Do your research!
• Don’t be afraid to go out for a drink by yourself . British people often go down the pub by themselves and get chatting to other people. So stand at the bar if you feel like having a chat. Or grab yourself a table, read a newspaper, watch whatever they might be showing on TV.
• Go to museums. London boasts a ton of museums and galleries – many of which are actually free! So if you feel like soaking up some culture whilst you’re in the city, there is definitely no shortage of places to get your fill of art, history, design, fashion, and science. Pick one and spend the day wandering around. This is especially good if it’s cold or raining.
• When it comes to eating out by yourself, never fear . London has a growing street food culture – head to Borough Market  for example. You could go pick yourself up a fish ‘n’ chips (classic) or go down the pub and order yourself some “pub grub” – always a firm favourite.
• Take a free walking tour . These may be available at your hostel, but there are actually quite a few of these to choose from online, too. So you should have a search around and find one that interests you. No doubt you’ll be able to get chatting with whoever else is on the tour. You might even meet a fellow traveller.
• Don’t feel like you have to do everything . You definitely don’t have to tick all the boxes to have “done London”. Most Londoners would never go and see B uckingham Palace  for example, or the  Tower of London . Simply wandering around and soaking up the atmosphere, or finding some off the beaten track stuff to do, is a more relaxing way to go about it than zooming from one tourist spot to the next. A good way to exhaust yourself.
• Get yourself a sim card . Having data on your phone is great for getting around, finding good places to eat, directions, figuring out what Tube connections to make. It’s also good to keep in touch with friends and family back home, which is good if you’re feeling the ‘solo travel blues’ or just fancy talking to someone you actually know.
• Don’t get taxis and the Tube all the time . It can get pricey – taxis especially. Take out one of the bicycles and pedal around – they’re low priced and a good way to see the city, especially some of the greener areas like Hyde Park and Victoria Park . Or simply walk and discover the city on foot.

Basically, you’re going to have an awesome time in London even if you’re coming here on a solo travel trip. Not only that, but it’s most definitely safe for solo travellers in London. You’ll get to see some iconic sights, do some iconic things, ride some iconic transport and meet some friendly people. Keep our tips in mind and make sure that you do your research – planning is the key to an awesome time!

London is a safe place to go for solo female travellers. This city is a forward-thinking, modern city – women are by themselves all the time. They live by themselves, work by themselves, travel by themselves, and without any trouble. You’ll fit right in amongst them.

People in London are generally speaking polite and friendly. More than that, there’s nothing too alarming that’s going to stop you from having an amazing time in the British capital. Even so, we’ve got some safety tips for solo female travellers in London for good measure!

• Find a hostel or a cool guesthouse with an atmosphere.  Meeting other people is a big part of travelling by yourself, which is ironic since you’re by yourself. That said, cities can be isolating, so having a few travelling or drinking buddies to hit the town with after dark is a good way to blow off steam and feel (at least a little bit) like you belong.
• Get to know people . Search for events near you. Do a park run. Get involved in events. Go to a gig. There are lots of things you could be doing in London where you get to meet people.
• You can wear pretty much whatever you want in London . That said, it’s better to be on the more conservative side of things if you’re going out at night. Though uncommon and sort of unheard during the day, at night London gets rowdy and unwanted attention could come your way.
• If you do get unwanted attention by a man or group of men, try to remove yourself . Be polite and tell them you’re not interested. Being rude or even ignoring could actually make things a bit heated. Show that you’re not interested and move away.
• However, if you really need help, tell someone nearby . A couple, another group of men, the people behind the bar, a family – most people will stick up for you.
• Make sure you know how to get home back to wherever you’re staying . Plan your route; being lost in the middle of London, especially when everyone’s been drinking, can be overwhelming.
• If you’re getting the night bus, it’s best to sit nearer the driver on the lower deck . People can get stupid when they’re drunk and it’s best to be near some sort of authority rather than isolated on the top deck. Similarly, if you’re getting the Tube late at night, sit in full carriages and steer clear of empty ones. Better safe than sorry.
• Tell people what you’re up to. Call your friends and fam back home and let them know your movements. Mention to the staff at your hostel if you’re going out for the night. Just better that people know where you are and what you’re doing than not.

Basically, London is a  safe city.  You can sometimes judge a place on how safe it is for solo female travellers, and we would say that London is up there with some of the safest. Obviously, there are things that are going to make you feel unsafe… e.g. lots of drunk people.

Yes, London definitely likes to drink. However, it is easy to keep clear of places where people are going to get too rowdy by simply not going there. For the most part, this won’t really affect your trip to London. It might seem excessive or scary. And it is. But that’s London.

As far as your actual safety is concerned, London is safe for solo female travellers. Common sense plays a big part in how safe you’re going to be, like not wandering alone through sketchy parts of the city, but if you travel smart and keep our tips in mind you’ll be fine!

Of course it is! London is a top tourist destination and is visited by millions of people every year, many of them families.

There’s a ton of stuff to do in this city if you’ve got kids with you. From the many parks and green spaces, historic sights, child-friendly museums, and restaurants with children’s menus, to child facilities all over the place and big sights like the London Eye  and  London Zoo , you won’t have any trouble finding stuff to do here.

Make sure you book yourself accommodation with plenty of room for you and your family. Cheaper hotel rooms in the city centre can be pretty small and not exactly spacious. It might be a good idea to opt for an Airbnb somewhere just outside of the city centre, like Battersea for example.

You could even go for an actual B&B, too for a friendly, more homely experience.

Basically, everything is pretty child-friendly in London. Restaurants will have high-chairs and spaces for prams. Some might even give you colouring-in and toys to keep your kids entertained whilst the food’s getting cooked up.

Another nice option is the pubs. Formerly not so child-friendly, there are now plenty of places where children are welcomed. Some even have pub gardens with playgrounds – perfect for lunchtimes and early evening meals. You’ll see loads of other families hanging out here, especially at weekends.

To get around, you could use the Tube with your children. Some underground stations don’t have lifts and instead, there are steep staircases to contend with. If people see you struggling with a pushchair or carrying luggage, they will more than likely offer to help you; you’ll probably get a few offers of help.

Or you could hop on and off buses – you’ll need an Oyster Card for that. We wouldn’t recommend going in peak hours (rush hour, basically). But the top deck of one of London’s red buses is as good as a sightseeing bus – your children will be enthralled with the city whizzing by.

Make the most of all the free museums and galleries. The Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, the Tate Modern, the V&A, the British Museum – honestly some of the best in the world. And all free!

There are places outside the city to check out too. Don’t forget  Hampton Court Palace  – complete with a maze – for a fun time with your family. There are also tours inside the city to go on, we’re talking Harry Potter level stuff.

London is not only safe for families – it’s amazing if you come here on a family holiday. There’s literally nothing to worry about.

London is safe to drive in. But like most cities, you just won’t want or need to.

It’s not worth it – for a number of reasons.

First, the traffic can be absolutely mental. We’re talking very busy in the mornings and evenings.

Second, if you’re not used to driving on the left, that’s going to cause another headache.

Then there are things like traffic lights, speed cameras, cyclists to watch out for, the congestion charge, ‘yellow box’ junctions (where you can’t stop within certain yellow grids marked on the road – otherwise you get fined), one-way streets, bus lanes, and some super expensive parking. Even Londoners don’t really like driving in London.

All that said, driving standards are high. People let each other go, don’t really cut you up, and you won’t hear people using their horns too much either.

However, if you’ve chosen to stay outside of the city centre, maybe in a suburb, then you should be fine driving. Get yourself a car and you can explore the surrounding area. Naturally, having your own wheels opens a destination up. You’ll be able to go on day trips to places like Brighton  on the south coast,  Oxford  and its historic university, even  Stonehenge  is just a few hours’ drives from the capital.

In conclusion, for a London city centre trip – don’t bother driving. If you’re on the outskirts, it’s not essential, but it’s definitely safe and will help you see much more of the country.

 Cycling in London

You’ve probably come across one or two horrible London cycling videos, where bikes crash, get into massive road rages or yell the most creative insults at people in cars. That’s what most of us associate with riding a bike in London. But is this really the case?

London’s inner city is busy. There are cabs, people on foot, lots of cars and quite a few bicycles on the streets. We’re not going to lie, London is definitely not on “safest city for cycling” list, but we can say, that if you stick to the rules , the possibility to end up in one of the viral videos is pretty low.

Here are some of the basic rules:

• Wear a helmet!
• clearly indicate where you’re going
• only use the bike lanes or normal road. Never use the sidewalk.
• don’t ignore traffic lights – if it’s red, you have to wait!

Stick to these rules and you’ll be perfectly safe on your bike trip!

Renting a bike in London can be incredibly cheap. There are a couple of bike hire schemes , which allow you to rent a bike for 2 pounds a day. These bikes are usually just normal city bikes.

If you want something fancier, you’d have to go to a proper rental shop. These shops can also give you great tips, explain the rules and make sure you’re safe and prepared for your bike trip. We’d definitely recommend this option for first-time visitors , or people that aren’t sure about the traffic rules. There are a lot of cycling maps and tips online too if you want to find out even more.

Uber is safe in London. You should always make sure that the car you’re getting in is 100% the exact same one that you’ve booked on the app. Same license plate, same colour, the same type of car.

Most Uber drivers are pretty friendly and up for a chat.

Londoners tend to use Uber after a night out when public transport goes to sleep. They’re cheaper than taxis, that’s for sure.

London has some pretty iconic taxis. The black cabs, also known as Hackney Carriages, are the granddaddy of taxis.

The drivers have to go through a painstaking, years-long process known as ‘The Knowledge’ – it is basically learning every single road in London. As such these are pretty top class and will know how to get anywhere. They won’t rip you off. You can even get on them if you’re in a wheelchair. They’re pretty amazing.

But they’re also pretty pricey. These are the only taxis you can hail on the street in the city.

Radio taxis you have to call up. Minicabs, as they’re known, should all be registered without exception. You can check the Transport for London website to see whether or not the company you’re using is licensed.

Minicabs in London are generally quite safe and reasonably priced – especially compared to black cabs. They don’t run on the meter so you should ask how much the fare will be when you book your taxi.

All private hire vehicles have a Transport for London license disc on their rear windscreen.

It is literally illegal to get into a minicab that you haven’t booked. What this means is if you are approached by a driver who asks if you’d like a taxi, this is not legal. It’s an unsafe way to travel and you may well be putting yourself into danger by getting into them.

Ask the staff at your hostel or hotel, the staff at a club or pub, the number for a decent taxi company. Better yet, if it’s your accommodation, you can probably ask them to book one for you.

You can get a taxi from any of London’s airports, but it probably won’t be very cost-effective.

All in all, taxis in London are safe, but might not be the cheapest option.

Yes – and there’s a whole load of it! Almost all of it is iconic.

There’s the Tube. This has the prestige of being the first subway system in the world. It’s pretty old and you can still see that oldness.

It’s pretty safe. It’s unlikely that you’re going to come into contact with unsavoury characters, like pickpockets or beggars, but it’s still a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings.

There are 11 Tube lines that run from 5 AM till midnight. Some lines boast 24-hour services at the weekend – it’s called the  Night Tube .

Get yourself an Oyster Card – or if you’ve got a contactless debit or credit card, you can use that, although it will be slightly more expensive.

At night, especially at the weekend, the Tube can get rowdy. Also on quieter suburban lines, it’s best to stick to carriages with people in them – just to be on the safe side.

Then there are the London buses. They’re everywhere and often, they’re the iconic red double-decker buses. They’re a cheap way to get around – the fare is £1.50 – and you can even use them as a cheap alternative to one of those open-top tourist buses to see the sights around the city! Note: you cannot use cash. You have to use an Oyster or contactless card to use them.

Night buses can get quite rowdy. Usually, it’s a fun atmosphere, people singing and chatting all the way home. Sometimes there are a few idiots. Sometimes it might be dangerous. Most of the time, London’s drunk people are good fun.

There are also other trains. Overground lines run overground, as opposed to underground, and they’re all pretty clean and well maintained. Nothing to worry about really. The same goes for the DLR, another overground line.

Then there are  National Rail and other train networks that lead to out of town areas. These have guards. At the start of journeys, from  Waterloo , for instance, they’ll make an announcement over the PA in the train and say what carriage they’re located in. If you have any trouble, find them and tell them.

There are also bicycles to rent around town. They’re really cheap and there is a load of different docking stations where you can pick up a bike and drop one-off. If you feel like exploring some of the leafier sections of town, and you want to do so by pedal power, it’s a great way to do so.

Make sure to cycle on the left-hand side of the road, be careful at roundabouts, and don’t cycle on the pavement- it’s illegal! There are plenty of cycle lanes to stick to.

There are also boats that you can get up and down the  River Thames . These are relatively cheap and a fun way to see a city that basically grew up on being a riverside settlement. Cool.

We’d recommend trying all the public transport. You’re only in London once! (Well, unless you visit again).

If you’re considering a move to the city, check out our cost of living in London post!

For some reason, people think of British food as disgusting. We don’t know where this has come from. These days, London is literally one of the best places to eat in the world. There are dozens of Michelin star restaurants, Japanese food, Indian, Turkish, and good old pubs.

Don’t get lost in the array of choices to eat. Look online for the top-rated restaurants in your area, avoid terrible tourist traps like Angus Steakhouse (not London at all) and enjoy the selection. To help you with your gastronomic adventures in London, we’ve got some tips…

• Watch out for late-night kebab shops. They’re frequented by drunk people after nights out. Many people will admit they never would eat them sober. Sometimes hygiene standards are questionable at these places. To be on the safe side, avoid the meat, opt for chips (or “fries” as some people call them).
• Head for Soho if you want to try some tasty Asian food. Japanese, Vietnamese, Chinese, take your pick. These restaurants won’t be making you ill at all. They’re proper good.
• Treat yourself to a greasy fry up for breakfast. What’s that? Also known as a ‘full English’ this is a predominantly cooked breakfast of bacon, eggs, baked beans, toast, black pudding (made of blood and grains), sausages. You can get veggie options in many places too, so you won’t be left out. This will definitely set you up for the day. Don’t be afraid of the grease.
• Try fish ‘n’ chips . Some places are better than others. Read reviews online of some of London’s top fish and chip joints and go to the most celebrated of them. You won’t be disappointed with your slice of fried fish. Fresh is best, and doesn’t forget the mushy peas on the side!
• Brick Lane is known for its Indian cuisine . However, down this street are many, many touts trying to get you into their place. Many claim to be the ‘best’ curry in London, but that’s not true. It’s best to look up a place online if you feel like some Indian food, and then hone in on that specific restaurant. Do not follow touts.
• Go for a roast dinner at a pub . It’s a Sunday thing. Best eaten in the depths of winter for a warming, homely feeling. Again, it’s best to research if you want a truly amazing roast dinner.
• A good rule of thumb (for anywhere in the world): go to busy places.  Empty restaurants are, sorry, probably empty for a reason. Londoners like what they like and will keep returning to a place they’ve secured as a ‘good restaurant’. So it’s worth waiting around outside for a table somewhere. Alternatively, book ahead if you’ve got somewhere in mind.
• Wash your hands! A day out in London can get your hands extremely dirty. Holding onto escalator rails, Tube poles, door handles, generally walking next to traffic-laden roads. You’ll be amazed at what colour the water turns when you apply some soap to your mitts. Best to do this before eating, definitely.

Honestly though, the food hygiene standards – like the standard of the food itself – is pretty high in Lisbon. There won’t be too much you have to worry about at all. This city is high in tastiness and you will honestly have a field day exploring all the places you can get a bite.

The worst thing you can probably do in Lisbon is to go to a tourist trap restaurant. It won’t be that good, you’ll get ripped off, you may even get a bad stomach, who knows. But it’s just not worth it. Ask around, read reviews, and only sample the best of Lisbon’s food scene!

Yeah, but some people say it’s not very tasty. Even so, the water is safe to drink in London.

You can even ask in restaurants, pubs, nightclubs, anywhere, for a “tap water”. Bring a refillable water bottle and fill it up wherever you want. If you don’t have one, we’ve put together a list of the best travel water bottles to help you out.

London is definitely safe to live in. Like many cities, however, not all areas are what we’d consider ‘safe’.

For example,  East London  may be where the cool kids hang out, but there is also a higher percentage of crime – some of it gang-related – in these eastern boroughs of the city.

Other places around social housing estates (or ‘council estates’ as they’re known) are often not safe places to live thanks to their relatively high levels of crime.

The thing is, London is still pretty safe compared to most major cities around the world. Unless you’ve actively involved in gangs or crime yourself, the most that will happen (probably) is your phone getting stolen. That’s about it.

The safest places to live are places like  Richmond , a leafy southwestern suburb, or Islington  a relatively affluent area in the north. Choosing your area to live is very important to how safe you’re going to feel living in London. We recommend you do a ton of research on this.

London can get expensive , rent is high and the cost of public transport to get to work every day also adds up. Then again, wages are relatively high, too. There’s always walking, or cycling, however.

Quality of life is decent. People think it rains all the time in London but it doesn’t. It is quite cloudy, but there definitely are rainier places in the world. When it gets to summer, London is awesome. The city comes to life with people enjoying drinks outside pubs, picnicking the parks, and plenty of festivals, making it a super fun city!

London is safe to live, but it doesn’t mean you’re immune from crime or danger. Terrorist attacks could happen. A thief could randomly target you. That is sort of life in a city. With so many people, it’s pretty unpredictable.

On a day to day basis, however, London is a great place to live and we reckon you’ll feel pretty secure.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Two things: good and free! London boasts world-class surgeons, physicians, and hospitals.

The National Health Service (NHS) offers up free-of-charge healthcare to all UK citizens or anyone in the UK. From surgery to check-ups and all sorts of other procedures, London’s inhabitants don’t have to pay a penny at point of service. It’s amazing.

If you need to be seen by a doctor or GP (General Practitioner) then get yourself to a walk-in clinic. You can turn up here without an appointment and be seen. It depends on the severity of what’s wrong with you, less severe, the longer you wait. Waiting times can be quite long.

For non-life threatening situations, call 111 if you’re feeling unwell. You’ll be advised over the phone regarding what to do and usually be directed to your nearest medical facility.

For an emergency,  dial 999 . An ambulance will collect you and take you to A&E (Accident & Emergency), free of charge, 24 hours a day. Or you can take yourself to A&E.

Pharmacies are absolutely everywhere. In fact, you will find standalone pharmacies like Boots as well as family-run pharmacies and even smaller branches inside large supermarkets. Pharmacists are well trained and may be able to help you with a diagnosis over the counter of a minor ailment. However, most ‘serious’ medicines – like antibiotics – will require a prescription.

There is private healthcare, but it is expensive. The plus is that there is a much shorter waiting time to be seen. If you’ve got travel insurance , check to see if you’re covered for private healthcare and if so go there. Use it – why not!

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in London.

Is London dangerous?

No, London is generally pretty safe, especially for travellers. You will have to look out for petty theft and pickpocketing, but you’re unlikely to encounter worse crimes than that. That being said, if you’re actively looking for trouble, you’ll find it.

What parts of London are not safe?

These parts of London are known to be sketchy, especially at night: – Hackney – Croydon – Brent

Is London safe at night?

While London is generally a safe place, it does pay to be cautious at night. Stick with groups instead of walking alone and opt for a taxi to get around. Trust your gut, stay away from the dodgy side streets and you should be fine.

What should you avoid in London?

To stay safe, avoid these things in London: – Don’t go around with your bag open – Don’t put your phone in your back pocket – Steer clear of drugs – Avoid dodgy looking streets after dark

London is an amazing city. Even though there are gangs, there is knife crime, gun crime – there are even terrorist attacks, its citizens tend to just get on with their lives. It’s a resilient city that got blown to smithereens during World War II and developed the famous ‘keep calm and carry on’ attitude as a result (thanks to wartime posters) that has stood the test of time.

Given the number of people who visit London yearly, the relatively low level of crimes against visitors to the capital, the lack of endemic pickpocketing and stuff like that, we’d definitely say that London is safe. It might not be “safe” in that there’s a terrorist alert at the moment, but it’s safe in that you can live a daily life securely, and visit as a tourist with basically no worries.

There is a certain level of common sense stuff you need to bear in mind though. Walking around sketchy areas into neighbourhoods that don’t feel right isn’t smart. Getting into an argument with a drunk group of men isn’t smart. Don’t forget: London is a big, world city with a large, multicultural population. People get on with each other most of the time, but sometimes they don’t. That’s life in the British capital – and you’re going to love it.

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sophie Steinebach

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I notice your “Is London safe?” story shows London is safe per definition. Like every city in the world there are areas however that definitely are a “no go “. Apparently London is an exemption. Having said that, you are right in saying “do your own research”

I was just there with my family and I have to say that in the course of 5 days we felt unsafe 3 times.

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

London Travel Guide

Last Updated: January 5, 2024

London is one of the most popular cities in the world. It’s home to charming pubs, world-class (and often free) museums, tons of history, some of the best theater performances in the world, a diverse population, incredible food, and a wild nightlife.

I know it’s cliche to say there’s something for everyone but, in this sprawling metropolis, there really is!

I’ve been visiting London since 2008 and, with every subsequent visit, the city has grown on me. The more I go, the more awesome stuff I see, the more I fall in love with it. There’s always something new to do here and there’s an energetic vibe to the city.

Unfortunately, it’s also an expensive destination. A visit here can eat a hole in any budget if you aren’t careful.

Luckily, there are tons of free and cheap things to do in London . While budget travelers need to be frugal here, you can still visit London on a budget and have an amazing time.

This London travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most out of your time in this cosmopolitan capital!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on London

Top 5 Things to See and Do in London

1. Visit Big Ben and the House of Parliament

Although you can’t go up the tower, you can view this Gothic structure from the street and hear its chimes four times an hour. Big Ben is actually the name of the Great Bell of the Great Clock of Westminster which can be found inside Elizabeth Tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, but is often used to refer to the clock and the tower as well. To learn about the UK government, take a tour of Parliament, founded in 1801, while you’re here (get there early or reserve tickets online) . Guided tours cost 29 GBP while self-guided multimedia tours are 22.50 GBP. The best view of the tower is from the opposite side of the river on the South Bank, near the London Eye.

2. See the Tower of London and Tower Bridge

Built in 1070, the Tower of London has expanded many times over the years. It was built as a double-leaf bascule bridge in the middle (both sides lift up) to maintain river access to the Pool of London docks while easing congestion on each side of the river. You can visit inside the tower and walk along the glass walkways. Weapons, armor, and coins were made here until 1810 and today you can view the famous crown jewels, walk the battlements, wander recreated medieval palace rooms, see the iconic Yeoman Warders (known as the Beefeaters as they were allowed to eat as much beef as they wanted from King Henry VII’s table), and spot the legendary black ravens that live in the tower. Skip-the-line tickets are 29.90 GBP.

3. Admire Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is only open to the public for 10 weeks during the summer, but you can join the crowds and watch the changing of the guard at 11am every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday throughout the year (get there in good time to find a good place to stand). Admission to the palace isn’t cheap, with tickets costing 30 GBP online (33 GBP on the day), while exclusive guided tours are 90 GBP. Check the Royal Collection Trust website for details on other events happening throughout the year.

4. See Westminster Abbey

A working royal church, the Gothic Westminster Abbey was founded by Benedictine monks in 960 CE. More than 3,300 people are buried here including 17 monarchs and numerous royal funerals have been held here over the centuries. It’s the traditional coronation site for British monarchs and has been the setting for every coronation since 1066, as well as for many other royal occasions, including 16 weddings. Other famous British figures buried here include Charles Darwin, Sir Isaac Newton, Aphra Behn, and Charles Dickens. Tickets cost 27 GBP , but you can visit for free if you go during a service. Just make sure to dress (and act) appropriately as it is a place of worship.

5. Hang out in Trafalgar Square

Stroll around and admire the fountains and the famous monuments, such as the four bronze lion statues and Nelson’s Column (which honors Admiral Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805). It is bordered on all sides by a number of museums, galleries, cultural spaces and historic buildings so there’s plenty to do as well. Trafalgar Square is also known to be a center of national democracy and protest so peaceful rallies and demonstrations are frequently held (usually at weekends). Even if there aren’t any official events, lots of people still hang out here so it makes for a good place to people-watch.

Other Things to See and Do in London

1. take a free walking tour.

London has tons of different walking tours on offer. From free tours to specialty tours to paid tours to literary tours to quirky tea tours, London has it all. Free London Walking Tours and New Europe Walking Tours are two of my favorite companies to go with when it comes to free tours. They’re the best way to see the sights and learn about the city on a budget. Just remember to tip at the end!

If you’re looking for more in-depth and specific tours, check out Take Walks. They offer affordable tours that go into a lot of detail. And if you’re a Harry Potter fan, Get Your Guide runs an awesome Harry Potter tour around the city for 15 GBP.

2. Go museum hopping

London has more museums than you could see in a single visit, and many of them are free. You can spend days visiting world-class museums like the Tate, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum, and many others — all without spending a penny. One of my favorites is the Natural History Museum, a beautiful Romanesque building that contains over 80 million items, including specimens collected by Charles Darwin. It also has an expansive collection of fossils, making it a fun and educational stop. The Victoria and Albert Museum (named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert) is another favorite of mine. It’s home to over 2,000 works of art covering over 3,000 years of human history.

3. Grab some food in Borough Market

Established in 1756, London’s Borough Market has something for every foodie. It’s home to some of the best British and international produce and dishes. Come here hungry and leave satisfied. It’s great for people-watching too. The market is open daily but the crowds are terrible on Saturdays so be sure to get there early.

4. Enjoy some theater

London is known for its famous theater scene. Attend a show while you’re here and see some of the incredible performances that make London famous. Tickets can be pretty cheap, and something is playing every night (check out TKTS for discounted tickets to shows in the West End). Otherwise, catch a Shakespeare show at The Globe in South London — tickets range from 5-62 GBP depending on the show and seat you choose.

5. Stroll along Brick Lane

Known for vintage clothing, cheap eats, and art, this East London street is a local favorite. Sunday is the best day to come, as this is when the outdoor street market takes place, though the restaurants and shops lining the street are open daily. Brick Lane has some of the best (and cheapest) food in London, especially when it comes to curry, as this is the hub of London’s Bangladeshi community. This street is also a great place to bring a camera, as its walls are basically a gallery for London’s best street artists, including Banksy, D*Face, and Ben Eine.

6. Ride the London Eye

The London Eye is a 152-meter (500-foot tall) Ferris wheel. While a little cheesy, it’s nevertheless one of the most popular attractions in London. It’s across the street from Parliament and provides excellent views of London and the city’s most iconic buildings, especially on a clear day. Tickets are 32.50 GBP , but if you want to play tourist and take in the view, it might be worth it. The ride lasts 30 minutes and tickets start at 32.50 GBP.

7. Visit the London Dungeon

The London Dungeon calls itself “the world’s most chillingly famous horror attraction.” It covers 2,000 years of London’s gruesome history and is a morbid but interesting museum. Although you can learn about popular torture methods in England, this place has turned into more of an “amusement park” type attraction. But if you like things like escape rooms and scary boat rides, it’s enjoyable. Tickets cost 29 GBP when you book online (32 GBP in person).

8. See St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s is a striking English Baroque cathedral with a world-famous dome. Architect Christopher Wren’s masterpiece, the iconic building dates from the 17th century. Inside, you can visit the crypt to see the resting places of famous figures including The Duke of Wellington, Christopher Wren, and Admiral Nelson, or just enjoy the cathedral’s glittering mosaics and elaborate stone carvings. If you don’t mind climbing some stairs, a highlight is to climb to the Stone Gallery or Golden Gallery for panoramic views over surrounding London. Admission costs from 18 GBP when you buy online , which is cheaper than the London Eye and offers similarly breathtaking views.

9. Explore Covent Garden

Covent Garden, a popular West End neighborhood, is a fun place to hang out for an afternoon. It’s home to lots of quirky stalls, busking musicians, an artsy market, and a selection of unusual pubs and coffee shops. Covent Garden is also within walking distance of all the big musical theater shows, so it’s a great place to spend a few hours before catching a performance. Make sure to visit Covent Garden Market, which has been open since the 1830s. It’s a good place to grab a bite to eat or shop at some of the artisan craft stalls. It’s open Monday to Saturday from 8am-6pm, with an outdoor farmer’s market on Saturdays between April and December.

10. Visit Shakespeare’s Globe

An integral part of England’s history, Shakespeare’s Globe is a reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre, the venue for which the famous playwright wrote his plays. It’s a must-see for lovers of Shakespeare, with performances embracing near-perfect replicas of Elizabethan staging practices. You can even sit in front where the groundlings did, for shouting and heckling! The theater is open-roofed, so bundle up in the winter. Tickets cost 5-62 GBP depending on the production and the seat (you can stand just as they did in Elizabethan times). You can also take a guided tour for 17 GBP to learn more about the history of the theater (more specialized ones such as the Ghosts and Ghouls tour or the Pride tour cost 20 GBP).

11. Explore Camden Market

A long-time counter-culture haven, Camden Market is home to over 1,000 independent shops, stalls, cafes, restaurants, bars, buskers, and everything in between. It’s enormously popular and busiest on the weekends (it sees over 250,000 visitors each week). Camden Market is actually a series of six separate markets, so you can literally wander the labyrinth of alleyways for hours and not see it all.

12. See the Royal Observatory

Since its founding in the late 17th century, the Royal Observatory at Greenwich has played an important role in astronomy and navigation. The observatory is divided into two sections, with one half focusing on time while the other half is devoted to astronomy. In the Meridian Courtyard, you can stand on either side of the Prime Meridian, which separates the Earth’s eastern and western hemispheres. The Peter Harrison Planetarium is also housed here, where you can see a show for 10 GBP. The Royal Observatory itself costs 16 GBP .

13. Walk around the Strand

In the 12th century, rich noblemen built elegant homes and gardens along the shore (the strand) of the Thames, making it one of the most prestigious places to live (a fact that remains true to this day). Walk down this thoroughfare and be treated to a grand display of wealth and beauty. It was dubbed “the finest street in Europe” by Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli in the 19th century. The Strand, which runs from Trafalgar Square to Temple Bar, is home to numerous shops, pubs, landmark buildings, and classic hotels.

14. Drink beer at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

This historic pub has been around since the great fire of 1666 (and there has been a pub at this location since 1538). It’s surprisingly large inside, and in the winter, fireplaces keep pub-goers warm. The wood paneling, atmospheric lack of natural lighting, and vaulted cellars make stepping inside feel like stepping back in time. Famous literary figures like Charles Dickens, R.L. Stevenson, Mark Twain, Oliver Goldsmith, and others used to frequent (and write about) this particular pub.

15. See the Churchill War Rooms

Located beneath the Treasury Building in the Whitehall area of Westminster, the Churchill War Rooms include the government’s command center during World War II and a museum about the life of Winston Churchill. The centerpiece of the whole place is an interactive table that enables visitors to access digitized material from the Churchill archives. If you are like me and a huge history nerd, this is one of the best attractions in the city. I highly, highly encourage you to visit. It’s worth the price! Admission is 29 GBP.

16. Relax in Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Hyde Park or Kensington Gardens for some reprieve. Both parks, which are (conveniently for the visitor) right next to each other, are designated as Royal Parks of London. Hyde Park is the most famous park in London. Originally the private hunting grounds of Henry VII, it opened to the public in 1637 and is a great place to stroll, picnic, or catch one of the many events that are hosted here throughout the year. Kensington Gardens are home to the Serpentine Galleries as well as Kensington Palace. The park and the gardens cover almost 250 acres!

17. Take a Jack the Ripper tour

Jack the Ripper is one of London’s most infamous killers — and his true identity was never figured out. Every night, there are tons of people in the East End learning about Jack the Ripper on a ridiculous number of similar tours. The tour guides you through dark alleyways, stopping at historic locations connected with the infamous serial killer. Tickets cost 15 GBP .

For more information on other cities in England, check out these guides:

• Bath Travel Guide
• Brighton Travel Guide
• Bristol Travel Guide
• Cambridge Travel Guide
• Liverpool Travel Guide
• Manchester Travel Guide
• Oxford Travel Guide

London Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a dorm with 4-8 beds costs 16-25 GBP per night while a bed in a dorm with 10-18 beds costs 13-16 GBP. A private room with a shared bathroom costs 50-90 GBP per night. If you want to stay closer to the center of the city expect to double these prices and expect prices to be at least 10 GBP higher in peak season. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels offer free breakfast and self-catering facilities.

Budget hotel prices – A budget hotel room costs 70-100 GBP per night. Prices are higher in the center and in peak season. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, and a coffee/tea maker.

There are lots of Airbnb options in London. A private room costs 45-60 GBP per night (80-100 GBP in the center), while an entire home/apartment starts around 90-150 GBP per night (more in high season).

Food – While British cuisine has evolved in leaps and bounds due to immigration (and colonialism), it’s still very much a meat and potatoes country. Fish and chips remain a popular staple for both lunch and dinner while roasted and stewed meats, sausages, meat pies, and the quintessential Yorkshire pudding are all common options as well. Curry (and other Indian dishes, such as tikka masala), are super popular too.

You can eat cheap in London if you stick to street eats and food vendors (plus many of the hostels have free breakfast). You can find fish and chips or a kebab for about 7 GBP each. Indian food can be purchased for between 8-10 GBP for lunch entrees. You can buy pizza for 8-12 GBP or burritos and sandwiches for 5-9 GBP. Fast food (think McDonald’s) is around 13 GBP for a combo meal.

For a mid-range meal of traditional British cuisine at a pub or restaurant, expect to pay 14-16 GBP. A pint of beer can cost up to 6-8 GBP while a glass of wine costs around 7-10 GBP.

You can find tons of high-end dining in London, but be prepared to spend a lot. Expect to pay at least 30-35 GBP for a three-course menu with a drink in a mid-range restaurant and upwards of 70 GBP in a higher-range establishment.

If you plan on cooking for yourself, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 50-60 GBP. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, veggies, and some meat. The best places to buy cheap groceries are Lidl and Aldi, Sainsbury’s and Tesco are more mid-range, while Marks & Spencer and Waitrose are higher-end.

A great way to save money is to get the Taste Card. This diner’s club card offers 50% discounts on tons of restaurants as well as two-for-one specials. It can really pay off, especially on any nice meals you want to have. You can only live on fish and chips for so long!

Backpacking London Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking London, expect to spend about 60 GBP per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, taking public transit, cooking all your meals, limiting your drinking, and sticking to free activities like parks, free walking tours, and museums. If you plan on drinking, add another 10 GBP to your daily budget.

A mid-range budget of 150 GBP per day covers staying in a private Airbnb room, eating out for most of your meals, having a drink or two, taking public transit and the occasional taxi, and doing some paid activities such as Tower Bridge or Westminster Abbey.

On a “luxury” budget of about 300 GBP or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, take more taxis, and do whatever activities and tours you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. the sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in GBP.

London Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

London is one of the most expensive cities in the world. But thanks to its free museums, cheap pubs, and numerous hostels, there are a lot of ways to cut your costs and save money here. Here are my top tips for saving money in London:

• Visit all the free museums – Most of the museums in London are free, including the Museum of London, the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum. The National Gallery and the Tate Modern are also free and are two of my favorites.
• Buy an Oyster Card – This prepaid transit card saves you about 50% on each tube, bus and tram ride. If you plan on using the tube a lot, get this card! You can get a refund for the balance left on the card at the end of your trip. If you aren’t charged international transaction fees and have a contactless credit or debit card, you can also use this for travel and the system automatically caps your travel so you never pay more than you would have if you had bought a travel card. Just make sure to tap in and out and the beginning and end of each ride to make sure you’re charged the right fare.
• People watch at the markets – Sunday is market day in London, with Camden Market, the Portobello Market, the Flower Market, being some of the more popular options. People watch, snap some photos, and enjoy local London life without spending a dime.
• Watch the changing of the guards – Both the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace (4 times a week) and the changing of the horse guards (daily) at Whitehall take place at 11am (10am at Whitehall on Sundays). Take in true British flare with these interesting and free ceremonies.
• Just walk and explore – London is a huge city and beautiful, historic buildings abound. I once walked for four hours and barely made a dent in the route I was going to take (hence the need to get the Oyster Card.) However, once you get out of the tourist area around the Thames, you get to see London the way the locals do. You can pick up free maps of showing walking routes around the capital from any of London’s tourist information shops.
• Snag last-minute theater tickets – You can get last-minute tickets to the theater from the official booth in Leicester Square. Availability varies every day, so be sure to get there early. And if you don’t want to shell out a lot of money to see The Lion King or Les Misérables , check out smaller shows and comedy nights at theaters like Leicester Square Theater, where prices start at about 17 GBP.
• Skip the cabs – Taxis are incredibly expensive in London and can destroy your budget. I stayed out past when the tube closed one night and the taxi to my hotel was 31 GBP! If you start taking taxis everywhere, you’ll end up spending hundreds of dollars per day, so keep this in mind.
• Master the night bus – In London, the tube closes around 12:30am (the Central, Jubilee, Northern, Piccadilly, and Victoria lines do run all night on Friday and Saturday nights). To avoid taking expensive taxis, make sure you get a map of the night bus routes so you can get back to your hotel/hostel on the cheap. These buses go all over the city and into the suburbs.
• Take a free walking tour – London, like most big cities in Europe, has a wide array of free walking tours given throughout the city. For a historical view of the city, try New Europe , and for off-the-beaten-path tours, try Free Tours by Foot .
• Get the Taste Card – This diner’s club card offers 50% discounts on thousands of restaurants as well as two-for-one specials. It can really pay off, especially on any nice meals you want to have.
• Get the London Pass – If you get the London Pass, you can enjoy access to over 80 London attractions, including the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. A one-day pass is 89 GBP, a two-day pass is 115 GBP, and a three-day pass is 135 GBP. You can get all the way up to a ten-day pass for 199 GBP although they often have deals on giving discounts to this. This pass makes for good savings if you’re planning on doing a ton of sightseeing! Other passes available include the London City Pass from Turbopass which includes an option to add transport costs, and the London Sightseeing Pass.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in London

While the city may be expensive, its popularity means there are lots of hostels here. I’ve stayed at dozens of hostels over the years. Here are some of my favorites:

• Astor Hyde Park
• St. Christopher’s
• Clink261 Hostel
• Generator London
• Onefam Notting Hill

For more hostel suggestions be sure to check out my list of the best hostels in London.

How to Get Around London

Public transportation – London has excellent public transportation and is the cheapest way to get around. A one-way fare on the tube in Zone 1 costs 6.30 GBP, but getting a Visitor Oyster Card reduces tariffs to 2.50 GBP per ride. No matter how many trips you take per day, your Oyster Card caps your travel at 7.70 GBP for travel in Zones 1 and 2. This is applicable across all public transit, including buses and trams, saving you a ton of money.

The Visitor Oyster Card costs 5 GBP, and then you choose how much credit to add to your card. Remember that you can get back any remaining balance at the end of your trip.

The bus system in London also uses the Oyster Card and costs 1.65 GBP per ride. However, a day of unlimited bus- and tram-only travel costs a maximum of 4.95 GBP. Buses do not accept cash; you must use either an Oyster card, a Travelcard, or your own contactless payment card.

The tram system in London works the same way as the bus system, with rides costing the same.

Bicycle – London’s public bike-sharing program is Santander Cycles. With 750 docking stations and 11,500 bikes, they’re available all over the city. Renting a bike costs 1.65 GBP for up to half an hour and 1.65 GBP for each additional 30 minutes, though you can always dock a bike and take out another one to restart the free timer.

Keep in mind, however, that London isn’t a super bike-friendly city, especially if you’re used to biking with cars driving on the other side of the road!

Taxis – Taxis are readily available, with prices starting at 3.80 GBP and going up around 3 GBP per mile (the tariff is more expensive at night). Given how expensive they are, I wouldn’t take one unless absolutely necessary.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in London but it still costs an arm and a leg if you use it a lot. Stick to public transportation.

Car rental – Cars can be rented for 20-30 GBP per day for a multi-day rental. However, traffic is terrible in the city so I wouldn’t rent a car here unless you are heading out on some day trips. Remember that driving is on the left and that most cars have manual transmissions. There’s also a 15 GBP daily Congestion Charge for driving in the center (7am-6pm Mon-Fri and noon-6pm Sat/Sun/public holidays) and parking is expensive too. Drivers need to be 21 to rent a car as well.

When to Go to London

London doesn’t get too cold, but it’s notoriously foggy and rainy. Summer is peak tourism season, and temperatures are the warmest during this time — but rarely are they ever above 30°C (86°F ). London is bursting at the seams during the summer, but the city has a fun, lively atmosphere. People make the most of the warm weather and there are constantly tons of events and festivals happening.

Spring (late March-June) and autumn (September-October) are also fantastic times to visit, as temperatures are mild and the city isn’t as packed.

Winter lasts from December to February, and tourism crowds thin out dramatically during this time. Temperatures can dip below 5°C (41°F), and prices are slightly lower as well. Expect grey weather and be sure to dress warmly.

Since it is frequently rainy here, pack a light rain jacket or an umbrella no matter when you visit.

How to Stay Safe in London

London is a safe city and the risk of violent crime here is low. Scams and pick-pocketing can occur around high-traffic areas, especially around tourist attractions like London Tower and on crowded public transit. Pick-pockets tend to work in teams, so stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. Keep your valuables secure and out of reach at all times just to be safe.

Solo travelers, including solo female travelers, should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Although there are no super seedy neighborhoods in London, avoid wandering around late at night alone — especially if you’ve had a pint or two. As an extra precaution, only bring the money you need when you go to the bar. Leave the rest of your cards and cash in your accommodation.

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you do experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

Thanks to a few high-profile terrorist attacks and riots across Europe (including London), I frequently get emails inquiring whether or not Europe is safe to visit. The short answer: yes! I wrote a whole post about why Europe is safe to visit.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

London Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Fat Tire Tours – For bike tours, use this company! They have fun, interactive tours led by expert local guides. You’ll get to see all the main sights without breaking the bank!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!
• Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of England.

London Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling England and continue planning your trip:

The 14 Best Things to Do in Bristol

Where to Stay in London: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 8 Best Hostels in London

How to Spend a Week in London

The 9 Best Walking Tour Companies in London

70+ Free Things to Do in London

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

United Kingdom travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: April 26, 2024 15:39 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, united kingdom - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in the United Kingdom due to the threat of terrorism.

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There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities.

In the United Kingdom, previous attacks have resulted in casualties. They have included random violent incidents in public areas, such as knife and vehicle attacks as well as explosions.

These incidents have occurred mainly in the London area but have also happened elsewhere.

Further attacks in the United Kingdom are likely. Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• public celebrations
• major political events, such as elections

Terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

The Government of the United Kingdom maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates terrorism and national emergency threat level changes online and through local media. The national terrorism and national emergency threat level is currently 3 (“substantial”) on a scale of 5. A separate threat level for Northern Ireland is currently 4 (“severe”) on a scale of 5.

National threat level  - British Home Office

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common. Cellphone theft is common in certain tourist areas of London. Vehicle theft and theft from parked vehicles also occurs, particularly in tourist areas and roadside rest areas. Theft is common in restaurants, pubs and bars. Never leave bags or purses hanging on the back of your chair.

Thieves work alone and in groups. They may use various techniques to distract you and steal your belongings.

They are especially active in crowded areas, such as:

• tourist attractions and busy areas, including Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square
• airports and public transportation
• patios and outdoor cafés
• hotel lobbies
• underground pedestrian walkways
• roadside stops

Violent crime

Violent crime, such as mugging, knife crime and sexual assault occurs, particularly in larger cities. There have been incidents of passengers being sexually assaulted and robbed when riding in unlicensed taxis.

If you are the victim of a crime on the transportation system, including in a taxi, consult Transport for London to learn how to report it.

Report a crime or incident on the transportation system  - Transport for London

During your trip:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport, are secure at all times
• don’t keep your passport and other types of ID at the same place and carry a photocopy rather than the original
• avoid showing signs of affluence
• avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
• be wary of unsolicited offers or advice from strangers
• be vigilant in urban areas, particularly after dark
• never leave personal belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk
• use secure parking facilities, especially overnight

Spiked food and drinks

Snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

• Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Fraud can range from simple to sophisticated, and sometimes involve hidden electronic devices that obtain account information and personal identification numbers.

When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Cybercrime occurs. Perpetrators may compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal credit card or personal information.

• Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks
• Avoid making purchases on unsecured websites
• Use judgment when posting information on social media
• Be especially careful if you are meeting people you have met online
• Never click a suspicious link in an email or text message asking for your credit card details

Useful links

• More about overseas fraud
• Cybercrime - National Crime Agency

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place regularly. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Strikes and pressure tactics occur from time to time, in key sectors such as transport. These strikes can sometimes complicate travel and disrupt public services.

• Consult local media to be aware of strikes that may affect your stay or travel plans
• In the event of a transport strike, plan extra time to get to your destination

Northern Ireland

Inter-communal tensions can arise from April to August during the summer marching season. This is particularly common during the weeks leading up to July 12.  

During the summer marching season:

• expect possible delays and disruptions in some areas
• exercise caution
• follow the advice of local authorities

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking, may lead to safety concerns if they are not well-organized. Weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

Avalanches can occur in Scotland, especially in the Cairngorms area between December and April. Check local avalanche forecasts before you go.

If you intend to go walking, biking or hiking in remote areas:

• never do so alone and do not part with your hiking companions
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be doing it before setting out
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• avoid venturing off marked trails
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• Weather conditions - Met Office
• Avalanche Forecasts - Scottish Avalanche Information Service

Road safety

Vehicles drive on the left.

Pedestrians should use caution when crossing streets and be mindful that traffic comes from the opposite direction than it does in Canada. There are many one-way streets in London and other cities. Always confirm the direction of traffic before you cross the street.

Road conditions

Roads are excellent but are often narrow and congested, especially in urban areas. Use caution when entering a traffic circle (roundabout). Rural roads may become hazardous during severe weather conditions. You should be especially careful when driving in the countryside during periods bad weather or freezing temperature. You should always slow down before approaching turns on narrow roads as curves may hide oncoming traffic.

Public transportation

Public transportation is extensive. Train and bus services connect most cities and areas of the country.

Taxis are widely available. Only use officially licensed and marked taxis or private hire vehicles.

• Getting around Britain - Visit Britain
• Train schedules and service alerts - National Rail
• Taxis and minicabs – Transport for London

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the British authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

electronic_travel_authorisation_(eta)

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

The United Kingdom has started to unroll a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) program. Canadians are not currently able to apply for an ETA.

Once the program goes into effect, you will need to apply for your ETA before you travel to or transit through the UK. You must travel on the passport used for your ETA application.

Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) – UK Visas and Immigration

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least the expected duration of your stay in the United Kingdom. This requirement may also apply when travelling to Northern Ireland from other parts of the United Kingdom, and vice versa.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 6 months Business visa or work permit: required Student visa: required

You may need a work permit or visa even if you plan to do:

• unpaid work
• volunteer work
• part-time work
• temporary work

A marriage visitor visa is also required if you plan to get married or register a civil partnership in the United Kingdom.

You must apply online for your visa before you travel to the UK. The High Commission of Canada in the United Kingdom, in London, cannot assist you in your visa application process. Useful links

• Check if you need a UK visa  - UK Government
• UK Visas and Immigration  - UK Government
• Pay for UK healthcare as part of your immigration application  - UK Government

Other entry requirements

UK Border officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of your stay.

If you are unable to do so, or if you seek entry as a visitor but are found with items indicating that you intend to seek any type of employment (such as curriculum vitae or educational certificates), you may be denied entry and expelled from the country.

Similarly, if you seek entry as a visitor and are suspected of planning to reside in the UK for any reason, including having a UK-based partner, you may be denied entry.

If you have previously been refused entry, contact the British High Commission in Ottawa to enquire about entry clearance before making plans to visit the UK, even if a visa is normally not required.

Transiting through a United Kingdom airport

If you plan to transit through a United Kingdom airport, make sure you comply with the entry requirements of your final destination. If you don’t meet the entry requirements of your final destination, you may be denied boarding or forced to wait in the UK to apply for a new passport, which can take several days.

Unplanned layovers could lead to substantial travel costs and delays. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Polio (poliomyelitis) is an infectious disease that can be prevented by vaccination. It is caused by poliovirus type 1, 2 or 3. Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus 2 (cVDPV2) is present in this country. Polio is spread from person to person and through contaminated food and water. Infection with the polio virus can cause paralysis and death in individuals of any age who are not immune.

Recommendations:

• Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
• One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult .

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is excellent. Service is available throughout the country.

You must pay for medical services provided by the National Health Service (NHS) unless:

• you are ordinarily a resident of the United Kingdom
• you are accessing emergency services exempted from fees

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

• Accessing NHS services as a visitor - National Health Service (NHS)
• Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and the United Kingdom are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in the United Kingdom to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and the United Kingdom authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs, including cannabis, are severe. Convicted offenders can expect prison sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Laws on knives

It is illegal to carry, purchase, sell or enter the country with certain types of knives. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines and jail sentences.

Selling, buying and carrying knives - UK Government

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in the United Kingdom.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of the United Kingdom, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and the United Kingdom.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in the United Kingdom, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the British court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in the United Kingdom to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Traffic drives on the left.

Parking in London and other major city centres is limited and expensive.

Driver's licence

You can drive with a valid Canadian licence for up to 12 months from your date of entry.

Car rental companies may require an international driving permit, especially if your licence is not in English. Check with your car rental agency in advance.

Congestion Charge

If you drive into central London, you will be required to pay a daily congestion charge. The Congestion Charge zone is indicated by a large “C” painted on the roads and by signs.

You can pay the fee by phone, online or at selected shops and gas stations.

Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ)

All boroughs in London are part of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). If you drive in London, your vehicle must meet the ULEZ emission standards. If it does not, you must pay a daily charge to drive within the ULEZ.

• More about the International Driving Permit
• Congestion Charge  - Transport for London
• Ultra Low Emission Zone – Transport for London

The currency of the United Kingdom is the pound sterling (GBP).

If you are carrying £10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the United Kingdom.

It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer bonds
• travellers’ cheques
• cheques that are signed but not made out to a person or organization
• money orders (Northern Ireland only)
• gold coins, bullion or nuggets (Northern Ireland only)
• prepaid cards (Northern Ireland only)

Take cash in and out of the UK - Government of the United Kingdom

Climate change

Climate change is affecting the United Kingdom. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local news to stay informed on the current situation.

Severe weather

The United Kingdom is subject to severe storms that can cause death and injury and severely damage commercial, residential and natural areas.

High winds, fog, and snow can also have widespread impacts, including transportation disruptions.

• Keep informed of regional weather forecasts
• Stay away from disaster-affected areas
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Storm forecast  - Met Office

Flooding and landslides

Heavy rains can cause severe flooding, mudslides and landslides, particularly in certain coastal and riverside areas. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

• Exercise caution, particularly in coastal areas and around major rivers
• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• Follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• Flooding risks in England  - UK Government
• Flood forecasting  - Scottish Environment Protection Agency

Heat waves are becoming more common in the United Kingdom, and most houses and public places are not designed or equipped to provide shelter from high heat.

High temperatures can be dangerous. Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, which can both be fatal.

If you are in the United Kingdom during a summer heat wave:

• stay indoors or in the shade during midday hours
• stay hydrated and carry a sufficient water supply
• monitor local media for information on heat warnings

Local services

Dial 999 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

The Falkland Islands and Gibraltar

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in the United Kingdom, in London, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Is London Safe for Travel in 2024?

Is London safe for travel? Generally — yes, absolutely! London is a lovely destination with an exciting mix of museums, nightlife, history, and more. 

Some London locals helped us put together this guide to staying safe in their hometown. It covers everything from the COVID pandemic to tips for solo travelers. 

Looking for insider info on safety in London?   Work with a local   for on-the-ground access as you plan your trip.   Learn more . 

• What to know about London and COVID
• Is London safe?
• What solo travelers should know

Common scams in London

Transportation safety tips, be cautious in these areas, emergency numbers to know.

London and the COVID Pandemic

At this stage of the pandemic, Americans can travel to London whether or not they have been vaccinated and without COVID testing or quarantine. Masks are still recommended in crowded areas but are not required for the most part. 

Ready to start planning your trip to London? A local can help you create an itinerary that balances seeing the iconic sights and getting off the beaten path. 

London is safer than many American cities

The coronavirus pandemic aside, London is an incredibly safe place to visit. In fact, the overall crime rate in London is much lower than it is in many big American cities, including New York.

The violent crime rate in London is lower than it is in New York, Los Angeles, Dallas, San Diego, Philadelphia, and many others. In fact, London is considered to be so safe that most of its police don’t even carry guns .

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Advice for solo travelers.

Locals tell us that London is a great city for solo travel . Why? Our trip planners say:

• The tube makes travel easy : Riding the tube (London’s metro) is a safe and easy way to get around town—of course, it’s also a great city to walk or bike! 
• London has tons of fantastic solo activities : The surplus of museums, shows, and walking tours mean that solo travelers have plenty of choices when it comes to activities and events. 
• Pub culture makes eating alone less intimidating : Even if you feel uncomfortable eating alone at a restaurant, it’s super chill to grab a bite and a beer at one of London’s many incredible pubs . If pubs aren’t your scene, London also has plenty of restaurants with counter service—perfect for a solo traveler.

London is also a safe place for women traveling alone. Just keep an eye on your belongings, don’t accept drinks from strangers, and be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking at night.

It's good to get local advice , especially when traveling solo! Many of our London trip planners are women who can explain how they keep safe.

Most museums in London are free  so  you can spend as much time as you want at each exhibit.

Like in any big city, London has its fair share of scammers. Locals say that these are some of the most common scams visitors may encounter:

Vendors selling fake tickets to shows, music venues, or popular attractions

People asking to borrow your phone

Pickpockets (especially on the Tube)

It’s common sense, but be sure to keep an eye on your belongings at all times—especially when on the Tube, the bus, or anywhere like a busy train or bus station.

Locals say that some of the worst stations in London for pickpockets include King’s Cross, Oxford Circus, and Victoria stations. 

London police are on the look-out for unattended baggage, so be sure you don’t leave your suitcase somewhere and walk away—you may cause an international incident.

When it comes to London transportation , locals tell us there are a couple of things to keep in mind. Benefit from local advice . Our trip planners note that:

• Uber is not the best option : After much legal wrangling, Uber has officially lost its license to operate in London . The ride-sharing app will still be available as both sides iron out the details, but locals tell us that the public transit in London is so good that you probably won't need it. If you do want to use an app to call a cab, they suggest ones using one like   MyTaxi .  
• You should only use black cabs : If you are hailing a cab from the street, be sure to only use the official black taxi cabs. 
• The tube does not run all night : Some, but not all tube lines run 24/7 . Many trains stop running at midnight. Be sure to plan out your travel home so you aren’t stranded in a place you don’t know. And if you do take the tube at night, try to avoid empty cars. (Psst—our locals will provide detailed transit instructions when they design your trip.)
• Use apps like Citymapper to navigate like a pro : The London-based Citymapper app makes getting around any city easy. And it’s free to download! 

Like any big city, international city, London has some areas with high crime rates (here, though, that crime is almost completely petty theft).

This is especially true in places that attract a lot of tourists. They also attract a lot of pickpockets! Generally safer during the day, locals say to be careful in these neighborhoods at night: 

• Westminster : Although a popular place to visit—the borough contains top London attractions like Big Ben and Parliament —Westminster has a consistently high pickpocketing rate. This is due, in part, to how many tourists visit. 
• Camden: Camden likewise contains many tourist attractions that make it a popular target for pickpockets, like the Camden Markets .
• Newham : Gives its location far east of central London, tourists will have few reasons to travel to Newham. That's ok, since the area has one  worst crime rates in London . It does include London Stadium , however. If you’re hoping to see some matches, get a local’s advice about staying safe in this area.  
• Lambeth : Lambeth is a big borough in south London with a high crime rate. It also contains some cool attractions—the London Eye , for example—which makes it a hotspot for thieves and pickpockets. It also includes several more residential areas that are less safe —but most tourists won’t travel that far south, anyway. 
• Southwark : Southwark contains the Globe Theatre , the Tate Modern , and Borough Market —and has one of the higher crime rates in London. As another tourist hub, most of the crimes here also include pickpocketing and theft. Be on your guard at night. 

Although you probably won’t need emergency numbers, it’s always good to have them on hand. If you’re in an emergency, call 999 or 112 : both will connect you to the ambulance, fire, and police services. You call also call 101 for a non-urgent crime.  When you have a local plan your trip , they'll be available with phone support in case you run into any issues during your stay.

Looking for more info?

And for more on London travel, check out: 

• 15 Amazing Places to Visit in London
• London Transportation: Everything You Need to Know
• London Travel FAQ 2024
• Things to Do in London
• Where to Stay in London

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United Kingdom

Latest update.

Exercise a high degree of caution in the UK due to the threat of terrorism.

United Kingdom (PDF 345.57 KB)

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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Exercise a high degree of caution in the UK.

Exercise a high degree of caution in the UK due to the threat of terrorism.

• On 28 March 2023, the terrorism threat level for  Northern Ireland  was raised from 'substantial' to 'severe', meaning an attack is highly likely.
• International terrorists have staged attacks in the UK. The  UK Government's national terrorism threat level  is 'substantial', meaning it assesses an attack is likely. 
• Islamic extremism, extreme right-wing ideology and the status of Northern Ireland contribute to the threat. Always be alert to terrorism. Take official warnings seriously. 
• Avoid areas where protests are occurring due to the potential for disruption and violence. Monitor the media for information and updates. Follow the instructions of local authorities.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Stay up to date with  public health guidance  and confirm coverage with your insurance provider.
• Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, and ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance.
• The standard of medical facilities in the UK is good.
• We have a reciprocal healthcare agreement with the UK. Some GP and hospital treatments are free if you're in the UK for a short visit. If you stay more than 6 months, you'll pay a surcharge when applying for your visa.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Penalties for drug offences are severe. Don't use or carry illegal drugs.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

Regular strikes can occur across several industries, including ambulance services, hospitals and public transport. Check  National Rail  or the  Transport for London  websites for the latest service updates.

• If you're travelling to the UK as a tourist for less than 6 months, you usually don't require a visa. If you plan to visit the UK for more than 6 months or for any purpose other than tourism, you should consult  UK Home Office  for the most up-to-date information.
• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest high commission or consulate of the United Kingdom for the latest details.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• Contact the  Australian High Commission  in London for consular help.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

The overall UK terrorism threat level is currently 'substantial' (level 3 of 5), meaning an attack is likely. The 3 key sources of this threat are groups or individuals motivated by:

• Islamic extremism  
• extreme right-wing ideology
• the status of Northern Ireland.

UK authorities have installed security barriers on London's major bridges.

Remain vigilant and:

• be alert to the danger of terrorism
• be aware of your surroundings
• report suspicious behaviour or bags left alone on public transport and in other public places to the police
• monitor official warnings
• follow the advice of local authorities.

Northern Ireland

On 28 March 2023, the terrorism threat level for  Northern Ireland  was raised from 'substantial' to 'severe', meaning an attack is highly likely.

In the past, terrorist groups have used firearms and bombs to target security forces. They have attacked or have attempted attacks in public places. Civilians have been at risk.

There's also a risk of isolated violence by dissident groups in Northern Ireland, focused primarily on police and military targets.

Northern Ireland has previously experienced street violence and rioting, including attacks on police with stones, fireworks and petrol bombs. The violence has mainly occurred in loyalist areas in west and south Belfast, Londonderry, and parts of County Antrim. 

Avoid areas where violence is occurring and follow the advice of authorities.

More information:

• Terrorism threat levels in the UK

International terrorism

Terrorists have attacked other European cities.

Targets have included:

• public transport and transport hubs
• sporting venues and mass gatherings, including places popular with foreigners.
• Terrorism and national emergencies

Civil unrest and political tension

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

To stay safe:

• avoid all protests
• monitor the media for the latest information
• follow instructions of local authorities.

Tensions can rise in Northern Ireland from April to August. This worsens in the weeks leading up to 12 July, also known as the 'Twelfth' or 'Orangemen's Day'.

Be alert and aware of your surroundings and safeguard your belongings. Petty crime, including muggings, pickpocketing and mobile phone theft, occurs across the UK. It happens more often in summer.

Be alert to other criminal activities, including drink spiking and fraud.

Violent crimes such as muggings, knife crime and sexual assaults occur across the UK.

• be alert in crowded and tourist areas, airports, restaurants, pubs and bars, and on public transport
• when using ATMs and credit cards, keep your card in sight, conceal your PIN and check your bank statements
• don't accept drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended in public places, such as bars and nightclubs
• be alert to suspicious behaviour.

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Climate and natural disasters

The UK experiences  severe weather , including:

• strong winds

Expect transport disruptions.

Monitor  local weather reports . Follow the advice of local authorities.

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

• Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away (including if stopovers on the way to your destination are covered).

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and  mental health  before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up   
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need.

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you need counselling, the Samaritans provide private phone support. You can call 24 hours a day,  365 days a year on 116 123 (UK free call).

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be illegal or controlled substances, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring  medication , check if it's legal in the UK. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a dated letter from your doctor stating the following:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use.

Check the UK  Home Office  for advice about medication.

Health risks

Health risks are broadly similar to those in Australia.

More Information:

• NHS information and advice

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities is similar to those in Australia.

Call the  National Health Service (NHS)  on 111 to find your nearest GP surgery or hospital.

If you need urgent medical care, go to your nearest hospital.

Accessing NHS medical services

There's a reciprocal healthcare agreement between Australia and the UK.

Some GP and hospital treatments are free if you're in the UK for a short visit.

Check the  Department of Human Services  to find out what's covered. You'll need to prove you're eligible.

This agreement doesn't cover other countries in the EU.

If you stay for over 6 months, you'll pay an  Immigration Health Surcharge . This will be charged when you apply for your visa.

Your details will be shared with the NHS when your visa is granted, allowing you access to medical care. Under this scheme, you must produce your  biometric residence permit  at the doctor's or hospital.

There may be delays in accessing medical treatment through the NHS.

The NHS won't cover the cost if you need a medical evacuation. Medical evacuation can be very expensive. Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave Australia.

You're subject to local laws and penalties, including those that appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling, especially for an extended stay.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for possessing, using or trafficking illegal drugs are severe. They include imprisonment and fines.

• Carrying or using drugs
• Arrested or jailed
• Controlled substances (GOV.UK)

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

The UK recognises dual nationality.

• Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Make sure you meet all entry and exit conditions. If you don't, the Australian Government can't help you.

If you're travelling to the UK as a tourist for less than 6 months, you usually won't need a visa.

If you're travelling to the UK for other purposes, seek guidance from the  UK's Visa and Immigration Service  on obtaining a visa.

The UK can refuse entry without a visa if they think you're trying to enter for something other than tourism. You'll need a visa if you plan to do  paid or unpaid work ,  volunteer  or  get married . Arrange this before you travel.

Australian Government officials can't help you change your UK visa status.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the  UK High Commission  for details about visas, currency and customs. 

Departure from the UK

Stay in touch with your airline for the latest information on disruptions which can occur at short notice.

Check your route carefully with your travel provider, travel agent, and  Smartraveller  to confirm transit or entry requirements.

Other formalities

If you’re travelling on an Australian ePassport, you can use eGates on arrival in the UK, free of charge. You don't need to complete a landing card.

You can use eGates if you're:

• over the age of 12 years with an Australian ePassport
• a member of the registered traveller service

You need a stamp in your passport if you're:

• travelling on an emergency passport or Document of Identity travel document
• visiting for short-term study (less than six months)
• visiting for other specific reasons or certain types of work (such as Permitted Paid Engagements or with a Tier 5 Creative and Sporting certificate of sponsorship)

Read the   Guide to faster travel through the UK border .

UK airports have extensive security screening. If you're flying to or transiting through the UK, allow extra time. Check  UK Department of Transport  for details.

Check  UK Visas and Immigration  for details. Also, check the UK's hand luggage rules.

Contact your airline or travel provider for more details.

The UK and the EU provide updated guidance on the implications of Brexit for issues such as travel, residency, education and employment. You can check for the latest information on the websites of the  UK Government  and the  European Commission .

• Brexit bulletin

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. You can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing an 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:   

• LGBTI travellers  

The official currency is the Pound Sterling (GBP).

ATMs are available and credit cards are widely used.  Contactless payment is widely accepted.

If you're travelling to or from a non-European Union (EU) country, declare cash of more than 10,000 euros or equivalent. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

You may have to pay a penalty if you don't declare this cash.

• UK Visas and Immigration

Local travel

Severe weather can affect airline, bus and train services. Check with local transport providers for up-to-date details.

Driving permit

You can drive a car or motorbike for up to 12 months. You need a full Australian licence for the relevant vehicle. After 12 months, you'll need to get a UK driver's licence. An International Driving Permit isn't required.

If riding a motorcycle, always wear a helmet.

Road travel

Road and safety conditions in the UK are comparable to those in Australia. Follow the advice from local authorities.

• Driving or riding

Some people have reported  sexual assaults  and  robberies  in unlicensed taxis. Only use officially marked taxis.

Rail travel

Rail services are extensive. They can be affected by industrial action, weather, or engineering work.

Check  National Rail  or the  Transport for London  websites for the latest service updates.

• Transport and getting around safely

The Australian Government doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check the  UK's air safety air profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when reporting a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

For criminal issues that aren't an emergency:

• call 101 for the local police
• call 0800 555 111 to make an anonymous report to Crimestoppers

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australian High Commission, London

Australia House Strand London WC 2B 4LA, United Kingdom Phone: (+44 20) 7379 4334 Fax: (+44 20) 7887 5559 Website:  uk.highcommission.gov.au Facebook:  Australian High Commission in the United Kingdom Twitter:  @AusHouseLondon Twitter:  @AusHCUK

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to United Kingdom?

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London Travel Safety Guide for 2024

You want to visit London, the greenest city in the world , home to Big Ben, the Tate Modern, and the London Eye, but first, you need to know—how safe is this cosmopolitan capital?

The good news is that the capital is generally safe. What do you mean ‘generally’? You ask, clutching your purse.

Stick with us for the most useful safety tips, recommendations of what areas to visit and what areas to avoid, what you can expect in terms of police presence, and more. Learn just how street-smart you need to be in London to navigate potential dangers and enjoy your vacation free of worries.

Is London Safe?

London is relatively safe, especially for a big city. According to The Economist , London is the fifteenth safest city globally – much safer than other tourist hotspots like Paris , Milan, and Rome.

Here’s a quick rundown of London’s safety status:

• The most common crime in London is anti-social behavior
• Westminster is the most dangerous neighborhood, whereas the City of London (the administrative district) is the safest
• London had a lower homicide rate than 120 of the biggest US cities
• You’ll see plenty of helpful police officers around London – about 34,868 of them were spread across the capital in 2022
• Public transport is safe, as long as you keep an eye on your belongings
• The UK medical system is one of the largest and best both in quality and providing universal health care
• The main natural and environmental concerns are storms, floods, heat waves, and bad air quality

Travel Advisory for London

According to travel advisories issued by the United States and Canada , London falls into the level 2 safety category – ‘Exercise Increased Caution’.

The US State Department warns tourists about the possibility of terrorist attacks, mentioning potential targets like tourist spots, transportation hubs, markets, hotels, and more. They emphasize that terrorists might strike with little or no warning.

Similarly, the Canadian travel advisory raises concerns regarding terrorism, but mostly focuses on common, petty crimes such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and cellphone theft in certain tourist areas of London.

Keep in mind that these advisories apply to the entire United Kingdom, but as London is the capital, it’s more susceptible to some of these crimes. So yes, the higher-ups say it’s safe to visit London, but they also want you to proceed with caution and be ready for anything.

A Comprehensive Look at London Crime Rates

The most common crime in London is antisocial behavior (consumption of illegal substances, illegal raves, drinking, urinating, defecating).

In 2019, London had a lower homicide rate than 120 of the biggest U.S. cities, at just 1.9 per 100,000 residents.

Surprisingly, possession of weapons is the least common crime , which is good news and probably why violent crimes like homicides are very rare.

In terms of neighborhoods, Westminster is considered the most dangerous place area in London, followed by Camden, Newham, Southwark, and Lambeth.

Conversely, the safest neighborhood is the City of London, also known as just “the City” or “Square Mile,” followed by Kingston upon Thames, Richmond upon Thames, Sutton, and Merton. So, when you’re exploring London, gravitate towards the safer districts to decrease the chances of getting into trouble.

Here are some hard numbers to help you get a better understanding of crime stats in London.

London Crime Map

Police presence in london.

You’ll find a substantial number of helpful police officers around London. In fact, the number of police officers in London has reached an all-time high .

In 2022, there were 34,868 police officers in London, an increase of 1,065 officers since 2011. The majority, around 33,984, work for the Metropolitan Police Service, responsible for policing most parts of the UK capital. Additionally, the City of London Police, with a total of 884 police officers, maintains peace and order in the historical center of the city.

During the summer of 2023 , in response to anti-social behavior reports, more police officers moved in on parks and green spaces in London. The Metropolitan Police also has an official website where tourists and residents can report crimes and check out safety tips for their visit to London. So, you can count on a visible police presence and resources to help ensure your safety in the city.

Public Transportation Safety in London

London’s public transport is generally safe, with millions of passengers traveling daily , and very few witnessing or falling victim to crime. There’s a team of over 2,000 officers watching over the transport network, making sure things are safe for everyone.

However, while the authorities do their part, passengers should also take care of their safety. Never leave your belongings unattended during your journey. Keep bags closed, hide your phone, and sit on the first floor at night, so you’re closer to an exit in case of any concerns.

Medical Care Quality in London

The NHS (National Health Service) is the United Kingdom’s universal healthcare system. It is in charge of everything health-related in the country and is one of the largest health networks in the world, assisting approximately a million people every 36 hours . Overall, the NHS offers an excellent standard of healthcare , coming in 10th in the 2021 World Index of Health Innovation . It’s also well-respected — in the UK, people rank it as the number one thing they’re most proud of.

One thing to note: There might be a bit of a wait in the emergency room or for scheduled appointments. If you want to save some time on your limited days there, you can also consider going to private medical centers in London.

Here are some of the most well-known healthcare establishments in London:

• Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children (GOSH)
• The Royal Brompton & Harefield Hospitals Specialist Care
• The Wellington Hospital
• The London Clinic
• The Cleveland Clinic
• King Edward VII’s Hospital
• The Portland Hospital
• The Queen Square Private Hospital
• The Princess Grace Hospital
• The London Welbeck Hospital
• The Lister Hospital
• The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital
• The Harley Street Dermal Clinic
• The Blackheath Hospital
• London Bridge Hospital
• Cromwell Hospital
• Highgate Private Hospital
• Priory Hospital London
• St Anthony’s Hospital
• The Hendon Hospital
• The Weymouth Street Hospital

Is It Safe to Travel Solo in London?

London is generally a safe destination for solo travelers, thanks to its efficient public transportation system and significant police presence. However, according to Numbeo statistics , London isn’t the safest place for nighttime solo strolls, particularly in high-crime areas. So, while enjoying a solo trip in London is possible, staying vigilant is key, especially after nightfall.

Is It Safe to Travel to London as a Family?

As long as you stick to family-friendly spaces and attractions, London is among the safest cities for families. A must-visit attraction is the Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio tour—your kids will be left in awe! Even if you (rightfully) think that the movies got nowhere near the quality, heart, and charm of the books, the sets are still pretty cool.

However, just like in any destination, it’s important to be cautious . Keep an eye on your children, especially in crowded places or when using public transport. It’s also a good idea to stick together during your adventures and plan only daytime excursions—not only should your kids get a good night’s rest, but also the city is less safe at night.

Perils of Nature: The Risk of Natural Disasters in London

London doesn’t experience major natural disasters like earthquakes or hurricanes , but the capital has its own quirky weather and environmental hiccups— storms, floods, heatwaves, and low air quality.

London experiences fairly consistent rainfall throughout the year, with an average of 11 to 15 rainy days each month. The months of November and August typically see the highest rainfall, while March and April are the sunniest.

Frequent rain sometimes brings an occasional storm. Although not as severe as hurricanes, the storms’ heavy winds and rainfall can still disrupt your plans, forcing you to reorganize activities and transportation, while causing delays. Follow the latest weather reports regarding the London area and try to plan ahead. If there’s a storm brewing, what better way to spend the day than inside one of London’s many museums?

Intense storms can lead to localized flooding, especially following heavy and prolonged rainfall. In 2021 , for instance, a month’s worth of rain fell in only one day.

This amount of rainfall can lead to evacuations, temporary closure of the London Underground stations, and even the shutdown of businesses near the River Thames. In times of floods, you can’t do much about it except be patient and avoid traveling to the flooded areas. Book rooms at a hotel that’s further from the river so you won’t run the risk of getting evacuated.

London has been experiencing more intense heat waves , similar to Barcelona , New York  , and other urban areas affected by climate change. In 2023, the highest heat wave reached 91ºF (33ºC) in London. However, in July 2022, temperatures soared above 104ºF (40°C), marking it the hottest day ever recorded in the country.

The extreme heat can make London quite uncomfortable. If you’re out during the hottest hours, it’s easy to feel dizzy or, in severe cases, get a heatstroke. Drink plenty of water, use sunscreen, and take breaks in the shade to stay safe.

Air Quality Issues

The city’s large size, dense roads, and tall buildings make central London one of the most polluted places in the country. The capital tends to be the most polluted when there’s light wind, clear skies, and a lower chance of rain.

On those bad air quality days, you might experience a sore throat and a headache . Plus, you won’t have the best visibility to witness what the city has to offer. Still, you can have a great time in London when the air quality is low—just limit your adventures to indoor venues like malls, museums, restaurants, and cinemas. Track London’s air quality in real time and avoid the most affected neighborhoods.

Beware the Silent Threat: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in London

Carbon monoxide (CO) forms when fuels don’t burn properly. In homes, it could leak from faulty water heaters, furnaces, boilers, fireplaces, stoves, and ovens If CO enters your bloodstream, it stops your blood from carrying oxygen , which could lead to loss of consciousness, nausea, headache, etc., or, in severe cases, be fatal.

The UK records around 50 fatalities and hundreds of injuries every year due to carbon monoxide. In 2023, London had a carbon monoxide leak at a hotel in Kensington. It affected many people, and some had to go to the hospital.

When you’re in London, it’s a good idea to ask the hotel staff if they have carbon monoxide detectors in their rooms. These gadgets check the air quality and let you know if there’s a dangerous gas leak. For added safety, you can carry a portable carbon monoxide detector .

London Weather Patterns: What to Expect

London’s weather can be quite varied. In general, summers are short, warm, and cloud-free though still somewhat rainy. Winters are long, chilly, and often overcast.

The warm season, from June to September, sees July as the hottest month, with highs averaging 73°F (22°C) and lows averaging 59°F (15°C). The cooler period spans from November to March, with February as the coldest month, averaging 39°F (3.8°C) lows and 48°F (8.8°C) highs.

In London, the skies clear up between April and October, peaking in July, while December tends to be quite a bit cloudier. Rain showers are a year-round affair in London, with October seeing the most rain, around 2.2 inches (55.88mm), and March seeing the least, about 1.2 inches (30.48mm).

Days vary a lot in length over the year. The shortest day in 2023 is December 22, with just 7 hours and 50 minutes of daylight, while June 21 brings the longest day, with 16 hours and 39 minutes of daylight.

Monthly Average Temperatures in London

When is the best time to visit london.

The best time to visit London is typically from June to September, as the weather is fantastic, and there are lots of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, London has something to offer year-round, so you’ll have a great time no matter when you visit.

Here’s what each period has to offer:

Best Weather (June to September): Summer brings the warmest temperatures in London. July is the hottest month with the clearest skies. This is one of the busiest tourist seasons in London, so be ready for bigger crowds and higher prices.

Best Prices (January, February, March): London prices drop in the period between the winter holidays and Easter break. This is when you’ll find the best deals on hotels, flights, and city tours.

Low Crowds (January, February, March, April, and November):   Around the winter holidays and Easter, the city is quieter. Perfect for checking out the hotspots without dealing with the usual crowds.

How to Stay Safe in London

We promised to tell you just how street-smart you need to be in London:

• Use navigation apps like Citymapper to get around
• Pick hotels with good reputations and positive reviews, and consider using Booking or Airbnb
• Only hail black cabs on the street or consider taxi apps like MyTaxi
• Check tube schedules as not all lines run 24/7
• Watch out for fake charities asking for money—legitimate charity collectors in the UK carry a permit and registration number
• Purchase tickets for London concerts and events from online platforms, not sellers at outside venues
• Be careful how use use your phone when you walk along the pavement, as moped thieves may snatch it from you
• Hit ATMs in banks or malls where there’s security around
• If you catch the bus at night, choose a seat downstairs
• Explore the city with a tour group rather than alone, especially at night and especially if traveling to the dodgier parts of town
• Watch your drink being made
• “Arm” your kids with bracelets bearing their name and your contact number
• Invest in a GPS locator, like Apple AirTags, and attach them to your kids’ clothes or backpacks

Emergency Numbers

• Police, fire, and ambulance: 112 or 999
• Non-urgent matters: 101

London is generally safe at night. Most of central London is well-lit, and public transport runs day and night. The only places to be cautious about at night are the parks, and of course, neighborhoods with higher crime rates. Numbeo statistics suggest that it’s not entirely safe to walk alone in London at night, so keep that in mind. If you’re planning to enjoy the city’s bustling nightlife, opt for going out with a trustworthy companion or group. If that’s not possible, limit your adventures to the daytime.

London has removed all COVID-19 restrictions , so wearing a mask, submitting a negative test, or submitting proof of vaccine is no longer required. Still, it’s advisable to maintain practices like social distancing and regular handwashing. If you do get sick before your trip – from COVID or the regular flu – it’s best to postpone. Walking around with a viral infection could exacerbate your condition as well as make others sick.

London tap water is safe for drinking . British tap water is ranked among the best globally, with a staggering 99.96% quality rating by Discover Water . Plus, the Drinking Water Inspectorate frequently checks its cleanliness and drinking safety.

Double-Decker Buses, Sherlock Holmes, Black Cabs, Big Ben, Royal Guard… Here We Come!

Enjoy all that London has to offer now that it’s relatively safe – so long as you keep your wits about you.

This bustling capital is the fifteenth safest city in the world. Yet, travelers should keep an eye on petty crimes like pickpocketing and antisocial behavior.

Our concluding advice? Stay street-smart, whether you’re exploring the lively streets or the lush parks. Avoid dangerous neighborhoods and dodgy alleyways and if going out at night – stick to your group. The well-prepared police force and top-notch medical system—that you’ll hopefully never need—should keep your mind at ease!

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15 Essential Travel Hacks When Visiting London

O ne of the top places to visit in Europe or the U.K., London is a bustling city with ample things to see and do. Perfect for history lovers, theatre enthusiasts, luxury brand shoppers, foodies, and spa-goers especially, the Big Smoke has all the makings of a fabulous vacation, any way you slice it. Of course, with countless attractions, must-see museums, incredible restaurants, various entertainment districts, and a party till the sun comes up kind of nightlife, a trip to this iconic metropolis can seem overwhelming at first.

Even if this is not your first time heading to the Big Smoke, planning your itinerary is no small feat. And, regardless of what you decide to get into while vacationing, there are several important odds and ends, including lodgings and transportation, that still need to be sorted ahead of time. So, to ensure your whirlwind getaway goes off without a hitch, here are 15 essential travel hacks that are absolute game-changers when visiting London.

Read more: It's Time To Ditch These 10 Outdated Travel Tips

Visit During The Shoulder Season

When considering a trip across the pond, timing is everything. In the warmer months, London is overflowing with tourists and locals, which means many wonderful attractions are harder to enjoy, waiting in long lines is the norm, and popular activities sell out fast. What's more, travel prices tend to be higher across the board. So, booking a trip to London during the shoulder season is the more pragmatic way to go.

London's shoulder season is usually from September to mid-October and around March till the first half of May. During either time, the weather tends to be more amenable, and things are often more affordable. Plus, travelers do not need to concern themselves with the summer or winter holiday crowds. Though there are spectacular events during the holidays and more than a few outdoor concerts, sporting tournaments, and other happenings going on from late May to September, if you want to experience what this city has to offer sans the masses and without breaking the bank, then the shoulder season is definitely one of the best times to visit.

Look For Accommodations In Central London

With dozens of options available, if you prefer a hotel, an Airbnb, or a hostel, the Big Smoke has no shortage of places to stay. That said, the area you choose to stay in is actually more important here. As you are likely aware, London is a rather large city, so choosing the right area or neighborhood matters. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, shopping, and more, then you should definitely look for accommodations in central London or the West End.

Though the center of London is a little pricier than, say, Victoria or Paddington, it is well worth the extra money, as you are closer to all the fun and entertainment. Of course, depending on the desired price range, travelers can peruse hotels and lodgings in West End and Westminster neighborhoods like Mayfair, Trafalgar, Soho, and Covent Garden. Here is where you will find fabulous options with ample convenience and nearby transportation, plus a range of attractions, pubs, and popular restaurants practically around every corner.

Pack For The Destination

Packing for a London getaway is pretty straightforward, no matter the season. Smart casual layers will work for almost any kind of weather. However, it is worth noting that people tend to dress well here, so make sure you have the proper attire for any nice dinners, plays, or nights out on the town.

In the shoulder season, you can expect, for the most part, mild weather that may require a jacket or fleece at night. Waterproof windbreakers and scarves are always a must in the U.K. If you happen to be visiting in September or October, gloves and a hat are also great to have with you. In addition to warm layers and seasonal accessories, your footwear is crucial in London. Even if walking tours are not your thing, there is still a lot of ground to cover in this thrilling city. Therefore, a pair of comfy, ideally waterproof shoes will ensure you can go the extra mile if need be.

Prepare For Rain

London is no stranger to rain, and a light shower can happen at any time as the weather in the city is often unpredictable. Thankfully, prolonged periods of rain or all-day showers are not all that common in the shoulder season. And the Big Smoke typically gets the bulk of its rain in November. Nonetheless, most months experience rainfall, approximately 11 to 15 days each month, to be exact.

As a result, preparing for rain, even at the start of the shoulder season, will make you a savvy traveler. A raincoat, an umbrella, or an alternative activity such as a museum day, afternoon tea, or a spa retreat for two in the event of a prolonged downpour is really all one needs here. Travelers can easily spend a few hours browsing art and ancient artifacts, enjoying a spot of tea with finger sandwiches, or catching up on self-care if they so choose. But remember, with the necessary preparation, you can always go about your day as planned, too.

Get An Oyster Card

There are more than a few ways to get around London, such as walking, taxi, or Uber. But when your destination is clear across town, it is highly recommended that you explore other modes of transportation. When doing so, you will quickly see that most options accept Oyster cards. If you are unsure what an Oyster card is, it is a convenient smartcard that allows you to quickly and effortlessly pay for your fare — for buses, on the Tube, as well as when taking trams, riding the National Rail, and aboard the River Bus.

The Visitor Oyster card , specifically, makes getting around London much more straightforward and is the more budget-friendly choice. Available in various amounts, travelers can order these handy cards before their trip and receive them at home. Even if you only plan on taking advantage of the Tube or the tram occasionally, you won't have to waste valuable vacation time waiting in line to purchase a ticket or trying to access the city's underground train. So, do yourself a favor and get a Visitor Oyster card.

Navigate The City Like A Local

Learning to navigate the city like a local is yet another travel hack to keep in mind when strolling about London on foot. The easiest way for visitors to take to the street like a Londoner is with a quick review of the walking etiquette rules, which you can find on the GOV.uk website. Of course, you are not expected to memorize all 30-plus rules. But you definitely should keep to the left when walking and match the pace with other pedestrians (most locals walk promptly, assertively, and without being glued to their cellphones).

Other useful rules, like thoroughly looking out for oncoming traffic and staying a reasonable distance from the curb for obvious safety reasons, are also important to know. Similarly, minding the gap on train platforms, obeying pedestrian crossing lights, and reading the relevant signage make getting around the Big Smoke much more pleasant and less hazardous. Plus, with millions of people out and about in London almost every day, being considerate of others comes with the territory and is not something visitors should overlook.

Remember You're On Military Time

When deciding what activities or excursions to book, it is vital that you pay attention to the date and time. The U.K., in general, uses both the 12-hour and 24-hour notations. But you will see more 24-hour clocks while on vacation in London. And, to avoid any confusion regarding daytime versus nighttime hours, people tend to stick to military time for departure times, business hours, showtimes, and more. So, get ready to do a quick math problem in your head if you are not used to the 24-hour clock.

Similarly, London visitors need to be on the lookout for how the date is written. Typically, you will see the date as day-month-year. Therefore, it never hurts to double-check your bookings and make sure your reservations are for the right day. Both the date format and the use of military time may throw you off at first. But you can save yourself a lot of trouble, especially when making travel arrangements online, by simply recalling these fun facts.

Book Everything In Advance

Speaking of bookings, there is a wealth of entertainment available in the Big Smoke, often only a few clicks away. From enjoying the royal jewels and afternoon tea bus tours to appreciating the arts and the iconic figures of yesteryear, you can indulge in it all. In fact, with so many things to do and see here, you may find you are short on time before you have even begun.

A tried-and-true travel hack to ensure you get the most out of your trip to London is to book everything in advance. Why spend valuable time waiting in long lines? The harsh reality is that seating for most activities and dining experiences is never first-come, first-serve, and everything tends to cost more the day of or at the box office. Likewise, popular events, day trips, and highly rated excursions are bound to sell out fast. So, take a second when planning your London getaway to book reservations, tours, plays, spa treatments, and anything else that piques your interest beforehand.

Make The Most Of Free Admission

Adding free-entry art houses, the best museums in London , and larger-than-life libraries to the itinerary is also a great travel hack, especially if you prefer to stay on a budget. Saving money in such an expensive city is always a win, and you can explore fine art spaces, world history, science, fashion, and more while you save. Several must-sees like the British Museum, the British Library, the Tate Britain and Tate Modern, the National Gallery, the Science Museum, and the Design Museum do not charge admission.

And even though there are just a dozen or so museums, galleries, and libraries in London that are free to the public, they are some of the most renowned. But free admission does not stop there — the Royal Parks and the City of London churches are also wonderful other no-cost options. Plus, the Big Smoke is known for its gratis events and festivals that happen all year round — providing more opportunities for visitors to make the most of free admission.

Hit The Shops During The Week

For luxury brand enthusiasts and avid shoppers, London does not disappoint. In fact, this city is home to some of the best brand-name outlets around. Spectacular shopping districts that will have you spending your vacation pennies include Oxford Street, Regent Street, Covent Garden, and St. James's. Unsurprisingly, these high-end shopping areas, in particular, are overflowing with people, especially on the weekends. As a result, if you come to shop, it is better to do so during the week.

Besides these above-mentioned districts, London visitors can also find incredible shopping at Bond Street and Mayfair, Westfield Shopping Centre, King's Road, Carnaby, and Seven Dials. Though these spots are often less crowded on the weekends in comparison, they still offer quite the selection and attract the masses. However, instead of luxury lifestyle brands,  shoppers will find emerging designers, the latest fashions, and one-of-a-kind home goods — making a weekday spree the better choice for snagging highly coveted items before they are gone.

Order At The Bar When In Pubs

Table service at a pub is quite uncommon in London. To avoid not being served, patrons must order and pay at the bar. The same goes for snacks or pub eats — ordering happens at the bar. Typically, patrons order drinks, pay, and then carry their pints and cocktails back to their seats. For food requests, you will likely be given (or have to provide) a table number for your grub so it can be brought to you.

Ordering at the pub bar while doing the complete opposite in restaurants or other dining establishments may initially seem odd or slightly annoying. But when you think about it, it actually makes life a little easier. You do not have to worry about giving a tip and flagging someone down for another round. Patrons also do not have to sit around aimlessly waiting for the bill so that they can pay and leave. Instead, when you are ready to move on to the next pub or call it a night, you simply get up and go.

Try The Cuisine

The British are not necessarily known for their cuisine, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't try the food. The culinary experience you can have while visiting the Big Smoke may just surprise you. Not only are there diverse options in this multicultural mecca, but there are some classic dishes such as fish and chips, Beef Wellington, bangers (sausages) and mash, Sunday roast with Yorkshire pudding, and other must-tries.

In addition to some quintessential Londoner eats, travelers who have never sat down for afternoon tea should add a classic London afternoon tea or two to their to-do list. Foodies willing to try it all can savor the hearty full English breakfast, shepherd's pie, Scotch eggs, and bubble and squeak (potatoes and cabbage fried to perfection). What's more, for travelers with a sweet tooth, London has more than a few desserts like the sticky toffee pudding, Eton mess, and a trifle that will satisfy your cravings.

Skip The Tip While Eating Out

Tipping in London is definitely tricky business. Many restaurants have a 12.5% service charge automatically added to the bill. So, tipping is not necessary there. Alternatively, drinking establishments do not have a service charge, and tipping isn't really part of the process. Therefore, skipping the gratuity when eating out or grabbing a few drinks with friends is perfectly acceptable.

However, tipping does come into play in hotels and with certain hospitality services -- spas, taxis, and private tours. In these instances, the general rule of thumb is to tip somewhere between 10% and 15% for hotel dining, porters, door staff, massage therapists, and so on. When taking a black cab, leaving gratuity becomes a little more discretionary. At the end of the fare, travelers can decide to tip or not — though it is considered polite to either round up or add on a few pounds if you are happy with the service.

Budget Accordingly

When visiting London, going over budget or getting carried away on Regent Street is not difficult to do. From eating out every single day and excursions (both near and far) to shopping, treating yourself, and transportation, things can start to add up quickly. Most travelers budget for flights, accommodations, and entertainment and aim to spend a reasonable amount of money per day per person in this famous old city.

Still, those same travelers forget to consider the exchange rate and are often shocked at the cost. London isn't cheap by any means. Thus, budgeting for any trip across the pond should incorporate the exchange rate, money-saving tips, and everyone's individual travel style. You should also factor in last-minute price changes in your itinerary and unforeseeable expenses (lost items, medicines, other modes of transportation, and more). And remember, when creating your travel budget for London, you need to be honest with yourself — are you trying to splurge or save? This way, there will be no surprises.

Make Room For Day Trips

Lastly, for travelers who have already seen most of the city sights, making room in your itinerary and budget for a day trip or two is highly recommended. Spending days on end in the Big Smoke is exciting, fast-paced, and full of amazement. Nevertheless, this may be one of the only times you are this close to the English countryside, fascinating ruins, castles, quaint seaside villages, vast hiking trails, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and the whole of Europe.

Even if all you need is a mini-break from the hustle and bustle of the city, more than a few phenomenal destinations (including other countries) are only a train ride away. Paris, for example, is only two hours away. Plus, wanderers staying for a couple of weeks can spend their weekends in other far-off and magical places. Ultimately, a semi-lengthy London getaway can be whatever you decide to make it — and with these travel hacks at your disposal, you can make visiting London and its surrounding bits an exceptional experience you will never forget.

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Sunak rejects offer of youth mobility scheme between EU and UK

Labour also turns down European Commission’s proposal, which would have allowed young Britons to live, study and work in EU

Rishi Sunak has rejected an EU offer to strike a post-Brexit deal to allow young Britons to live, study or work in the bloc for up to four years.

The prime minister declined the European Commission’s surprise proposal of a youth mobility scheme for people aged between 18 and 30 on Friday, after Labour knocked back the suggestion on Thursday night, while noting that it would “seek to improve the UK’s working relationship with the EU within our red lines”.

The European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen , suggested the scheme, which would also have allowed young people from within the EU to stay in the UK to work or study for the same period of time, would have been an area in which there could be “closer collaboration”.

“The topic of youth mobility is in both our interests, because the more we have youth mobility being on both sides of the Channel, the more we increase the probability we will be on good terms because the next generation knows each other very well,” she said on Thursday.

But the UK government indicated on Friday that Brexit had ended free movement and it had no desire to reopen that conversation, even with strict conditions on length of stay.

“We are not introducing an EU-wide youth mobility scheme – free movement within the EU was ended and there are no plans to introduce it,” a government spokesperson said.

However, they did note that the government would be happy to do deals with individual member states. It is known that the UK is keen to strike an arrangement with France.

One source said the UK wanted to “cherry-pick” which countries it wanted such programmes with.

The youth mobility scheme would not be a return to freedom of movement and would, if agreed, require a YMS visa, evidence of sufficient funds to sustain a living and health insurance.

The Conservatives have been urged to rethink their rejection of the offer because it could help boost the economy.

Ed Davey, the leader of the Liberal Democrats, said: “Expanding our existing youth mobility visas to cover European countries on a reciprocal basis would be a win-win.

“It would be a much needed boost to our economy, especially hospitality and tourism; it would offer great new opportunities to young British people to work abroad; and it would be a crucial step towards fixing our broken relationship with Europe.

“Of course, the details would need to be negotiated, but no UK government should reject this idea out of hand.”

Some Labour MPs believe the scheme could have helped Labour reach its plan to decarbonise UK power by 2030.

A senior Labour MP likened the scheme to a “sugar-rush, fast-fix” solution that would be helpful to an incoming Labour government but would be hard to wean off. They said: “Even though Labour has reduced its green objectives, it still wants to decarbonise the grid. There will be a time lag between training, recruitment and reskilling workers that would require an army of engineers for example to do that, and we’re currently far behind.

“To hit the ground running, this scheme offers us the opportunity to do that, but we would have to continue to fix labour market shortages.”

A Labour spokesperson said: “This is a proposal from the EU Commission to EU member states, not to the UK. It has come about because the UK government is reportedly approaching other European countries to try to establish mobility arrangements.

“Labour has no plans for a youth mobility scheme. We have already suggested some tangible ways that we would look to improve the relationship and deliver for British businesses and consumers, including seeking a veterinary agreement to tackle trade barriers, mutual recognition of professional qualifications and improved touring opportunities for artists.”

Anand Menon, a professor of European politics and foreign affairs at King’s College London and director of UK in a Changing Europe, said: “Clearly there is a debate to be had about the costs and the benefits of a youth mobility scheme, but I find it utterly depressing that both of the major political parties, one of which will form a government after the next election, do not know the difference between free movement and a limited youth mobility scheme which involves visas.”

He said he suspected the surprise emergence of a youth mobility scheme was a move to head off cherry-picking in the EU in the face of a surge of far-right parties, some of which are Eurosceptics.

“They are scared that member states will do bilateral deals, which becomes more of a threat the better the Eurosceptic parties do in the elections,” Menon said.

“For instance, Geert Wilders [the Dutch populist politician] would be more likely to do a bilateral deal with Britain if it involves annoying Brussels, and then the danger is you end up with governments in the EU negotiating unilaterally with the Brits because it is in their own interests.”

• European Union
• European Commission
• Ursula von der Leyen
• Young people
• Conservatives

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