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Child Fares on London Transport

Last updated: 23 February 2024 Discounts for children on London transport are straightforward for children aged 10 and under. For children aged 11-15 it’s slightly more complicated.

Children under 5

Children under-5 travel free on all types of transport in London when travelling with an adult.

up to 4 children are allowed per adult on London buses, the underground (tube), DLR and London Overground.
up to 2 children under-5 travel free per adult on National Rail (trains)

Children aged 5-10

All children aged 5-10 travel for free on:

the underground (tube), DLR, London Overground and some National Rail services within London as long as an adult accompanies them. Up to 4 children can travel per adult
London’s buses with or without an adult

Children aged 11-15

Children aged 11-15 travel for free on London’s buses and at child-rate Pay as you go Oyster fares on the underground (tube), DLR, London Overground and most National Rail services if they have an 11-15 Zip Oyster photocard.

The child-rate single fare with an 11-15 Zip Oyster is 95p (peak) or 85p (off-peak) for zones 1-6.

Like the ordinary adult Oyster card, there’s a daily cap – the maximum amount deducted from the card in one day. It’s £4.25 peak and £1.80 off-peak for zones 1-2.

This is the cheapest deal for 11-15 year olds. The card is not available from underground stations, although you can apply online . It is available to non-UK residents but you’ll need to apply at least 3-4 weeks in advance. There’s also a non-refundable £15 administrative charge.

Travel in London without an 11-15 Zip Oyster

Applying for a 11-15 Zip Oyster is not worth the trouble unless you’re a resident or frequent visitor.

There are a few other options for young visitors that will save money:

Young Visitor Discount on an Oyster card
Child-rate One Day Travelcard (from an underground or train station)
Pay the child full-fare (underground only, not bus)

Bus-only travel for 11-15 year olds

If an 11-15 year old does not have an 11-15 Zip Oyster, Visitor Oyster Discount or child-rate Travelcard the best option is to let them use your contactless debit/credit card and pay the adult-rate bus fare of £1.75. (NB only one card can be charged per passenger) or buy a £5.90 adult-rate one day bus pass . See London bus tickets & passes for details.

Young visitor Oyster discount

If you don’t want to apply for an 11-15 Zip Oyster, the cheapest way for 11-15 year old visitors to travel is the Young Visitor Oyster Discount. This is a special discount added to an ordinary Oyster card. It’s valid for 14 days. After 14 days, the discount automatically expires and the card can be used as a ordinary adult Oyster card.

There’s a £7 fee for the Oyster card (non-refundable). Single fares and the daily cap for the underground and buses-only are 50% cheaper than adult fares.

For example:

Unlimited travel by underground in zone 1-2 is £4.25 per day
Unlimited travel by bus is £2.65 per day, for the whole of London

It’s available from:

Underground station ticket machines: you need to buy an Oyster card (£7) or use a Visitor Oyster Card. Ask a member of staff to apply the discount to the card via the ticket machine.
Transport for London Visitor Centres
Victoria train station ticket office

Children aged 16-17

Children aged 16-17 can apply for the 16+ Zip Oyster Photocard . With this they:

pay Oyster Pay as you go fares at half the adult rate on the bus, tube and most National Rail services in London. (Children resident in London with a 16+ Zip travel free on the buses)
can buy a child-rate weekly or monthly Travelcard.

You must apply online. There’s a non-refundable £20 administrative charge for the 16+ Zip Oyster. If you live outside the UK, you must apply for your card at least 4 weeks before arrival in London.

Without a 16+ Zip Oyster, a 16 or 17 year old is classed as an adult and must either:

pay the adult fare
buy an adult-priced Travelcard, bus pass
use an ordinary Pay as you go Oyster card with an Oyster or Contactless payment.

18+ Students

Students aged 18+ resident in London during term-time can apply for an 18+ Student Oyster photocard. It might also be possible to apply for a 16+ Zip Oyster .

There are no other discounts for students not studying and living in London.

Child ticket prices (11-15 years)

11-15 zip oyster pay as you go single fares (payg) 2024, 11-15 zip oyster daily cap prices from 3 march 2024, child one day travelcard from 3 march 2024.

These are the prices for the Child One Day Travelcard.

Off Peak : Valid for travel after 09:30 Monday–Friday and all day Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays. Anytime : Valid for travel before 09:30 Monday–Friday.

See London’s Transport Zones if you’re not familiar with the zones and the areas they cover.

Transport tickets & passes

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

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London Underground with kids: tips for using the tube

If you’re visiting London, whether on a day trip or a longer break, you’ll find yourself on public transport at some point – and chances are that means the Tube. So after travelling on it as a child myself and navigating the lines with a buggy, toddler, child and tween, here are my tips on using the London Underground with kids.

London underground sign against a blue sky - tips for taking the London Underground with kids

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Because if you’re baffled by the thought of using the world’s oldest underground system, it’s not as overwhelming as it might appear – although there are some quirks to the system, especially when you’re travelling with children on London Underground.

So whether that’s planning in advance to get the best tickets, or knowing when it’s a good idea NOT to take the train, here’s everything you need to know about the London Underground with kids.

Contents - click to jump to a section

What ticket do I need for the London Underground?

With new technology bringing new ways to pay for travel, there’s now a surprising number of choices when it comes to tube tickets.

At its simplest, the options are the old paper travelcards (due to be phased out from January 2024), Tfl’s Oyster card or using contactless payment, with different variations for teens, and for anyone who needs 7-day travelcards or longer (mostly aimed at London residents rather than visitors).

Don’t count on using cash if you’re hopping onto a bus either: since 2014, you can only use contactless or an Oyster card to pay (unless you already have a travelcard).

Adult fares on the tube

Using paper tickets and old-fashioned travelcards is almost never the cheapest way to get around – and you’ll find yourself queueing a lot more if you play to buy one every day (or every journey). They’re also due to be phased out from January 2024 so may not be an option before long.

The only exceptions when they may be worth buying are if you’re spending a week or more in London, or if you’re planning to travel a lot in the outer travel zones – you can compare prices for pay as you go fares and travelcards here.

Instead there are two main options for adults which will work out cheaper (and easier).

Contactless payment

If you can pay using contactless – either a contactless bank card (credit or debit) or Apple/Google Pay on your phone – it’s the simplest option.

Simply tap your card or device on the yellow readers, and the system will register each journey and automatically cap it at a maximum daily cost, the same rate as an Oyster card. Always tap in and out on the tube, or when you get on a bus.

You must use the same card or device each time though, to ensure it’s capped correctly, and each adult needs a separate card or device (although they can be linked to the same bank account).

Check out the current fare caps here

Oyster card

Alternatively, a visitor plastic Oyster card costs £7 and you can order it online beforehand or buy one at an underground station when you arrive, as well as from a Tfl London Visitor Centre .

These have to be set up with a minimum of £10 pay-as-you-go credit, which you can top up in tube stations and some shops; then just like like contactless, you use the card to tap in and out, and the system automatically caps the amount you spend per day.

The fares vary depending on the time of day and how many zones you’re travelling through but the daily cap for zones 1-2 is currently £8.50 for adults. You can get a refund on any money you’ve loaded on but haven’t spent, but the cost of the Oyster card is non-refundable.

Child fares on the tube

Tfl child fares depend on the age of your kids, with free travel on the Tfl network (tube, bus, DLR, Elizabeth Line and London Overground) for all children under 11 years old.

This is only for the Tfl network – if you’re travelling on National Rail services, such as local commuter trains, kids aged 5-15 pay half-price and only under fives are free. The exception is the fast train to Watford Junction, which you might need if you’re visiting the Harry Potter studios.

Otherwise children aged11-15 travelling on the tube can get discounted travel using paper travelcards (being phased out from January 2024) and Oyster cards. Read on for more details.

Teens aged 16+ can only get discounted travel if you have a 16+ Zip Oyster photocard , which you need to apply for in advance, and costs £20.

Bus & tube travel with children under 11

Children under 11 travel free with an adult with any valid ticket, including a contactless card or Oyster card, up to a maximum of four kids per adult.

You’ll need to use the wide luggage/accessible gates to get through, as the main gates close speedily to stop fare evaders – fine if you’re carrying a baby, but not otherwise, and certainly not with a buggy.

You have longer to get through the wider gates though, and you’ll find these at the end of the bank of entry gates into the tube. In larger stations, there is usually one at each end so look for the one with the green light.

In smaller stations there may only be one, so if it’s showing a red cross, stand near it and it should automatically switch to green as you go to swipe your ticket.

It’s worth knowing that Zip Oyster cards for age 5-10 are aimed at London residents who might be using public transport alone, and aren’t needed for child visitors travelling with an adult.

Image showing a graphic of the London Eye on the Essential Guide to London with kids ebook cover, and the words 'click to buy my 33-page guide to London. Itineraries, tips and all you need to know before a visit to London with kids' linking to my the London with kids shop page

Bus & tube travel with children aged 11-15

Children aged 11-15 have to pay for tube travel, but they get 50% off the standard adult fare. In order to do that, they’ll need to have a child ticket of their own to get the discounted fare.

For visitors to London and non UK-residents, Tfl suggests ordering a Visitor Oyster card before you leave home, then when you arrive in London, Underground staff can add the Young Visitor discount to your card.

This can only be done at tube stations, not National Rail stations, and can also be added to a standard Oyster card if you already own one or if you buy one on arrival. While all tube staff should be aware of this, if you run into any problems at smaller stations, this page has all the details.

You then top up credit as normal but are charged half the adult rate on pay-as-you-go tickets for up to 14 days.

Zip Oyster Photocards for age 11-15 are aimed at those based in the city (or frequent visitors) as they cost more and are more complicated to apply for – you’ll need a passport photo, and to allow extra time for it to arrive. It’s worth considering if you visit London frequently though, and includes free travel on buses.

As the Oyster cards cost £7 to buy, if you’re only visiting for a day or are travelling outside zones 1-2, it can be worth getting a paper child travelcard .

However, these are being phased out from January 2024. The day child travelcard also costs more than the maximum daily capped fare using an Oyster card, so if there’s a chance you’ll return, having an Oyster card with the young visitor discount quickly saves money.

There’s no way to get child fares on the tube using contactless payment, so it’ll charge full adult rate if you use this.

For more ideas on how to save money on days out in London with kids , check out my top tips

Download the apps

If you’re struggling to plan out your journeys, there are some helpful apps to take the stress out of working out a route.

Citymapper is my personal favourite, with information on different routes, real-time train times, and even suggestions on which carriage to get on at for the easiest exit.

Tiled sign saying Way Out in the London Underground

Or the Tfl Go app is Tfl’s own route planner, with status updates and bus information as well as helping to plan tube journeys.

Google maps is also particularly useful for bus travel, but you can use it for route planning on the tube network as well.

Avoid rush hour

London at rush hour isn’t fun, even if you’ve had practice. Cramming yourself into a carriage of surly commuters with a pushchair, toddler or suitcase is even less fun.

It’s not always possible to avoid peak times entirely, but bear in mind the crush will usually be worst from 8am to 9am, and 5.30pm to 6.30pm, then allow at least half an hour either side when it’ll be busy too.

If you’re coming from outside Zone 1, it’s can also be cheaper if you avoid peak morning times (fares drop after 9.30am) – and in summer, some tube lines are horribly hot (especially the Central Line) so the emptier the better.

The end carriages are often the emptiest if you do find yourself on a busy platform. For more ideas on how to avoid some of the busiest stations, check out Tfl’s advice

If you want to avoid being laden down with heavy bags as you travel, check out Luggage Hero and Radical Storage which have dozens of places around London to store baggage securely while you explore

Electronic gates at the entrance to a tube station in London showing the yellow card reader for contactless and Oyster cards - my tips for using the London Underground with kids

Always touch in and out

It’s not such a strangely coded message as it sounds – simply that if you don’t touch your card on the yellow readers as you go in and out of stations (or when you get on to buses), you’ll find yourself getting a penalty fare as a result.

Don’t forget to do this, even if barriers are open. And it applies whether you’re using Oyster cards or contactless.

With the bus, only tap your card when you get on though, you don’t need to do is as you get off.

If you are using a paper travelcard, there’s a slot to feed the card into, not far from the round yellow card readers.

Do consider the bus

Depending on your journey, it can be easier taking one bus than lots of line changes underground, especially with a buggy – if you’re using the London Underground with toddlers and preschoolers, check out my separate tips.

Bus journeys also give you a chance to see more of the city – a couple of routes will take you past some of London’s top sights too for a bargain tour, including routes 9, 15 and 26 (the old number 11 has changed route so isn’t as good any more)

Unless you’re doing a short straightforward journey, it’s unlikely to be faster than the tube though. Apps like Citymapper are really useful if you want to compare different options to get you from A to B, while Google Maps gives real-time bus information and shows the closest stops.

Close-up of the front of a red London doubledecker bus showing the details Route 9 Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park Corner and Royal Albert Hall - don't forget about travelling by bus as well the tube with kids

Don’t forget trains on the Tfl network

As well as buses and the underground, overground services, the Elizabeth Line and DLR (Docklands Light Railway) trains are also part of the Tfl network, and count towards the daily cap for fares.

You can also use Oyster cards/contactless for airport trains including the Heathrow Express, as well as the Gatwick Express, although the airport journeys aren’t covered in the daily limit.

For the best ways to get from London airports to central London , check out this post

If you’re heading to Watford Junction to visit the Harry Potter studios , you can use Oyster/contactless cards for this as well and kids under 11 travel free on the fast trains from Euston to Watford Junction.

However, if you’re planning to use other rail services – including local suburban rail routes, such as Waterloo to Hampton Court Palace – kids aged 5-15 get 50% off ticket prices but do not travel free.

Image showing a graphic of London's iconic sights and the words 'click to read my quick start guide to London, all the essentials you need to know before a visit to London with kids' linking to my blog post guide to London with kids

Travel by boat & cable car

If you fancy travelling by river, you can use contactless and Oyster cards on the Uber Boat by Thames Clipper services (or buy tickets directly using the app).

Only kids under five travel free, otherwise it’s 50% of the adult fare – it’s not included in the daily cap either.

If you have a paper travelcard, you can also get a discount on these river boat services.

And while the river boats aren’t the fastest way to travel, it’s a lot more scenic than a dark tunnel.

Or the IFS Cloud Cable Car whisks you 90m above the Thames, crossing between the north Greenwich peninsula and the Docklands.

You can also use Oyster cards and contactless payment to travel on London’s cable car, but again, only kids under five travel free and it’s not included in the daily cap.

For more ideas of the best boat tours in London with kids check out my top picks

Walk when you can

London’s sheer size means that if you want to explore, you really can’t do it all on foot. But the tube map, iconic design though it is, does not accurately reflect the geography of London so there are a few spots where it’s simply not worth taking the tube.

Part of the tube map showing stations in central London - my tips for using the London Underground with kids

All Londoners know it’s faster to walk from Embankment to Charing Cross, for example, or from Leicester Square to Covent Garden, instead of venturing up and down the escalators for a single stop.

There’s a helpful map showing walking distances between stations or simply check Google Maps and Citymapper to compare how long it’ll take on foot, versus the fastest option on public transport.

Check out my walking tour of London’s landmarks if you want to explore the capital on foot with kids

Be prepared for stairs & walking

There are more than 250 stations on the Tfl network, and only a limited number have step-free access – Tfl’s Journey Planner can rule out stairs though it’ll be limiting, while the Citymapper app also gives an option to search for step-free journeys only.

Either way, you’ll probably encounter steps at some point, especially outside the centre. Stations in the centre will usually have an escalator, including the 60m whopper at Angel, while the deepest stations have lifts – when they say not to take the stairs except in an emergency, these ones really mean it.

If you’re taking the underground with a baby, consider a baby carrier or sling, or at least bring the lightest pushchair you can get away with.

Some bigger stations have long walks between lines as well: changing from the Victoria line to the Piccadilly line at Green Park seems to involve a never-ending walk, while switching lines between Bank and Monument (though officially connected) is another long trek.

If you’re switching to the Elizabeth Line, you may need to head outside and walk (for example at Canary Wharf), even when the stations share the same name or are officially connected

If you’re feeling entirely overwhelmed, footsore and fed up, it’s worth knowing that black cabs can take pushchairs so you needn’t worry about not having a car seat – simply pop the brake on, and settle yourself back.

Slightly blurred tube train leaving a station with the warning 'Mind the Gap' written on the platform edge behind the yellow line - my tips for using the London tube with kids

Stand behind the yellow line

A serious piece of advice. At most stations, there’s nothing between the platform and the train (except occasionally a gap, mind that too), so keep kids behind the yellow line to be safe. If you’re travelling with a buggy, reversing can be easiest.

If you need to stop to check a map once you’ve got off (there are plenty around the stations as well), or simply to get your bearings, head over towards the wall to do it.

Stopping right in the middle of the platform will make you very unpopular when there’s a train’s worth of people walking behind you.

Keep kids entertained

If you’re spending a while with bored kids on the tube, the novelty can quickly wear off – if you’ve got a long journey, it’s worth having something up your sleeve to entertain.

For short trips, where you don’t want to be forever taking things out of bags and putting them back two stations later, encourage them to turn the trip into a challenge with a pocket-sized I-Spy London Transport book.

Or there’s masses of tube trivia to keep you amused – you won’t be striking up conversation with your neighbours, I promise.

Check out these 150 facts celebrating the underground’s 150 years , including the two station names containing all five vowels, and the one station which doesn’t have any letters of the word ‘mackerel’ in it.

Otherwise, keep the usual entertainment – stickers, books, magazines – to hand. Counting the stations is always a good failsafe as well.

A pile of mackerel with one looking straight to the camera - one of the clues to a piece of London Underground trivia

Don’t talk but do stand on the left

Some things are simply not done on the tube – and if you want to avoid too many scowls from Londoners it’s best to know the etiquette in advance (although we’re not all unfriendly).

Those unspoken rules include not chatting with fellow passengers, while the official rules include not standing on the left on escalators.

The left hand side is intended for people walking rather than standing: the same often goes for the corridors between platforms or if you’re changing line too, so those who are walking more slowly with small children, keep an eye out for the little blue signs as you go to avoid the speedwalkers.

The Tfl website is packed with surprisingly helpful information – there are FAQs for visitors and more details on fares for children who get either free travel or reduced prices on different transport, even suggestions on the best buggies to use on the tube .

It also has maps showing those tube stations with toilets – click here – although it’s definitely best not to rely on these, or be aware some have a small charge if you do need them.

And there’s also a status update for all the lines, which is worth checking before you go, in case of delays or to see if any lines are temporarily closed. You can also find advance details of weekend engineering works and any strike action.

For more ideas on things to do in London with kids , check out my guide to London with kids , as well as suggestions for free things to do in London , unusual things to do in London and things to do in London in the rain with kids

* First published 2014, last updated 2024*

PIN FOR LATER: LONDON UNDERGROUND WITH KIDS

Tips for taking the London Underground with kids - understanding tickets including child fares, navigating the tube with a buggy and other advice on getting around the UK capital with children

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links – any purchases you make are unaffected but I may receive a small commission. All opinions on using the London Underground with kids are my own.

Images courtesy Depositphotos

Award-winning family travel blogger and mum to the mini traveller, aka Minnie. Together we've visited Europe, America, the Caribbean, Africa and Asia, tried a cruise and a road trip, and survived countless long-haul trips. London (UK) based. Serious beach habit.

This is very helpful, like all your blog posts! Thanks

Thank you! Glad it’s useful – and one extra tip given the weather at the moment… take a fan.

A Guide to Free Transport in London for Children

Depending on your child's age they can travel free or enjoy reduced rate travel on public transport throughout London. This can really help keep costs down when visiting London as a family.

Children over 5 can travel unaccompanied on London transport but it would be unusual to see young children traveling alone. Most primary school children in London (under 11s) are escorted to and from school by an adult (parent/carer).

Check TfL's useful guide and route maps to learn more about traveling with children.

Children Under 5

Children under 5 travel free at any time on London buses, the tube , trams, Docklands Light Railway (DLR), and London Overground trains when accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket.

Children 5 to 10 Years

Children under 11 can travel free on the tube, DLR, Overground and TfL rail services when accompanied by an adult using pay as you go or with a valid ticket (up to four children can travel per adult). If children are traveling alone they'll need a 5-10 Zip Oyster Photocard in order to travel for free.

If children do not have a valid Oyster photocard, they must pay the full adult fare on National Rail services.

In order to apply for a 5-10 Oyster Photocard , a parent or guardian must create a web account and complete a form on behalf of the child. You'll need a color digital photo of the child and you'll need to pay a £10 admin fee.

Children 11 to 15 Years

All 11-to-15-year-olds need an Oyster Photocard to travel free on buses and trams. They must also touch in/out (place their Oyster photocard on a reader to document the journey) as they board a bus or at the tram stop before boarding to avoid a penalty fare. 11-15-year-olds can travel off-peak on the tube, DLR, and London Overground for a maximum of £1.30 a day with an Oyster photocard.

In order to apply for an 11-15 Oyster Photocard , a parent or guardian must create a web account and complete a form on behalf of the child. You'll need a color digital photo of the child and you'll need to pay a £15 admin fee.

Children 16 to 18 Years

16 to 18-year-olds who are in qualifying full-time education and live in a London borough can travel free on buses and trams with a 16+ Oyster Photocard. Other 16-17-year-olds can get a 16+ Oyster Photocard to travel at half the adult rate.

In order to apply for a 16+ Oyster Photocard, a parent or guardian must create a web account and complete a form on behalf of the child. You'll need a color digital photo of the child and you'll need to pay a £20 admin fee.

Visitors to London

Applications can be made in advance for a 5-10, 11-15 and 16+ photocards for collection on arrival in London . Visitors can apply online or ask for an application form to be sent to you. You need to apply at least 3 weeks in advance or you can simply sort it out when you arrive at any London Underground station. Be sure to bring some passport size photos.

Students aged 18 and over attending a full-time course at a university, college, or school should contact their education provider to see if they are registered with the 18+ Student Oyster photocard scheme. This allows the purchase of Travelcards and Bus Pass season tickets at 30% off the adult rate.

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Travelling in London with kids: Fares, Tickets and Advice

by Ren Nair Last Update: 19 Oct 2023

When planning a family trip to London…

…one of the things you’ll be thinking about is how are we going to get around London, and, how travelling in London with kids works. You’re probably asking yourself what fares children need to pay on London´s public transport and you may even want to know how to use London´s public transport with a buggy.

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A great day out without compromise.

• Children´s fares when travelling in London • Travelling from the airport to central London • Travelling in London with a buggy

Travelling in London with kids: Fares and transport passes

When travelling in London with kids it is important to know that children will pay different fares on London´s transport depending on their age. There are transport passes for children, and these transport passes will be valid for London´s underground network, buses, DLR, overground and trains within London travel zones.

Children under 11 years of age

Children under the age of 11 travel free on London´s buses and trams, with or without an adult, at any time, and don’t need a ticket. Children under the age of 11 also travel free on London Underground, DLR (Docklands Light Railway), overground and TFL rail without a ticket if they’re accompanied by a paying adult. Up to 4 children can travel for free with an adult that has a valid ticket. When entering the London underground with children under the age of 11, it’s advisable to use the larger access doors. These doors are wider and don´t close as fast as the single doors and are designed for people travelling in London with kids, those with luggage or disabled passengers.

Visiting attractions with kids?

Keetoo stands out as one of the top choices for families seeking days out in London, offering substantial savings on gate prices while providing seamless access through the convenience of your phone. With everything stored digitally and total flexibility, Keetoo ensures hassle-free and enjoyable days out with the kids. Simply choose the places you wish to visit, who’s going with you and up pops the saving and you’re on your way!

Children from 11 to 16 years of age

Children between the ages of 11 and 16 can travel at a reduced rate on London´s public transport. There are several options and to make it simple, we’re going to summarise these below. Children from 11 to 16 years old can also travel with an adult Oyster card or travel card if necessary. But bear in mind, they’ll not benefit from reduced rates on travel.

Option 1: Oyster card with Young Visitor Discount

This is a great option if you’re planning on travelling in London with kids. An Oyster card with young visitor discount will apply half adult rates for 14 days. After 14 days this discount will expire, and the Oyster card will charge full adult rates again. The Oyster card can also be returned at the end of your trip, just like a normal Oyster card.

All you need to do is buy an Oyster card or a Visitor Oyster card, either online or at an underground station, and then ask a member of staff to set the Young Visitor Discount. This discount can be applied at any underground station in London, including the underground station at Heathrow Airport. An adult will need to give their personal details to register the Oyster card before the discount can be applied, and you might be asked to confirm the child´s age. You and your child will need to be together when asking for the Young Visitor Discount to be set onto an Oyster card, and an adult can request the young visitor discount to be set for up to 4 children (on separate Oyster cards).

Option 2: Zip Oyster Photocard

The Zip Oyster photocard will entitle children of up to 16 years of age to reduced fares on the underground and overground and other TFL services, as well as free travel on trams and buses. The Zip Oyster photocard is normally the best option for children that live in London, as the process to get an Oyster photocard for a child can take some time and there’s an initial registration fee of up to £20 – so this is normally not the best option for visitors.

You can get a Zip Oyster photocard if you live in London, all you need to do is fill in a form that you will find at your local Post Office and return it to the Post Office. You will also need to include a passport sized photo and a copy of the birth certificate or passport and pay the fee. You should get the Zip Oyster photocard in 2 weeks.

If you’re a UK resident, you’ll need to do the process online on TFL’s website and you should get the Zip Oyster photocard within 4 weeks.

If you live outside the UK you will need to do the process online on TFL’s website. When applying, you’ll need to choose which London Visitor Centre (Liverpool Street Station, Victoria Station, Euston, Gatwick, King’s Cross station) you want to collect the Zip Oyster photocard from, as it will not be sent to your home address. You’ll need to apply at least 3 weeks in advance but can also apply up to three months in advance.

Option 3: 1 Day Child Travelcard

A one-day child travelcard will allow unlimited travel at any time of the day on any form of public transport in London for the chosen London travel zones. No ID is needed to purchase this one-day child travelcard, but fares using an Oyster card with young visitor discount are normally cheaper. If you’re visiting London for several days and choose this option you’ll have to buy a one-day child travelcard for each day, and this will work out a lot more expensive than using an Oyster card with young visitor discount.

Option 4: 7 Day Child Travelcard

To buy a 7-day child travelcard in London there are 3 options: 1 – By adding a weekly travelcard into a Zip Oyster photocard. This is undoubtedly the most complicated option, as you need to request a Zip Card Oyster photocard first and then add the 7-day travelcard onto it. 2 – Buy a 7-day child travelcard online. This is probably the easiest way of getting one, as you do not need a Zip Oyster photocard and they will send it to your home address before you travel. 3 – Buy a 7-day child travelcard at a national railway ticket office (not an underground station).

People 16 to 18 years old

People aged 16 to 18 can also apply for a 16 – 18 Zip Oyster photocard, which will apply half adult rates on any form of public transport in London. Travelcards at a reduced price can also be added onto Zip Oyster photocards. For more information about travelling in London with kids visit: Transport for London.

Travelling in London with kids: Travelling to Central London from the airport Stansted, Luton and Gatwick airports are all located outside London’s Travel Zones, so fares when travelling with kids to and from these airports are different to fares when travelling in London with kids, so under 11-year old children will need a ticket.

An Oyster card is valid for travel into Central London from Gatwick Airport, but children under 11 will also need a train ticket to get to central London from Gatwick Airport, even if they are accompanied by an adult.

Heathrow and London City Airports are both inside London Travel Zones, so fares are as explained above. Children under 11 travel free and Children under 16 can travel with an Oyster card with young visitor discount.

Travelling in London with a buggy

If you are planning a trip with a baby or toddler, it may be that you wish to bring your buggy or stroller to London, especially if you’re planning on spending the whole day walking around London.

Travelling in London with a buggy can be quite easy if you know which route is best, or it can be a complete nightmare if you have to go up or down 300 steps when there are no lifts.

Don’t stress, we’re going to explain how to travel on London´s public transport with a buggy.

Travelling on London´s buses with a buggy

Public buses in London have a dedicated wheelchair and buggy space as well as easy street-level access. Travelling by bus with a buggy normally is the easiest option to get around London. You can enter the bus via the back door, which makes it a bit easier too. Up to two pushchairs are allowed in the dedicated buggy space on a bus but do bear in mind that during busy periods you may be asked to wait for the next bus or collapse your pushchair.

Travelling on the London Underground with a buggy

The trick to travelling in London with kids using a pushchair is to check London´s accessible underground map in advance and choose your route carefully. Being able to plan your route choosing accessible stations makes life much easier, and it may just mean that you need to get off at the next stop and walk 5 minutes, rather than having to take a buggy and a baby up 100 steps.

Unfortunately, not all underground stations in London are accessible. Most underground stations in London will have escalators, and many stations will also have some stairs at some point before reaching the platform. Many other stations have lifts to some of the platforms, and some stations are completely accessible, with lifts from the ticket office to the platform.

If you need help going up or down the stairs and you ask a member of staff for help, for health and safety reasons they will ask you to carry the baby and they will take the buggy for you.

London Underground Accessibility Maps

On the London Underground map, you will see that accessible underground stations are marked with the symbol of a wheelchair, in either a blue circle or a white circle.

• Blue circle: the underground station is fully accessible, which means that it is possible to go from street-level onto the underground carriage without any steps at all. In these cases, the platform will have an area that is slightly elevated to avoid any steps when getting onto the train.

• White circle: this means that there are no steps from street-level to platform, but there is some unevenness when getting onto the train. This is important for someone using a wheelchair, but it normally isn´t a problem when taking a buggy onto the train.

In addition to this map, there’s a Step Free Tube Map that is a lot more detailed and the one we’d recommend you check when travelling on the London Underground with a buggy. This map highlights the degree of accessibility at each station in detail and it also explains how accessible it is to change between underground lines at different stations.

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18 comments.

We are a family og 6 and looking for a decent hotel that won’t break the budget (as there are six of us) what is the best value 4 star (or even 5) hotel and we are they located?

The thing to be aware of is the star system only reflects the facilities offered by each hotel, not necessarily how good it is. It is only when you get to five-star level hotels that things like ambiance are taken into account. There are a variety of great hotels all over London. The best thing to do is to go through one of the main aggregators like booking.com – pick a budget, have a look at the area you would like to be in then have a look at reviews from guests that have been to the hotel most recently. This will give you the best insight as to the hotel that best fits your budget and then allow you to see the most recent guest reviews.

We have very young kids and are coming to London for the first time this summer. Is London and travelling in London easy with strollers and prams. It’s giving me nightmares thinking about getting around the city with them…any thoughts?

Overall, London is a fantastic city to explore with young children, and with some preparation and consideration, you can have a wonderful experience getting around with strollers and prams. Remember to plan your routes, check for accessible facilities, and be prepared for any weather changes, as London’s climate can be unpredictable.

We are London based but just don’t do touristy things and have friends coming over in the next few weeks. Any help on the best advice we can give then on getting out and about doing things. This will be their first trip in London but. they will be staying with us for around 3 weeks. Thinking of the major London attractions including the Tower of London, London Eye etc and perhaps a little further out??

London has so many touristy attractions to offer. Here are some quick ideas on what to do with your friends visiting for the first time: Visit the iconic landmarks: Take them so see must visit landmarks such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace (watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony), St Paul’s, Sightseeing Bus, and the London Eye for breath-taking views of the city from above and perhaps a relaxing river cruise to get a different perspective of the city. A great way to visit some of London’s best sights is with Keetoo which is super flexible and saves you every time if you’re looking to visit multiple venues. London is home to world-class museums and galleries. The British Museum, National Gallery, Tate Modern, and Natural History Museum are a few top choices that offer a diverse range of exhibits. Stroll through parks: Enjoy a leisurely walk-through beautiful parks like Hyde Park, Regents Park, and St. James’s Park. You can even have a picnic or rent rowboats in some of these parks. Take a Thames River Cruise: Experience London from a different perspective by taking a relaxing cruise along the river Thames. This provides excellent views of the city’s landmarks from the water. Shop at famous markets: Head to popular markets like Borough Market for delicious food, Covent Garden for shopping and street performers, and Camden Market for unique and alternative finds. Enjoy West End Theatre: Treat your friends to a memorable evening by watching a world-class musical or play in London’s West End theatre district. Discover historical neighbourhoods: Wander through charming neighbourhoods like Covent Garden, Notting Hill, and Greenwich, each with its own distinct character and attractions. Remember to check the opening hours and availability of tickets in advance for certain attractions. London has so much to offer, and your friends will surely have a fantastic time exploring the city’s rich history, culture, and entertainment options.

My daughter is in a wheelcgair and we are looking to go to the London eye – I have been told it doesn’t stop – Do you know if its easy to get wheelchair access and if so, how if its moving?

Yes it’s very easy – it has been designed very much so that people of all abilities have easy access. So there is no need to worry. Staff are very attentive too.

Do you know what is the minimum age for children at most London attraction some times it says 5-15 others 3-15. Why don’t they all just agree on one age range!!!!

Where is the best place to be located in London if we are looking to visit all the major sites?

The best place to be located in London for easy access to all the major sites would be in central London, particularly areas that are well-connected to public transportation. Here are some recommended neighbourhoods:

Westminster: This area is right in the heart of London and is home to many iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace. Staying here means you can easily walk to several major attractions.

Covent Garden: Located in the West End, Covent Garden is known for its vibrant atmosphere, theatres, shops, and restaurants. It’s within walking distance of attractions like the British Museum, Trafalgar Square, and Leicester Square.

South Bank: This area along the southern bank of the river Thames offers stunning views of the city skyline and is close to attractions like the London Eye, Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and the Shard.

Soho: Known for its lively nightlife, Soho is centrally located and provides easy access to Oxford Street for shopping, as well as theatres, restaurants, and Chinatown. It’s also close to Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus.

Kensington: A more upscale neighbourhood, Kensington offers proximity to major museums like the Natural History Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Science Museum. It’s also near Hyde Park and Kensington Palace. Marylebone: This elegant area is close to Regent’s Park, Madame Tussauds, and Sherlock Holmes Museum. It’s well-connected by public transport, making it convenient for exploring other parts of the city.

When choosing accommodation, consider hotels near major Tube stations or bus stops to make getting around easier. London’s public transportation system is extensive, and you’ll be able to reach most of the city’s attractions quickly from central locations.Additionally, being centrally located allows you to make the most of your time and explore multiple sites without spending too much time on commuting.

If i want to just use my credit card to tap in and out on the London underground is that more expensive than buying and Oyster card?

Using your contactless credit or debit card to tap in and out on the London Underground is generally not more expensive than using an Oyster card. In fact, the fares for using contactless payment cards and Oyster cards are the same. Transport for London (TfL) introduced fare capping on contactless payments, which ensures that you won’t pay more than the cost of a daily or weekly Travelcard, depending on the number of journeys you make in a day or week. This is not the same for children however as you will be charged the adult amount. The benefits of using contactless payment cards include: No need to top up: With contactless, you don’t need to worry about topping up your card. The fare is automatically deducted from your credit or debit card account. Daily and weekly capping: If you make several journeys in a day or week, your total fare will be capped, providing cost savings compared to purchasing individual tickets. Same fares as Oyster: The fare structure is the same for both Oyster and contactless payment methods. Flexibility: You can use the same contactless card for public transportation throughout London, including buses, the Tube, DLR, London Overground, and TfL Rail services. However, before using your contactless card, ensure that your card is enabled for contactless payments and check with your bank or credit card provider for any additional fees or foreign transaction charges that may apply if you are visiting from abroad. Ultimately, using contactless payment for travel on the London Underground is a convenient and cost-effective option for most visitors and residents.

If you use the same credit card for the whole day it will be capped and no more than an all day travel card so will not work out more expensive than an Oyster Card. This is not the case though for children as you will get charged an adult amount.

We are coming into London for half term and don’t come in much so all a bit confused with what’s the best way to travel when in London. Also the best way to buy tickets to theatre attractions etc. We are a a family of four, what’s the best way to travel around on a budget for 4 days? Kids are 6 and 13. can you give any help or pointers to sites that can help would be gratefully received.

Visiting London for half term with your family can be an exciting experience! To make the most of your trip and travel around on a budget, consider the following tips: Oyster Card or Contactless Payment: For convenient and cost-effective travel, get Oyster cards for each member of your family. These can be used on London’s public transportation, including the Tube, buses, DLR, London Overground, and some National Rail services. Alternatively, you can use contactless payment cards (credit/debit cards) for the same fare capping benefits. Travelcards: If you plan to use public transportation frequently, consider buying a 7-day Travelcard or a Visitor Oyster card with a 7-day Travelcard loaded on it. This option allows unlimited travel within certain zones and can be more economical if you make multiple journeys daily. Kids Travel for Free: Children under the age of 11 can travel for free on the London Underground and buses when accompanied by an adult with a valid Oyster card or Travelcard. Children aged 11 to 15 can also travel for free on buses with an 11-15 Zip Oyster photocard. Keetoo: If you plan to visit attractions like the London Eye, Madame Tussauds, or the Tower of London, check Keetoo.com. An easy and affordable way to buy tickets meaning you’ll never pay full price and it offers a much more flexible way of booking – important when you’ve with the kids. Theatre Tickets: To get the best deals on theatre tickets, consider purchasing them in advance online from official websites or reputable ticket agents. You can also check for last-minute deals on the day of the show at the TKTS booth in Leicester Square. Family-friendly attractions: London offers many family-friendly attractions like the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, the Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens, and the Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter. Half-term events: Check online for special events and activities taking place during the half term. Many museums, parks, and attractions offer seasonal programs for families. Visit London’s Parks: Take advantage of London’s beautiful parks like Hyde Park and Regent’s Park for picnics and outdoor activities. To plan your trip and find more information, you can visit the official TfL website (Transport for London) for travel details and attractions, and VisitLondon for ideas on things to do and upcoming events. Additionally, consider downloading apps like Citymapper or the TfL Oyster app to help navigate the city and check transport updates on the go. Enjoy your trip to London with your family!

We are visiting to London with our kids (aged 11 & 14 ) in half term and we are there for five days, what is the best tickets for us to purchase to get around? Whats the best place to be looking for advance attraction tickets with flexibility – happy to pay a little more for flexibility

For your five-day trip to London during half term with your kids aged 11 and 14, the best tickets to purchase for getting around would be Visitor Oyster cards with a 7-day Travelcard loaded on them. This option allows unlimited travel within certain zones and offers flexibility for using various modes of public transportation during your stay. If you’re looking for advance attraction tickets with flexibility, Keetoo is one of the best options to consider. It offers a flexible and convenient way to purchase attraction tickets in advance while providing both savings and flexibility. You can access multiple attractions across London with a single app, which can save you both time and money compared to buying individual tickets for each attraction. Benefits of using Keetoo for attraction tickets: Savings: Keetoo always provides discounted prices compared to buying separate tickets for each attraction [as long as you are looking to visit more than one attraction]. Flexibility: The app allows you to visit attractions on different days, giving you the freedom to plan your itinerary based on your interests and your schedule. Ease of Use: Keetoo’s tickets are stored on your phone, making it convenient to access and use at various attractions without the need for physical tickets. Wide Range of Attractions: Keetoo offers access to a variety of popular attractions, ensuring there’s something for everyone in your family to enjoy. To get the most out of your visit, make sure to check the list of attractions included on the Keetoo website and plan your days accordingly. Enjoy your trip to London with your family and have a fantastic time exploring the city’s attractions!

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Travelling in London with kids

When planning a family trip to London, one of the things we need to think about is how we are going to get around London. And in particular, how travelling in London with kids works.

You are probably asking yourself what fares children have to pay on London´s public transport. And you may even need to know how to use London´s public transport with a buggy.

Travelling in London with kids: Fares and transport passes

When travelling in London with kids, it is important to know the different child fares on London´s transport network depending on their age. There are transport passes for children, valid for London´s underground network, buses, DLR, overground and trains within London travel zones .

Children under 11 years of age

Children aged under 11 travel free on London´s buses and trams, at any time, and do not need a ticket. They also travel free on London Underground, DLR (docklands light railway), overground and Tfl rail. They don´t need a ticket as long as a paying adult accompanies them.

Up to 4 children can travel for free with an adult with a valid ticket. When entering the London underground with a child (or more) under 11, it is advisable to use the larger access doors. These doors are wider and don´t close as fast as individual doors. They are designed for people travelling in London with kids, luggage or for disabled people.

Children 11 – 16 years of age

Children between the ages of 11 and under 16 can travel at a reduced rate on London´s public transport. Understanding what tickets are more suitable can be a bit complicated, as there are several options. For this reason, I am going to summarise the different options below. Hopefully, you will be able to decide which option is more suitable for you if you are travelling in London with kids.

Children from 11 to 16 years old can also travel with an adult oyster card or travel card if necessary. In this case, they will not benefit from reduced rates on travel.

Option 1: Oyster card with Young Visitor Discount

This is the best option if you are planning a family trip to London. An oyster card with a young visitor discount will apply half adult rates for 14 days. After 14 days, this discount will expire, and the oyster card will charge full adult rates again. The oyster card can also be returned at the end of your trip, just like a normal oyster card .

All you have to do is buy an Oyster Card or a Visitor Oyster Card, either online or at an underground station, and then ask a staff member to set the Young Visitor Discount. This discount can be applied at any underground station in London, including the underground station at Heathrow Airport .

An adult will need to give their personal details to register the oyster card before the discount can be applied, and you might be asked to confirm the child´s age. You and your child will need to be together when asking for the Young Visitor Discount to be set onto an oyster card, and an adult can request the young visitor discount to be set for up to 4 children (on separate oyster cards).

Option 2: Zip Oyster Photocard

The zip oyster photocard will entitle children up to 16 years of age to reduced fares on the underground and overground and other TFL services, as well as free travel on trams and buses. The zip oyster photocard is normally the best option for children that live in London, as the process to get an oyster photocard for a child can take some time and there is an initial registration fee of up to £20 – so this is normally not the best option for tourists.

To get a zip oyster photocard if you live in London, all you need to do is fill in a form that you’ll find at your local Post Office and return it to the Post Office. You will also need to include a passport-sized photo and a copy of the birth certificate or passport and pay the fee. You should get the zip oyster photocard in 2 weeks.
If you are a UK resident, you will need to do the process online on TFL’s website, and you should get the zip oyster photocard within 4 weeks.
If you live outside the UK you will need to do the process online on TFL’s website. When applying, you will need to choose which London Visitor Centre (Liverpool Street Station, Victoria Station, Euston, Gatwick, King’s Cross station) you want to collect the zip oyster photocard from, as it will not be sent to your home address. You need to apply at least 3 weeks in advance but can apply up to three months in advance.

Option 3: 1 Day Child Travelcard

A one-day child travelcard will allow unlimited travel at any time of the day on any form of public transport in London for the chosen London Travel Zones . No ID is needed to purchase this one-day child travelcard, but fares using an oyster card with a young visitor discount are normally cheaper. If you are visiting London for several days and choose this option, you will have to buy a one-day child travelcard for each day, and this will work out a lot more expensive than using an oyster card with a young visitor discount.

Option 4: 7 Day Child Travelcard

To buy a 7-day child travelcard in London there are 3 options: 1 – By adding a weekly travelcard into a zip oyster photocard. This is undoubtedly the most complicated option, as you need to request a zip card oyster photocard first and then add the 7-day travelcard onto it. 2 – Buy a 7-day child travelcard online . This is probably the easiest way of getting one, as you don’t need a zip oyster photocard, and they’ll send it to your home address before you travel. 3 – Buy a 7-day child travelcard at a national railway ticket office (not an underground station).

16 – 18 years old

People aged 16 to 18 can also apply for a 16 – 18 zip oyster photocard, which will apply half adult rates on any form of public transport in London. Travelcards at a reduced price can also be added onto zip oyster photocards.

You don’t need to live in London to be able to apply for a zip card, but there is a processing fee which makes it hard to justify if you’re just visiting London for a few days. In this case, I’d recommend using a normal oyster card (adult rates) for anyone over 16.

For more information about travelling in London kids visit: Transport for London

Travelling in London with kids: Travelling to Central London from the airport

Stansted , Luton and Gatwick airports are all located outside London’s Travel Zones , so fares when travelling with kids too and from these airports are different to fares when travelling in London with kids, so under 11 years old’s will need a ticket.

An oyster card is valid for travel into Central London from Gatwick Airport, but children under 11 also need a train ticket to get to central London from Gatwick Airport, even if they are accompanied by an adult.

Heathrow and London City Airports are both inside London Travel Zones , so fares are as explained above. Children under 11 travel free, and Children under 16 can travel with an oyster card with a young visitor discount.

⇒ More information: London Airport Transfers

Travelling in London with a buggy

One of the things we need to think about if we are going to be travelling in London with kids is if we are going to need to travel around London with a buggy. If you are planning a trip with a baby, it may be that you wish to bring your buggy to London, or if you have older children, you will probably need to use a stroller if you are planning on spending the whole day walking around London.

When you first become a parent in London, using public transport with a buggy isn´t easy at first. Still, you eventually learn how to get around and quickly learn how to read London´s accessibility maps and find the best routes. The truth is that travelling in London with a buggy can be very easy if you know which route is best, or it can be a complete nightmare if you have to go up or down 300 steps when there are no lifts.

This is why we are going to explain how to travel on London´s public transport with a buggy.

Travelling on London´s buses with a buggy

Public buses in London have a dedicated wheelchair and buggy space as well as easy street-level access, and travelling by bus with a buggy normally is the easiest option to get around London. You can enter the bus via the back door, which makes it a bit easier too. Up to two pushchairs are allowed in the dedicated buggy space on a bus, but do bear in mind that during busy periods you may be asked to wait for the next bus or collapse your pushchair.

Travelling on the London Underground with a buggy

The trick to travelling in London with kids using a pushchair is to check London´s accessible underground map in advance and choose your route carefully. Being able to plan your route by choosing accessible stations makes life much easier. It may just mean that you need to get off at the next stop and walk 5 minutes, rather than having to take a buggy and a baby up 100 steps.

Unfortunately, not all underground stations in London are accessible. Most underground stations in London will have escalators, and many stations will also have stairs before reaching the platform. Many other stations have lifts to some platforms, and some stations are completely accessible, with lifts from the ticket office to the platform.

Travelling in London with a buggy is easier if there are two adults as one of you can carry the baby whilst the other one can take the buggy up or down the stairs. If it´s just one adult taking a buggy then I would encourage you to check the best route first. Whenever I had no choice and had to get off at an underground station that wasn’t accessible with a buggy, there has always been someone willing to help me. If you need help going up or down the stairs and you ask a staff member for help, for health and safety reasons, they will ask you to carry the baby and take the buggy for you. I have to say that a lot of people will use the escalators with a buggy, but I would recommend that you use stations with lifts.

London Underground Accessibility Maps

On the London Underground map, you will see that accessible underground stations are marked with the symbol of a wheelchair, in either a blue circle or a white circle.

Blue circle: Fully accessible station. This means it is possible to go from street level onto the underground carriage without any steps. In these cases, the platform will have a slightly elevated area that avoids steps to get onto the train.
White circle: Accessible Station. This means that there are no steps from street level to the platform. There is some unevenness when getting onto the train. This is important for someone using a wheelchair, but it usually isn´t a problem when taking a buggy onto the train.

In addition to this map, there is a Step Free Tube Map , which is a lot more detailed and the one I recommend you check when travelling on the London Underground with a buggy. This map highlights the degree of accessibility at each station in detail and explains how accessible it is to change between underground lines at different stations.

London Underground Child Fares – Tube Ticket Prices 2024

Are children free on the london underground.

Children aged under-11 (with an adult) – Children under the age of 11 can travel for free on the London Underground, London Overground, DLR and TFL Rail with no time restrictions, as long as they’re accompanied by a fare-paying adult (up to a maximum of four children per adult). They don’t require a tube ticket.

They might also be able to travel for free on some National Rail services (the overground trains that head outside London), but each train company has their own rules about age limits and timings, so you need to check with them first. Generally speaking under 5’s usually get free travel on the train, but only if they’re not taking up a seat required by a fare-paying passenger. Children aged between 5-15 might be charged a half-price train fare.

Children aged under-11 (without an adult) – Children aged between 5-10 travelling without any adult supervision can only travel for free if they’re carrying a 5-10 Zip Oyster photocard . (Tourists might wonder why 5-10 year-olds are allowed to travel unaccompanied on the tube, but it’s not unusual to see primary school children go a few stops on the Underground.)

How do children get through the ticket barrier?

A child under the age of 11 doesn’t need a ticket when they’re travelling with an adult, so lots of people wonder how they’re going to get their children through the barrier.

All you have to do is look for the extra-wide gate that’s always provided for wheelchair users and people carrying bulky bags. If you use that gate then there will be plenty of space to walk your child through by your side.

If your child doesn’t get through in time then just find a member of TFL staff behind the gate who will use their own TFL pass to swipe them through. (Bear in mind that they might ask for proof of age if your child looks over 11.)

Do children get cheap fares on the tube?

Children aged between 11-15 – Children aged between 11-15 can pay a child rate on single fares and child travelcards if they have an 11-15 Zip Oyster photocard . They also get a cheaper child price on single fares if the Young Visitor Discount has been applied to their Oyster card.

We always recommend that people use the Young Visitor Discount if they’re staying in London for less than two weeks, because the children’s photocards cost money, which will almost certainly wipe out any savings you’ll make.

Children aged between 16-17 – Children aged between 16-17 can pay child rates on single fares and travelcards with a 16+ Zip Oyster photocard .

What is the Young Visitor Discount?

If you have a child aged between 11-15 and are staying in London for less than two weeks then you should forget about buying a Zip Oyster photocard – you’re much better off taking advantage of the Young Visitor Discount which entitiles them to half-price fares on the London Underground for a maximum of fourteen consecutive days.

All you have to do is buy your child a regular London Oyster card or Oyster card for visitors (but not a travelcard), load some credit onto it, and then ask a member of TFL staff to apply the ‘Young Visitor Discount’ to it. You can usually find one standing behind the ticket barriers in the ticket hall. Unfortunately it’s not possible to do this online beforehand – you can only do it in person once you arrive in London.

You can do it at a London Underground station, a National Rail station (within London) or one of the Visitor Centres at Heathrow airport, Euston station , King’s Cross , Liverpool Street , Paddington , Piccadilly Circus or Victoria . (Note: You won’t find any manned ticket windows in London Underground stations anymore, because they’ve all been phased out. The only place they have windows these days are National Rail stations.)

Be aware that your child must be with you when you do it (up to a maximum of four children per adult), and the staff member might ask for proof of age if they look over 15 – so make sure you’ve got their passport handy, or some other form of age-related ID.

Your child can then carry on using the card exactly like a normal Oyster card – tapping it down on the same yellow readers that adults do – and the computer will automatically charge them the Oyster card child rate. Once the fourteen days are over any remaining credit will still be on the card, but the computer will revert back to charging adult tube fares again.

Can a child use contactless on the train?

There are no contactless fares for children. If your child is lucky enough to own a bank card then they can use it, but the computer will just charge them a normal adult tube fare instead. That’s because the chips on bank cards don’t carry any information about your age, so the computer has no way of knowing they’re a child.

What is a Zip Oyster photocard?

5-10 Zip Oyster photocard – Kids under the age of 11 already get free tube travel if they’re accompanied by a fare-paying adult, but if they need to travel alone then they’ll have to get hold of a 5-10 Zip Oyster photocard beforehand.

5-10 Zip Oyster photocards cost £10 each, and expire the day before your child’s 11th birthday.

11-15 Zip Oyster photocard – Kids over the age of 10 years 11 months, and under the age of 16 on the 31st August , can get themselves an 11-15 Zip Oyster photocard for £15 and benefit from cheap tube fares and child rate travelcards.

If your child is currently 16 but was aged 15 on the 31st August just gone, then they can still get one because it doesn’t actually expire until the 30th September in the year following your child’s 16th birthday.

16+ Zip Oyster photocard – 16-17 year-olds can get cheap London Underground fares and child rate travelcards with a 16+ Zip Oyster photocard .

16+ Zip Oyster photocards cost £20 and expire on the 30th September in the year following your child’s 18th birthday.

Where can you get a Zip Oyster photocard?

There’s only one way to get a Zip Oyster photocard – the child’s parent or guardian has to order it from the TFL website .

The adult will have to set up an account in their own name, and then verify the child’s age using the details printed on a machine-readable passport. If they don’t have the child’s passport available then they’ll have to print off a form and take it to their local Post Office instead. They will also need to upload a digital colour photo.

If you want the photocard posted to a UK address then allow for four weeks delivery. You can also pick it up from one of the Visitor Centres at Heathrow, Euston , King’s Cross , Liverpool Street , Paddington , Piccadilly Circus or Victoria when you arrive in London.

How do you top-up a Zip Oyster photocard?

To top-up a Zip Oyster photocard the parent or guardian has to log into their TFL account (which they would have created when they bought the card).

They can also switch on the handy ‘auto top-up’ feature by selecting ‘Add an existing card’, and then entering the 12-digit number printed on the back of the child’s photocard. This will automatically draw another £20 or £40 from the adult’s bank account every time the child’s credit drops below £20.

Note: If the child is under the age of 11 then they’ll be entitled to free tube travel, so there’s no need to put any credit on it.

Is it worth getting a Zip Oyster photocard?

We don’t recommend child photocards for foreign tourists on a short stay because they cost too much money – the purchase fee of £10 to £20 will probably wipe out all the savings you’d make. It’s also a hassle having to order it online and then picking it up once you arrive in London.

Tourists are much better off buying an Oyster card instead, and then paying for child tube tickets with a Young Visitor Discount attached to it.

Can a child use a passport as proof-of-age?

Having to stump up £10 to £20 puts a lot of people off buying a Zip Oyster photocard, and they wonder whether they can just prove their child’s age with a passport instead. It’s a nice idea, but unfortunately it’s not allowed. The only way of getting a cheap child fare on the London Underground is with a Zip Oyster photocard.

How do you use a Zip Oyster photocard on the train?

Using a child’s Zip Oyster photocard on the train is really no different to an adult using a regular Oyster card . All you have to do is load it up with some credit beforehand, and then they child taps them down on the same yellow readers that adults do. The computer will then deduct the correct fare and open the gate.

Note: There’s no need to do load it up with credit if your child is under-11, because they get free tube travel – but they still need to tap it down, because that’s the only way of opening the gate.

What is a 16-25 Railcard?

A 16-25 Railcard (also known as a 16-25 Young Persons Railcard or Student Railcard ), entitles you to ⅓-off train fares if you’re planning on using some National Rail trains to places outside of London. Given how expensive train tickets are these days it will probably pay for itself after three or four journeys.

Make sure you read the terms and conditions carefully though, because it doesn’t apply to all journeys on the London Underground . If you’re travelling on the tube then all you really get are cheap tickets for off-peak single fares on Oyster, a discount off the Oyster daily price cap , and some money knocked-off the cost of a zone 1-9 one day travelcard when bought together with a National Rail ticket outside of London.

You might also find that you’re subject to a hefty minimum fare when travelling between 4.30 AM and 10 AM on Monday to Friday, which will probably render it useless for daily commutes on London transport.

If you’re interested then check out their website at railcard.co.uk

Your comments and questions

Karl Can anyone please advise me if under11s travel for free on the tube as I keep getting different info?

Staff Under 11s can travel for free if they are accompanied by an adult, or they have a 5-10 Zip Oystercard. [Note: If your child looks older than 10 then they will need a 5 -10 Zip Oyster photocard. If they don't have a card and a staff member thinks he's over 10, then he's entitled to make you pay.]

Annie Hi. I'll be in London for 3 days with my 12 year old. I have an Oyster card but don't have time to get her a 11-15 Oyster card before I travel. I can always get her paper one day tickets but as she's not particularly big could I get away with her travelling on my Oyster card as an 11 year old? When tickets are checked do the inspectors ask for proof of age?

Staff Kids have to be 10 or under to travel for free on the tube (and accompanied by an adult). So even if she was 11 she would still have to pay. But what you are asking to do is fare evasion - a criminal offence - and you could get in trouble.

Tony Casey Hi, I understand that children under 11 years travel free on the tube. I will be using a contactless card but what does my child aged 10 yrs need to get through the barriers? Thanks

Staff As long as he's travelling with an adult then he doesn't need anything at all. Most people use the extra wide gate for buggies so their kids have enough time to squeeze through alongside them, but you can always ask the member of staff who stands by the gates to let him through. If you get an unlucky member of staff who decides your kid looks over 10 then they might ask for proof of age.

Danielle We're travelling with 2 kids (9 and 7). As I read, the kids don't need an Oyster card and can travel for free. How does that work for them? I recall that the tube turnstiles are opening pretty fast? Is it easy and practical for our family? Thank you,

Staff Hi Danielle. They always have an extra wide gate for wheelchair users and people with suitcases and buggies, so just use that one. Then your kids will have enough time to get through with you. If they get stuck behind then just ask a member of staff to tap them through (but they might ask for proof of age if they look older than 10).

Becky Hi. I just realised I am too late to order my Visitor Oyster cards for myself, husband & son. I realise that I could just get normal PAYG Oyster cards when I get to London. The only thing is will I still get free travel for my 10 year old daughter? Appreciate any help

Staff Hi Becky. 10 year olds always travel for free anyway (as long as they're accompanied by an adult) - they don't need an Oyster card. The only exception is when they look older than 10, in which case the staff may stop you and ask for proof of age. If you're worried about that happening then you can always just take their passport along.

Becky Thanks for your brilliantly fast response

Thear If I plan on buying 4 Visitor Oyster Cards and putting the Young Visitor discount on 2 of them, should I apply the 50% discount when I order the cards? (Ex: 2 cards at £40 and 2 cards at £20 instead of 4 cards at £40)

Staff Hi Thear. You can't actually apply the discount yourself, or do it online, you have to ask a member of staff at the station to do it. But yes, you could put half the amount of credit onto it if you wish. You can always top them up again later if the credit runs out.

Jim Davison Visiting London with my wife and 12 yr old son and we intend using contactless cards for travel. Can I only get half price travel for my son if one of us were to buy a Visitor Oyster card and then get it amended in tube station

Staff Hi Jim. You and your wife can still use contactless, but you'll have to buy a normal adult Oyster card for your kid (Visitor Oyster cards are the same thing), then load some money onto it, then find a member of staff at the tube station to put the 'Young Visitor Discount' onto it. And remember that your kid has to be present for them to do it, because they'll want to check how old he looks.

Eamon Travelling into London from Somerset at the weekend with wife and 2 children, under 10 years. Will my kids travel free if my wife and I use contactless cards to travel on underground.

Staff Hi Eamon, that's right. Under 11s travel for free (if they happen to look over 11 then there's a possibility a member of staff might ask for proof of age).

SG Hi Looking to travel with two kids under 10 and two adults with contactless cards. Never been London before so was wondering if I've got the right end of the stick: I know that the kids travel free, but how do they go through barriers if they've got no cards? (I scan mine and walk through, partner does the same - how do the kids get across if that makes sense!?!) Thanks in advance for your help.

Staff Hi SG, you just walk them through at the same time as yourself. The best thing to do is use the extra-wide gate. They always have one at the end for people with wheelchairs and buggies. If you kid is a bit slow and gets stuck behind the barrier then just ask the train staff to use their card to open the gate and let him through.

AJTB How does the contactless system determine a child rate from an adult rate?

Staff Hi ATJB. It can't, because bank cards don't have your age on the chip. If you look at the fares above then you'll see that there are no child fares for contactless cards. If you tap down with it then you'll be charged an adult fare.

Petra I would like to know,where can a child get a Photocard, which is needed to get the cheaper fare for children. We are visitors from abroad, coming to London only for a few days. Thanks a lot.

Staff Hi Petra. It's not worth getting a photocard for that short a time because you have to pay for it, which will wipe out any savings you make on the child fares. But visitors can get something called a 'Young Visitor Discount' instead (see above). Al you do is buy them a normal pay-as-you-go Oyster card and then go up to a ticket window, or member of staff in the station, and ask them to apply the 'Young Visitor Discount' to it. This will knock 50% off the fare for up to 14 days.

Jess Do I need to buy a travelcard for my 8 year old as well. I have been doing some reading and I think a weekly travelcard makes more sense for my family than the Oyster card. However, I just need to know if 1) children below 11 need a travelcard or no and 2) will my daughter who is 11 get a discount on the travelcard as is the case with the Oyster card. Thanks

Staff Hi Jess. Under 11s travel for free on the tube so they wont need a travelcard (or an Oyster card, or anything). 11 year olds do get cheaper travelcards, but only if they have an 11-15 Zip photocard. But the photocard costs money if you don't already have one, so it will actually end up costing more. I would get the 11 year old an Oyster card and then have the 50% young visitor discount added to it.

EdW If paying contactless with a child, how does the child go through barrier?

Staff Hi Edw. Just use the extra-wide gate they always have for people with buggies and wheelchairs, and walk him through at the same time as you.

Lorraine How does it work paying contact less for 4 adults and a eleven year old on one card do you buy tickets or tap card

Staff Hi Lorraine. There are no contactless fares for children, and each adult needs to use their own card to get a contactless fare. If you only have one card between you then you’ll have to use it to buy tickets at the self-service machine instead, but then you’ll be paying the cash fare - city-guide.london/transport/contactless-cards.php

H D I am travelling to Edinburgh and need to take the tube with my 12 yr old son how do I get tickets for this journey

Staff If its just a one-off journey then just buy them a ticket at a self-service machine inside the station. you will be best off using your contactless card on the gate (assuming you have a UK bank card)

PATRICIA What stations can I get the young person discount applied to oyster card at I be staying near Richmond station

Staff Hi Patricia. Any station with some staff, so Richmond station is okay

Lynsay My 11 yr old & I are arriving on Saturday. I'm worried the Oyster card I ordered won't arrive in time: if I use contactless for my travel, can I buy a pay as you go Oyster for him when we arrive in London (to convert to Young Visitor Discount)? Any better suggestions? We will there 4 days, mostly zone 1. Tia

Staff Hi Lynsay. You can do. But if you ordered a Visitor Oyster Card you won't be able to get one of those in central London, only a normal blue one. But they are basically both the same anyway (the Visitor ones come with their credit already loaded on, but you have to choose your amount when you buy the blue ones). I wouldn't bother buying a travelcard for your kid, because four 1-days or a weekly one would be more expensive. All the places you can buy a blue one are described on this page: city-guide.london/transport/oyster-cards.php

Christine Alice Hello I am 68 years old travelling with my 14 year old grandaughter for 6 full days in October . Planning do do a fair bit of travelling around London using public transport . Can you suggest best cost effective way to do this ?

Staff Hi Christine, assuming you dont live in London you”ll have to pay a normal adult fare. The easiest and cheapest fares for you will be with your contactless card (your normal everyday bank card) - city-guide.london/transport/contactless-cards.php The cheapest fares for your granddaughter will be if you buy her an Oyster card and then get a ‘Young Visitor Discount’ applied to it. Its all explained on the page above

Rosie How much is a monthly travel for child zip card 11-15 years old for trains underground

Staff Hi Rosie. Zip cards are like Oyster cards, you load them up with as much credit as you need. So theres no price for a monthly one. Do you mean a monthly travelcard? The prices for those are in the table above. The travelcard can then be loaded onto the Zip card.

Pat Dawson I have disabled bus pass and will be traveling with my 15 year old grandson taking him home after the hoildays ge does gave a zip card but didt bring ot with him do I need to buy travel card to get him home

Staff Hi Pat. if it’s just a one-off trip then you're better off just buying him a single adult ticket from the machine at the station. A travelcard will work out more expensive but are you talking about buses or trains? - if its buses you should get him the cheaper 1-day travelcard for buses/trams - city-guide.london/transport/travelcards.php

John Cossins I want to take my 11 year old grandchild with me on the underground. How do I pay her fare as well as my own?

Staff Hi John. If its a one-off journey then you can just buy her a paper ticket from the self-service machine, using your bank card or cash. If you're taking multiple journeys throughout the day then you might want to buy her an adult 1-day travelcard instead (she’d need to have an oyster photocard to get a child price)

Lee Hi i am going to be travelling with an 11yr old just visiting attractions in zones 1 and 2 in 6 days. what is the cheapest way for us both to travel on the underground in these zones. I think for me i would just tap my debit card but what do i get for my daughter? clearly no time or need for 11-15 card for 1 day trip

Staff Hi Lee. Not sure if you mean a 1 day or a 6 day stay. If it's six days then I would buy her an Oyster card and have the 'Young Visitor Discount' applied to it, which will get her 50% off the fares. We explain how to do it in the 'What is the Young Visitor Discount?' section above. If it's just 1 day then I would just buy her an adult 1-day travelcard from the machine

Rish How does 11-5 zip card work? Do I top up like oyster card for adult?

Staff Hi Rish. The adult who created the account has to top it up. Then it works the same way as an oyster card. Its all explained in the "How can you top-up a child’s photocard?" section above

Jeff Hi, my wife is taking our grandchild (12) to London for the day, she has her own Oyster card. Can I lend my card to my granddaughter with credit on, and have the Young Visitor Discount applied? then afterwards it will automatically revert back to an adult card?

Staff Hi Jeff. If there's just pay-as-you-go credit on it then yes, that's no problem, but if it already has a travelcard or another discount loaded on to it (maybe because of age or disability), then no. And bear in mind that the Young Visitor Discount won't disappear for 14 days, so you won't be able to use it again yourself until it expires, otherwise you'll be paying a child fare.

Liz Hi I’ve got a 60+ travel card but am taking my 12 year old granddaughter to London next week what is the best card for her ?

Staff Hi Liz. If it’s just one day then the easiest thing to do is to get her a one day travelcard. If it’s for longer then you might be better off getting her an oyster card and having the ‘young visitor discount’ applied to it. But it all depends on how many days you’re staying and how many trips you’re making

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She is entitled to a young persons Oyster card (about half price from memory) - they are available from the machines at any Tube station - a member of staff can help you if you get stuck.

Get her a regular oyster card from the underground station when you arrive. These have a refundable £5 deposit, add £12.00 Pay As you Go credit as a starter and ask the member of staff to add the Young Persons Discount to the card. The daily cap for zones 1-2 will be half of the adult cap that you will pay with your contactless card which is £6.80.

You can return the oyster card to any underground station to get the deposit and up to £10 credit in cash refunded.

"She is entitled to a young persons Oyster card (about half price from memory) - they are available from the machines at any Tube station - a member of staff can help you if you get stuck."

I didn't realise there was such a thing? I thought for a child that they have to apply in advance for some sort of card and ruled out spur of the moment travel. I looked into this when my 15 year son needed to travel and the only round it was to give him my adult Oyster card.

The card you are thinking of is an 11 - 15 ZIP Oyster photocard.

The "Young Visitor Discount" is for people aged 11 - 15 who do not have a ZIP Oyster photocard, usually visitors to London. You get a regular Oyster card and load it up with credit. Then ask a member of staff to set the discount on the card, so that when it is used to tap in and out, it only deducts the child fare from the balance, rather than the adult fare. The Young Visitor Discount only lasts for 14 days though.

https://tfl.gov.uk/fares-and-payments/travel-for-under-18s/travelling-with-children#on-this-page-1

for details.

Yes sorry, was unclear with my wording - posts 2 and 4 both set it out more clearly.

Trying to think of what the under 16yo old would be if they weren't a visitor or resident.

If you're not a resident, then you're a visitor. What other category is there?

those not yet born?

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London Group Travelcard 2024

Cheapest transport pass for groups of 10 or more well, sometimes....

Summary of 1-day London Group Travelcard

The London one-day Group Travelcard is the only group ticket for London's public transport system.

There is no group travel product for longer durations than one day.

The Group Travelcard covers the same public transport as other public transport passes for individuals like standard Travelcards and Oyster.

If you are a group of 10 or more, this ticket is worth benchmarking against other alternatives but normally only becomes attractive financially if your group is staying outside the centre of London (zones 1 to 3).

Key rules Purchasing 1-day group Travelcards Purchasing from Visit Britain Alternative tickets Oyster & Travelcard prices compared

Key rules of the London Group Travelcard

You must have a minimum of 10 people and they all need to travel together. The 10 people can be a mix of adults and children.

The Group Travelcard is off-peak only, you cannot use it before 9.30am Mondays to Fridays. You can use them all day weekends and national holidays.

The Group Travelcard is only valid for zones 1-6. Most tourists only need zones 1 and 2.

The Group Travelcard is valid on all public transport that the standard individual Travelcard is valid for, including buses, London Underground and Overground, DLR and trains.

The Group Travelcard, like the 1 Day Travelcard, is valid for the calendar day, not 24 hours from first use.

The child age band is under 16, like standard Travelcards and Oysters there are no seniors concessions for visitors

You can only purchase from Underground Station ticket machines, Overground or TfL Rail station ticket offices and some National Rail stations that Tube and London Overground services run through – and only on the day of travel.

However you can buy them online in advance, from the Visit Britain TFL Travel shop .

If you are not travelling beyond zones 1 to 3, a standard individual Oyster Card is cheaper than than the Group Travelcard.

Purchasing 1-day Group Travelcards

You can buy Group Travelcards on the day of travel or in advance from Visit Britain or the TFL website (see below).

Buying in London there is a restricted list of outlets (compared with other public transport tickets) that you can purchase from.

Most people will buy Group Travelcards from Underground Station ticket machines. You can also purchase from London Overground or TFL Rail station ticket offices and some National Rail stations that Tube and London Overground services run through.

You can use credit and debit cards to purchase.

Group Travelcard 2024 Prices from 3 March

* Children under 11 travel free without a ticket on London buses, London Underground and Overground, DLR and some rail services.

Buy your Group Travelcards from Visit Britain in advance

If having to purchase on the day of travel and from a ticket machine is a lot of hassle and stress you do not need, you can order Group Travelcards online in advance from Visit Britain or the TFL website.

See banner below to order from Visit Britain.

Both sites only sell zone 1-6 Group Travelcards, they do not sell Group Travelcards for zones 1-9.

Tickets are sent to your home address wherever in the world you reside, for which there is a charge.

You can choose between standard and an express delivery option. When you select your country on ordering you will be given indicative delivery times for each option.

BUY GROUP DAY TRAVELCARD FOR LONDON

Visiting London in a group of 10 or more? Buy in advance to save time and money

Group Day Travelcard valid on bus, Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground, TfL Rail and most National Rail services within London fare Zones 1 to 6.

Alternative tickets for groups that may be cheaper than Group Travelcards

There are three major features of the Group Travelcard that often means that even if you have a group of 10 or more it may be cheaper or more convenient to buy individual tickets for each member of the group.

- The cheapest and most popular Group Travelcard is for zones 1-6. Most visitors stay in a hotel in zones 1-2 and most attractions are also in zones 1-2. If you do not travel outside zones 1-3 it will be cheaper to buy an Oyster Card each instead.

- The Group Travelcard doesn't allow travel before 9.30am Monday to Friday. If you require to travel at these prohibited times then an individual Oyster Card or a 7 day Travelcard will be your best option.

- The Group Travelcard doesn't allow the Group to split up, they must all travel together, even though each person has individual tickets. If you require to split up your group when travelling then an individual Oyster Card or a 7 day Travelcard will be your best option.

Below are tables summarising fares and fare caps for individual travel passes for Oyster and Travelcards.

The fare caps are the most you can pay in a calendar day with Oyster. Once you hit that fare cap all travel for the rest of the day is free.

If you have a credit or debit card that supports contactless payment or have Apple Pay you can link these to Oyster fares.

Oyster Cards are cheaper than 1 day Travelcards but if you are travelling 5 or more days in any 7 then a 7 day Travelcard is normally cheaper than an Oyster Card.

Oyster Cards - more details

Contactless Payment Cards - more details

Travelcards - more details

Price caps for Oyster & contactless card payments, compared to Travelcard prices

From 3 march 2024 - march 2025.

* Travelcard peak fares apply for any travel made Monday to Friday before 9.30am. All other travel is off-peak.

** Prices for a 7 day Travelcard. Also the 7 day cap for contactless payment cards between Monday to Sunday - not available on Oyster.

SPECIAL CAP FOR BUS TRAVEL ONLY: £5.25 (When you only travel on London's buses on 1 day).

CHILDREN'S OYSTER CAPS: Off-peak: £1.80 (zones 1-9). Peak: approx half of adult cap.

Previously asked questions on your group travel options in London

At present we are unable to maintain the discuss service but you can contact us using the Contact Us link at the bottom of each page. We have decided to leave the answers here as they are useful for many of the questions we receive. If you cannot find an answer to your question, we'll be happy to hear from you.

London travel for groups of 10+ people. Ask Bob if still confused.

19 Caves Across America That Lead To Unforgettable Underground Adventures

Sarah McCosham

I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books. I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.

More by this Author

When planning your next big adventure in America, the options are numerous: from frozen waterfalls and dreamy hot springs to manmade wonders and captivating castles , opportunities abound for epic exploration in the U.S. Some might say “the sky’s the limit” – but any stargazer or mountain climber would disagree, as there truly is no limit on what we can explore here in the U.S . In fact, there are entire worlds beneath our feet; caverns and caves creating some of the most incredible underworlds known to mankind. This brings us to today’s adventure: 19 caves in the U.S. that offer explorers a glimpse into truly wondrous worlds that seem too resplendent to be real – but luckily for us, they’re all wholly, wonderfully real.

National Park Caves In The U.S.

Well-known caves in the u.s., little-known caves in the u.s., unique caves in the u.s..

Address: 1 Indian Well, Tulelake, CA 96134
What It’s Known For: Formed by the movement of volcanic lava.
Where To Stay Nearby: Glass house in Klamath, Oregon.

Address: 19000 Caves Hwy, Cave Junction, OR 97523
What It’s Known For: Complex marble cave systems, plus rare animals and plants.
Where To Stay Nearby: Rustic getaway in Cave Junction, Oregon.

Address: Custer County, South Dakota
What It’s Known For: One of the first national parks in the country
Where To Stay Nearby: Log Cabin Outside of Custer.

Address: 11149 US-16 B-12, Custer, SD 57730
What It’s Known For: The third longest cave in the world.
Where To Stay Nearby: Sundance Cabin near Custer.

Address: 25 Lewis & Clark Caverns Rd. Whitehall MT 59759
What It’s Known For: Spiral staircases throughout, plus glowing neon lights.
Where To Stay Nearby: Earthen Home in Jefferson City, MT

Address: Southeast of Page, AZ
What It’s Known For: Two unique slot canyons with stunning geography.
Where To Stay Nearby: The Clizzie Hogan, Marble Canyon.

Address: Carlsbad, NM 88220
What It’s Known For: Unique size, origin, diversity, and decorative rock formations.
Where To Stay Nearby: Shipping Container in Carlsbad.

Address: Scenic Hwy., Chattanooga, Tennessee
What It’s Known For: An underground waterfall discovered back in 1928.
Where To Stay Nearby: Treehouse Cabin in Trenton.

Address: 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266
What It’s Known For: The biggest commercial cave system in Texas.
Where To Stay Nearby: A-Frame home in Canyon Lake, Texas.

18 Captivating Canyons Scattered Across America That Rival The Grand Canyon

19 Lesser-Known Natural Wonders That Rival Our Country’s Top Destinations

Carlsbad Caverns National Park: An Awe-Inspiring Glimpse Into The Underworld

Address: 1 Visitor Center Parkway Mammoth Cave, KY 42259
What It’s Known For: It’s the longest-known cave system in the United States - and the world!
Where To Stay Nearby: Tranquil Cottage in Mammoth Cave.

Address: 1135 Hwy W, Sullivan, MO 63080
What It’s Known For: It’s the largest commercial cave in the state of Missouri.
Where To Stay Nearby: Log Cabin in Bourbon, Missouri.

Address: 255 Discovery Drive · Howes Cave, NY 12092
What It’s Known For: A unique above-ground cavern system dating back to the 1840s.
Where To Stay Nearby: Yurt in Pattersonville, New York.

Address: 101 Cave Hill Rd, Luray, VA 22835
What It’s Known For: The enormous calcite formations scattered throughout the caverns.
Where To Stay Nearby: Red Barn in Luray, Virginia.

Address: 2210 OH-245 E, West Liberty, OH 43357
What It’s Known For: America’s most colorful caverns.
Where To Stay Nearby: Yurt in Zanesfield, Ohio.

Address: 29842 Co Rd 30, Harmony, MN 55939
What It’s Known For: It is one of only two publicly accessible caves in Minnesota, discovered back in 1924.
Where To Stay Nearby: Harmony Lighthouse Home.

Address: 5181 Desoto Caverns Pkwy, Childersburg, AL 35044
What It’s Known For: One of the most concentrated combinations of onyx-marble stalactites and stalagmites in the United States.
Where To Stay Nearby: Getaway Close River.

Address: 5350 Moaning Cave Rd, Vallecito, CA 95251
What It’s Known For: Home to the largest single cave chamber in California.
Where To Stay Nearby: Mountainside Hideaway in Vallecito, California.

Address: 2980 AZ-90, Benson, AZ 85602
What It’s Known For: Home to one of the largest soda straw stalactites in the world.
Where To Stay Nearby: The Animal Lodge in Benson, Arizona.

Address: 1711 Private Rd 4468, Sonora, TX 76950
What It’s Known For: A national landmark and one of the most beautiful show caves in the world.
Where To Stay Nearby: Hilltop Hideaway, Sonora, Texas.

The world is a wide, wonderful place, full of opportunities everywhere you turn — including underground. Fan the flames of your wanderlust with a visit to these unforgettable underworlds, each of which offers an experience that truly is bucket-list worthy. How many of these caves in the U.S. have you already checked off your list?

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Caves in the u.s. .

What are the most popular caves to visit in the United States?

The most popular caves to visit in the United States include:

Mammoth Cave - Brownsville, KY
Carlsbad Caverns - Carlsbad, NM
Jewel Cave - Custer, SD
Niagara Cave - Harmony, MN
Meramec Caverns - Stanton, MO
Luray Caverns - Luray, VA
Caverns of Sonora - Sonora, TX
Ruby Falls Haunted Cavern - Chattanooga, TN
Ape Cave - Cougar, Washington
Moaning Cavern - Vallecito, CA
Antelope Canyon - Page, Arizona
Lava River Cave - Bend, Oregon
Lost Sea Caverns - Sweetwater, Tennessee
Blanchard Springs Caverns - Stone County, Arkansas
Kartchner Caverns State Park - Benson, Arizona
Fantastic Caverns - Springfield, Missouri
Kazumura Cave – Hawaii

How many caves are there in the United States?

There are an estimated 45,000 caves in the contiguous United States, and we’ve only covered a fraction of them. Underneath the surface of the country, there is a complete world worth exploring.

What is the biggest cave in the U.S.?

The biggest cave in the United States , not to mention the longest cave in the world is Mammoth Cave in Kentucky. This beautiful cave is one of the oldest attractions in the state, with over 400 miles explored underground.

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AKWAABA! GHANA AWAITS TO WELCOME YOU HOME

JULY 20TH-29TH 2024

Terms and Conditions

Need(S) to Know

My Background

Travel necessities.

I have had the "travel bug" since my parents took me on my first cruise when I was 15. I have since visited 13 countries and have had the honor of traveling to Ghana on 4 different occasions. Every time there is like the first and I'm honored to experience it this go 'round with YOU. Lets go!

July 20th -Airport Pick up/Welcome

July 21st - W.E.B. Dubois Center, Batique Workshop

July 22nd -Drumming and Dancing Workshop, Black Star Square Visit

July 23rd - Visit Botanical Gardens and Bead-Making Village

July 24th - Visit Assin Manso, Slave Dungeons

July 25th -Visit Kakum National Park

July 26th -Attend Panafest Activities

July 27th -TBA

July 28th -Brunch at Kempinski Hotel, Community Service Activity

July 29th -Farewell, Airport Drop off

----------------------

What's Included:

-Hotel Accommodations

-In Country Transportation

-Airport Pick-Up and Drop Off

-All activities that require entry fees

-Some lunches

What's NOT Included:

-Your Flight(s)

-Brunch at the Kempinski Hotel

As we prepare for our journey, I will be scheduling virtual meetings with the group to answer any pertinent questions you may have.

In the meantime, there are four (4) things that you need to secure as you are planning for the trip:

1. A Valid Passport

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html

2. A Valid Visa

https://ecims

https://ecimsglobal.com/mission.aspx

3. Yellow Fever Vaccine

*contact your local health department

4. Trip Insurance

Ghana 2024 Payment Options/ Plan for Double Occupants

*Please note that this trip is non-refundable

Ghana 2024/ Double Occupancy (10 installments)

This option is for travelers wishing to split their trip cost into 10 equal payments of $230.00 + tax

https://www.paypal.com/webapps/billing/plans/subscribe?plan_id=P-1NH03625BX587211SMSVCRGQ

Ghana 2024/Double Occupancy (3 installments)

This option is for travelers wishing to pay split their trip cost into 3 equal payments of $767.00 + tax

https://www.paypal.com/webapps/billing/plans/subscribe?plan_id=P-20H373023P647482RMSVCT5I

Ghana 2024/Double Occupancy (One-time, full payment)

This is for travelers wishing to pay a one, full time payment of $2,300.00 + tax

https://www.paypal.com/webapps/billing/plans/subscribe?plan_id=P-1LP91088UF197770KMSVCERQ

Ghana 2024 Payment Options/Plan for Single Occupants

Ghana 2024/ single occupancy (10 installments).

This option is for travelers wishing to split their trip cost into 10 equal payments of $270.00 + tax.

https://www.paypal.com/webapps/billing/plans/subscribe?plan_id=P-9XB165131C571563PMSULUHY

Ghana 2024/Single Occupancy (3 installments)

This option is for travelers wishing to split their trip cost into 3 equal payments of $900.00 + tax.

https://www.paypal.com/webapps/billing/plans/subscribe?plan_id=P-5M948035RE675524EMSVCNXQ

Ghana 2024/Single Occupancy (One-time, full payment)

This option is for travelers wishing to pay a one-time, full payment of $2,700 + tax.

https://www.paypal.com/webapps/billing/plans/subscribe?plan_id=P-5PT63927EL379922KMSVCCOY

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Free and discounted travel
Children under 5 travel free with a fare paying adult - check your fare. Children aged 5-10. ... and discounts on our transport services. 16+ Zip Oyster photocard. Free and discounted travel on all our transport services if you're 16 or over. Rules of travel for under 18s. How to travel safely across our transport services if you're under 18.
11-15 Zip Oyster photocards
Children aged 11-15 can get free and discounted travel on all our transport services with a Zip Oyster photocard. Children aged over 10 years and 11 months, and under 16 on 31 August can get an 11-15 Zip Oyster photocard. If your child was 15 on 31 August, they can still apply for and use an 11-15 ...
London Child Fares and Tickets
Children aged 11-15. Children aged 11-15 travel for free on London's buses and at child-rate Pay as you go Oyster fares on the underground (tube), DLR, London Overground and most National Rail services if they have an 11-15 Zip Oyster photocard. The child-rate single fare with an 11-15 Zip Oyster is 95p (peak) or 85p (off-peak) for zones 1-6.
Fares
How much it costs and how to pay to travel around London. Find out what's the best ticket for you and how to use contactless and Oyster cards, view fares, check if you can get a refund or replacement and see if you're eligible for free and discounted travel.
Do kids need an Oyster card? Using the Zip Oyster card for children
Children under 11 travel free on most public transport services in London when accompanied by a fare-paying adult, or with a 5-10 Zip Oyster photocard. Children aged 11 to 15 years old can get free or discounted travel with a Zip Oyster photocard, or a Young Visitor discount. 16 and 17 year olds pay half the adult rate on Tube, DLR and London ...
Child Fares on London's Underground, Buses & Transport 2024
Children 5-10 years old. Under-11s can travel free at any time on London's buses and trams without a ticket. They can also travel free at any time on the Tube, London Overground and DLR (Docklands Light Railway) when they are travelling with an adult who has a valid ticket. Up to 4 children under 11 years old accompanied by a paying adult ...
Tips for using London underground with kids
Teens aged 16+ can only get discounted travel if you have a 16+ Zip Oyster photocard, which you need to apply for in advance, and costs £20. Bus & tube travel with children under 11. Children under 11 travel free with an adult with any valid ticket, including a contactless card or Oyster card, up to a maximum of four kids per adult.
London Underground fares, prices & maps 2024 plus best passes
The transport passes that nearly everyone uses, Oyster and Travelcard, allow you to travel seamlessly across all modes of transport, bus, Underground, train and DLR using the same ticket/pass. Children under 11 travel free on the London Underground and DLR (Docklands Light Railway) at all times. Child fares are available for those under 16 and ...
Free Transport in London for Children
Children 11 to 15 Years . All 11-to-15-year-olds need an Oyster Photocard to travel free on buses and trams. They must also touch in/out (place their Oyster photocard on a reader to document the journey) as they board a bus or at the tram stop before boarding to avoid a penalty fare. 11-15-year-olds can travel off-peak on the tube, DLR, and London Overground for a maximum of £1.30 a day with ...
Travelling in London with kids: Fares, Tickets and Advice
Children under 11 years of age. Children under the age of 11 travel free on London´s buses and trams, with or without an adult, at any time, and don't need a ticket. Children under the age of 11 also travel free on London Underground, DLR (Docklands Light Railway), overground and TFL rail without a ticket if they're accompanied by a paying ...
Travelling in London with kids
Children under 11 years of age. Children aged under 11 travel free on London´s buses and trams, at any time, and do not need a ticket. They also travel free on London Underground, DLR (docklands light railway), overground and Tfl rail. They don´t need a ticket as long as a paying adult accompanies them.
London Underground Child Fares
5-10 Zip Oyster photocard - Kids under the age of 11 already get free tube travel if they're accompanied by a fare-paying adult, but if they need to travel alone then they'll have to get hold of a 5-10 Zip Oyster photocard beforehand. 5-10 Zip Oyster photocards cost £10 each, and expire the day before your child's 11th birthday.
London Underground: the Tube
Central London is covered by Zone 1. The Tube network has 11 lines. The Tube fare depends on how far you travel, the time of day, and what type of ticket or payment method you use. Oyster cards or contactless payments are the cheapest ways to pay for Tube journeys. Tube services usually run from 5am until midnight, with Night Tube services on ...
15 Amazing Underground Destinations In America
The home includes a chapel, an underground fishing pond, and blooming fruit trees that stretch to the skylights. 7. Nevada National Security Site, Nevada. Spread out over 1,375 square miles of desert just 65 miles from Las Vegas is the Nevada National Security Site.
Rules of travel for under 18s
Act safely. Cooperate with our staff and treat them and other passengers with respect. Use language that does not cause offence to others. Ensure you are the only person that can hear your music. Ensure you pick up all your litter. Keep your feet off the seats. Give up your seat for others.
14 Underground Destinations to Visit Across the United States
The tallest and deepest underground waterfall, Ruby Falls in Chattanooga is worth a visit. It's 1,120 feet below the surface of Lookout Mountain, and visitors can explore it through a cave walk ...
Is underground free for under 16?
Is the Underground Free for Under 16? FAQs about the Underground for Under 16s; 1. Can individuals under 16 travel for free on the Underground? 2. What is the cost of obtaining the 16+ Zip Oyster photocard? 3. Are individuals under the age of 5 eligible for free travel on the Underground? 4. Can those aged 5 to 10 travel for free on the ...
Underground Travel for 15 year old
Answer 1 of 22: Hi, I will be travelling to London for a few days with my 15 year old daughter. I plan to use contactless on the underground but am i right in saying that she will need a separate contactless card or is there a cheaper way to get a child...
U.S. Cities with Incredible Underground Tunnel Systems
In the 1950s, this long-abandoned underground city was opened for tours. 4. Dallas Underground Tunnels - Shops and Restaurants. Attribution: WFAA - YouTube. There's a complete tunnel system under downtown Dallas. The original goal when they were built in the early 1970s was to connect downtown buildings, complete with shops and restaurants.
Group Travelcard Travel Pass London for groups of 10 or more
The child age band is under 16, like standard Travelcards and Oysters there are no seniors concessions for visitors. You can only purchase from Underground Station ticket machines, Overground or TfL Rail station ticket offices and some National Rail stations that Tube and London Overground services run through - and only on the day of travel.
Best Caves In The U.S.: 19 Places For Underground Adventures
Address: 11149 US-16 B-12, Custer, SD 57730. What It's Known For: The third longest cave in the world. Where To Stay Nearby: Sundance Cabin near Custer. Proving that South Dakota is so much more than just its prestigious presidential monolith, Jewel Cave National Monument is, quite simply, sublime.
Tube
Check for planned line closures and service changes. First & last Tubes. Art on the Underground. Poems on the Underground. Fares. Transport accessibility. Station WiFi. Tube station car parks. Cycles on public transport.
Underground Travel
July 20th -Airport Pick up/Welcome. July 21st- W.E.B. Dubois Center, Batique Workshop. July 22nd-Drumming and Dancing Workshop, Black Star Square Visit. July 23rd- Visit Botanical Gardens and Bead-Making Village. July 24th- Visit Assin Manso, Slave Dungeons. July 25th-Visit Kakum National Park.

Child Fares on London Transport

Children under 5

Children aged 5-10

Children aged 11-15

Travel in London without an 11-15 Zip Oyster

Bus-only travel for 11-15 year olds

Young visitor Oyster discount

Children aged 16-17

18+ Students

Child ticket prices (11-15 years)

London Underground with kids: tips for using the tube

What ticket do I need for the London Underground?

Adult fares on the tube

Contactless payment

Oyster card

Child fares on the tube

Bus & tube travel with children under 11

Bus & tube travel with children aged 11-15

Download the apps

Avoid rush hour

Always touch in and out

Do consider the bus

Don’t forget trains on the Tfl network

Travel by boat & cable car

Walk when you can

Be prepared for stairs & walking

Stand behind the yellow line

Keep kids entertained

Don’t talk but do stand on the left

PIN FOR LATER: LONDON UNDERGROUND WITH KIDS

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A Guide to Free Transport in London for Children

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Travelling in London with kids: Fares and transport passes

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Option 1: Oyster card with Young Visitor Discount

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Travelling in London with kids

Travelling in London with kids: Fares and transport passes

Children under 11 years of age

Children 11 – 16 years of age

Option 1: Oyster card with Young Visitor Discount

Option 2: Zip Oyster Photocard

Option 3: 1 Day Child Travelcard

Option 4: 7 Day Child Travelcard

16 – 18 years old

Travelling in London with kids: Travelling to Central London from the airport

Travelling in London with a buggy

Travelling on London´s buses with a buggy