Travel Advice

London is a bustling, modern metropolis and one of the largest cities in Europe. Make a journey during London's rush hour, and you're in good company. Many of London's working population will be doing the same.

Londoners – those born locally, and the millions from around the UK and the world who make it their home – can seem to be in a permanent hurry.

How to Travel Like a Local

Little things mean a lot to Londoners. Keep the following in mind, and you'll soon blend in:

Allow more than enough time to get around, particularly during rush hour (7-9am, 4-7pm).
Stand on the right of escalators, leaving space on the left for those in a hurry to pass
Remember: traffic travels on the left-hand-side of the road, so look right before crossing

Staying Safe in London

As in any big city, there are a few common sense rules to follow to stay safe in London. Look after your personal belongings and try not to travel alone late at night. Ask your hotel or hosts for advice when travelling to unfamiliar areas.

Violent crime against visitors is uncommon. However, pickpockets do target unsuspecting tourists in crowded areas, so take care on the Tube or in busy areas.

More advice on staying safe in London

London's Police Force

London's police force, The Metropolitan Police, is dedicated to working for a safer London. The Met forms a visible presence on the streets of London, at railway stations and airports.

In emergencies, always dial 999 and ask for the police. To a report non-urgent crime, contact your local police station. For Central London, this is West End Central police station on +44 (0)20 7437 1212.

Staying Healthy in London

The National Health Service (NHS) provides free medical treatment to everyone ordinarily resident in the UK.

Visitors who become ill while in London are eligible for free treatment in Accident and Emergency departments at NHS hospitals.

If you're admitted to the hospital as an in-patient or sent to an out-patient clinic, you'll be asked to pay, unless you are a national of any of the following countries that have a reciprocal health agreement with the UK:

All EU countries
Anguilla
Australia
Barbados
Bosnia and Herzegovina
British Virgin Islands
Bulgaria
Channel Islands
Croatia
Falkland Islands
Gibraltar
Isle of Man
Macedonia
Montserrat
New Zealand
Romania
Russia
St Helena
Serbia and Montenegro
Turks and Caicos Islands
former USSR (Soviet Union)

(list correct as of Feb 07)

London's weather

London's reputation for perpetual rain or thick fog is undeserved. London's weather ranges from bright and warm in the summer (average 20 degrees Celsius) to cold and sometimes damp in winter (average 6 degrees Celsius).

Comprehensive weather information from our Visitor site