We (2 adults and 2 kids ages 13 and 10) will be in London for 6 days next week. I am still trying to figure out the transportation logistics. We plan to visit Windsor Castle directly from Heathrow, Hampton Court Palace another day, possibly Salisbury/Stonehenge, then leaving from Gatwick airport. From the tfl website (copied below), my 10 yr old should be free and my 13 yr old is 1/2 price with the Young Visitor discount while in central London.
1) My 10 yr old can go on buses, trams etc, without a ticket, correct? How can she get through the gate in the tube stations without a ticket? (I assume there is a gate)
2) How do I find out what exactly are "some National Rail services" my 10 year old can go for free? When I search for the train services to Windsor, Hampton Court, and Salisbury, it appears kids ages 5-15 need to pay.
3) Would it be a better deal to get the 7-day Travel card vs using oyster card? Does the 7-day Travelcard cover any of our day trips/airport transfers?
4) We may use taxi while in central london. Is there additional charge for going into/out of the congestion charge zone?
I appreciate your suggestions. Thanks!
If your child is under 11, they can travel free:
• On buses and trams
• On Tube, DLR, London Overground, TfL Rail and some National Rail services when travelling with an adult who is using pay as you go, or has a valid ticket (excluding Group Day Travelcards). Up to four children per adult
If your child is aged 11-15, you can ask a member of staff to set a Young Visitor discount on an Oyster or Visitor Oyster card, allowing them to pay as you go at half-adult rate for up to 14 days. Staff can do this at:
• Any Tube station
• London Overground and TfL Rail station ticket offices
• Visitor Centres (except Gatwick Airport South Terminal)
• National Rail ticket offices at Victoria station, Gatwick Airport South Desk (arrivals) and East Croydon station*