What is the best way to pay for the Tube in London? My husband and I will be there for 3 days and three nights in mid-Sept. Where do you buy the card, passes, etc.? Thanks!
Posted by
Lincoln, NE, USA
390 posts
The best would be to get a 3-day Travelcard at any ticket machine or counter - it will give you unlimited travel on the tube and bus in central London for £16.40 per person. If you need to get to Heathrow though you will need to buy a separate ticket.
Posted by
Lincoln, NE, USA
390 posts
I would definitely advise NOT using cash - the cash fare for a single ride on the tube is £4 now. They are trying to get everyone to use the new Oyster card which knocks the fare down to £1-1.50 a ride. However, since you're only in town for three days, a 3-day travel card will be a cheaper and easier option especially if you're planning on using the tube a lot.
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
Buy Oyster cards at any tube station. You'll pay a £3 deposit which is refundable at the end of your stay. Load each card with about £20. Top off the card as needed. Anything you don't spend is also refundable. Let the Oyster computer calculate everything for you. Each day you will not pay more than 50 pence less than a one-day travelcard for whatever zones you travel in or means of transportation you use. Go to www.tfl.gov.uk for complete information.
Posted by
Portland, OR, USA
389 posts
I agree with Tim as the pass is great as long as you don't travel before 9:30. If you do you will pay about £5 for a ticket on top of the pass. We loved the Oyster card as we never stopped or tried to figure out about what time it was, how much any trip would cost ect. One day we rode 2 or 3 times, one day we had to leave at 8, one day we rode every bus that went by and one day we were on and off about 8 times. I haven't even tried to figure the cost, but the ease was well worth it.