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# Getting around London: Tube, buses and airport routes

London journeys often combine a walk with a train or bus. Contactless payment covers much of the network, but the useful station is the one that serves your route.

## Rail lines and contactless payment

The Piccadilly line connects Heathrow with South Kensington, Knightsbridge, Green Park and Covent Garden. The Circle and District lines serve other central districts, including Victoria and Westminster.

The Central line crosses the West End and City. The Elizabeth line links Heathrow and Paddington with Bond Street, Tottenham Court Road, Farringdon and Canary Wharf. Allow for crowded weekday commuting periods.

Each traveller needs their own payment method. Use the same card or device consistently, touching in and out where required, so eligible fares count towards the relevant caps.

## Buses and street-level journeys

Buses can be useful for journeys with fewer stairs and for seeing the route above ground. Use TfL’s current fares information when budgeting. Keep the same card or device throughout a journey; a phone and its physical card are separate payment methods.

A lit yellow TAXI sign identifies an available black cab. Fares vary by time and day, and heavy West End traffic can make a short walking or Tube journey faster.

Santander Cycles can be hired through the app or docking-station terminals. Plan a suitable route before setting out and follow the designated cycling paths in parks.

Walking avoids unnecessary changes between nearby stations. Covent Garden to Leicester Square is one example; routes through Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens provide longer stretches away from traffic.

## Boats and airport connections

Thames Clippers runs river services calling at piers including Westminster and Greenwich. The journey provides views of the Tower, City and Canary Wharf, though it may take longer than rail.

For Heathrow, compare Heathrow Express, the Elizabeth line and Piccadilly line against your address and terminal. A car may be convenient with luggage, with its full fare agreed before the journey.

## More guides

- [Where to stay in London: areas, transport and apartment prices](https://londonresidency.com/best-places-to-stay-in-london/)

- [Things to do in Mayfair: Shepherd Market, galleries and gardens](https://londonresidency.com/what-to-do-in-mayfair/)

- [Things to do in Kensington: museums, gardens and the High Street](https://londonresidency.com/what-to-do-in-kensington/)

- [A Chelsea walk from Sloane Square to the King’s Road](https://londonresidency.com/what-to-do-in-chelsea/)