In my post AT THE CENTRE OF THE WORLD, I mentioned how easily accessible London is; and the numerous ways to get around, into and out of the city centre, including the underground, trains, taxis and buses to name a few.
I wanted to dive a little further into the different modes of transportation and experiences you can choose from as alternative ways to explore all that London has to offer.
Disclaimer: This blog post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission to fund my future excursions if you use these links to make a purchase. You will not be charged extra, and you’ll allow me to keep you updated on the best things to see and places to visit. It’s a win for everyone, really!
Cruise the River Thames
In my opinion, this is one of the best ways to photograph some of the major sites and landmarks of London. You’re at a far enough distance to get the entire scene or building in frame and there’s less chance of people getting in your way!
Uber Boats (or the local river taxis, if you wish) are a popular and inexpensive way to cruise the River Thames and is popular with daily commuters who want a change of scenery from the gloominess the London Underground brings (if you are from or have visited London, you know what I mean)!
An alternative way to explore London’s River Thames, especially if you’re looking for a more tranquil approach is to opt for a dining cruise experience. Enjoy a meal as you embark on a relaxed voyage across the River Thames, past London’s riverside landmarks including the Houses of Parliament, the Tower of London and Tower Bridge. I’ve done this a couple of times with friends and family and even on a cloudy day, the views have been worth it!
Top Tip:
· Book well in advance, especially if your party has any dietary requirements that need to be catered for
Those looking for a more thrill-seeking experience may decide to try a speed boat across the Thames – though I don’t know how much of the sights you’ll actually be able to take in as you soar past the iconic landmarks with this option!
Options Available:
Fly over the River Thames
You may have heard of the Emirates Air Line Cable Cars which span between North Greenwich and Royal Victoria Docks, but in October 2022, TFL commissioned a new sponsor and have since been rebranded as the IFS Cloud Cable Cars. The views and travelling distance remain the same though! As you fly 90 metres above the River Thames, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Capital including St Paul’s Cathedral, The Gherkin, Thames Barrier, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Canary Wharf and The O2.
To make the most of your day out in the area, I suggest spending the morning and afternoon around Greenwich. Whether that means exploring the Cutty Sark and its surrounding grounds, taking in the views of London from Greenwich Park, visiting the many museums (National Maritime Museum and Royal Observatory – being the most popular) or taking advantage of all the O2 has to offer before making your way across to the Royal Victoria Docks via cable car to watch the sunset. The views combined with the colours of the sky as well as aeroplanes taking off and landing will be a magical end to the day!
Payable:
Online
Contactless (card or device)
Oyster card
Cash or card at the onsite ticket offices
Hit the Road
OK, so this might not technically be classified as an alternative way to explore London as our red buses are used for general public transportation. But, let’s be real, a ride on a big red bus is a quintessential London experience!
Like all cities, we of course have the Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours, which offer great time saving advantages as you get to cover a lot more of London in one go with the additional history of what you’re seeing/passing by thrown in. Plus, you only have to stop off at the locations you are dying to see and it’s a lot easier on your feet too!
However, if you’re looking for a more retro or unique experience, I would direct you towards either the vintage London Bus tours or an afternoon tea bus – both of which are especially great if you’re celebrating an occasion! Whilst all the vintage Routemaster buses have open top roofs in summer to enjoy the best panoramic views of London, to me nothing screams Great British heritage, quite like a spot of afternoon tea. So get your pinky fingers poised (if you know, you know) and cameras ready!
Options Available:
Put your Helmet on!
I have personally experienced variations of the first 3 options I shared with you, however, the next 2 alternative ways to explore London are not modes of transportation I have used to explore the city – Although I have ridden a Santander bike through Hyde Park, I’m not quite convinced that counts in this case either!
What I can tell you if you did fancy giving a bicycle tour around London is that you don’t have to bring your own bike! The below options provide them for you, so it doesn’t matter if you’re travelling from afar – you can still join in the fun!
Whilst each tour offers different stops and routes, you will still get to see the major attractions such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, St James’ Park and the London Eye. Whichever you decide to choose, I hope you have a wheelie good time and would love to hear your review!
Top Tip:
· If steering along the main roads, do take extra care!
Soar over London
A fellow travel lover, who made a guest writing appearance in A WEEKEND IN ABU DHABI has actually flown over the UK in a helicopter! Before she mentioned having found such an experience, I didn’t even realise we could do such things!
Huma's take on it:
Picture this: a bird's-eye view of the city as you glide into the air in a helicopter. The adrenaline rush is undeniable, and the unobstructed, private viewing experience is like no other! One of the highlights of the journey is the route that takes you past iconic landmarks such as the O2 Arena and the Shard. The friendly and informative pilots enhance the experience, making your aerial adventure over London unforgettable. As a lifelong Londoner, I can attest that this view, this feeling, and this experience will stay with you forever; Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a helicopter tour is a magical way to see the city from a whole new perspective!
Options Available:
Combos
Fancy combining 2 alternative ways to explore London?
Options Available:
Want to do it all?
The London Pass® allows you to choose between a 1-10-day sightseeing credits package, giving you access to more than 80 attractions, visiting as many as you like each day. You can also use it on some of the alternative ways to explore London as mentioned above!
However you choose to explore London, be prepared for the ever changing British weather, take your time and stay safe!
Comments