While London may be vast, navigating the capital with children is surprisingly easy. Ensure you have the correct information to make the most of exploring this exciting destination with your little ones.
Children can travel free on London transport services:
- If they’re under 11, they can travel free on buses and trams
- Up to four children under 11 can travel free with a fare-paying adult on:
Tube
DLR
London Overground
Elizabeth line
Some National Rail services
They can also travel with a discounted fare if they are aged between 11 and 15 years old.
- Every child aged 11 years old or older needs a ticket to travel.
- Children aged 16+ will need an adult ticket.
Best tickets for families
If you are travelling with children, here are the best tickets options available in London:
Child Day Travelcard
If your kids are aged 11-15, this is the most affordable option. Choose it during checkout.
Group Day Travelcard
- These are sets of individual tickets for a family/group of 10+ members travelling together.
- This could be the most cost-effective choice with child-rate travelcards available for 5 to 15-year-olds.
Visitor Oyster Cards
- If you opt for this option, note that you should buy the Oyster cards in advance for everyone in your party, including your children.
- Once once you arrive in London, ask TfL staff to add a Young Visitor discount. This will give you a half adult rate pay-as-you-go discount for up to 14 days.
This discount can be applied at:
- most Tube stations
- Transport for London Visitor Centres
- Victoria National Rail Station ticket office
Facilities and children access
Strollers and buggies
Most public transportation in London is stroller-friendly. Stations typically have elevators, escalators, or step-free access, making it easy to navigate with a pram or stroller. Foldable strollers can be taken on buses and the Tube.
Baby changing facilities
Many Tube stations have baby-changing facilities, and you can also find them in shopping centres, museums and some parks.
Priority seating
London’s public transport has priority seating for passengers with young children, pregnant women and people with disabilities. Look for designated areas on buses and trains.
Tips on how to travel comfortably as a family
London's public transportation system is family-friendly and, with thoughtful planning, you can comfortably and safely explore the city with your children.
For a secure and pleasant journey with your loved ones, consider the following tips:
- Opt for off-peak travel: To avoid crowded trains and buses, plan your journeys during off-peak hours. This is particularly beneficial when travelling with children. In the morning, this is usually from 9:30 am.
- Plan your routes: Utilize the TfL journey planner or mobile apps to chart your routes and estimate travel times. This will help minimize walking distances, especially with children in tow.
- Travel light: Keep your belongings to a minimum for a more manageable journey in the bustling London public transport. A lighter load is especially advantageous when navigating with children.
- Prioritize safety: Maintain a vigilant watch over your children, near the platform edges and when entering or exiting stations. Hold their hands and ensure they are familiar with safety guidelines.
- Bring entertainment: Pack snacks, books or games to keep children engaged, especially on longer journeys.
- Be aware of emergency services: Familiarise yourself with the locations of emergency intercoms and staffed stations in case you require assistance during your travels.