Introduction
The vibrant, exciting and multicultural capital of the UK is one of the greatest cities in the world to visit. Culturally, financially and historically significant, there is no limit to the number of activities available in the city for those looking to discover something new. Every taste is catered for from food to clubs, clothing to sightseeing. Some of the world’s most beloved films were shot within the city and world-famous landmarks are hidden around every corner. Visitors will never be bored as the city is always offering something new to enjoy.
Ideal car
Hatchback
Due to the busy nature of many of the roads in London, it’s important to find a car that balances between small and nippy, and one that can’t be intimidated by bigger cars. The hatchback will keep drivers feeling safe no matter the road conditions they find.
Driving in London
Road Driving Side
Urban Speed Limit
Rural Speed Limit
Motorway Speed Limit
Important things to note
Congestion chargers apply to all cars traveling through the city with varying costs. When paid on the first day, the charge is £8; on the second day this will rise to £10. Should the fee be left unpaid, a fine of £40 will occur in the following two weeks and may rise to £80 thereafter.
Peak commuting hours are 7.30-9.30am and 4-7pm; these should be avoided whenever possible as traffic can become stationary at these times.
Central London experiences notoriously difficult parking which can also prove incredibly expensive. It is highly recommended that drivers park in the surrounding area and commute into the central area of the city.
Highlights & Hotspots
Sightseeing in London is incredibly popular and, in order to take in all the city has to offer, can take several days alone. Buckingham Palace is one of the true highlights of any tour, while the Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey and St Paul’s Cathedral offer insight into old London. To take in views of the entire city, the London Eye cannot be beat!
London is famous for its world class museums and art galleries, showcasing some of the greatest artists throughout history. The National Gallery is a fantastic look back at the history of art, while the Science Museum is one of the biggest and best the country has to offer.
While the urban side of London may feel all consuming, there are various beautiful green spots to visit which are known as “London’s lungs”. Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens are the biggest and most famous green areas popular amongst visitors and tourists alike, while those who like their gardens a little wilder will adore the untended Hampstead Heath.
There is nowhere in the world quite like London for entertainment. Nightclubs and bars are dotted around the city playing all the music you could imagine; the West End hosts some of the greatest theatre productions in the country, and live music is available from little known up-and-comers as well as A-list, world-famous singers and bands.
Airport Information
As the capital of the UK, London has numerous airports with international services. Due to the size and scale of these airports, it is important to take note of the differences of each.
London Heathrow
Heathrow is the largest airport in Europe and, as such, experiences the busiest traffic of any airport in the world. There are five terminals to the airport though most experience some delay on a daily basis, purely because of air traffic. It is important to familiarise yourself with the airport before arrival and to allow plenty of time before flights to navigate, especially when coming from London.
London Gatwick
As London’s second airport, Gatwick can often be as busy as Heathrow and has the world’s busiest single runway. Split into North and South Terminal,
London Stansted
Primarily used for low-cost airlines, Stansted is very popular for those travelling to and from Europe. Stansted is located further away from Central London than Gatwick and Heathrow and as such it is wise to book accommodation for early morning flights as travel from the city to the airport can take several hours.
London Luton
Around the same size as Stansted, Luton is another popular airport for those looking for low-cost airlines from Europe. It is located 34 miles from London and is one of the most popular airports for those looking to stay on the outskirts of London.
Other airports
Smaller but no less busy, London City Airport is known as a commuter airport for those flying within the country, along with short-haul flights to Europe. London Southend is a significantly smaller airport than the others and is closed from midnight until 4am. Meanwhile, alternatives further away from Central London include London Ashford Airport, Southampton Airport and Bournemouth Airport.
Top Car Hire Locations in the UK
Car Hire London
Car Hire Liverpool
Car Hire Glasgow
Car Hire Manchester
Car Hire Edinburgh Airport
Car Hire Sheffield
Car Hire Inverness
Car Hire jersey