Using Public Transport
UK trains & travelling by rail in Britain
The most scenic and relaxed way to travel
Britain's trains and rail network are modern and efficient. The network covers all the main cities as well as smaller regional towns. It is made up of a few large companies that run routes from London to stations all over Britain, and smaller companies running routes in regional areas.
To plan your journey across Britain by rail, use the VisitBritain journey planner.
You can find up-to-the-minute information about routes, fares and train times on National Rail. For detailed information about particular routes and services you could also try looking on the train operators' websites.
Bus & Coach
A great value option
If time isn't the most important factor then travelling by bus or coach is the best and most affordable way to travel around Britain
To plan your journey across Britain by bus and coach, use the VisitBritain journey planner.
Coach travel and Tours
Britain's coach services are privatised and run by several different companies. Many of these companies offer special tours to popular historical destinations around the UK.
Travelling by coach
Britain's coaches are privatised and lots of operators run thousands of routes across the country. Coach travel is usually a lot cheaper than train travel, but takes longer.
London Transport
Bus, train, tube, you name it, London has it - public transport in London is the cheapest and most environmentally friendly way to get around.
To plan your route online use the VisitBritain journey planner.
Tickets & fares
When travelling on public transport in London you have several ticket options. You can pay a cash fare, use a pre-paid Oyster card or buy a paper travelcard. The price of your journey depends on which ticket type you choose, which zones you travel in and what time you travel at. Oyster card prices are always cheaper than paper tickets.
Taxis
Get around in town
Taxis are a really convenient way to travel short distances as your driver will take you directly to your destination. Read on to find out everything you need to know about travelling by taxi in Britain.
Black taxis
For over 300 years, taxis have been part of London life and both the vehicle and driver are licensed to carry passengers. The famous London 'black taxi' still exists but they now come in a variety of colours. There are currently over 20,000 licensed taxis in London, and over 25,000 licensed taxi drivers. Black cabs are also now common in most towns and cities throughout Britain.
You can hail a taxi in the street when its yellow 'For Hire' sign is illuminated. Taxis can also be found at taxi ranks outside or near most major rail stations and airports (for more information check our airport transportpages). They are usually licensed to carry 4 or 5 people. A meter registers the fare and it is customary to tip the driver about 10% of the fare.
Traintaxi gives information on whether there's a taxi rank at train, tram or underground stations.
Taxi Fares
Taxi fares change depending on the time of the day, speed and distance. Fares and any extra charges are always displayed on the meter next to the driver. Fares are more expensive in the evenings, at weekends and during public holidays.
For more information on black cabs in London visit the TfL website. Check regional tourist boards or council websites for information on black taxis outside London.
Minicabs
Minicabs are a cheaper alternative to black taxis, but can't be hailed in the street. Generally they carry up to 4 passengers, but some are able to seat up to 7 people. You can ask for a larger vehicle when you book.
You can book a minicab by phoning or visiting a local minicab office (telephone numbers can be found in the Yellow Pages telephone directory or at www.yell.com. You can book a minicab a day in advance, or as and when you need it.
Minicabs look like regular cars and don't have a meter, so it's advisable to agree a fare with the driver before your journey. In London all minicab operators must hold an operating licence issued by Transport for London (TfL), and for your safety and security you must only use licensed companies. Remember that unbooked minicabs are illegal, unsafe and uninsured. When you book a minicab make sure you always sit in the back and that when the driver arrives they can confirm your name and destination.
Minicab fares
Minicab fares are set by the company, and should be agreed before the journey when you book a vehicle. The fares can vary depending upon when you want to travel, whether you have luggage and the type of vehicle you need.
