Getting Around London
As in any major metropolis, there are several modes of transportation in London, UK. One of the largest and most historic cities in the world, London spreads over 1,700 square kilometers. It features some of the world's most famous buses and cabs, while also supplying the oldest subway system in existence.
Double-Decker Bus
The iconic, red double-decker buses in London are ubiquitous. The London General Omnibus produced the first of these in 1925. It wasn't until the 1940s and the release of the "Routemaster" model, however, that the double-decker most people know was rolling around London. Because of the city's increasing population, this vehicle was the ideal solution for commuters. Today, the double-decker has become a popular bus for sight-seeing around the city.
Black Cab
Almost as evocative of London as the double-decker, the black cab or "Hackney carraige" is a popular choice of transportation in London. It is also known as a "Saloon car" because the four doors swing open like to saloon doors. This makes the black cab the ideal mode of transport for those with disabilities. Inside, the black cab features an abundance of space and includes foldout chairs, which allow riders to face each other as they ride along.
The Underground
The Underground, known by Londoners as simply "The Tube," began operation in 1863, making it the world's oldest subway system. This is by far the most widely used form of commuting within London. It consists of 270 stations and serves about 3 million passengers a day. The Tube has a reputation for being efficient and reliable, and its 11 color-coded subway lines carry passengers from the distant suburbs to the heart of the city and vice versa.
Transportation in London, UK is everywhere. And with all the buses, cars and trains available to commuters, each has its own special twist that not only complements London, but, some would argue, has come to define it.