London has one of the biggest transport networks in the world; millions of people travel on the different types of public transport each day, from the famous red buses, to the underground and overground train networks, to the iconic London black cabs.
I use all these modes of transport during each trip to London and find it is one of the most wheelchair-friendly cities in the world. More and more platforms are becoming wheelchair-accessible so the choices of tube stops have increased.
My favourite way to get around short distances is by the famous black cab. All black cabs are wheelchair accessible, with enough space in the back for two chairs and have a fold-out ramp. I rarely need this ramp though as the back height of the cab is the same as the curb. When you hail a cab in London they must stop for anyone if they have no passengers, so even in a wheelchair you are not worried about being stuck on the street, unable to get a ride. As the cab pulls up I swing open the door and use the assistance handles on both sides to pull myself into the cab and away I go. Too easy.
My other preferred way to get around London is to ride the bright red buses, which travel all over London and are all wheelchair accessible with an electronic ramp at the rear door. All buses have a designated spot inside for wheelchair users and are free for wheelchair passengers as well.
As a wheelchair user you have to be well prepared during your travels, especially in London as not all underground stations are accessible, so you may have to take the long way to get to your location. I’ve found that the cheapest mode of transport is not always possible so sometimes it is better to pay extra for the convenience to make things easy rather than climbing 100 steps to get out of a tube station in central London. There are a number of great travel apps that can help plan travel around London which is a must for any wheelchair user while in town. For longer rides it is often better to get a hire car with numerous companies running cars around London and various prices so check with your local company.
What London Travel tips do you have? Until next time, keep searching the world for your dream and I hope these travel tips help you with the search in London.
