Know BEFORE You Go to London! 15 London First Timer Travel Tips 2025

Know BEFORE You Go to London! 15 London First Timer Travel Tips 2025

If you’re going to London for the first 
time, then keep watching this video! Hi, it’s Gwen with CORR Travel, and welcome to these valuable tips that you need to know before you go to London, England, that 
all come from my travels to London. Stay tuned for more upcoming videos on 
London by staying Notified, Subscribe, and, of course, use those valuable links below in the video description to help you 
plan and book your trip to London. Alright, without further ado, let’s 
go ahead and get you ready for London. [Music] Why Wouldn’t You Want to Visit London? England’s capital, London is a city that 
blends royal history with cutting-edge culture. Home to over 9 million people with 
over 300 languages are spoken, over 3,000 parks and 170 museums, not to
mention 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, London’s one of the most diverse cities in the world that entertains over 30 
million tourists every year. Number 2: the best time to visit. London is pricey and happening year-round, so each time of year has its pros and cons. Peak season months are the hottest, 
most crowded and hold higher prices, but a great time for festivals and 
events like London Pride and Wimbledon. Low season months are colder and rainier 
but are best for finding good travel deals with the exception of year-end festive events like Christmas Lights and Winter Wonderland. The shoulder seasons months are arguably better times to go for a mix of good weather, more manageable crowds, and value for money. There are popular events these months, 
too, like the Chelsea Flower Show. Ensure to check holiday and event schedules when planning your itinerary any time of year. Number 3: If you’re flying to London, you have six international airports to choose from. The two serving most international flights are London Heathrow, 14 miles west of central London, and Gatwick 28 miles south of central London. The other airports serving London are: Stansted, Luton, London City and London Southend Airport. All but London City have express 
trains to central London. From Heathrow, however, it may be more 
convenient and less expensive to ride the Tube’s Piccadilly line into Central 
London with a Zone 1 to 6 Travelcard. Alternatively, you can use hotel shuttles, taxis, rideshares, or book a private 
transfer in advance for convenience. Trains from within the UK arrive at any 
one of London’s 10 main railroad stations, with Charring Cross being 
considered the most central. The Eurostar connects London to Paris 
and Brussels via St. Pancras Station. Regional buses often arrive near 
major rail stations or interchanges. And driving into London is really 
not recommended due to heavy traffic, congestion charges, and limited parking. Now in London, you can get around by 
ride share using the Uber or Bolt apps, or arrange a taxi with the FREENOW app. But, the best transportation in 
London is the Underground (or “Tube”), overground trains, and buses. They are affordable and extensive. Use either your contactless credit card or get an Oyster Card. Just remember to tap in and tap out when you ride. Also keep in mind traffic and rush-hour 
times because the buses and the Tube are definitely crowded causing wait 
times, and have higher ride fares. A more scenic way to see London, while learning about the city, is by taking a Thames River cruise. Download the TFL Go app for all rail, tube, 
bus, river transportation services and maps. Hop On Hop Off buses are also scenic 
ways to get to know London’s layout, seeing great sites, and hearing 
insightful facts about London. Biking in London is easy due to being 
fairly flat with lots of bike paths. Download the Santander Cycles app 
to access the bike sharing system. But, by far, the best way to 
explore neighborhoods is by walking. You can combine walking with riding 
the Tube to cover longer distances, but keep in mind that you could spend too much time walking underground to catch the Tube, when you’d be better off 
just walking above ground. You’ll see a lot more of London this way and not have to worry about transportation wait times. Last, why not try a food or 
historical walking tour or biking tour? These are fun ways to see top sites, learn more about London and meet other travelers all at once. Some of the best rated London tours are in the video description to get you started. Speaking of top sites and tours, 
there are two passes that could be your sightseeing secret weapon to 
beat the crowds while saving money. The Go City Explorer Pass lets you create your own itinerary with its sightseeing credits package. Save up to 50% on entry to 2 to 7 of 90+ 
top London attractions including The Shard, Tower of London, Big Bus Tours, river cruises and 
more, instead of having to buy individual tickets. Or choose the London Pass, also by Go 
City, that gives you up to 50% off the best of London’s 100+ top attractions 
with hassle free Skip-the-line access. Upgrading to The London Pass Plus 
includes four premium attractions. If you’re planning to hit several big-ticket 
attractions, either digital pass can save you time, money, and stress, especially 
during the peak season months, and you can’t beat the convenience of cancelling up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Next up: safety tips. Staying safe is key in a large and busy city 
like London, so here are helpful things to know: Always keep your valuables and phone 
zipped in your bag to prevent pick-pocketing or snatch-and-run theft situations. At night, avoid empty Tube carriages 
and stick to well-lit streets. Only ride in licensed taxis 
using the app or use rideshare apps. Be alert around ATMs and put 
your money away immediately. And, they drive on the lefthand 
side of the road, so look left, righ,t and left again before crossing the street. And if you do have an emergency, 
call the 999 emergency number. And, here’s the top things to pack to 
also make your stay in London effortless: A travel-size umbrella or rain 
jacket; and pack for dressing in layers as the weather can change quickly; of course, don’t forget comfortable walking 
shoes because you’ll be walking a lot; and bring a contactless credit 
card with no international fees because you’ll also be using that a lot, too. A type G plug adapter for the UK; a SIM or eSIM card to access maps order things by QR code, etc.; a VPN service to access your account 
securely and stream online freely; a portable charger so your devices don’t 
die out while you’re exploring London; a mono-sling bag – I swear by these – ‘cuz they keep your belongings safe while 
moving about hands-free; and, a reusable collapsible water bottle to not only be eco-friendly, they save
you a ton of money from buying bottled water. Number 8: where to stay. London is huge so Central London is where it’s at for first timers. Central London’s two official 
cities are: the City of London, referred to as “The Square Mile”, and 
known for its financial district, and the City of Westminster, which is the political and cultural 
heart of London and best place to stay for first timers. Neighborhoods like Westminster or the West End neighborhoods like Leicester Square, Soho, Covent Garden and Holborn, all provide easy to access the top attractions on foot, the Tube and buses, and trains to the airport or for day trips, all of which will save time and money. The South Bank in the borough 
of Lambeth is also fairly central with its own offerings 
and ideal for touring London. When it comes to accommodations, it’s more 
comfortable to choose a hotel that offers modern amenities like air conditioning, 
sound proofing, and lifts, for example. Some of the top-rated Central London 
hotels with choice amenities, and sustainable-rated practices I would recommend are: Middle Eight – Covent Garden, 
One Aldwych, Strand Palace, The Royal Horseguards Hotel, The Bloomsbury Hotel, Sofitel London St James, Hotel Café Royal, The Westminster London, Curio Collection by Hilton, and The Clermont London, Victoria. Don’t worry, I’ve got links 
to these hotels and more, including in the South Bank, in the 
video description below to save you time. Number 9: Top Things to do. Considering London is a historical hub and cultural hotspot, there’s too much to list in this video, but no first time visit would be complete without seeing London’s UNESCO World Heritage sites: 
the Tower of London, with the Crown Jewels, and Westminster Abbey with the Palace of 
Westminster and St. Margaret’s Church. Additionally, consider some of these things to see and do, many of which are free, and sure to please all kinds of travelers: Take in views from the London Eye or the Sky Garden. Explore Covent Garden Market. See Buckingham Palace, 
and watch the changing of the guard. Take in a show in the Theater district. Wander the South Bank. View art at the Tate Modern or the Tate Britain. Cruise the River Thames. Spend time at the National Gallery, or just take in the views from any one of the multiple bridges of London. There’s much to enjoy in this capital city, but there’s no way to do them all. But for any that require a ticket, get one well in advance as attractions and tours fill up quickly. Another top thing to do in London is 
sample the local and international cuisine. Must try local favorites are: starting your morning with a full English breakfast; having a Sunday roast; or a traditional meat pie. Don’t pass up a sticky toffee pudding; and, of course there’s the fish and chips. Afternoon tea is a tradition as well as indulging in a local cider, ale, or stout. But this is London, so of course you can get whatever suits your fancy. Each area of London will have a mixture of its own offerings and standards, like Indian curry on Brick Lane, or dim sum in Chinatown. Other great areas for dining are Soho, Victoria, and the South Bank, just to name a few. Feel free to explore or get a recommendation from your hotel or a local. London also has multiple outdoor markets like the Covent Garden Market, and street food markets for a mixture of eats. Outdoor grab-and-go coffee and treat stands are plenty; and a must, of course, is enjoying a meal at a local public house (or “pub”). They’re not just for drinking. If you aren’t eating; however, just order and pay at the bar. When dining out, your bill will more than likely include a service charge already added. Just ask your waiter in advance to confirm before paying. If no charge is added, feel free to tip up to 10 to 12.5%. Another great thing about visiting London 
is that it’s an ideal jumping off point for multiple day trips to explore more of England, even on a short stay. Within one to one and a half hours are two UNESCO World Heritage sites: Stonehenge and the City of Bath. Also close by are: Oxford, Cambridge, the Cotswolds, Canterbury, Brighton for a seaside escape, and the scenic Seven Sisters. All are doable self-guided by train or bus, and definitely by a guided tour. Just check out some of the top rated day trip tours from London in the video description. Number 12: Budget Tips. Like I said, London is a pricey destination, and more so if you lose on the currency exchange. Use these tips to maximize your budget in London. Take advantage of the free, world-class museums and galleries, or enjoy the outdoor scenery for free at a park. Book your accommodations well in advance, even budget hotels and hostels; and, stay near a Tube station like in areas of King’s Cross or Greenwich. Using the Oyster Card is cheaper than buying individual transportation tickets. Walk or cycle as much as you can. Find budget- friendly meals at outdoor markets and pubs; and, buy a London Pass for savings on attractions. You can help London hit its net zero carbon goal by 2030 and zero waste goal by 2050 by using any of the following when you stay: choose a sustainable certified hotel through Green Globe, Green Key Global, or Booking.com – like those mentioned earlier in this video. Opt for an electric vehicle or black cab in your rideshare or FREENOW app, or use the FREENOW app to book an e-bike or e- scooter. Take walking or biking tours over a car-based tour. Don’t litter, recycle properly, and avoid using single-use plastics; and, bring your own water bottle to refill on the go. It also saves a ton of money, trust me. Support London’s growing movement of locally-sourced food options by dining at local markets, farmers markets, and farm-to-table restaurants; and, support local businesses doing their part for London’s sustainable future. And if you really want to travel London like a pro, use  these tips: London has 8 bank holidays, which can affect attraction opening hours and transport frequency. Transit strikes can also impact your travel so keep an eye on those transportation alerts. Westminster Abbey and St Paul’s Cathedral are closed on Sundays, and some of the best street markets in London are only open on Sundays, so know which ones for your itinerary. Many museums are free, or free on certain days, so check in advance. Always stand on the right on the Tube escalators so people can pass on the left. “Mind the gap” is not just a phrase – watch your step getting on and off the Tube. Again, central London is smaller than it looks on a map, so don’t miss out spending all of your time walking underground to catch the Tube. And finally, how much time should you spend on a first time trip to London? I would recommend a minimum of 4 to 5 days in London, which allows for seeing the highlights and enjoying local experiences. Staying in the recommended areas and 
near a Tube station will only maximize your time in London. Adding an extra day would be ideal if
you want to do day trips from London to see more of England. No matter how long your visit, don’t try to take on too much daily. Keep to know more than two highlights per day – this includes a museum – so you don’t feel exhausted, If you’re looking for a perfect first time in London itinerary suggestion, keep an eye out for my next London video where I’ll show you what you can see and do for an unforgettable 5 days in London. [Music] Well, I really hope you enjoyed these tips on getting to London, and if you did, give this video a thumbs up. Again, Subscribe and stay notified so you know when the next videos on London are coming out to help you plan. Use those links below in the video description as well to plan and book. Alright, take care, and have a fantastic time in London, England. [Music]

These 15 Know BEFORE You Go To London first timer travel tips make booking and planning a trip to London a breeze, including best places stay in London, best time to go, London top things to do, London budget tips, what and where to eat, and MORE. Combine with the links below, and you’re all set!

#london #londonengland #londonuk #londontravel

🇬🇧 USE THESE to book London! 🇬🇧

🏨 TOP CENTRAL LONDON HOTELS TO STAY:

Park Plaza Victoria London – https://booking.tp.st/mdLKtRBf
The Westminster London by Hilton – https://booking.tp.st/QsLUPpI2
The Clermont London, Victoria – https://booking.tp.st/f36J222H
The Royal Horseguards Hotel – https://booking.tp.st/ZyIxEGk6
Sofitel London St James – https://booking.tp.st/UKvvkTqW
Hotel Café Royal – https://booking.tp.st/keU5Snqo
Strand Palace – https://booking.tp.st/WSEEJnuE
One Aldwych – https://booking.tp.st/kLHTPdUJ
Middle Eight – Covent Garden – https://booking.tp.st/OvwBrPQt
The Bloomsbury Hotel – https://booking.tp.st/ftqAR9ab
Park Plaza London Waterloo – https://booking.tp.st/ca0WHCic
Marriott London County Hall – https://booking.tp.st/xgfF4CZp

💷 SAVE MONEY IN LONDON 💷

🎟️ The London Pass – https://gyg.me/JjbgtjwR
🎟️ The London Go City Explorer Pass – https://gyg.me/wS3cHaWr

🇬🇧 TOP LONDON TICKETS 🇬🇧

🎟️ The London Eye Entry – https://gyg.me/sdR1THtQ
🎟️ Westminster Abbey Entry – https://gyg.me/rfK5FQzx
🎟️ Tower Bridge Entry – https://gyg.me/v5Pp8y1L
🎟️ British Museum Audio Tour & Priority Entry – https://gyg.me/e7vjJJMO
🎟️ Tower of London and Crown Jewels Exhibition – https://gyg.me/w1LQDAYC
🎟️ Buckingham Palace: The State Rooms Entry – https://gyg.me/VANDZiO5
🎟️ Warner Bros. Studio Tour & River Thames Cruise – https://gyg.me/04OJv6vS

🇬🇧 TOP LONDON TOURS 🇬🇧

🚶🏻‍♂️Jack the Ripper Guided Walking Tour – https://gyg.me/jWYtzbVi
🚶🏻‍♂️London Blitz Tour – Wartime History – https://gyg.me/qoPh6hFV
🚶🏻‍♂️Wembley Stadium Guided Tour – https://gyg.me/TeQ9bAYw
🚶🏻‍♂️Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre Guided Tour – https://gyg.me/fPuzgypw
🚌 Vintage London Open Top Tour Bus – https://gyg.me/PyFYrb8f
🛳️ Westminster to Greenwich Thames Cruise – https://gyg.me/z2f9ghfY

🇬🇧 TOP FOOD OPS 🇬🇧

🛳️ 🫖Afternoon Tea River Thames Cruise – https://gyg.me/bMTwdRhf
🛳️ 🥗 River Thames Lunch Cruise – https://gyg.me/mkDEDYP9
🛳️ 🥂River Thames Dinner Cruise – https://gyg.me/yoorEisD
🥘 Curry Tasting & Indian Food Tour (Brick Lane) – https://gyg.me/wsUdKOGO
🍺 Historic Pubs of Central London Walking Tour – https://gyg.me/ZLJE9RzN
🥟 Soho & Chinatown Food Tour – https://gyg.me/QHPwnojD

🇬🇧 TOP DAY TRIPS FROM LONDON 🇬🇧

🚌 Stonehenge Morning Day Trip with Admission – https://gyg.me/bbdTcTyE
🚌 Full-Day Cotswolds Small-Group Tour – https://gyg.me/t63kntlE
🚌 White Cliffs of Dover & Canterbury Day Trip – https://gyg.me/lVnOxMEK
🚌 Cotswolds and Oxford Guided Day-Trip – https://gyg.me/RrrQHmkY
🚌 Windsor, Stonehenge, Bath & Roman Baths Day Trip – https://gyg.me/yL9jmEsj
🚌 Brighton & Seven Sisters Small-Group Tour – https://gyg.me/WAz8Zzfl

🇬🇧 AIRPORTS TO CENTRAL LONDON TRANSFERS 🇬🇧

🚗 Heathrow Private Transfer – https://gyg.me/U7eKs5zI
🚗 Heathrow Shared Transfer – https://gyg.me/cj2YNU6j
🚊 Express Train to/from Heathrow – https://gyg.me/qyw767kD
🚌 From Luton Airport Bus – https://gyg.me/aUBVYCUp

🇬🇧 TRAVEL ESSENTIALS 🇬🇧

UK eSIM Card: https://airalo.tp.st/bmGNd3qQ
VPN Service: https://amzn.to/4366hRE
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CHAPTERS:
00:00 Intro
00:40 Why Visit London?
01:06 Best time to go to London
01:51 Getting to London
02:58 Getting Around London
04:36 The London Pass
05:31 London Safety Tips
06:13 London Travel Essentials
07:09 Where to stay in London first time
08:39 Top Things to Do in London
09:56 London Food – What & Where
11:20 Best London Day Trips
12:04 London Budget Tips
12:49 London Responsible Tourism
13:42 Pro London Travel Tips
14:32 How Much Time in London?
15:18 Outro