Even though I was born and raised in London, the city has still managed to catch me off guard more times than I can count. I’ve been drenched in the rain without an umbrella, missed the unspoken rule about queueing, and foolishly tried driving into the heart of London, only to regret it the moment I hit traffic. These little missteps have taught me a lot about how London works – and I’m sharing them here so your trip can be smooth, memorable, and hopefully free from the same mistakes.
Whether it’s your first visit or you’re coming back for more, these practical tips will help you enjoy London like a true local.
1. Master the Tube – And Its Etiquette
The London Underground, known locally as “the Tube,” is one of the fastest and most efficient ways to get around. It connects virtually all corners of the city, and you’ll likely use it often. But riding the Tube comes with its own set of unspoken rules.
First things first: be prepared at the gate. Have your contactless card, Oyster card, or phone ready before reaching the ticket barriers – fumbling around at the front of the line is a fast way to annoy commuters. Once you’re on the escalator, always stand on the right side and leave the left clear for people who want to walk up.
When a train arrives, let passengers off first before boarding – stand to the side of the doors and wait. If the carriage is crowded and you see someone who might need a seat more than you – an elderly person, someone pregnant, or anyone with mobility challenges – offer yours. A little kindness goes a long way.
And if you’re trying to strike up small talk on the train, know this: Londoners generally don’t chit-chat with strangers on public transport. A friendly nod is fine, but silence is the norm.
2. Avoid Driving – Public Transport Is Your Best Friend
Driving in London isn’t just difficult – it’s often more stressful than it’s worth. Roads are narrow, traffic is heavy, and parking is scarce and expensive. On top of that, drivers must pay a £15 daily congestion charge to enter Central London, and a separate ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) charge of £12.50 applies if your car doesn’t meet certain environmental standards.
Instead, embrace the city’s excellent public transportation network. Buses, the Tube, trains, and even trams in some areas will get you nearly everywhere you want to go. You can also rent bikes or e-bikes for shorter journeys – a great way to explore London’s parks and riverside paths. The Transport for London (TfL) website and app are invaluable tools for checking routes, fares, and any service disruptions.
3. Always Bring Layers – And a Raincoat
If there’s one thing you can count on in London, it’s unpredictable weather. The city’s climate can shift dramatically in a single day – from sunny skies to a chilly downpour within an hour. That’s why layers are key.
Always carry a small umbrella or lightweight raincoat in your day bag. You’ll be glad you did. In summer, the Tube can get uncomfortably warm, especially on older lines like the Central and Bakerloo, which lack air conditioning. Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated.
Don’t let grey skies ruin your plans – London has a wealth of indoor activities, from world-class museums and galleries to cozy pubs, theatres, and historic buildings waiting to be explored.
4. Choose Comfortable Shoes Over Trendy Footwear
London is a city best explored on foot. With so many iconic landmarks, parks, markets, and neighborhoods to discover, you’ll rack up plenty of steps each day. From cobbled streets and grassy parks to long escalators and Tube platforms, comfort matters.
Ditch the heels unless you’re getting dropped off directly at your destination. Flat, supportive shoes or trainers are your best bet for navigating the variety of surfaces you’ll encounter – especially if you plan to spend a day walking through museums, crossing bridges, or climbing viewpoints like Primrose Hill or Greenwich Park.
5. Book Restaurants in Advance – Especially Popular Ones
London is a foodie paradise, with everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to cheap and cheerful local gems. While many spots welcome walk-ins, the best places – especially those run by well-known chefs or trending on social media – are often booked up days or even weeks in advance.
Many restaurants now require reservations and deposits due to increased demand and no-show policies that started during the pandemic. If there’s somewhere you’re dying to try, book early. That said, don’t worry if you miss out – London has thousands of excellent eateries, and it’s always worth asking if there’s a waitlist or showing up at off-peak times.
6. Try a Supper Club for a Unique Local Experience
Want to connect with locals and try some home-cooked food while you’re at it? Supper clubs are an amazing way to do both. These informal dinner parties, often hosted in private homes or temporary venues, offer a personal and delicious way to explore London’s multicultural food scene.
You might find yourself enjoying West African jollof rice, Vietnamese street food, or a British roast with a modern twist. Some clubs to look into include The Bridge Club, which serves British dishes with French flair, or Dinner Ladies, who offer immersive dining experiences. You can often find supper clubs via local listings, food blogs, or platforms like Eatwith.
7. Learn the Pub Culture – Especially How to Order a Round
A visit to London wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the pub. But pub etiquette is a little different from what you might be used to.
When it’s your turn to get drinks, go up to the bar alone – not with your whole group. Staff will serve in order of who’s been waiting the longest, so if someone was there before you, let the bartender know they’re next.
Ordering a round is also a big deal. If you buy drinks for everyone at your table, it’s assumed that each person will buy the next round in turn. This way, everyone takes a turn paying, and no one’s left footing the bill all night.
Pubs don’t usually offer table service, and food orders are often placed at the bar, too. Keep an eye out for “last orders” – typically announced with a bell – giving you 20 minutes to finish your drinks before the pub closes.
8. Catch a Football Game – It’s a Cultural Event
Football (soccer) is a huge part of London life, with 17 professional clubs across the city. From top-tier Premier League teams like Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham to the growing popularity of women’s teams like Chelsea Women or West Ham United Women, there’s always a match to catch.
The electric atmosphere of a football stadium is something special. Locals gather rain or shine to cheer on their team, and being part of that energy is a great way to experience the city’s passion. Premier League tickets sell out quickly, so book in advance. But don’t overlook lower league or women’s matches – they’re usually more affordable, easier to attend, and just as fun.
Check team websites for schedules and tickets.
9. Mind Your Manners – Politeness Goes a Long Way
Londoners take manners seriously. Saying “please,” “thank you,” and “sorry” (even when it’s not your fault) is part of everyday life. Holding doors open, helping someone up stairs with a pram, or offering directions to a confused tourist are all considered normal.
The city also has a deep love of queueing. If there’s a line, join it – cutting in won’t cause a confrontation, but you’ll definitely get disapproving stares. On the Tube, avoid making eye contact or talking too loudly, and always give up priority seats when needed.
A little courtesy will help you fit right in and even earn you a smile or two from usually reserved locals.
10. Plan Your Days – But Leave Room to Wander
London is huge. Getting from one side to the other can take hours, especially if you rely on buses or encounter traffic. The Tube is faster, but even then, travel can eat into your sightseeing time.
The best approach? Explore by neighborhood. Spend a full day discovering Central London (Covent Garden, Soho, the West End), then dedicate another day to areas like South Bank, Camden, Notting Hill, or Greenwich. This helps minimize travel time and makes the experience more enjoyable.
Try not to over-plan. Big museums like the British Museum or the V&A deserve a few hours each, and rushing through them isn’t worth it. Take breaks, enjoy a coffee at a local café, or sit in one of the many parks to people-watch. Slowing down often leads to the most memorable moments.
11. Keep an Eye on Your Belongings
London is generally safe, but like any big city, it’s wise to be cautious. Don’t leave bags unattended in public places – this can be seen as a security risk and may get your items removed or searched. Theft is uncommon, but opportunists do exist, especially in busy areas.
Avoid keeping your phone in your back pocket, and don’t leave valuables (like purses or cameras) on cafe tables. If someone tries to distract you – for example, by asking directions or dropping something near you – be aware of your surroundings.
Hotels usually offer luggage storage after checkout, but luggage lockers or storage options in public spaces are limited.
12. Know What’s Going On – Especially During Election Year
If you’re visiting in spring 2024, it’s worth knowing that London is holding a mayoral election on May 2nd. Sadiq Khan, the current mayor, is seeking another term, and the campaign may affect daily life in small ways – from rallies to increased public service announcements.
For visitors, this might mean a focus on transport improvements or visible efforts to address issues like homelessness and street safety. Londoners care deeply about these topics, and while you likely won’t be impacted directly, you might notice campaign signs, news coverage, or debates during your stay.
Public services have seen disruptions in recent years, especially with transport strikes. While Tube strikes have eased, national rail services still experience occasional delays. Keep an eye on travel updates via the TfL app or National Rail website.
Final Thoughts
London is an unforgettable city filled with history, culture, and modern charm. With a little preparation and some local know-how, you’ll be able to explore confidently and comfortably. Keep an open mind, pack sensibly, stay polite, and embrace the unexpected – and you’re sure to have a truly memorable time in the UK’s vibrant capital.