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London Vacation Guide - Free Printable Resource

First-Time London Cheat Sheet

One-page quick-start for your first London trip

Arriving at the Airport

Most visitors use Heathrow (LHR) or Gatwick (LGW)
Have passport + ETA/visa ready for immigration
Get contactless ready before exiting - tap-to-pay works on all transport
Heathrow Express to Paddington: 15 min (~£25)
Elizabeth line to central: 30–45 min (~£10–15)
Gatwick Express to Victoria: 31 min (~£20)

Getting Around

Use contactless card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay on all TfL transport
Buses and trams: cash NOT accepted - contactless/Oyster only
Bus single fare: £1.75 | Daily bus cap: £5.25
Tube daily cap (Zone 1–2): approx £8.10 (peak) / £8.10 (off-peak)
TfL Go app: live maps, delays, lift status
Stand right, walk left on escalators

Money & Tipping

UK currency: Pound Sterling (£)
Contactless and cards accepted almost everywhere
Tipping: 10–15% at restaurants is standard (not mandatory)
Tipping at bars: not expected
Currency exchange: use bank ATMs for best rates; avoid airport kiosks

Emergency Numbers

999 - Police / Ambulance / Fire (emergencies)
101 - Non-emergency police
NHS 111 - Medical advice, 24/7
Your hotel number: _______________
Your airline number: _______________

Essential Apps

TfL Go - live transport maps and journey planning
Citymapper - alternative route planner
Google Maps - offline maps (download before arrival)
NHS App - GP, prescriptions, health records