Driving in London is very overwhelming, especially for those who don’t drive around the capital on a regular basis. This is because you can expect heavy traffic, one-way systems, bus lanes, cyclists, and even strict driving regulations. That being said, if you are driving to London for the first time, all you need to do is prepare for it. Once you prepare your journey, your journey will be less stressful than if you do not prepare for it. So, here is your ultimate guide to driving around London.
Plan Your Journey Before
One of the best ways to ensure you make your trip easier is to plan it in advance. No matter what time of day you visit London, it is going to be busy but try to avoid the rush hour periods. Using either a sat nav or a reliable navigation app, you can avoid any roadworks, road closures or congestion. Make sure to look out for any sporting events, concerts or protests that could disrupt your journey.
Be Aware of Congestion and ULEZ Charges
London has recently introduced both congestion and ULEZ charges for certain types of vehicles. Make sure you check to see whether your vehicle is eligible for driving in these areas, or else you will be fined. Driving and parking in London can be extremely expensive, so make sure you avoid the additional charges when you arrive in London.
Watch Out for Cyclists and Pedestrians
London has a large number of cyclists and pedestrians, particularly in busy central areas. This is why drivers need to drive at a slow speed
London has a large number of cyclists and pedestrians, particularly in busy central areas. Drivers should remain alert at all times, especially when turning at junctions or opening vehicle doors after parking. Many roads also feature dedicated cycle lanes, which must be respected.
Parking Can Be Challenging
Parking is one of the most challenging parts of London, especially because there are so many cars in and out of London. Furthermore, there are many permit parking only areas and very strict time restrictions, leading to you having fewer parking spots. Before you leave your vehicle, always check for nearby signs to ensure that you can park within the area.
Parking in London is often limited and expensive, particularly in central locations. Many streets operate permit-only parking zones or strict time restrictions. Before leaving your vehicle, always check nearby signs carefully to avoid fines or even being clamped.
Before you start your journey, you must ensure that parking is available near your destination. There are many apps and websites where you can locate parking spots near your area however make sure to pre-book your parking. As mentioned before, the car parks can be very busy, so give yourself plenty of time to pre-book your parking space before there are no spaces available. Companies like Care Park have great online booking systems to ensure you get your parking space saved for you.
