There’s nowhere else in the world quite like London. Past and present come together to create a capital which begs you to explore. Before making any travel plans, please check government restrictions in place. London isn’t going anywhere so you’ll have plenty of time to research your future trips and discover it when it’s safe to do so. Here are a few green ways to travel around London, when we’re all allowed to travel freely again.
Getting around London is no easy feat, especially for a visitor. It’s a sprawling city but with handy transport tips, you’ll find yourself navigating in no time. While navigating London there are conscious choices you can make to reduce your carbon footprint, the method of transport you decide to take can amount to an overall reduction in carbon emissions.
Walking
One of the great things about London is that most of the things you need are within a short distance. If you can get to that restaurant, hotel, or bar on foot, then certainly do so. Choosing to walk to your destination rather than getting a taxi or uber will keep your carbon emissions at zero, ensuring your trip stays green.
Trains
You can’t have a city as large as London and not have a public transport system which can help you tackle it. The underground – the tube – is one of the best ways of getting yourself around. It saves you having to experience the infamous London traffic. Once you understand how to read the train maps, you’ll find yourself getting across the city with ease. It’s easy to travel to the capital from wherever you are in the country. If you’re in the south of the UK, you can get the train straight through from Brighton to London Victoria.
Travelling by train has been shown to be one of the most environmentally friendly methods of transport, releasing 80% less greenhouse gasses per kilometre than cars.
Although trains are not a carbon neutral method of transport, compared to travelling by car they are a far more environmentally friendly option.
Cycling
If you don’t love the idea of going underground, there are still plenty of options for you. Cycling is a great way for you to explore the capital. There are so many scenic routes you can take. From parks and panoramic views to canals and Camden market. There are plenty of spots where you can hire a bike so don’t worry about bringing one with you. You can enjoy the sights of the city in an environmentally friendly style, as a truly zero-emission method of transport you can travel knowing of the positive conscious decision you have made.
Cable Car
If you’re after something a bit different with your sightseeing, then the Emirates Air Line cable car could be for you. It goes between the Greenwich Peninsula and the Royal Docks. On your journey, you’ll get some amazing views of the Thames, the skyline and the 02. Why not combine your sightseeing and your travelling all in one? If you want to make the most of the experience, you could book yourself in for an evening journey. The ride lasts longer and you can watch the sunset.
Cable cars are known to be a low emission mode of transport, with minimal greenhouse gasses being produced because of using them during your trip to London.
Electric Taxis
If you know exactly where you want to go and don’t have time to figure out public transport – a taxi could be the option for you. You can enjoy sitting back in the iconic London black cab and watch city life from the back seat. However, taxis are not the one if you’re visiting London on a budget. There is a minimum charge of £3.20 and as previously stated, traffic in the capital is notoriously slow. Along with this, London taxis are notorious for being one of transportation methods with the highest emissions; if you want to make a conscious effort to be environmentally friendly but need to use a cab, look out for a cab that is either electric or a hybrid car.
A black cab could be good for the novelty, but perhaps shouldn’t be relied on for every journey.
When you’re able to travel again to visit the capital, what would you like to see the most during your visit?
