Information
The central London bus guide will be sufficient for most travellers. This map is available from most transport travel information centres. You can also download a handy Tube and bus map designed for visitors (see related links below). Plan your bus route online with Transport for London's Journey Planner.
For maps and further information on London buses click here to go to the TFL website.
Night Buses
Night buses (prefixed with the letter ‘N’) come on duty before the Tube shuts down and the daytime buses return to the garage. In addition, many bus routes run for 24 hours. If you’re not familiar with the routes, head to Trafalgar Square (the hub for night buses) or check one of the bus-stop information boards. Services can be infrequent and stop only on request. On all routes you should signal clearly to the driver to stop.
Fares
There is a flat fare throughout the bus network, £1 with pre-pay Oyster card or Bus Saver tickets (sold in books of six) and £1.50 if you are paying by cash. Travelcards are valid on buses. There are no longer conductors on the main bus network.
Bus Passes
Daily bus passes are valid for the whole network. By and large, if you are staying outside Zone 2, you may want to use the Tube or Rail network to get into central London anyway, as buses can be slower.
Buy Before You Board/Ticket Machines
Some routes in central London require that you buy tickets before you board. Ticket machines are located next to these bus stops. You'll need the exact money as they do not give change. They also sell daily bus passes.
Children
Children under 16 can travel on buses for free. However, if you are aged between 14 and 16 you are advised to get a photocard to prove your age. You can get photocards from most local underground stations, just bring along a passport sized photo.
Travelling with a Disability
Following the retirement of the Routemaster bus, all buses on London’s network are wheelchair accessible. They have a low flat floor to make travel easier for the elderly and disabled customers as well as those with pushchairs.
Call TFL's information service on +44 (0)20 7222 1234 or Minicom +44 (0)20 7918 3015 for more information.
London Underground Travel Information
London Bus Travel Information
London Taxi Travel Information
London DLR Travel Information
London Local Trains Travel Information
London Walking Travel Information
Driving in London
Guided sightseeing tours of London City