First Time in London? Here’s What I Wish I Knew
Visiting London for the first time? It’s a magical experience—but it can also be surprisingly tricky if you don’t know the city quirks and unwritten rules. I’ve refined my guide with real Londoner feedback and up-to-date facts so you can travel smart and feel at home.
1. Transport Made Simple — Oyster, Contactless & Caps
Forget paper tickets—London works on Oyster cards or contactless bank cards. Just tap in (and out) and you’re done.
Daily caps (Zones 1–2):
£8.90 per day on Tube, DLR, Overground, Elizabeth Line, and most National Rail
Bus & tram only? Just £5.25 per day .
If you’re planning lots of rides, this is far cheaper than single paper fares (which can be over £7 each!)
2. Escalator Etiquette — Seriously, Stand Right
On Tube escalators: stand on the right, walk on the left. It’s London traffic flow. No “stand both sides”—locals still expect that rule .
3. Sunday Shopping — Not Closed, Just Shorter
London isn’t closed on Sundays. But under the Sunday Trading Act 1994, large shops (over ~3,000 sq ft) may open between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. only
Major streets like Oxford St and Westfield mall usually open around 12 p.m. and close by 6 p.m. l
Smaller retailers, pubs, and restaurants often keep regular hours.
Tip: Plan evening shopping elsewhere or do your browsing by 5 p.m. on Sundays.
4. Tipping — Optional, Appreciated, Not Expected
You don’t need to tip for casual service—but it's nice to leave one if service is good:
Restaurants: Look for 12–12.5% service charge. If it’s included, you’re done. If not, 10–15% for great service
Pubs/Cafés: No pressure. Rounding up or saying “one for yourself” is always appreciated
Taxis/Black cabs: Round up to the nearest pound or add ~10% for help with luggage
Hotels: £1–2 per bag for porters; similar for housekeeping if you wish
Important: Tips are never forced nor expected—it’s a gesture, not a rule
5. Attraction Bookings — Plan Ahead
London is packed, especially during summer. Avoid disappointment:
Book ahead for London Eye, Sky Garden, Westminster Abbey, or theatre shows.
Same-day tickets are rare during busy months.
Use apps like TodayTix for West End theatre shots, or bundles like the London Pass.
6. Stick Central, Even If It Costs More
Staying within Zones 1–2 (Covent Garden, South Bank, Westminster, etc.) makes life easier and saves travel time, even if the price is higher .
7. Walk When You Can
London is surprisingly walkable. Between tube rides, pedestrian shortcuts are often faster and more pleasant than changing lines.
8. Weather Flexibility — Come Prepared
London weather is capricious. Always carry:
A small umbrella
Layers and a light jacket
Comfortable walking shoes
Even in summer, brief showers can surprise you.
9. Data & Apps — Stay Connected
Download Citymapper or Google Maps for real-time transport. You can top up Oyster cards at stations, via the app—or simply tap in with your contactless phone.
10. Etiquette — Blend in Smoothly
Say “sorry” politely (London’s universal filler word).
Mind the Tube rules (no escalator jam, keep doors clear).
Avoid eye contact on the Tube—but be chatty in pubs.
“Look right” at crossings—it’s easy to forget and dangerous.
11. Explore Beyond Central London
The city's outskirts hold real gems—Hampstead Heath, Greenwich, Richmond, Brixton—all a Tube ride away and teeming with personality.
Final Recap
£8.90/day cap on zones 1–2: pay as you go with Oyster/contactless
Stand on the right on escalators
Sunday hours are shorter, not closed
Tipping is optional, not compulsory
Book ahead for major attractions
Stay central, walk smart, and download travel apps
Respect local etiquette to blend in
Save this guide to feel confident in London—and share it with anyone heading over!
Follow @Londonyaar for more insider tips and fresh, fact-checked London guides.