Get yourself out and about in London with ease, and never be late for an appointment. In a city this big it might seem inevitable that you will get lost, but with the right apps on your smartphone, you won’t have any problems. Here are the top five apps you need when travelling on the bus or tube (London’s subway metro system). These are available for both iOS and Android.
1. Citymapper
This is an all-in-one app that provides more than just travel information on trains, tubes and buses. You can use it to find your way around the city, and it will also tell you how much your journey will cost.
2. London bus live countdown
This app links directly to TfL’s own countdown service. No matter where you are in the city, press the refresh button in the Bus Stops page, and it will automatically find all the nearest bus stops. It displays the next buses to arrive, and how far away they are, and with another tap you can see where the bus is going.
3. Google maps
A personal satnav, as well as knowing where you are, Google Maps can show you where you want to go, and includes details like bus and tube stops, local attractions, and restaurants.
4. Tube Map London Underground
This is an interactive version of the official TfL Tube map, with a step-by-step London route guide, live journey information and line status.
5. Oyster Map (Android & iOS)
Buses are a quick and fun way to get around London. But you can’t use cash or paper tickets. Only an Oyster card or a contactless credit or debit card. This app shows you all the locations in London where you can top up your Oyster card, using Google maps.
Author: Lynley Oram.
