London is a bucket list trip for many Americans, with the UK capital featuring iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, and Buckingham Palace. 

However, planning an overseas trip can be overwhelming. Whether you plan on embarking on a free walking tour of London or diving straight into the city’s museums, there is lots to know before heading across the pond. 

This article will explore seven things you should know if you’re an American visiting London for the first time. 

There Are 6 Airports

Central London is connected to six airports: Gatwick, Heathrow, Stansted, Luton, Southend, and London City. Each of these has different transportation options and journey times to the city. 

Once you have booked your flight, whether from the US or another stop in Europe, it’s essential to research how to get from the airport to your accommodation. Taxis will be costly and are likely to get stuck in city traffic, so I recommend taking advantage of public transport. 

Here is a quick breakdown of the services available from the main three airports:

• London Gatwick. The Gatwick Express train connects the south terminal to London Victoria station in 30 minutes. In addition, National Express ​bus services run ​directly to London Victoria, taking 90 minutes.
• Heathrow. The Heathrow Express train connects the airport to London Paddington station in around 15 minutes. You can also jump on the tube, as The Piccadilly line runs through all Heathrow terminals. 
• London Stansted. The Stansted Express connects the airport to London Liverpool Street station in 47 minutes. A range of bus services also connect the airport to other parts of the city.

The Weather Isn’t Great 

Whilst you might get lucky with blue skies and warmer weather, especially in the summer months (July to September), London is known to be cloudy, cold, and rainy. Remember to pack a coat, sturdy shoes, and an umbrella.

The hottest month is July, with average highs of 75.2 degrees, whilst the coldest month is January, with average lows of just 37.4 degrees. 

It Is Always Busy 

Some Americans might be used to busy streets in cities like New York and Los Angeles.

However, it’s still worth noting that no matter what time of year or day you visit, the main streets in London will be jam-packed with people and traffic (going the wrong way). You aren’t likely to get a picture of any main attractions without people in your way. 

London Is Huge 

When many people think of London, they think of the inner districts such as the City of London, Tower Hamlets, Islington, Camden, Kensington and Chelsea, and Westminster. These districts house most of the main attractions you’ll plan to see.

However, London comprises 32 districts, stretching from Hillingdon on the west to Havering on the east and from Enfield in the north to Croydon in the south. 

London’s metropolitan area has an area of 8,382 square kilometers and a population of 14,372,596, according to the 2018 United Nations figures.

The Tube Is Your Best Friend 

Whilst daunting initially, London’s Underground system – the tube – is a quick and cheap way to get anywhere in the city. For example, Big Ben to St Paul’s Cathedral is a 40-minute walk but only 16/17 minutes on the tube, using the Circle or District lines. 

You can tap your mobile wallet or contactless bank card at the barrier to enter the tube stations. Journey prices are capped at £8.90 (around $18) a day for zones one and two, no matter how many times you travel. The capped price increases slightly for the further four zones. 

You Don’t Have To Tip 

Unlike in the US, you aren’t expected to tip at restaurants in London. If you have been impressed with the service, you are welcome to leave a tip, but it is not expected.

However, you will notice a ‘service charge’ added to your bill. This is often between 10% and 12% and can be much higher on weekends and public holidays. This money goes directly to the business owner, not the staff serving you.

Some Words Are Different

As everyone speaks English, you won’t have to stress about any language barriers in London. However, some words differ between British and American English, including: 

• Restrooms are toilets. 
• Fries are chips. 
• Potato chips are crisps. 
• Soccer is football.
• Sneakers are trainers.

Ready For Your First Time In London?

London is an excellent city to visit, and you shouldn’t let any of these tips put you off. As long as you know what to expect regarding busy streets, public transport, and the weather, you are all set for your trip across the pond. 

Remember to try a traditional roast dinner whilst you’re in the UK capital!

Published by Joseph T.