London operates many bus services to accommodate its large population. If you are visiting London for the first time it pays to be aware of what the buses can offer to help you out.

If you are using a bus to take in the sites and scenes or just to get around a little quicker there is a service running to help you throughout most of the day.

Local Services

London has many different Burroughs and districts, some of which are much larger than conventional towns. Buses not only cover the retail and business sectors of central London but also the residential and outer areas.

Local bus services in London form a network which is operated by private firms contracted to London Buses. London Buses reports to Transport for London who maintain and regulate all of London's public transport, so you can rest assured that you are travelling in a well serviced vehicle.

Many of the Buses used for local service have also been recently refurbished and replaced. The changes are to encourage more people to use public transport and are designed to accommodate more people. By adding lower floors to buses access for wheelchairs and other mobility equipment is improved as well as prams and bulky luggage.

Tour Buses

London is well known for many reasons. One of the main reasons is London's multitude of sites of historical and general interest. From London Bridge to The Houses of Parliament and Marble Arch London is generously equipped with unique architecture capturing the character of its diverse population. London is Britain's largest city stretching over miles of streets. This makes it almost impossible to view all the city has to offer on foot in one day.

If you are visiting London for sight seeing booking a tour is well recommended. London has many open topped, Double Decker buses which operate tours. The buses are versatile and allow people to travel taking in the traditional sites to their desired stop and leave to continue on another charismatic red bus.

Tour buses are also versatile as tickets don't need to be booked in advance. Depending on the tour operator tickets may be bought from the driver or the conductor who may also be a tour guide. If you are going to leave one bus and join with another make sure it is hosted by the same tour operator or your fare may be invalid.

Tickets are usually charged with a flat fare regardless of which stop you choose for a single day or several days.

Airport Services

If you are only visiting London for a short break or holiday from abroad then it is important to have your return journey organised. Buses operate services to London's main airports which are competitively priced compared to taxis and coaches.

The Airport buses are designed for the job with plenty of space for luggage. Numerous services run through out the day so you can choose the right bus in time for your flight.

National Express provides services to Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted through its National Express Airport buses. The Airport Buses have numerous stops throughout London for easy access.