|
Post by elizabeth on Jan 9, 2015 3:21:49 GMT
I am looking at taking one of Trafalgar's City Break tours of London in August/September. Has anyone ever been on a tour like this? There are daily start dates; I am concerned with so many tours, I run the risk of whatever date I chose, the tour could be cancelled. None of the tours listed at this time have definite departures. Does anyone know what happens if the tour is cancelled? Would I get reimbursed for the trip and airfare if I book tour and airfare via Trafalgar/travel agent? I am a solo traveler looking at the London Week The Cumberland - 2015.
Thank you for any information anyone can provide.
Liz
|
|
|
Post by Oz-T on Jan 9, 2015 11:02:27 GMT
Hi Elizabeth, I was wondering whether you'd considered seeing London other ways? It's one of the easiest cities to tour yourself without needing to pay extra for a guided tour. The London Pass is a useful method to get access to many attractions and can be value for money as long as you use it enough in the timeframe.
If you still prefer a guided tour, have you looked at the Evan Evans tours? I went on one of their Golden Tours trips and it was quite good. You can also ride on one of London's 'hop on, hop off' buses to see plenty of sights.
Trafalgar is good too, but there are plenty of reputable alternatives.
Generally, tours don't get cancelled often, but if they do cancel it you should be refunded.
|
|
|
Post by tiffany on Jan 9, 2015 12:53:11 GMT
Hi Elizabeth,
I had a tour canceled on my once, and I was given the option of moving to another tour date, or getting a refund. I decided to go on the tour the week before, and because I booked my flight through Trafalgar, they ate the cost of changing my flight. If I had booked the flight on my own though, I would have been responsible for changing it. The good thing was the new tour date was cheaper than the tour I had originally booked, so I actually got some money back, which I used to pay for my hotel room during my extra night.
London is a great city, and I don’t think you can go wrong no matter what tour your choose. Doing London on your own is also pretty easy and also an option, as Oz said above.
|
|
|
Post by purvis on Jan 9, 2015 23:15:03 GMT
Elizabeth: Oz is so right about planning your own tour to London . It is not all that hard to map out what you want to see then pick a hotel that is near a tube station. With an Oyster Card you can travel cheaply throughout the London area and at your own speed not to that planned by others. Side trips out to Windsor Castle, Canterbury etc. are not all that difficult to get to if you are interested in these locations. Since you have to pay separately for your air the only extra expense is your hotel ,food , entry fees and oyster card all of which are much less than what you would pay for a guided tour. I have been collecting info for a 8day tour (which I'm trying to convince my son to go on) with 4 nites in London followed by 4 nites in Paris. All the info you will need is easily available on your computer. If I can organize such a tour I have no doubt that you can also. By the way I'm 80 years old. Have been on many Trafalgar tours to the US, Canada and Europe and find that many of the sites I had wished to see were not on the itinerary so planning your own trip has many advantages. Purvis
|
|
|
Post by californian on Jan 9, 2015 23:34:13 GMT
Good to hear you are planning another tour, Purvis! You are my inspiration.
|
|
|
Post by elizabeth on Jan 10, 2015 2:52:03 GMT
Thank you everyone for your feedback. Oz I knew you would be the first to help. I believe you answered many of my questions when I took the Contrast of Italy tour in 2013.
I have been debating organizing my own trip. A bit nervous being on my own that I would get lost and maybe not as much fun without a group. First, places of interest are (in no particular order) Tower of London, St Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Windsor Castle, tour Buckingham Palace (hence the reason end of Aug/Sept is my choice of time frame), Madame Tussauds, and what ever else comes up.
I have done some research on the London Pass and am trying to decide if it would be of benefit. I understand you have to use it on consecutive days? Can you use it twice in one day? The Tube, is it easy and clear to use?
Can anyone tell me if I need to pre-book day tours or can that be done once in London? I don't want to risk the trips being full. Are the pick up points clear?
I don't need to stay in a 5 star hotel. I need something central, close to transportation, ease to tourist sites, safe, staff who are helpful, clean room with a washroom and perhaps a TV. I have a small room at home so I am use to it. Any recommendations?
Purvis, if your son won't go, I'll join you but I would like a few more days in London...lol.
Cheers
Liz
|
|
|
Post by Oz-T on Jan 10, 2015 7:08:14 GMT
It may seem daunting, Liz, but you will be amazed how easy this really is. You shouldn't get lost in London because it's easy to navigate and 99% of the locals would immediately assist you if you needed directions. And not being part of a group shouldn't necessarily be a problem either. I have been to most of the attractions you've listed, as have other members of this forum, so you're in good hands - I'm sure we can guide you on what to expect and in the process, help you feel more comfortable with finding your way around.
If you do decide to go with any day tours, I would definitely book before arriving in London, but you might still latch onto a particular tour by simply asking your hotel reception staff (they often can book these for you). The pickup points are very clear and we can assist you with guidance on this if you need. I agree with Purvis that you should use the rail Oystercard system - again, we can show you how to use it.
I'll advise you separately re London hotels, and others may also wish to contribute ideas. But do be prepared for hotels being expensive in London, even if the rooms are small.
|
|
|
Post by californian on Jan 10, 2015 10:55:50 GMT
Elizabeth: Oz is so right about planning your own tour to London . It is not all that hard to map out what you want to see then pick a hotel that is near a tube station. With an Oyster Card you can travel cheaply throughout the London area and at your own speed not to that planned by others. Side trips out to Windsor Castle, Canterbury etc. are not all that difficult to get to if you are interested in these locations. Since you have to pay separately for your air the only extra expense is your hotel ,food , entry fees and oyster card all of which are much less than what you would pay for a guided tour. I have been collecting info for a 8day tour (which I'm trying to convince my son to go on) with 4 nites in London followed by 4 nites in Paris. All the info you will need is easily available on your computer. If I can organize such a tour I have no doubt that you can also. By the way I'm 80 years old. Have been on many Trafalgar tours to the US, Canada and Europe and find that many of the sites I had wished to see were not on the itinerary so planning your own trip has many advantages. Purvis Elizabeth, it has been a couple of years, but I stayed at this Premier Inn County Hall, you can walk everywhere, close to everything, net door to the Mariott County Hall where day tours stop for pickups, very good price, attentive and helpful personnel. Here is the link if you are interested: www.agoda.com/en-ca/premier-inn-london-county-hall/hotel/london-gb.html?type=1&site_id=1622863&url=http://www.agoda.com/en-ca/premier-inn-london-county-hall/hotel/london-gb.html&adid=49339153289&network=g&adpos=1t2&expid=&rand=2076518079807685051&device=c&tag=7e694d90-f64f-4a7b-a9fc-cd39f842349a&gclid=Cj0KEQiAuMOlBRDf6_izz93n-pEBEiQAsJCJWln6z_C8Wlmae2B3jadQS3q7TaUBzkH0GlH9aGrtBbkaAmld8P8HAQ&cklg=1
|
|
|
Post by purvis on Jan 10, 2015 16:07:18 GMT
Elizabeth: Oz is so right about planning your own tour to London . It is not all that hard to map out what you want to see then pick a hotel that is near a tube station. With an Oyster Card you can travel cheaply throughout the London area and at your own speed not to that planned by others. Side trips out to Windsor Castle, Canterbury etc. are not all that difficult to get to if you are interested in these locations. Since you have to pay separately for your air the only extra expense is your hotel ,food , entry fees and oyster card all of which are much less than what you would pay for a guided tour. I have been collecting info for a 8day tour (which I'm trying to convince my son to go on) with 4 nites in London followed by 4 nites in Paris. All the info you will need is easily available on your computer. If I can organize such a tour I have no doubt that you can also. By the way I'm 80 years old. Have been on many Trafalgar tours to the US, Canada and Europe and find that many of the sites I had wished to see were not on the itinerary so planning your own trip has many advantages. Purvis Elizabeth, it has been a couple of years, but I stayed at this Premier Inn County Hall, you can walk everywhere, close to everything, net door to the Mariott County Hall where day tours stop for pickups, very good price, attentive and helpful personnel. Here is the link if you are interested: www.agoda.com/en-ca/premier-inn-london-county-hall/hotel/london-gb.html?type=1&site_id=1622863&url=http://www.agoda.com/en-ca/premier-inn-london-county-hall/hotel/london-gb.html&adid=49339153289&network=g&adpos=1t2&expid=&rand=2076518079807685051&device=c&tag=7e694d90-f64f-4a7b-a9fc-cd39f842349a&gclid=Cj0KEQiAuMOlBRDf6_izz93n-pEBEiQAsJCJWln6z_C8Wlmae2B3jadQS3q7TaUBzkH0GlH9aGrtBbkaAmld8P8HAQ&cklg=1
|
|
|
Post by purvis on Jan 10, 2015 16:36:15 GMT
Elizabeth: When checking hotels in London the Premier Inn London County Hall and the Premier Inn London Waterloo where the two I chose as the most reasonable. They are both near the London Eye. One good point for both hotels is that your cancelation is free in case you have to . They are both reasonably near Waterloo station which has a Marks & Spencer store in which you can purchase takeout sandwiches etc. which my son and I did on our last Trafalgar tour. We had both been to London before and actually left the tour while in both London and Paris and did our own thing as did Tulip who was on the same tour . Not being on a tour means you get up when you want to , eat what and when you want to. I just looked at the London Week tour and it seems you are on your own most of the time anyways. The first half day tour of the city is on a bus and you just drive past the sites you may wish to see then you are left off somewhere in the city to find your own way back to your hotel. On one of my stops in London several of the folk got lost trying to get back to our hotel because they had no warning that they should study the tube before going to London. You can download the Tube map and then keep notes on which lines to use when going to the different sites. As Oz says the folk of London are very helpful as is the front desks of the hotels. Being near Waterloo station means that if you do decide to go to the countryside you have plenty of rail opportunities. Also when coming into London from Heathrow on the express you take it to Waterloo Station then can either walk or take a short taxi trip to either of the Premier hotels. There are many on this site more familiar with London than myself and I'm sure they will answer any questions you might have especially Oz. Purvis
|
|
|
Post by elizabeth on Jan 10, 2015 18:28:19 GMT
Purvis, I agree with your comments regarding the Trafalgar Tour. I called them last evening to discover that you still have to book your optionals at their office in London and can't necessarily be done with the representative at the hotel. The cost of the Cumberland, therefore, is too steep for my pocket. I have been reviewing the Premier Inn chain, multiple locations as suggested. The prices seem reasonable (initial estimate between the Cumberland and Premier is approx. $1000.00 CAD in savings.) I have also looked at some of their other locations Londons King Cross and London Bank Tower. I am leaning towards a location close to the Thames.
Any suggestions from any one the benefits of London Bank Tower verses the Waterloo/Country Hall location knowing that London Bank is on the other side of the Thames, for ease of transportation/access to Tube, walking to sites hop on/hop off trips and day trips? I do understand the Waterloo/Country Hall has easy access to bus tours. Once I decide on a hotel, from there I can determine tours/London Pass/ Oyster versus Travel Card.
My goal for timing is to arrive in London on August 30 and return home Sept 9. I see there is a stat holiday in London on Aug 31.
As always many thanks for your input.
Liz
|
|
|
Post by purvis on Jan 10, 2015 18:44:43 GMT
Elizabeth: Once you decide on which hotel you want to stay at go to TRIVAGO or Booking.com to get the best price. I checked Premier Inn London County Hall's own website and they charge for cancelations whereas the same hotel through booking.com gives free cancelations and payment at the end of your stay. For a double (no singles) the price per nite was $181.00 Cdn. without breakfast included or $199 with breakfast. at Premier Inn. Always check the difference between the hotel's website and the price given on TRIVAGO or booking.com before booking. Purvis
|
|
|
Post by elizabeth on Jan 11, 2015 5:16:38 GMT
Thank you Purvis. I would never have thought of that. Great protection if I have to cancel.
To all, I have been doing a ton of research mapping out where everything is in relation to the Westminster area. So far, I have been able to co-ordinate areas/sites I want to see in relation to their proximity to each other. From there, I will begin my planning and look at what tours are available.
Liz
|
|
|
Post by purvis on Jan 11, 2015 7:03:05 GMT
Elizabeth: When you decide which tours you want to take look at Evans-Evans as Oz suggested. You can find their London tours online and if they pick up at your hotel or nearby. Purvis
|
|
|
Post by elizabeth on Jan 11, 2015 17:13:02 GMT
Hi. The County Hall location sure is popular. Changed my date to May 3 to May 13 and booked the hotel. Thank goodness I can cancel or amend the date.
Liz
|
|
|
Post by californian on Jan 11, 2015 17:30:08 GMT
I think you made a good choice Elizabeth, no need to pay for breakfast, there is Starbuck across the street, and many places to eat. And the Marriott where Evan Evans stops. We took a couple of day tours from there (Bath, Winchester, Stonehenge, etc) And you can walk to the West End theaters. Everything else is no more than 10 pounds taxi drive if you need to take one. Consider (if you haven't) visiting Churchill War Rooms, on White Hall, Or the Imperial War Museum, not too far from there, but I don't think it's close enough to walk. What a nice trip!
|
|
|
Post by marielouise on Jan 11, 2015 17:38:29 GMT
Liz, 13 years ago we took the kids to London at their March break at the end of March. We had a great time and great weather. Since there were 5 of us we rented an apartment near the County Hall location, it doesn't exist any more, we found it was an excellent location. The reason we wanted to be there is because DH wanted to spend a lot of time at the the War museum, which is close by and we found it easy to walk to Westminster and Trafalgar Square. We walked along the South Bank to the Globe Theatre and HMS Belfast (war ship) and London Bridge. We took the train from Waterloo to Windsor Castle and took the Underground to various sites. DH and I stayed there a few years later and took the train to Portsmouth which was a nice day outing and very simple to do. Evans Evans day tour to Leeds Castle and Canterbury might be a nice day tour also. The British Museum is an interesting place but a little harder to get to.
|
|
|
Post by purvis on Jan 11, 2015 18:31:26 GMT
Liz, 13 years ago we took the kids to London at their March break at the end of March. We had a great time and great weather. Since there were 5 of us we rented an apartment near the County Hall location, it doesn't exist any more, we found it was an excellent location. The reason we wanted to be there is because DH wanted to spend a lot of time at the the War museum, which is close by and we found it easy to walk to Westminster and Trafalgar Square. We walked along the South Bank to the Globe Theatre and HMS Belfast (war ship) and London Bridge. We took the train from Waterloo to Windsor Castle and took the Underground to various sites. DH and I stayed there a few years later and took the train to Portsmouth which was a nice day outing and very simple to do. Evans Evans day tour to Leeds Castle and Canterbury might be a nice day tour also. The British Museum is an interesting place but a little harder to get to. LiZ: Glad you made your choice. It sounds great. Now if only I can convince my son to go to London in May. He's a golfer and tournaments often interfere with his choices. I had checked County Hall and found that they were booked solid for most of Sept. as it seems you found out. May is great in London at last it was for the several times I have been there. Now you can start to organize your time in this wonderful city. Purvis
|
|
|
Post by Oz-T on Jan 11, 2015 22:31:46 GMT
Liz, Let's break down the London Week Cumberland package and assess the alternatives. The Trafalgar package gets you the following: Accommodation at Cumberland Hotel (6 nights incl. breakfasts) Tickets to London's hop-on, hop-off bus 3-day pass to off-peak trains & buses
So here's the catch: It's not a guided tour; it's an assisted self-guided tour. And it lasts a week only because they're providing accommodation for six nights - other than the day you use the Hop-on, hop-off bus, you're pretty much by yourself to wander around London unless you pay extra for a variety of guided tours. And the price for all this for a solo traveller is A$2,475. I'm using Australian dollars for this analysis so you'd need to check the Canadian prices - but the comparison is the important issue here. The Cumberland is a great hotel but it costs A$413 per night. That works out to A$2,479 for six nights. On this basis, Trafalgar's deal looks great because you get the extras (bus tour + 3-day Tube pass). But do you need a 4 star hotel in one of the most expensive cities in the world? Why not something more affordable like the Travelodge Waterloo? Or the Lancaster Paddington (4-star and costing $1,500 for six nights? Now add on your Hop-on, Hop-off bus. That'll cost something like £23 for a whole day, so that'll equate to A$45. And your 3-day usage of the Tube via an Oystercard would probably cost no more than £15/day = £45 which is A$88. So all up, the tour will cost A$1,633 compared to Trafalgar's A$2,475. That's $842 cheaper. All this will be cheaper again in Canadian dollars but you'll still see the huge premium being paid for staying at an expensive hotel. I stayed at the Park Plaza County Hall near Waterloo Station the last time I was in London, as it was a one-night stay as part of a Trafalgar tour. We needed an extra night as we were arriving early and I was quoted $200 each! I told the Travel agent that this was a rip-off and I'd instead stay at the Travelodge the first night and check into the Park Plaza next day. Trafalgar then came to the party and offered "2 for 1" (i.e. $200 for the extra night for both of us staying). So I accepted that. There is a time and a place for guided tours, but Trafalgar's London Week Cumberland is too expensive for my tastes - especially when I'd be doing almost all of it without being guided. To me, it's all about adding a few extras to an expensive hotel and making it look like a great package. Nope, I can do far better myself by being just a tiny bit resourceful. To us, we only use the room for sleeping, so we don't need anything ridiculously expensive. If you wish to design your own itinerary, I would be pleased to help, and as you've already seen, plenty of members here will contribute great ideas and tips. It's far easier than you think. You can buy your Oystercard at Heathrow airport and use it immediately to travel into the city and connect to your hotel. That's how I always do it and I can describe the journey and process step by step if you wish. That in itself will save you from expensive airport transfers or taxis. And in the process you get to see the houses and backyards of London you never see from the road. I can show you how the Hop-on, Hop-off bus works, and how you can use it to see most of the grand sights of London. If there's anything you especially want to see up close, you simply get off the bus and return later to continue your journey. I can also explain how you can get tickets to attractions that get a small discount and avoid the queues. I once did this at Madame Tussauds and the Tower of London - all on the day we arrived in London. Another advantage is that you can choose your own timing - if it's raining you might prefer to go to Madame Tussauds that day instead of the Tower (where there's some walking in the open). One tip I often give is to browse the London Pass website to get an idea of what attractions you wish to visit. After making a list you can then determine whether the Pass is worth buying or not. If it isn't, you can buy tickets separately. But a rough list is a great starting point because we can then design an itinerary that avoids criss-crossing the city too much - and you always remain flexible to change anything if you want - even on the day if time is running out.
|
|
|
Post by elizabeth on Jan 12, 2015 2:16:04 GMT
After my research, I agree the Trafalgar tour was not worth the money. Adding one/two nights was approx. $3300.00. You are still left to your own devices most of the time.
I have booked Premier Inn London County Hall Hotel to arrive May 3. Although it would be nice to go inside Buckingham Palace when it is open to the public, it is very crowded, issues with washroom facilities etc and decided to go in the spring instead. I love the location of the hotel; close to Westminster and Waterloo Station, and easy access to most of the sites I want to see. I have studied where most of the places are locally as not, as mentioned, to criss-cross the city. I love being by the river, by the eye and the aquarium. I will need guidance once I land to get to the hotel. After a long overseas flight, I want to have that firmly in place. Would the trip from Heathrow be by Tube?
Initial plans are well in the works, with lists and locations on a spread sheet.
Hop on hop off bus tour is on the agenda for the day I arrive. I find it a bit confusing so yes, some help. I may just stay on the bus to get my bearings.
Evan Evans tours. Reviewing comments on Tripadvisor, the only real complaint I have noticed for many different tours is there is not enough time in one place when multiple destinations are on the itinerary. I am considering London Highlights, Hampton Court & Windsor Castle, Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral & Dover and Stonehenge Express which is only a half day. Is Stonehenge worth the visit? May throw in Harry Potter studios but I'll put that on hold.
The Tower is a huge interest of mine, so I don't want to be rushed and therefore want to do it on my own. Take the Beefeater tour and then take my time and see it all. Suggestions on line mentioned to see the Crown Jewels first then take the tour. Thoughts?? Perhaps use a 1/2 day London Pass to skip the line and get there early. I don't mind paying a bit more, as it is possible, based on the prices for the London Pass, I may not use to its full potential. I am still looking at what it offers. I understand for example, I need to use it on consecutive days. I may just purchase a one day. More research. Does my idea for the Tower realistic? Apart from online purchases, where can I purchase the London Pass when I arrive?
Madame Tussauds etc, yes ideas for discounts much appreciated. I thought about seeing the Marble Arch, Hyde Park and Madame Tussauds at one time since they are close together.
Next two challenges is Westminster Abbey and St Paul's. Westminster is a 5 minute walk from the hotel but is very busy. I read about a Vector Tour which you can book a day or so before. Again, perhaps use the London Pass and get there early. St Paul's is not part of the pass. Was debating doing that after the Tower since it is on the way back, but could be too late in the afternoon. Suggestions?
Have read only a little about the Oyster card, but I understand it is re-loadable. I use a similar card in Ontario, where I commute to Toronto daily for work.
More to come as I surf the net. What a wealth of information and extremely helpful.
Thank you
Liz
|
|
|
Post by tassiedevil on Jan 12, 2015 3:49:33 GMT
When in London I have used a couple of different tour company's when taking day tours.
evanevanstours.com/?gclid=CLTDwpGwjcMCFUgsvQod9EoAVQ
www.premiumtours.co.uk/
www.goldentours.com/
They all offer hotel pick up and drop off, but have only used Evan Evans for hotel pick up as the other times I was staying near the bus depot or staying with my friend. Overall I was happy with the 3 but there were some small negatives to all.
Evan Evans was well over an hour late doing the pickup from our hotel, so they adjusted the itinerary to fit everything in. That particular tour was also the only time I've seen a company go through with the threat 'If you are not back in time, we are going without you'. Needless to say everyone arrived back early from then on. Just wish more would do it.
Premium Tours cancelled a tour due to lack of numbers, but I didn't find out until I arrived on the day. The only contact they had for me was an email address and I didn't check my emails between the time the sent an email and the tour. They offered us a seat for the same tour the next day it was offered (no good for us as we were flying the following day). We were then offered a seat on any of the tours that were going that day (no good as we had done them all). Finally they offered us a full refund, which we took. They than rang Evan Evans to see if we could get on their tour, but their tour also wasn't running. They then rang Golden Tours and got us a seat on their tour. We were then driven to Golden Tours departure point and they paid the difference in the price (we got a discounted ticket with Premium Tours which made a bit of price difference between the 2 tour groups). The time of year would have had a lot to do with the cancellation, it was the end of January.
Golden Tours seemed a bit disorganised at the start but were fine after that. The guide privately told us after lunch that we were the smart ones as we brought sandwiches with us for lunch rather than have the 2 course lunch they offer. While the rest sat in a café eating, and apparently there was nothing special about the food, we spent it wandering around Canterbury. I don't know whether it was because of low numbers or it was a small group tour but we were on a smaller coach than normal tour coaches, it seated about 20.
I used the London Pass the first time I visited London and found it useful, just need to make a list of what you want to see and try and fit them into 2, 3 or however many days you buy the pass for.
|
|
|
Post by tassiedevil on Jan 12, 2015 4:47:47 GMT
The Oyster card is just an electronic ticketing system like what is used in many cities around the world. So it has the same basic principles as the one you use in Ontario.
In regards to comments about there not being enough time in one place when multiple destinations on tours, I have yet to be on a tour where I ever came back and didn't say I wish I had more time at.... It's one of those things, what you gain in the convenience of seeing multiple things in one day you lose in time at each. I can remember being on one day tour that was 15hrs long and near the end there was complaints that we should have spent longer at each place! I don't think anyone would be able to sell a 19 hour day tour!
I enjoyed the Leeds Castle, Dover, Canterbury and Thames River cruise I ended up doing with Golden Tours. There wasn't much time to see Canterbury if you had the optional lunch, but if you take sandwiches there was enough time to see the main part Canterbury before visiting the Cathedral.
I am hoping to see the Harry Potter Studios when I am in London in June.
|
|
|
Post by Oz-T on Jan 12, 2015 4:58:25 GMT
Liz, Premier Inn County Hall is close to the hotel I stayed at. Your nearest Tube station is Waterloo and it'll get you all around London. It's a bit early, but this is broadly how you'd get from Heathrow Airport to your hotel: 1. Buy your Oystercard and load it with funds. This can be done at the station ticket office at Heathrow (follow the signs or ask for directions). You may be able to get your Oystercard via your travel agent weeks before your trip as I did. 2. Pick up a Tube map from the Heathrow station. This is a handy document to work out which train to catch. 3. Get on the train. There's only one way to go so just follow everyone else. You take your luggage with you so the rail won't be convenient if you have many cases. 4. According to the Tube map, you'd be heading into the city on the (blue) Picadilly line. I'd go as far as Leicester Square station, exit the train and change platforms to the (black) Northern line - follow the signs to the platform that says Kennington or Morden. If unsure, just ask anyone. 5. Three stations later you're at Waterloo where you exit. To enter or exit through barriers you simply hold your Oystercard against the reader. Just watch what others are doing. 6. It's a short walk to your hotel. If you have too much luggage you could take a taxi the short distance to the hotel. The train from Heathrow to the city centre is in fact the Tube, although it's above ground level for most of the journey until you get close to the inner zones. I'm about to attend a meeting so I'll answer your other questions later.
|
|
|
Post by Oz-T on Jan 12, 2015 7:09:58 GMT
Liz, you can certainly get your bearings by using the hop on/ hop off buses. However, the photos aren't necessarily as good as you'd like. For example, I didn't get good pics of the Tower of London, other than the exterior wall and turrets. These buses keep travelling in loops so it can be useful getting out often. I wouldn't combine this bus tour with visits to the attractions because they consume too much time.
I was also interested in the tour of Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral and Dover and did a tour of these in June 2013. We used Golden Tours but it's the same tour offered by its parent, Evan Evans (which is in turn owned by Trafalgar's owner, The Travel Corporation). It was a great trip, and takes all day. Lunch was provided if you pay for that option - and this was at Canterbury. The tour ended with a Thames cruise. I thought it was a great trip that filled in the missing gap (Kent) that wasn't in our large 20 day UK/Ireland tour.
The Crown Jewels are displayed in a special purpose room. When I was last there it had twin moving walkways that convey you past the glass cases. This stops people standing and gawking for long periods, preventing others from viewing the items. Photography is prohibited. There are usually long queues everywhere in the busy July-August holiday period and The Tower is no exception. I'd arrive early and check out the queue for the crown jewels and if it's not too long, go see them then.
The Tower is a must-see, but even a history fanatic like me would be hard pressed to spend all day there. I think you should plan to add something else to that day.
|
|
|
Post by purvis on Jan 12, 2015 16:13:44 GMT
After my research, I agree the Trafalgar tour was not worth the money. Adding one/two nights was approx. $3300.00. You are still left to your own devices most of the time.
I have booked Premier Inn London County Hall Hotel to arrive May 3. Although it would be nice to go inside Buckingham Palace when it is open to the public, it is very crowded, issues with washroom facilities etc and decided to go in the spring instead. I love the location of the hotel; close to Westminster and Waterloo Station, and easy access to most of the sites I want to see. I have studied where most of the places are locally as not, as mentioned, to criss-cross the city. I love being by the river, by the eye and the aquarium. I will need guidance once I land to get to the hotel. After a long overseas flight, I want to have that firmly in place. Would the trip from Heathrow be by Tube?
Initial plans are well in the works, with lists and locations on a spread sheet.
Hop on hop off bus tour is on the agenda for the day I arrive. I find it a bit confusing so yes, some help. I may just stay on the bus to get my bearings.
Evan Evans tours. Reviewing comments on Tripadvisor, the only real complaint I have noticed for many different tours is there is not enough time in one place when multiple destinations are on the itinerary. I am considering London Highlights, Hampton Court & Windsor Castle, Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral & Dover and Stonehenge Express which is only a half day. Is Stonehenge worth the visit? May throw in Harry Potter studios but I'll put that on hold.
The Tower is a huge interest of mine, so I don't want to be rushed and therefore want to do it on my own. Take the Beefeater tour and then take my time and see it all. Suggestions on line mentioned to see the Crown Jewels first then take the tour. Thoughts?? Perhaps use a 1/2 day London Pass to skip the line and get there early. I don't mind paying a bit more, as it is possible, based on the prices for the London Pass, I may not use to its full potential. I am still looking at what it offers. I understand for example, I need to use it on consecutive days. I may just purchase a one day. More research. Does my idea for the Tower realistic? Apart from online purchases, where can I purchase the London Pass when I arrive?
Madame Tussauds etc, yes ideas for discounts much appreciated. I thought about seeing the Marble Arch, Hyde Park and Madame Tussauds at one time since they are close together.
Next two challenges is Westminster Abbey and St Paul's. Westminster is a 5 minute walk from the hotel but is very busy. I read about a Vector Tour which you can book a day or so before. Again, perhaps use the London Pass and get there early. St Paul's is not part of the pass. Was debating doing that after the Tower since it is on the way back, but could be too late in the afternoon. Suggestions?
Have read only a little about the Oyster card, but I understand it is re-loadable. I use a similar card in Ontario, where I commute to Toronto daily for work.
More to come as I surf the net. What a wealth of information and extremely helpful.
Thank you
Liz
|
|
|
Post by purvis on Jan 12, 2015 16:31:51 GMT
Elizabeth> The only site that you mentioned that I would drop is Stonehenge as it in my opinion is not worth the time it takes to get there and back to London. The site is a walkabout on a path and takes about 15-20 minutes and other than looking at some stones there isn't much else to see. Much better to spend your time and money exploring your other options. As for purchasing an Oyster Card I purchase mine from DH tours (Burlington Ontario) and have it sent to me before I leave Canada. DH Tour 2289 Fairview Street, Suite 313, Burlington ON L7R 2E3 Phone 905-639-9954 or 1-888-597-3519. In your case since you will be mainly in London for several days I would suggest at least purchasing the card for 25pounds. If you need more you can always top it up at most underground stations. Upon leaving an underground station you swipe the card to pay for your use and it automatically gives you your new balance therefore you can see if you need to add more to the cards balance. You can use your card to also get into London from Heathrow. It is wise to get as much organized and purchased before you leave if possible as you don't want to spend anymore time than necessary doing so after you arrive. Purvis
|
|
|
Post by elizabeth on Jan 13, 2015 1:42:54 GMT
Thank you everyone for your amazing insights and tips. I makes this process so much easier.
Oz, the Tube to the hotel seems pretty easy. Thank you for the directions. Tower Tour.. I think I will try the Tower and then do St Paul's in the afternoon. Hopefully it won't be too busy. If not, I can go back.
I think I will drop Stonehenge as I agree, it eats up an entire afternoon.
Oyster card, which I need to read a bit more about, but is it only a tap off system, or is it tap on getting on the Tube and tap off at the station of exit?
Any suggestions, apart from looking at the tour websites for availability, how far in advance to book out of city tours? Going in May, hopefully is not as crazy.
Has anyone done the Kensington Palace tour?
Thanks
Liz
|
|
|
Post by Oz-T on Jan 13, 2015 2:34:07 GMT
Yes, Liz; you "touch on" and "touch off" to register the full journey you took. To do this, you hold your Oystercard a few mm from the large yellow circular reader - although you have to get so close, most people seem to make contact with it as they're in a hurry.
You don't need to use your Oystercard when you're already in the subway system and merely changing platforms. The subway system is far more complex than Toronto's rapid transit where you have the duplicated north-south line and the east-west line as the main rail trunks. London has many rail lines criss-crossing all over the city so it's often necessary to study your map to decide where you need to leave the carriage, then change platforms to continue on a different line. It's quite easy as you simply follow the coloured signs (each line is designated by a specific colour) and all you really need to know is the name of the end station so you head in the correct direction. As an example (using Toronto's system) if you arrived at Chester station and wanted to go to Ossington, you'd get to the platform where the trains are going toward the end station, Kipling.
The locals know all this by heart, but we tourists need to keep consulting our little map, or look at the map above the windows of every train carriage. It really is a bit hard to get lost once you learn how to do it. I'll coach you further on this later if you like, by posting a map and showing you how to plan your trip from it.
Just one point about trains from the airport: There's another rail system called the Heathrow Express that gets you into the city centre much faster, but is expensive. If you don't plan to rush into the centre, don't bother with this option; the Tube is most likely going to be your best way to your hotel, balancing convenience and price.
|
|
|
Post by tassiedevil on Jan 13, 2015 12:21:39 GMT
Thank you everyone for your amazing insights and tips. I makes this process so much easier.
Oz, the Tube to the hotel seems pretty easy. Thank you for the directions. Tower Tour.. I think I will try the Tower and then do St Paul's in the afternoon. Hopefully it won't be too busy. If not, I can go back.
I think I will drop Stonehenge as I agree, it eats up an entire afternoon.
Oyster card, which I need to read a bit more about, but is it only a tap off system, or is it tap on getting on the Tube and tap off at the station of exit?
Any suggestions, apart from looking at the tour websites for availability, how far in advance to book out of city tours? Going in May, hopefully is not as crazy.
Has anyone done the Kensington Palace tour?
Thanks
Liz
I have been to Kensington Palace twice and enjoyed it both times. You get to see parts that the joint monarchs King William and Queen Mary inhabited with little change from that time, plus some newer renovated parts. I think the first time I went I got to see a couple of rooms that Princess Margret used. Hampton Court Palace is another great place to visit if you want to see what a medieval palace looks like. My first visit I used my London Pass card and the second time I just rocked up and bought a ticket on the day. Unlike Kensington Palace it isn't currently being used by the Royals so you are able to see a lot more of it with far less restrictions.
It is wise to drop Stonehenge if short of time. I will contradict what a lot of people say about it though, even though it is only some stones in the middle of a field it was one of the highlights for me and wouldn't have missed it for the world. Actually been there twice!
I don't know the answer to your question about how far in advance tours book out, but the time I visited during the month of September I booked the day beforehand and got every tour I wanted.
|
|
|
Post by purvis on Jan 13, 2015 17:34:55 GMT
Elizabeth: I would wait until the day before you want to take a tour to book it especially one in that you will be outdoors quite a bit of the time as London's weather is very unpredictable . At the London Eye area you can take a cruise down the Thames to London Bridge (Tower). I have taken this twice and found it very enjoyable and not very costly. By the way at the London Eye area there is a McDonalds. Both Chech and I like McD's but then like you we are Canadians. (maybe this means we Canuks like junk food). Anyways enjoy putting your tour together. It seems the planning and expectations are just as much fun as the tour itself. Purvis
|
|