How to Prepare for a Transport Strike in London: Useful Tips for Tourists

With frequent transport strikes in London, tourists planning a visit should consider alternative routes and modes of travel ahead of time. Facing a transport disruption, where the entire public transit system or part of it is halted, can be challenging. How can you reduce these risks and organize your trip effectively if there’s a strike? Below are practical tips for those heading to London.

1. Check the Strike Dates Before Your Trip

When planning your visit, verify whether your travel dates coincide with any scheduled strikes. Information on strikes usually appears three to four weeks in advance, and you can quickly find relevant updates with a Google search for "London transport strikes + your travel month." This information is published on the Transport for London (TfL) and National Rail websites, helping you to see how service may be impacted.

2. Find Out Which Services Are Affected

Not all forms of London transport go on strike at the same time—buses, trains, and the Underground may continue running with limited disruptions or not be affected at all. For example, during Underground and rail strikes, buses often maintain their regular schedules. By identifying which specific routes will be unavailable, you can make alternate plans and reduce travel delays.

3. Assess the Impact on Your Planned Route

Compare your planned route with information on affected lines and services, especially if your day includes train journeys beyond the city or transfers to the airport. Google Maps and Citymapper apps are helpful tools to check available routes on strike days. Simply enter your route on the intended day, and these apps will suggest alternative travel options.

4. Consider Alternative Transport Options

If parts of your route will be closed, consider other transportation methods. For instance, buses can be a great alternative to the Underground on strike days. The Citymapper app allows you to select a "bus-only" route, providing convenient recommendations. For longer trips or critical destinations, such as airports or theaters, booking a taxi in advance is a reliable choice. Experience shows that pre-booked taxis are the most dependable during strikes.

For those who prefer active travel, there are also city bikes and e-bikes available—a popular choice when traditional transit routes are down.

5. Adjust Your Plans Based on the Situation

It's not always possible to anticipate every change, so flexibility and adapting your route can help avoid unwanted complications. If needed, tour operators and agencies often allow rescheduling for tours and events on another day. For example, with tours and excursions, most companies permit date changes without much hassle if you notify them in advance. However, with theater tickets, this option is not always available, so it’s best to clarify conditions with organizers ahead of time.