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2018 LONDON LIVINGAn Insider’s Guide to Relocating to London
Over the duration of the past year, political uncertainty has cast a cloud over the City of London. Following Britain’s decision to leave the European Union on the 24th June 2016, Britain has been in political turmoil, with the consequences of the vote yet to be fully realised.
Despite the political turbulence, Britain’s tourist and corporate stay industries continue to grow. Over the past two years, Britain has experienced a 10% increase in tourism, with the theme expected to continue for the foreseeable future. Furthermore, cautious optimism defines the global business travel forecast, with an expected total of $1.6 trillion to be spent on business travel by the year 2020. With London’s population growing at twice the rate of every major city in the United Kingdom, the city continues to open its arms to new residents.
Relocating to a new city can be a daunting prospect for anyone. This eBook is a free guide to help new Londoners and expats get settled into one of the most iconic cities in the world, offering practical tips and advice for getting the most of your time in this vibrant city.
From an exploration of Britain’s tax and visa laws to analysis of London’s rental market, from offering tips on how to use public transport to a guide to London’s best schools and childcare services, this eBook aims to ensure that your relocation to London is as simple as possible.
As a leading serviced apartment provider based in London, we have gained invaluable expertise about London. We know the questions that people relocating to London need answered. This eBook provides answers to those questions- and much more.
FOREWORDSid Narang, Founder and CEO of thesqua.re
Accomodation:
Utilities
Childcare, Schools & Leisure
Practical
Click one to jump to page
CONTENTS
Everything you need to know about where to live in London and how to go about finding your new home.
How to set up and pay your electricity, gas, water, and other bills.
Decoding the healthcare system in London for newcomers to the city.
For those who are moving to London with children, this is your guide to London’s schools and leisure for little ones.
Travel like a local with an in-depth guide to the underground, buses, bikes, rail, and more.
Get to know your new home and all the tourist attractions you must explore.
Healthcare
Tourist Attractions
This is a free guide to help new Londoners and expats get settled in the capital. This e-book explores all of the practical issues you may face when moving to a new country and it answers the questions that many others have asked before you. Read on and learn about the London rental market, how to set up all basics and utilities, how to find a school for your child, leisure centres, groceries, taxes – and a lot more. The guide includes actionable insights and direct links to official websites that can help you along the way.
At any point you wish to return to the beginning please click on the home icon in the top right hand corner of the book.
WELCOME
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ACCOMMODATION
This guide has been designed to help understand the basics of the London rental market, what to expect and how to avoid any disappointments. So whether you’re locked and loaded with a moving date or still weighing up your options; we hope to comfortably guide you through the necessities of relocating to one of the planet’s most kinetic and culturally diverse cities.
London’s property market is exceptionally buoyant and isn’t showing signs of slowing.As its popularity as an international home-
A Guide for the Bold and the Brave
from-home increases; so do the quality of properties available and the competition to snap them up.
But don’t be put off. The feeling of setting up home in your favourite corner of London Town will far outweigh the preliminary efforts required to bag your dream pad. Follow our guide to make the most of your search and stay several steps ahead of the game.
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Where to LookNeighbourhoods
Agents and LandlordsOnline Search Tools
Good to KnowInternational Storage & HaulageThe ‘Before You Sign the Dotted
Line’ Checklist
The Benefits ofServiced Apartments
Need to KnowTenancy Agreement
Fixed TermAdditional Fees
Need vs WantInitial Considerations 1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
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Need vs WantThe best place to start to find your ideal new home is to begin with an idea of what that property might look like. Do you need a garden? Does the landlord accept pets? You’ll find that your preferences begin to take the form of flexible compromises and inflexible deal-breakers. This list will prove invaluable in narrowing down a huge catalogue of potential property matches.
While a nearby underground station is a helpful benefit, London’s exceedingly efficient bus network makes commuting possible and even pleasant from many areas not supported by the tube network. Transport for London and National Rail Enquiries will be able to offer accurate commuter alternatives across London. You can also use maps and apps like City Mapper to determine your commute and how long your average journey to work might be.
Initial Considerations
1.1
CompetitionWith 11 eager tenants to every available rental in London, the competition to land your ideal apartment can be fierce. Properties can come and go within 24 hours and so we’d recommend putting yourself in the best informed position. Register for instant alerts from online property management sites and call where you can, rather than email to declare initial interest.
In the instance of emailing, it’s good to give some details about yourself. Who will you be living with? What are your interests? Are you smokers / non smokers? Your ages and your occupations. These will all assist in finding a property by giving your prospective landlord an idea of who you are.
Be PreparedYou want to appear as the best potential tenant to any potential landlord and the best way to do this is by having your papers in order. Having pre-written references from previous landlords (regardless of the country) will save time and demonstrate your enthusiasm. The landlord or agent may also wish to see proof of your identity, immigration status, employment status and credit history. The more of these documents you can prepare in advance, the more attractive your offer will appear.
Furnished vs UnfurnishedWhether a landlord lets his property unfurnished, part furnished or fully furnished is completely at their discretion. Of course this may impact the desirability of the property in your eyes, as you may have a crate full of homewares ready to move in, or you may need to wait a month for your belongings to arrive.
This can be negotiated but any changes may have an effect on the rental price and terms of the security deposit. If you’re unsure about what is or isn’t included – just ask! The more questions you ask when viewing a property, the more comfortable you’ll feel when signing any contractual agreements.
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The Regent’s Park
Hyde Park
Where to Look
From colourful street markets to high-shine high- rises, London’s neighbourhoods vary wildly in style, accessibility and aesthetic.
We strongly recommend spending some serious time thinking about whether a midnight bagel or a 7am flat white are local necessities. Many boroughs have huge green spaces and great ethnic diversity while others have a lively night-life and world-class dining. Use our Area Guide to explore and find your ideal area.
Neighbourhoods
Angel >
Camden >
Canary Wharf >
Chelsea >
City of London >
Covent Garden >
Fitzrovia >
Areas in London
Hoxton >
Hyde Park >
Islington >
Kensington >
Limehouse >
London Bridge >
Marylebone >
Mayfair >
Monument >
Old Street >
Shoreditch >
South Bank >
Vauxhall >
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Almost all landlords will have an appointed estate agent whose duty it is to manage new tenants including negotiation of terms and conditions.
Another option is to register directly with estate agents, as they will work to find you a suitable property. Keep in mind that if you find a property using an online search tool, you’ll need to contact the estate agent representing the landlord to view the property. These contact details will always be displayed on online search sites.Some landlords prefer to set-up privately without the assistance of an agent, but we recommend avoiding this alternative. You will be far better protected legally should any complications arise if you have completed your set-up via an agent.
Be aware that agents do charge a fee in addition to your first month’s rental deposit for their work. This might be a small amount for paper work but always ask in advance to prevent any nasty surprises once your search is over and you’re ready to sign on the dotted line.
Online Search Tools
Agents and Landlords
Zoopla and Rightmove are impartial letting sites displaying up-to-the-minute availability of properties from agents all across London. They both offer instant alerts when new properties that match your criteria become available. They are also a great way to begin to build a picture of types of housing available throughout London and the associated rates.
You can also use websites Find A Hood and Property Network, to narrow down your perfect London neighbourhood search based on your likes and dislikes. Find Properly assists in narrowing down your search based on your commute.
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If you’re just on the lookout for one room, then it may be worth looking at websites like spareroom.co.uk in order to find a spare room in a shared house or flat. The website allows you to refine your choices, so you can decide if you want to live with more than just one person and then allows for you to filter based on age range. Another option might be to join a Facebook group for the local area. These usually feature ads for property that is yet to make it onto a listings site, keeping you one step ahead of the house hunt.
GOOD TO KNOW: You can visit The Mayor of London’s Rent Mapper to compare regional averages.
Need to Know
A tenancy agreement is a contractual agreement designed to outline and protect the rights and responsibilities of both the landlord and the tenant.
Read through your tenancy agreement carefully and do challenge any areas you may be uncomfortable with. Every professional, reputable landlord will provide a written tenancy agreement for both parties to sign. Where there is no written tenancy agreement, it’s recommended you do not move ahead with the process.
You may find that in some instances you are expected to arrange a tenant to replace you at the end of your tenancy. Please don’t let this put you off; there are always plenty of people looking for a place to live in London.
The contents of your tenancy agreement should include: - Confirmation of sum of rent owed and sum of deposit - Conditions around monthly rental payments and the implications of any delays. - Date at which the sum of rent may be reviewed - Contact details of both the agent and the landlord - Duration of fixed term and conditions thereafter
Tenancy Agreement
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1.3
An Assured Shorthold Tenancy is the most common type in the UK. It requires a fixed term agreed by both parties as the minimum number of months that both parties will commit to. Most fixed terms are either 6 or 12 months in duration, following which the agreement becomes a Periodic Tenancy whereby either party can cancel the contract by providing a minimum 2 months’ notice.
If you cannot commit to at least 6 months we would recommend seeking a Periodic Tenancy initially, as early release from your Assured Shorthold Tenancy may result in you being billed for the full duration of the contract. For short term rentals, we recommend using a Serviced Apartment to avoid any hassle with estate agents and fixed terms.
Fixed Term
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Security DepositA security deposit of 4-8 weeks of rent will be expected to be paid upon completion of the tenancy agreement. It is designed to cover the costs or repair to any damage caused outside of everyday wear and tear.
Your security deposit is fully refundable at the end of your tenancy but will be based on conditions detailed in your tenancy agreement. The landlord or agent will produce a detailed inventory when you move in of any existing imperfections to finishes or furniture. If they do not, it is best for you to request they do or for you to provide a list upon moving in.
The best way to protect your security deposit is to be present while the inspection is taking place and take any pictures of existing flaws for your own records.
It is a legal requirement that your security deposit is protected by a government-backed Tenancy Deposit Protection Scheme. Details should be explicit in your tenancy agreement and you should not commit to any tenancy where this is not in place.
UtilitiesAll previous utility bills on the property will have been paid and settled with the landlord
Additional Fees
In order to secure your new apartment, you should be ready to financially commit to the property. However, it’s not just as simple as paying your first month’s rent. Here are some other charges you will need to prepare for.
in advance of your contract. It will then be your responsibility to get signed up to pay your telephone line rental, internet, water, electricity and gas bills. You can use comparison website Comparethemarket.com to get a good deal on your service providers in advance of signing up.
There may be fees charged by your utility providers to update their services and transfer contracts. You will also be responsible for making contact with your local authority and arranging payments towards your council tax. Find your local borough and contact their council helpline directly in order to register for council tax.
Agent FeesThe estate agent will usually charge a percentage of the rental cost plus admin and referencing charges. This could total between £100-600.
MaintenanceSome properties that have substantial communal areas may charge an additional maintenance fee for the ongoing upkeep of these areas. You should ask about this before signing the tenancy agreement.
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Good to Know
There are plenty of companies that can help with packing, stacking and shipping your furniture and belongings internationally, for example Transglobalexpress.com. Search tools like Bestglobalmovers.com will serve up various no obligation quotes based on your specific needs.
We recommend that you shop around. Request quotes from around three months before you plan to travel and don’t be afraid to negotiate. You put yourself in a strong position to negotiate by avoiding Fridays and public holidays.
Do be sure to check the insurance requirements of any removal company before committing to them. Your valuable items may only be insured against damage if packed in a particular way by the removal company team, and this could add to the cost. Be open and if in doubt – ask!
So you’ve found the perfect place to call your own. Use our checklist to make sure you don’t forget the important stuff:
International Storage & Haulage
The ‘Before You Sign on the Dotted Line’ Checklist
Consider the total sum of monthly outgoings in addition to rent including utilities, internet, council tax, maintenance etc
When will you rent be reviewed and potentially increased?
Is your tenancy extendable after the fixed term?
Is there lots of interest in the property (is there room to negotiate?)
Has the agent prepared a written tenancy agreement?
Is your security deposit protected by a government-backed Tenancy Deposit Protection Scheme?
Will it come furnished / unfurnished / part furnished?
1.4
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The Benefits of Serviced Apartments
Serviced Apartments are an immeasurably stress-free and flexible alternative to renting privately in London.
You can commit to as little as a week and check-out with only 24 hours’ notice. Management of the legal and contractual aspects are completely taken care of and no deposit or referencing fees are required.
Apartments are fully furnished; down to linens and crockery. They are a fully assembled home-from-home ready for living from the moment you arrive. Furthermore, when you are staying in a serviced apartment you get professional cleaning once a week and have a flexible contract that can reflect your needs.
Serviced Apartments are a supremely simple way to stay in London for short-term project work or to test out a particular neighbourhood before taking the long-term plunge.
Click here to see current Serviced Apartments available in our favourite London neighbourhoods.
hotel30 days stay
250-300 sq.ftaverage hotel room
servicedapartment30 days stay
700-800 sq.ft2 bed contemporary apartment
accommodation living space monthy cost pp
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UTILITIES
It is a glorious moment following great deliberation and months of planning, when you’re finally able to up sticks and plant them again on far-away shores. We know that you’re courageous and spontaneous (that’s why we like you), but having your paperwork in order before your trip will ensure a smooth landing at the other end.
This chapter will focus on the little (often legal) administrative precautions that will save you major headaches during your first few months in your new home.
What paperwork do you need to take care of?
From understanding your visa limitations, tax variations and best mobile phone contracts to your eligibility to work and the bureaucratic prerequisites of getting paid; we’ll show you how to dot the i’s and cross the t’s leaving you free to explore all that London has to offer.
In this chapter we hope to guide you through the not-so-glamorous practicalities of relocating to London.
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TaxesIncome TaxCouncil Tax
BillsEnergy
BroadbandMobile Phone
Television
Getting startedVisa
National Insurance NumberBank Accounts
2.1
2.2
2.3
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Getting Started
First thing’s first. If you don’t have the valid entry documents for your visit to London, you won’t get much further than the airport. You can find out everything you need to know from whether or not you are eligible for a visa to general trends in processing time at the UK Border Agency Website. Here you can:
- Check whether you need a visa at all - Apply for a visa - Manage and track your application - View the law around immigration - Find out more about corporate sponsorship - View a full list of what will and will not be allowed through customs
Visa
National Insurance Number
Your National Insurance number (or NINo) is used to track your social security contribution and builds your entitlement to state benefits such as State Pension and Maternity Allowance. You will not be able to receive payment from any employer without your NINo number.
You can only apply for this number once you’re in the UK. Upon arrival call the National Insurance Number Application line on 0300 200 3500 for advice on National Insurance numbers and how to get yours.
If your passport is from within the EEA (European Economic Area) you may need to arrange an interview with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Find out more about your National Insurance number here. 1st Contact also offer a NINo application and tracking service.
2.1
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Bank AccountsThe most common type of bank account in the UK is a current account. This comes with all the basic facilities you would expect, such as the ability to arrange direct debits or standing orders and the ability to apply for an overdraft.
Most banks also offer package accounts. These offer extra services such as travel insurance or breakdown cover for a small monthly fee (usually around £10- £15). Some of these package accounts require a good credit score which can be a barrier for international applicants.
Each bank has its own unique charges, benefits and fees so it can be very beneficial to shop around. If you travel a lot for work or you’re back and forth between London and home; perhaps an account that offers annual travel insurance plus competitive rates on foreign transactions would be most suitable.
You may want to consider Metro Bank and Monzo (a pre-paid card which connects with an app you download to your phone). These apps provide overseas spending on your card at a heavily discounted rate in comparison to other high street banks.
Money Saving Expert, Money Supermarket or uSwitch are free to use sites offering impartial comparisons of bank accounts’ benefits and charging schemes. They compare products from the country’s’ biggest banks including Santander, Natwest, Nationwide, First Direct, Lloyds, TSB, Halifax and others. Most UK banks now offer an interactive online banking tool, but if this is a service you rely on heavily, be sure to check with the bank before committing.
Setting up a Bank Account
Banks with a global presence such as HSBC or Barclays may be able to set-up your UK bank account from your current location. Otherwise, setting one up once you’re here is relatively simple, but requires a legitimate proof of address, which can be a struggle for new arrivals.
1st Contact provide a range of kickstart packages including the setup of a UK bank account to help you find your feet during what will inevitably be a very busy time.
Credit Cards
You will know that foreign exchange and foreign transaction fees can stack up when using a credit card abroad. We advise you to check the terms and conditions of any existing credit cards before attempting to use them in London. You can always apply for a new UK or international credit card once here.
Income tax is automatically deducted from your salary at a rate informed by your tax code. Your tax code is dictated by your salary, income history and employment papers. If you begin working without your NINo number, you are likely to be issued with an emergency tax code and taxed more than you owe. Any discrepancies are paid or charged at the end of the tax year. The tax year runs from 6th April – 5th April of the following year.
All tax paying citizens are granted a non-taxable personal allowance of £11,500. Salaries over £123,000 do not qualify for a personal allowance. Salary earned over £11,500 and up to £33,500 is taxed at 20%. Salary earned between £33,501 - £150,000 is taxed at 40%. Anything earned beyond £150,000 is taxed at 45%.
Separate to Income Tax, Council tax is a compulsory tax charged by your Local Authority to fund maintenance and services provided within that area in London. Council tax rates are unique to each borough and can vary widely. How much you pay will be dictated by your location combined with the valuation band of your property. Find your local council and its bands here.
Income Tax
Council Tax
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Income Tax
NOTE: It should be noted that property occupied by full-time students is exempt from council tax.
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HELPFUL LINK: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/income-tax-personal-allowance-and-basic-rate-limit-for-2017-to-2018/income-tax-personal-allowance-and-basic-rate-limit-for-2017-to-2018.
Bills
The default energy suppliers in London are British Gas (gas) and EDF energy (electricity). We recommend getting in contact with your energy supplier as soon as possible to declare a change in tenants at your property and to move the responsibility for the bills over to you. If you are in rented accommodation, check with your landlord whose responsibility this is. Once transferred, at this point it is standard practice to take meter readings and agree on a starting point to begin measuring your usage.
Now, these pre-selected providers are by no means the cheapest. uSwitch compares energy rates from e.on, npower, sse, The Co-operative energy, First Utility and more to see if UK tenants could be eligible for cheaper, monthly energy bills. When you are staying in a rented apartment you may not be eligible to change provider, we recommend speaking to your landlord or estate agent before taking any action.Another handy tip is to have a smart reader installed into your home. This is an energy reading meter that analyses how much money you could save for small things like switching off certain lights and appliances.
You can avoid the fuss of comparison altogether when you opt to stay in a thesqua.re serviced apartment. Unlimited energy usage is included in your rent to be paid monthly. In fact, there isn’t much that hasn’t already been considered, compared and included within our rental costs for your convenience.
Energy
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2.3
In the UK, broadband providers tend to sell packages including rental of a landline telephone. Current changes in legislation are seeking to change this, but it’s most likely that you will have to commit to a package where broadband is bundled up with a telephone landline. These are sometimes offered with a television package. You can expect to pay £15-£20 per month for all the broadband you should need plus a landline. uSwitch compare broadband packages from TalkTalk, Virgin Media, BT, sky, plusnet and more.
At thesqua.re we understand that staying connected is not to be left to chance; that’s why all our serviced apartments include free Wi-Fi at no extra cost.
Broadband
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For users looking to upgrade to the latest mobile phone, we would recommend a pay monthly mobile contract that includes a brand new mobile phone. You will need to sign a contract (which could be up to 24 months) to effectively pay off the cost of the phone, but your calls, texts and data will also be covered by the limits detailed in your package. Try to get an example of your current usage from your current provider to steer your usage limitations. You don’t want to be caught short, or end up paying for tons of data and minutes you’ll never use.
The alternative is a sim only contract. Historically cheaper than a pay monthly contract, these are ideal for people looking to keep their existing phone, but still be able to
All UK households that watch television in one form or another are required to obtain a television license at the cost of £147 for the year or £24.50 in monthly instalments. A television license is also required even if you are simply streaming television online via the BBC iplayer or other British channels. Most households can pay a one off fee for a basic “freeview” package of digital channels or you can opt for a more varied television package from other providers like Sky or Virgin media, which can also be a part of your Telephone and broadband deal.
Mobile Phone
Television
make affordable calls in the UK. It’s key here to check compatibility of your phone with your new sim card, and again try to allow your current usage to inform your decision.
If you want to steer clear of contracts in the instance that you might not be in the UK for an extended period of time, then a pay-and-go sim like Giffgaff offers freedom, flexibility and data bundles you can marry up to your level of usage.
NOTE: uSwitch and comparethemarket.com compare a range of contracts from all of the leading providers.
HEALTHCARE
So, you’ve done it. You’re relocating to London and you’ve thought of everything. The flights are booked and your new home is waiting. You have planned for every conceivable outcome – but what about the inconceivable ones?
Your healthcare strategy is unlikely to be the most inspiring aspect of your move, but it’s every bit as important as the place that you will be staying in.
You’d be forgiven for assuming that Great Britain’s ‘free’ National Health Service (NHS) is on-hand should any medical issues arise, but in fact many new arrivals are required to pre-
An adventure a day, keeps the doctor away
register or in some cases pre-pay for access to its services. Getting these contingency plansin place prior to your arrival will avoid any unnecessary stresses should you ever need medical attention.
In this chapter we will explain the basic NHS structure, any possible fees you maybe confronted with and private healthcare alternatives. Please feel free to save this page as there is also a handy list of emergency contact numbers and hospitals for you to have (just in case) – leaving you to fully enjoy yourself in your apartment and surrounding areas.
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Registering with a GP
Private Healthcare
Veterinary Services
FeesPrescriptions
Dental HealthEye care
Access to the NHSIf you originate from the EEA
Coming from Australia or New Zealand (plus) If you originate from outside the EEA
Emergencies and HelplinesUseful Contacts
Main Hospital
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
3.6
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Access to the NHSThe National Health Service (NHS) is the main healthcare provider in the UK. NHS services are based on residency, and treatment is free for all those considered ‘ordinarily a resident’ of the United Kingdom. All NHS patients in England are required to make a co-payment toward the cost of their healthcare. Visitors that have applied for and are granted the right for settlement are considered ‘ordinarily a resident’ and can therefore make use of NHS services for free.
All visitors from the European Economic Area (EEA) should apply for a free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This covers treatment that is medically necessary until your planned return home. Treatment should be provided on the same basis as it would to a resident of that country, either at a reduced cost or, in many cases, for free. If you need more information about what is covered in each country, then check out this country-by-country guide.
If you come from a country that holds a UK healthcare agreement (such as Australia or New Zealand) you will be entitled to free or reduced-cost medical treatment if needed immediately for a condition that started after your arrival in the UK.
Find out if your country qualifies and what is covered here.
Those that don’t have a right of settlement visa are not automatically entitled to free NHS treatment, so you should take steps before your visit to ensure you’re covered. These steps vary depending upon your country of origination.
3.1The following treatments are free for everyone:
• Treatment given in an accident andemergency (A&E) department – this doesnot include any further treatmentfollowing an admission to hospital
• Treatment for certain infectious diseases(but for HIV/AIDS, only the first diagnosisand counselling that follows it are free)
• Compulsory psychiatric treatment; and• Family planning services – this does not
include termination of pregnancy orinfertility treatments.
WORTH KNOWING: The EHIC is not an alternative to
travel insurance. It will not cover any private medical
healthcare or costs, such as mountain rescue in ski
resorts, being flown back to the UK, or lost or stolen
property. It’s important to arrange for travel insurance
to cover those unexpected expenses that are not the
responsibility of the NHS, such as emergency return
flights or lost baggage.
If you are coming from a non-EEA country that does not hold a UK healthcare agreement, you will most likely have to pay the ‘immigration health surcharge’. This cost can be combined with your immigration application, for more details click here. Anyone who hasn’t paid the surcharge will likely be charged for use of NHS services, so this is well worth dealing with in advance of your arrival into the UK.
If you originate from outside the EEA
If you originate from the EEA
Coming from Australia or New Zealand
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Registering with a General Practitioner (GP)
General Practice is the front-line of primary healthcare in the UK. Your General Practitioner (GP) is your local medical expert on hand to advise on any health related issues that you may have. What can your local GP do to help?
Remember: you must register with a GP located nearest to where you are staying before you can be seen, so it is essential to be proactive and not wait until you require their services.
Each local medical practice will vary in the services it offers, but all GPs will offer a consultation service taking into consideration the severity of your needs. All meetings with your GP will require you to arrange an appointment and do not necessarily see patients on the same day
Click here to find your local GP using your UK postcode.
WORTH KNOWING: If you are visiting for less than
three months, you can register for free with a local
General Practitioner (GP) as a temporary patient.
Consultations will be free of charge but you will have
to pay for any resulting prescriptions.
Assist and assess ongoing treatments
Identify and refer patients to specialists (if necessary)
3.2
GPs are skilled doctors with a breadth of knowledge that perfectly prepares them for this accessible service
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Fees3.3Patients are required to pay co-payments towards the cost of some aspects of their treatment. Co-payments play a huge part in funding the NHS every year – providing the annual wages to thousands of medical professionals throughout the year.
WORTH KNOWING: Your EHIC card can be used (if you
qualify for one of course) to help towards the payment
of prescriptions.
Please check with your local GP as this rule may change.
Prescriptions
WORTH KNOWING: Emergency dental appointments
can be made directly with the surgery itself and it is
not unusual to be able to get a same-day appointment
– make yourself aware of your nearest NHS dentist by
clicking here.
Following your appointment with a GP, you may be offered a prescription for over-the-counter medication. Currently in the UK, a prescription can be collected in any pharmacy for £8.60. Patients are under no obligation to use their prescription if they prefer to source their treatment elsewhere.
Dental Health
Much like general medical practices, in London you will never be too far from an NHS dental surgery. Dental treatments are not free but are subsidised and are detailed here. Unlike general medical practices you are under no obligation to commit to one surgery. A standard check up in most surgeries, that is subsidised by the NHS costs £20.60. Charges for subsequent treatments vary on the treatment you require.
There are many private dental surgeries in London with competitive rates and affordable payment packages. Annual pay-monthly schemes are growing in popularity and help patients keep track of their ongoing treatments.
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3.4 Private Healthcare
High-street opticians such as Specsavers or Boots are more common in and around London, offering first class eye care – but be sure to check out other independent places such as Eye Care Opticians that are located in Camden, Holborn and Kentish Town.
WORTH KNOWING: Most opticians are happy to help
with small repairs (fee may apply depending on the issue)
or to pick up essentials such as cleaning accessories. It’s
also good to shop around for the cheapest deal!
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Eye Care
In the UK; children, young people and those over 60 years old are entitled to free eye tests and vouchers towards the cost of their glasses or contact lenses. For the rest of us, we are required to pay for either NHS or private eye care. Again, NHS services are subsidised, but private services are competitively priced.
Many high street opticians offer great value appointments with qualified optometrists. Even if you receive a prescription from these branded specialists, you are not obligated to purchase your glasses or contacts from that retailer.
While the NHS provides almost all health related services; it is not your only option. Private healthcare providers like Bupa and Spire Healthcare offer annual or Pay-As-You-Go healthcare policies separate from the NHS. The benefits of having private care are most likely to be experienced in waiting times and hospitality. However, studies have found that there are no observable differences in the quality of treatment received when comparing the NHS to private services.
You can pay for private cover personally. Visit private healthcare providers’ websites to understand the services available and benefits of going private.
Alternatively, some employers offer private medical cover as part of their employment package. If you are being sponsored by your employer to relocate to London, you should discuss your healthcare options with them.
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Emergency Services3.5Useful Contacts
Dial 999 for the Emergency Services (Police, Fire and Ambulance) in London if someone is seriously ill
or injured and their life is at risk.
Dial 111 (NHS Urgent Care Centre) for urgent medical advice – when the situation is not life-
threatening.
Access www.adviceguide.org. UK (Citizens Advice Bureau)
for more information on your local health services.
Call the police on 101 to report a non-urgent crime.
Dial 0845 4647 (NHS Direct) a 24-hour
confidential helpline where you can speak
directly to a nurse at any time of day or night.
Visit your local NHS Walk-in Centre if you
have a minor illness or injury that cannot wait until the next available appointment at your
GP surgery.
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Main Hospitals
23
1
54
6
University College Hospital235 Euston Road NW1 2BU Nearest tube: Warren Street or Euston Square
2
St Bartholomew’s HospitalWest Smithfield EC1A 7BENearest tube: St. Paul’s
5St Mary’s HospitalPraed Street W2 1NY Nearest tube: Paddington
4
Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital34 Great Ormond Street WC1N 3JHNearest tube: Russell Square
3
St Thomas’ HospitalWestminster Bridge Road SE1 7EHNearest tube: Lambeth North
6
St Pancras Hospital4 St. Pancras Way NW1 0PENearest tube: St. Pancras International
1
SOHO
KINGS CROSS
PADDINGTON
CAMDEN TOWN
WESTMINSTER
CHELSEA VAUXHALL
SOUTHWARK
SOUTH BANK
CITY OF LONDON
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Veterinary Services3.6
The UK is one of the world’s biggest spenders when it comes to their pets – spending over £4bn a year on their furry friends. This means that veterinary care is available all over the country, but there is no government funded service available in the UK. The PDSA are a nationwide charity that provides subsidized and sometimes free pet care to eligible companion pets within a prescribed catchment area of each surgery.
Alternatively, private veterinary surgeries offer annual or Pay-As-You-Go packages for your pets often providing complimentary check-ups between treatments.
London Veterinary Surgeries are a group of 7 surgeries that are scattered all across London. Their details can be found by clicking here.
Your very own guide to what to do, who to call or where to go if you have any medical requirements (emergency or not). Although the likelihood of you needing to use any of these services are minimal, you can never be too careful when planning your trip.
So there you have it!
This guide simply gives you the peace of mind so that you are able to fully focus on the many fantastic places you will be visiting. Be sure to check out our destination guide that unearths some hidden gems in the world of dining, entertainment and places to visit in London.
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CHILDCARE, SCHOOLS & LEISURE
Hard work and plenty of play are the order of the day in this- the fourth chapter of our series guiding you through the nuances of relocating to London. In this chapter we will compare childcare costs for your under 5s, look at private vs state schooling and highlight admission deadlines.
So sit down, pay attention, because here we go.
Top of the class: Your guide to London’s schools and leisure for little ones
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Schools
Pre-School Childcare
Family FunActionParksMusic
Community
When to StartPrivate vs State Education
Application DeadlinesInternational and Expat Schools
Registered ChildmindersDay Nurseries
Nursery SchoolsNanniesAu Pairs
Childcare Costs
4.1
4.2
4.3
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4.1 Pre-School ChildcareChildren in the UK start school when they’re 4 years old. Before that there are many options for quality, flexible childcare that meet your requirements. Whether you need full-time care while you’re in the office, or just a few part-time hours to stimulate and socialise your little ones; there are several options for both.
Registered Childminders
These self-employed childcare practitioners are registered and audited by Ofsted and take care of children in their own home. This helps to create an authentic, nurturing environment and with very small capacities, guarantees pretty dedicated care. Childminders can also care for your school-age child before and after school, taking them in and collecting them at the end of the day.
A useful tool is to use the gov.uk website that allows you to search for registered childminders within your local council.Other great resources for finding childminders include nannyjob.co.uk and www.tinies.com.
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Day Nurseries – Children aged between 3 months and 5 years
Either privately run, community focused, sponsored by the local authority or set-up up exclusively by an employer for its employees; day nurseries offer care and education for children aged 3 months – 5 years. Classes separated by age ensure activities are tailored to your child’s developmental stage and detailed daily reports will let you know exactly how your bundle of joy spent their day.
Bright Horizons have incredible coverage and an outstanding rating across London. For other great nurseries, visit daynurseries.co.uk and find the ideal home-from-home for your little one.
Nursery Schools – Children aged between 2 years and 5 years
A nursery that is part of a primary school or children’s centre and offers sessional care for 2-5 year olds. Days at nursery school tend tobe more structured and educational,preparing children for the structure of theirfirst reception (kindergarten) class.
Find a nursery school place near your new home, here.
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Unlike a childminder, a nanny will look after your child in your home. This can be extremely comforting for young babies and saves you from making the ‘school run’.
Nannies can voluntarily register with Ofsted, but it’s not compulsory. They should have a recent DBS check and references. mumsnet.com has great advice for sourcing, interviewing and hiring a nanny.
Nannies can live-in or out, it’s one of the many considerations to factor in when deciding what solution best suits your family.
Nannies – Children of all ages
Au-Pairs
Au pairs are extremely cost-effective as they’re typically existing students or young adults incentivised by responsibility and introduction to London life. However, quality can vary widely as they aren’t officially audited. We strongly suggest using professionals, and there are plenty of specialist agencies out there; the London Au Pair and Nanny Agency come highly recommended and 1st Choice Au Pairs take the time to visit au pairs in their home country. Alternatively, you can manage the process yourself with matching sites like greataupair.com and heavenlyaupairs.com.
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4 | London Living
Childcare Cost
Prices for childcare are higher in London than anywhere else in the UK. Here we breakdown the average costs for the various services both full and part-time across London. Some employers offer childcare vouchers to help towards childcare costs:
Part-time
Type of ChildcareHow much does it cost? (British average)
How much does it cost? (London average)
Registered childminder (25 hours for a child under 2)
£109.84 per week £147.02 per week
Day Nursery (25 hours for a child under 2)
£116.25 per week £148.16 per week
Part-time nanny (25 hours)£237.50-£375 per week including tax and NI contributions
Au pair
‘Pocket money’ of around £70-£85 per week plus room and board
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Full-time
Informal or free childcare
Type of ChildcareHow much does it cost? (British average)
How much does it cost? (London average)
Registered childminder (50 hours for a child under 2)
£212.86 per week £275.83 per week
Day Nursery (50 hours for a child under 2)
£222.36 per week £277.84 per week
Live-innanny (50 hours)
£350 - £650 per week plus: - tax - National Insurance - room and board
£433 per week plus: - tax - National Insurance - room and board
Daily nanny (50 hours)
£512 per week plus: - tax - National Insurance - room and board
£616 per week plus: - tax - National Insurance - room and board
Type of Childcare How much does it cost?
Playgroup or pre-school £5-£10 per 3-hour session
Sure Start Children’s CentreDepends on your household income - some play sessions can be free
Nursery school Free if it’s part of the state school system
Family arrangementCan be free. But if you intend to pay a family member for childcare, you might not qualify for help with childcare costs.
Shared childcare arrangement
Technically free, but you’ll need to factor in loss of income, and you won’t get any government help.
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All primary school applications to join in September (the start of the school year) must be submitted by the beginning of January that same year. All secondary school applications to join also in September must be submitted before the end of the previous October.
In-year applications can be made by families that would like their children to join a school mid-year. You should contact your local authority for the procedure in your area. Private schools will be open to new pupils year-round but may have long waiting lists.
4.2 SchoolsWhere To Start
Between the ages of 4/5 and 18 years, young people are obliged to attend compulsory full-time primary, secondary and higher education in the UK.
4 year olds are introduced to the structure and discipline of school life in their first reception (or kindergarten) class. The school year begins in September, and 4 year olds should start when they are due to turn 5 years of age before August 31st of the following year. Parents of 4 year olds born after 1st April have the option to defer their child’s place for one year, if they feel they aren’t ready.
Private vs State EducationAs the ongoing debate around private vs state education in the UK continues, we hope to give you the facts to help make the right decision for your family.
First things first; money. Private schools can charge anywhere from £3,000- £10,000 per term (with three terms per year) for full-time primary education. State schools are free to attend but have restricted postcode (zip code) criteria meaning places are reserved exclusively for residents within a certain catchment area. This can mean house price hikes and property shortages in the areas surrounding the particularly popular state schools.
Private schools have more autonomy over their curriculum, opening hours, teacher salaries and extracurricular programs. Private schools tend to have longer days and shorter terms. State schools report directly into their Local Authority and so these things are dictated by the government.
Application Deadlines
Private schools have smaller classes (15-20 pupils) and so teachers are able to spend more tailored, dedicated time with each student than their state school counterparts with up to 35 pupils per class.
For the first time ever last year, less than 50 percent of the top performing 100 schools in the UK were private. Many have taken this as an encouraging sign that state schools are finally catching up with their private school counterparts.
However, some reports show that while state schools are challenging their private neighbours in the league tables, they are doing so at the detriment of development of students’ ‘soft skills’ such as drama, debating and sports. Many ambassadors for private education exclaim that soft skills are truly where the value of a private education lies. That in increasing a young person’s confidence, public-speaking skills and personal adaptability - preparing them very well for a successful adulthood.
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International Community School (ICS)
Long established, the International Community School has three sites located in Marylebone and Paddington. A truly inclusive learning environment, the school has small classes and is open to children aged between 3 and 18.
International School of London
For children aged 3 to 18, this school is located in the West London district of Chiswick. Popular with expats from across the globe, this school is one of the top performing International Baccalaureate schools in the UK, with pupils frequently finishing school and going into some of the most prestigious universities in the world.
Hill House International Junior School
Owned by a multi-lingual Swiss family, Hill House International Junior School prepares international pupils for British exams. With a focus on arts, music and sports, Hill House International Junior School also has a campus in Switzerland that pupils visit throughout the year.
Dwight School London
With buses covering the majority of North London, Dwight School mixes national and international students from around the world in an inclusive environment that fosters friendship. With strong link to partner schools in Seoul, New York and Vancouver, Dwight School offers generous scholarships and bursaries.
Ecole Internationale Franco-Anglaise
Founded in 2012, the Ecole Internationale France-Anglaise, Marylebone, has quickly amassed a reputation of excellence. Teaching both the English and French curriculum, there are approximately 200 children aged between 4-11 at this school.
International and Expat Schools
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School Average International Baccalaureate Score
North London Collegiate, Middlesex 41.9
Godolphin & Latymer, Hammersmith 40.9
King’s College Wimbledon 40.0
Southbank International School 35.5
International School London 33.6
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Family Fun4.3London is an incredible city to explore as a young person. With huge lakes inside luscious parks, sports and activity clubs for kids in the capital being part and parcel of life growing up. From team sports, to summer camps and outdoor pools to one-day festivals; there’s much to feed a growing imagination at your doorstep.
Action
To keep the little ones active The Little Foxes Club runs tennis, football and rugby clubs for children between 18 months – 14 years old. Bertie and Boo’s Adventure Island in Balham will provide a fun-packed afternoon of child-friendly imaginative play. For active kids on the hunt for the next adventure, Scouts and Beavers clubs have become a rite of passage here in the UK. Find your closest ones here.
http://scouts.org.uk/get-involved/map-page/
Two indoor pools in South East London (Wavelengths and The Pavilion) have water flumes and wave machines for a real treat. You and your children can become members of the South London Swimming Club and enjoy year-round swimming at Tooting Bec Lido’s outdoor pool and more. The same can be said for North London, East and West London, with plenty of leisure centres offerings kids’ memberships and swimming classes for youngsters.
Tooting Bec Lido’s outdoor pool and more.
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The Music House for Children is a charmingly quaint musically inspired creativity centre for children of all ages. Here group sessions are available for small groups of children at the same developmental stage as your child, the cacophony of baby and toddler sessions can be heard from some distance away and private lessons can be booked here or at your home.
With quirky independent music festivals across London and beyond, every summer such as Folk by the Oak, On Blackheath and Walthamstow Garden Party you can discover new music and try your hands at colourful craft stalls.
Parks
London is one of the greenest cities in the world owing to its diverse range of parks. London’s world-famous parks offer a unique perspective of London: Dulwich Park rents bikes of all shapes and sizes and also has a paddle boat lake, as well as the ancient Dulwich Picture Gallery. Crystal Palace Park, site of the original Victorian extravaganza itself boasts of a Victorian dinosaur park, hedge maze and Olympic size swimming and diving pools.
Hampstead Heath was once the preserve of poet John Keats and features kids play areas, tennis courts and fresh water ponds for swimming. Richmond Park’s deer keep families coming in droves all year-round. Hyde Park offers fresh water swimming in the Serpentine and Regent’s Park looks divine with its winding canals, expertly manicured flower beds and award-winning open-air theatre.
Music
Community
The Girl Guides and Scouts are charity run, globally acknowledged community mentorships to help young people develop life skills and build positive relationships.
NCS by The Challenge are summer and autumn programs for 15-17 year olds designed to nurture a more integrated society. It’s an unforgettable experience for young adults to develop employable skills and lifelong friendships.
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This guide to schooling and child care is certainly not definitive, but it gives you helpful pointers that will prove extremely useful should you visit for an extended period of time. Remember; London is packed with fascinating history, multiculturalism and creative influences that will please, entertain and educate people of all ages.
That concludes todays lesson!
Whether you walk the same paths of past Roman Emperors or soak in the youth culture that was the Swinging Sixties - This stunning city has blurred the lines between fun and learning for thousands of years... What do you plan to learn on arrival?
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PRACTICAL
Being one of the world’s most visited cities, London has built a reputation of not only offering something for everyone; but also for being one of the most practical places to visit. So you’ve arrived, unpacked and need to get out and about - but how?
Getting around London may seem like a daunting task at first glance, whether it is for business or getting some shopping done - The labyrinth of roads and frantic bus routes
Travelling like a local
can be a puzzle - and that’s before you’ve even looked at the Underground train system! Continue to read this guide as we untangle the tube map, explain travel-zones, and advise you on how to navigate streets on a famous “Boris Bike”!
Where do we begin our journey? Well grab your map and hop on board as we show you a snapshot of travelling in London.
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Oyster CardWhere to get one 5.1
London Underground “The Tube”Tube Map
Night TubeTravel zones
5.2
London BusesRoutes 5.3
Taxis “Black Cabs”Minicabs 5.4
Cycle London - Santander Bikes or “Boris Bikes” 5.5
UK Driving LicenceInsurance
Renting a Car5.6
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Oyster CardAn Oyster Card is a plastic smartcard on which you can store fare money, Travelcards and Bus & Tram Passes. You can use an Oyster card to travel on bus, Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground, TfL Rail, Emirates Air Line, River Bus services and most National Rail services in London. It is incredibly popular with commuters and travellers due to its convenience of being a “contactless” way of paying for your journey, as well as being cheaper too.
An Oyster card is incredibly handy if you are purchasing a yearly, monthly or weekly travel card. Your travel card will allow unlimited travel within the period of time you have
5.1purchased it for, perhaps more cost-effective for you if you now you will be using public transport a lot during your stay in London.
Alternatively, you are able to use your contactless payment card (typically Visa, MasterCard or American Express cards that are used for everyday expenditure), however due to ever changing currency exchange charges, your fares will be converted from Pounds Sterling to your local currency and may prove to be more expensive in the long-run. If you’re on a UK bank card though, the charge is exactly the same - so tap away!
Where to get one
You can pick up an Oyster card from Visitor Centres (offering advice on tickets and a range of services), and hundreds of designated Ticket Stops in the form on newsagents and shops that are located all over London. Most main station hubs will have an Oyster machine from which you can purchase an Oyster card too. Find which one is nearest to you by clicking here.
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London Underground - “The Tube”
“The Tube” has been an integral part of London’s history for 150 years and is one of the cities’ most iconic and historical features. Serving 270 stations stretched across 402km (250miles) of railtrack, the network of underground trains carry 1.3 billion each year in and and around London.
These impressive statistics are nothing to be intimidated by however, as the system is not only reliable, but also very easy to navigate around. Does the tube map look like a maze of mystery? Does the ‘Northern Line’ confuse you because it travels to the most Southern part of London? Don’t worry - you’ll get the hang of it soon enough.
GOOD TO KNOW: If you have a smart-
device, then downloading apps such
as “Citymapper” are great tools that
give you a helping-hand should you
need it! Download it from iTunes or
for Android for free!
5.2
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There are 14 train lines that cover the city, each being identified by their colours:
Bakerloo
Central
Circle
District
Hammersmith & City
Jubilee
Metropolitan
Northern
Picadilly
Victoria
Waterloo & City
DLR
London Overground
TfL Rail
Tube Map
Now, before we begin explaining the different lines, routes and key areas, we think it’s important to point out that the map itself is schematic - meaning that although the stations seem close together - in reality they may not be! Be sure to check out this map of the underground - it shows you which stations are walkable and which ones are not
Devised in 1933 by Harry Beck, the London Underground map is a 20th-century design classic. Found on the walls at every station it’s very useful, clearly indicating the general
GOOD TO KNOW: If possible, try to avoid travelling during
rush hours (weekdays, 7-9am and 5.30-7pm) due to the
volume of people using it and the rising temperatures!
GOOD TO KNOW: • Check the front of the train for
the correct destination
• Stand on the right when using
escalators
• Wait for passengers to leave the
train before boarding
• Move down inside the Tube
carriages while travelling, so you
don’t block the doorways for other
passengers
• Stand behind the yellow line
whilst waiting for the train on the
platform
• Offer your seat to anyone who
is unwell, elderly, pregnant or
travelling with small children
• Hold onto the rails if you are
standing during your journey
• ...Mind the gap!
directions used to designate trains (north, south, east or westbound), and with all interchanges clearly shown. Pocket maps are also available at every station too - they are useful if you ever need to double-check where you are… and they’re free too.
If you ever end up at a station confused as to how to get to your destination on the fastest route, you can always ask the TFL staff at every station, who are always happy to help you with a speedy route to get to where you’re going.
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4 | London living
Night Tube - New in 2017
Night Tube services are now running on the Central, Jubilee, Piccadilly, Northern and Victoria lines, offering a 24 hour service on Fridays and Saturdays.
Across the Night Tube lines, you will be able to travel between Central London and the outskirts of the city. Be sure to keep checking the Travel for London website for further details, including timetables and further developments to the service.
Travel Zones
The Tube, Docklands Light Railway (DLR) and London Overground services in London are divided into zones 1-6. If you use a Travelcard on any of these services, it must be valid for every zone you travel through.
Buses are not described as operating in zones, but any Travelcard is valid for any bus journey within Greater London regardless of the zone(s) it covers, plus, if your Travelcard includes Zone 3, 4, 5 or 6 you can also use it on trams!
GOOD TO KNOW: You can use an Oyster card in any
zones, your fare will vary depending on which zones you
travel in. The card automatically calculates the cheapest
fare for the zones you use.
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London Buses5.3
Much like the famous Telephone Boxes that once used to be all over London - the London Bus is the iconic dash of red that parades the roads everyday. Arguably the best way to see all of the sights, they play a vital part in transporting over 6.5 million passengers each day.
Admittedly, the London Underground is the fastest and for newcomers the simplest way of getting around town, but the buses play their part and are an experience you should try at least once on your visit. Unlike the London Underground, perched up on the top deck of the bus gets you get a great sightseeing experience as well!
GOOD TO KNOW: London’s buses are completely
cashless, so make sure you have your Oyster card or
contactless payment method otherwise you will not be
able to pay.
Although there are separate bus companies operating, your Oyster and Travelcard allows you to travel seamlessly across all modes of transport, bus, Underground, train and DLR using the same ticket/pass. You can also use a contactless payment card (Visa or Mastercard) to pay for transport on these buses. Simply tap on the yellow pad as you step on the bus and away you go.
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6 | London living
Many of London’s bus routes run 24 hours, 7 days a week, with extra buses being available between midnight and 5 am when the Underground closes - you will only have to wait just a few minutes for a bus whatever time of day or night.
GOOD TO KNOW: London’s buses are zoneless. If you
have a Travelcard it is valid in any zone on the buses, so if
you have a Travelcard valid only for zones 1 and 2 you can
use it on buses in zone 6 if you want.
In addition, if you make a journey using pay as you go (contactless or Oyster) on a bus or tram, you can now make a second bus or tram journey for free within one hour of touching in on the first bus or tram - 2 for 1!
Routes
The local bus network in London is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world. Over 8000 scheduled buses operate on over 700 different routes. Over the year this network carries over 1.8 billion passenger journeys.
With so many routes, it’s difficult to know where to start. Each bus stop has a map that clearly shows the different routes that the buses (on that particular route) take.
GOOD TO KNOW: The online Travel for London website
has a great ‘journey planner’ that can be accessed here
- it not only gives you different options, but also breaks
down how to go about your particular journey.
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TaxisNo visit to London is complete without hailing, booking, or sharing a taxi journey in one of the city’s’ world famous black cabs. The knowledge of London Black cab drivers is renowned the world over - vital if you need to get somewhere in a hurry.
Black taxis are instantly recognisable by their distinctive shape and the orange light that is illuminated when it is available for hire. London’s official taxis, can be hailed in the street or at designated ranks situated in prominent places, and can also be booked by telephone.
You can of course, opt for booking a minicab - there are hundreds of companies that offer competitive prices and are more often than not, cheaper than a London Black Cab. Prices are often pre-fixed, but make sure you book with a licenced minicab operator. A list of Travel for London approved companies can be found here - find the closest one to your location.
5.4
Minicabs
GOOD TO KNOW: Unbooked minicabs are illegal. If you
are approached by minicab drivers seeking passengers or
offering a service; avoid this as these are unsafe, unlicensed,
uninsured and illegal. Only taxis (black cabs) can be
stopped by customers and can pick up off the street.
GOOD TO KNOW: Fares in black cabs are metered, with a
minimum charge of £2.40. Additional charges apply when
you take a black cab from Heathrow, book by telephone
and on Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. Many black
cabs accept payment by credit or debit card but be sure
to check with the driver before the trip starts. Card
payments attract additional charges.
You can book a cab using your smart device - a list of
approved apps can be found by clicking here.
Booking your minicab with a licensed minicab company guarantees that your trip will be carried out by a licensed driver in a licensed vehicle. It also means that a record is kept of your journey, your driver and the vehicle used. Therefore, in the event of any problems, the driver can be traced.
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Cycle London - Santander Bikes
Santander Cycles (famously known to Londoners as “Boris Bikes” - owing to ex mayor Boris Johnson’s initiative) is London’s self-service, bike-sharing scheme for short journeys. You can hire a bike from as little as £2. Simply go to any docking station with your bank card and touch the screen to get started. The best thing about it is that there’s no need to book - hire a bike, ride it where you like, then return it to any docking station (There are hundreds located around the city!)
Boris Bikes are a great way to see the sights at your own pace.
5.5
GOOD TO KNOW: The official
Santander Cycles app is the only
app giving you a release code direct
to your smartphone, letting you skip
past the terminal and get on your
bike quicker. It features docking
station information, live bike
availability and an interactive map.
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Obtaining a UK Driving Licence
5.6
Exchanging your driving permit from your native country for a UK driving license can be quite confusing. After all, there are various regulations which depend largely on your country of origin.
The validity of your UK driving license depends on the country where it was issued as well as the planned duration of your stay. In quite a few cases, your previous license from your home country will remain valid, and, at least for a limited time period, driving in the UK will be entirely legal.
In Great Britain, the minimum age for driving cars and motorbikes with a so-called “ordinary license” is 17 years. If you want to get a “vocational license” required for driving buses or trucks, then you will need to contact the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) for more information. The same also applies if you have any health issues or medical conditions that might interfere with your driving ability.
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| London Living10
With this guide you will have the best starting point possible to getting in and around London. Should you find yourself getting confused in the world of city travel, this will give you helpful pointers that will prove useful should you take the plunge in travelling on the Tube. Remember; You are never too far from
So there you have it!
a station, so you can always ask a member of staff if you need help or advice about how to get around. Join the millions on their daily commute, marvel at the sites from the top of a Bus or get chatting to a Black Taxi driver - the best way to travel this great city is to simply get on board!
Insurance
You must be fully insured to operate your vehicle, but with there being so many choices when it comes to buying insurance - how do you know you are getting the rightdeal for you?
Renting a Car
Whether for business or leisure, car rental is a popular method of getting you where you need to go. Every year, Britons hire an estimated 12 million cars in the UK.
So why rent one? Well, with car rental you only pay to use the vehicle when you need it - with prices starting as low as £30 per day. Hiring a car to take your friends and family away on a journey can be cheaper to do that travelling by train - especially at peak times - and is certainly more flexible!
The best way to find a suitable place to hire a car from is by checking if the rental company is a member of the BVRLA (British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association). That way you can rest assure knowing that you will be hiring from a company that gives you the highest levels of service, honesty and integrity. A full list of approved members can be found by clicking here.
Companies like Zip Car and Hiya Car offer car sharing options in a more ad hoc style, with the option to share car rental with others for the odd day in which you need it. Zip Car charge a membership fee then you’re free to pick up a car from a spot in your local neighbourhood and pay for it by the hour should you need it.
Just because it’s the cheapest deal, that doesn’t mean it’s the best deal for you! Be sure to check what you are exactly covered for.
Don’t pay for what you don’t need. Some insurance companies add-on things like legal expenses cover at an extra price - You may not need it, and if you do, then you could get it cheaper elsewhere.
Shop around! The more time and effort you put into obtaining your quotes and reading policy information, the more likely it will be for you to get the best deal.
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This eBook is designed with the intention of helping new Londoners and expats to settle into London. This guide explores all the practical issues that new Londoners may face when moving to the United Kingdom, answering questions that many have asked before. The e-book is published one chapter at a time and here you will find the sixth chapter: Major Tourist Attractions in and Around London
In this chapter, we will outline what London has to offer in terms of leisure and tourist activities.
One of the most iconic cities in the world, London is a vast ensemble of cultures, languages and histories. Such poetry is manifest in the enticing range of cultural, sporting and leisure activities that London has to offer tourists and full time residents alike.
It comes as no surprise that, in 2016, the United Kingdom received 37.6 million inbound visitors- up almost 5% from previous years. The forecast for visitors to the United Kingdom in 2017 is 39.7 million, up 6% on 2016.
6. TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
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CultureMuseums
GalleriesTheatres
Park and Recreation
SportsFootball
CricketRugby & Tennis
HistoryBuckingham Palace
The Tower of LondonWestminster Abbey
Houses of ParliamentSt Paul’s Cathedral
Trafalgar Square
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HistoryWith a history stretching back over 2,000 years, London has stood witness to countless epochs yet has remained resilient in its purpose. From Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey, from St Paul’s to Trafalgar Square, London features a seemingly insurmountable list of must visit historical attractions: but where to start?
More a palace than a Tower, the Tower of London has stood as a symbol of London’s reigning powers since 1066. This Medieval fortress that stands on the north bank of the river Thames was built by William the Conqueror and went on to become the famous prison in which figures from Elizabeth I (before she became queen) to the infamous Kray twins were kept under armed guard and 24 hour supervision.
Buckingham Palace
The Tower of London
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Originally constructed in 1703 for the 3rd Earl of Mulgrave, Buckingham Palace became a royal residence in 1761 when King George III purchased the property. Although the royal residence doesn’t contain a polar bear as it did when King George III lived there, Buckingham Palace is perhaps one of London’s most recognisable buildings.
Surrounded by parkland, visiting Buckingham Palace is an eternally beguiling prospect for tourists. Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh occupy apartments located on one side of the palace: the rest of the palace is open to the general public. The cost varies seasonally, but tickets are affordable.
Buckingham Palace
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The centre of democracy in the United Kingdom, the River Thames runs alongside the House of Parliament. Tours of the Houses of Parliament offer a unique insight into a thousand years of British political culture. With audio tours available, a tour of the Houses of Parliament takes approximately an hour.
Although the history of the Houses of Parliament stretch back over a thousand years, most of what is seen on the tour was constructed in the 19th century following a devastating fire in 1834. Highlights include the Westminster Hall, The Queen’s Robing Room, Royal Gallery, Lords Chamber, Central Lobby and the Commons Chamber.
Constructed in the early 11th century, Westminster Abbey is perhaps the most aesthetically pleasing building in central London. Gothic grandeur in its essence, every coronation since 1066 has occurred within its walls. Within Westminster Abbey you can witness the tombs and statues of defining figures of British history: Seventeen kings and queens are buried at Westminster in addition to historically significant figures like Charles Darwin.
Houses of Parliament
Westminster Abbey
In the renowned Poets’ Corner in the South Transept, members of the British literary canon such as Jane Austen, William Blake, Sir John Betjeman and Shakespeare are all commemorated. Tickets into the Abbey cost £20 online.
Westminster Abbey
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St Paul’s CathedralDesigned by prominent architect Christopher Wren, St Paul’s Cathedral is an architectural jewel in the heart of London. Amazingly, despite the unmitigated destruction of countless buildings around it, St Paul’s survived sustained bombing during the Blitz. Entrance tickets grants the holder with access to the crypt, St Paul’s iconic dome- the whispering gallery- and stunning views of London.
Trafalgar Square
Dedicated to the Battle of Trafalgar, Trafalgar Square is at the epicentre of Londonlife. Surrounded by museums and galleries, the square has been used for community gatherings and political demonstrations-including Bloody Sunday, the Aldermaston March, anti-war protests and campaigns against climate change. During Christmas time, a tree donated by Norway takes centre stage as Trafalgar Square become the centre of London’s seasonal celebrations.
St Pauls’s Cathedral
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Culture
Three of London’s most popular museums are located in the heart of the majestic Borough of Kensington. All within walking distance of each other, the Victoria & Albert museum, the Natural History Museum and the Museum of Science offer fascinating days out for the entire family. The V&A is one of the world’s leading art and design museums, housing a permanent collection of over 2.3 million objects that span over 5,000 years of human creativity.
For intrigued minds, London offers countless intellectual pursuits, from museums, galleries and the theatre district.
Museums
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The Museum of Science is dedicated to humanity’s ingenuity. The Museum of Science has several interactive features, making learning accessible for people of all ages. The Natural History Museum contains innumerable artefacts, but the most recognised part of the museum is the full scale blue whale that greets you as you enter.
The British Museum, located in Holborn, is the most popular museum in London. Although the name suggests the museum is dedicated solely to British history, the museum contains artefacts from cultures since the beginning of recorded history: the museum contains mesopotamian, Grecian (the famous Elgin marbles are kept here), Roman, Egyptian and Saxon artefacts amongst countless other articles.
Natural History Museum
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London contains an array of art galleries festooned across the city. From classical portrait galleries to avant garde galleries, London has something for art connoisseurs of all tastes. The Tate Modern, located on the banks of the Thames, holds a collection that stretches back to 1500. The collection embraces all media, from painting, drawing, sculpture and prints to photography, video and film, installation and performance.
A more traditional gallery, the National Portrait Gallery, located on the peripheryof Trafalgar Square, is a classical gallery space. The most extensive collection of portraits in the world, the National Portrait Gallery offers a unique insight into the men and women who have shaped British culture.
There are plenty of smaller, contemporary galleries dotted all around the city, from Shoreditch to Soho. Take a look at http://www.london-galleries.co.uk for a full selection of galleries to choose from for your art-packed day out.
Galleries
A visit to London is incomplete if one doesn’t indulge in a trip to the theatre. London contains countless historical theatres that run everything from experimental modern plays to classical productions of Shakespeare.
Opened in the year 1732, the Royal Opera House is globally-acclaimed theatre which is home to the famous Royal Ballet, the Royal Opera and the in-house orchestra. Here, you can watch famous productions of Alice in Wonderland and Swan Lake amongst many other performances.
The National Theatre has given the world many theatre legends. The Theatre has four
Theatreslarge auditoriums which are dedicated theatres. A variety of plays and musicals have enthralled audiences for a long time.
Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre is iconic. The original open-air playground theatre, constructed in 1599, was reconstructed as the Globe Theatre- which now boasts the luxury of a roof. This theatre has been the centre of some of the most celebrated works of the legendary playwright- William Shakespeare. The Globe is open for business throughout the summer and also winter now, with the Sam Wanamaker theatre offering indoor performances when the weather turns cooler in September through to April.
National Portrait Gallery
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Sports
Football, the nation’s favourite pastime, is an integral part of London’s sporting culture. Opened in 2007, Wembley Stadium, the national stadium of the English football team, has played host to countless football matches that have shaped the emotions of fans across the globe. The majestic arc that stretches over the stadium renders it instantly recognisable to football fans from all over the world. Tickets for football matches at Wembley range from £30-150 depending on the event.
Outside of the national stadium, London contains countless football clubs. London,in
From Tudor tennis courts to Georgian swimming pools, London’s love affair with sporting venues is a storied history. London contains some of the most iconic sporting venues in the world, from Wembley to Lords to Wimbledon.
Football
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the Premier League, is represented by Chelsea- who play their home games at Stamford Bridge, West London,- Arsenal-who play their home games at the Emirates Stadium near Finsbury Park,- Tottenham Hotspurs- who will play their home games at Wembley for the next few years,- and Crystal Palace- who play their home games at Selhurst Park in Croydon, South London.
During the football season, if one wishes to enjoy a football match, the chances are one of these teams will be playing at home during your stay.
Wembley Stadium
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Housing an impressive 82,000 people, the home of British rugby- Twickenham Stadium, the largest dedicated rugby union stadium in the world- is located in Twickenham. Twickenham hosts England’s home Six Nations matches in addition to all inbound touring teams from the Southern Hemisphere, usually around November each year.
Rugby & TennisEach summer, tennis fever captures Britain. Wimbledon is the cause of this. Hostedevery year, Wimbledon is the oldest tennis tournament in the world. Although obtaining tickets for Wimbledon’s centre court can be difficult, it is easier to secure tickets for one of the other courts that host matches throughout the tournament.
Constructed in 1814 and located in St John’s Wood, Lords Cricket Ground is perhaps the most iconic cricket venue in the world. Known as the home of cricket, Lords is the oldest sports stadium in the world. With a two century plus history, Lords contains a museum dedicated to the history of cricket. If that doesn’t pique your fancy, visit on a warm summer’s day and enjoy a cold beverage whilst watching the cricket. The Oval, London’s second cricket stadium, is located in South London and hosts matches throughout the duration of the summer.
Cricket
Wimbledon
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Parks and Recreation
Despite being one of the largest cities in the world, London contains countless green spaces that are ideal for escaping the hustle and the bustle of the city. London contains eight Royal Parks that are located across the city: Bushy Park, Regent’s Park, Green Park, Hyde Park, Greenwich Park, Richmond Park, St James’ Park and Kensington Gardens.
Henry VIII purchased Hyde Park from the monks of Westminster Abbey in 1536. Originally used as an exclusive hunting grounds for the royal family, Hyde Park became a venue for national celebrations in the nineteenth century. Carefully manicured, Hyde Park, measuring at 350 acres, is one of London’s most popular parks. Kensington Gardens, formerly the private gardens of Kensington Palace, sits immediately to the west of Hyde Park.
Green Park, located directly outside of Buckingham Palace, measures at 47 acres, but is still a popular choice for people looking to escape the city. In contrast with
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its neighbouring parks, Green Park has no lakes, no buildings, no playgrounds, and few monuments. The park is populated almost entirely by maturing trees.
Regent’s Park, located in between Marylebone and Camden, features stunning rivers, lakes, beautiful owers and well- sculptured shrubbery. The 410 acre park hosts a range of entertainment options: The London Zoo, the Open Air Theatre and Primrose Hill are located on the parkland.
Located in north, nestled between Hampstead and Highgate, Hampstead Heath is world famous for its literary history. Poet John Keats is said to have written Ode to a Nightingale here and when you’re strolling through thick wooded areas and past freshwater ponds, you might find yourself in the London of John Keats. Time stands still on Hampstead Heath, offering a real respite from the city. Put on your walking boots, it’s time for a sweet escape.
Hyde Park
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BACKGROUND INFORMATION
We are thesqua.re, a serviced apartments provider based in London. We offer apartments to business travellers and people who are relocating to London who require a permanent residence.
With our extensive experience in this industry and we have realised that many expats ask the same questions about how to get settled in the city.
For your convenience we have created this local’s guide to navigating the market before, during and after your move to London.
www.thesqua.re
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