Navigating London as an older tourist
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A lot of older people are eager to visit London, but are worried that it may be too fast-paced or expensive. While it’s true that navigating London does have its challenges, it is possible to see the sights without getting stressed and exhausted. Below are just some tips on how to enjoy London as an older tourist.
Drop your luggage off somewhere
Having to heave a suitcase or heavy backpack around is not ideal for many older people. Book a hotel with public transport links nearby and plan to arrive in the afternoon so that you’re able to check in and drop off your bags. Alternatively, there are luggage drop off points at stations across London such as Liverpool Street that could be ideal if you’re still unable to check in or have had to check out your hotel early. Once you’ve left luggage at Liverpool Street, you can then explore the city hands-free.
Try a bus tour
There are many bus tours that can allow you to see many different sights across the city while being able to sit down the entire time. If you have mobility issues, such tours are a fantastic option. As well as general sightseeing tours, there are specialist tours centred around ghosts, Harry Potter and James Bond. Some buses have space for wheelchairs, while others don’t.
Take advantage of senior discounts
Several attractions across London offer senior discounts. London Zoo offers discounts to visitors over 60, as does Tower Bridge. The Royal Shakespeare Company meanwhile offers a 20% discount on all theatre shows. If you’re looking to save some pennies, make sure to take advantage of these discounts.
Consider these accessible attractions
While not all attractions in London are accessible for those with mobility issues, many have gone to great lengths in recent years to improve accessibility. A few examples of attractions that are accessible to those with disabilities include:
- Buckingham Palace: Regularly ranked number 1 for accessibility, Buckingham Palace offers tours in the summer that are perfect for seniors.
- The British Museum: The British Museum offers excellent wheelchair accessibility throughout with the option to also hire wheelchairs.
- London Eye: Wheelchair users can book advance wheelchair time slots. There are also accessible bathrooms at the base of the Eye.
- Westminster Abbey: Westminster Abbey is ideal for those with mobility issues – it’s easy to get around and provides wheelchair hire.
- Victoria and Albert Museum: Every exhibit here is accessible via the museum’s many lifts and ramps.
- Tower of London: Despite some steps and cobblestone areas, most of the Tower of London is accessible to those with disabilities thanks to several lifts and ramps.
Be wary of taxis
Taxis can be a convenient way to get from A to B in London without having to navigate public transport – and there are many taxis available for wheelchair users. However, taxi fares can add up quickly. This is why it’s best to use taxis sparingly. Standardised taxis may be available with a Taxicard.
Take care in the The London Underground
Many London Underground stations have lifts that make it possible to get to any platform without having to use stairs or escalators. However, these lifts can accumulate large queues during peak hours and you may have to take several different lifts to get to the right platform. If you can plan your journey during less busy times, do so. Make sure you also leave plenty of time to navigate the station.
Plan some relaxing activities
If you’re visiting London for a weekend or even a whole week, make sure to book some relaxing activities throughout your stay to break up some of the more demanding activities. What are some examples of relaxing activities in London? A few activities to consider include:
- Book an afternoon tea: Many hotels and restaurants offer afternoon tea, which can be a chance to unwind in a luxurious setting while enjoying sandwiches and scones.
- Take a stroll in Hyde Park: Hyde Park can provide a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and you can navigate it at your own pace. There are benches to sit on throughout and wide walkways.
- Plan a river cruise: River cruises can allow you to see many of the sights at a leisurely pace while enjoying lunch or drinks.
- Watch a theatre show: London is renowned for its theatre. Plan to arrive early so that you can enjoy drinks before the show and settle in.
- Stay at a spa: There are spa hotels across London where you can enjoy spa facilities and take a break from the sightseeing.
Image by Ch AFleks from Pixabay
