Travelling in London and South East England

Buses and trains are the usual forms of transport in the South East of England (often referred to as 'the South East') and South East London. Trains are usually referred to as British Rail although the company that runs the trains in SE England is called Connex South East.

Maps of trains and bus routes are available in the Student Centres and the Students' Union. The local Tourist Information Centres provide information on travel and places to visit. Also you can ask other students or staff if you want to know how to get to a place. People will help if they can.

Local taxi and cab firms can be reasonably cheap, particularly if you want to travel just a few miles, in a group. The main Reception or Gatehouse on your campus will have telephone numbers for cabs. If you take a cab always ask how much they will charge before you start the journey.

Central London - the quickest route to central London is by train. The cost can be very reasonable if you travel at week-ends or after 9.30am as you can buy a one-day travel card which will allow you to travel anywhere within the capital. In central London the underground is usually the quickest and simplest route to follow. There are underground maps at all underground stations. London travel information is available on www.transportforlondon.gov.uk/

Maps and Guides

As well as in London, An A-Z Guide to Reading is a book of maps of all the roads, in reading. It can be bought at most bookshops and is essential for anyone living in and around London.

Travelling to other parts of Britain

By Rail - contact National Rail Enquiries on 08457 484950, for train times, costs and booking. Although it is possible buy a ticket on the day you want to travel this can be very expensive. Always try and book your train journey well in advance and ask if there are any special reductions as it is possible to get some very cheap rail travel.

Coach travel is usually cheaper than rail but journeys take longer. National Coaches is the main coach company that goes to most towns in England, Scotland and Wales. Contact Victoria Coach Station for detailed information about coach travel. Telephone: (020) 7730 3466.

Public Transport Information: www.pti.org.uk