Our Greater London Megathread

ted1 · 14-08-2019 2:12pm

Business as usual but expect protests etc on the streets.

grimm2005 · 15-08-2019 12:01am

Should be totally fine in terms of travel as I think there are contingency plans in case of a no deal Brexit in both EU and UK side in terms of air travel but even so, the CTA will still be in effect regardless and as an Irish citizen you retain the right to travel between UK and Ireland without checks. At worst there might be a bit of tense atmosphere and likely large scale protests but for the purposes of your visit I wouldn't imagine anything too crazy, except maybe some fantastic exchange rates....!

Berserker · 15-08-2019 11:02am

sapper wrote: »

Just realised that this could be very well be Brexit day 1... Gah! Have I just signed up for a travel nightmare or will it all just be business as usual?

Guessing that you are travelling from Dublin or Ireland. You should be fine in that case. The CTA will be in place, so it should be no different. IF, big if, the CTA is scrapped, it could be a very awkward day. Will be protests, potentially violent, on the streets of London that day, if Brexit doesn't happen.

loobylou · 15-08-2019 11:47am

Make sure to bring your passports though.

Kopparberg Strawberry and Lime · 18-08-2019 3:19pm

Flying end of November to USA connecting through Heathrow

BA - DUB - LHR
AA - LHR - LAX
BA - YVR - LHR
BA - LHR - DUB

Will there be any issue if brexit goes ahead with flights or possibly require visa for UK etc ?

Also any car hire recommendation for LAX - SEATAC also welcome ! (Had a F150 pickup last time from Vegas , wouldn't mind something similar again !)

coylemj · 18-08-2019 3:40pm

Kopparberg Strawberry and Lime wrote: »

Will there be any issue if brexit goes ahead with flights or possibly require visa for UK etc ?

Just because you're connecting through the UK doesn't mean you'll be subject to any new rules. It's your passport that counts, not where you're coming from. When you land in the US, you'll end up in the same immigration queue as people from all sorts of places - EU, non-EU European countries, Africa, Asia etc.

Besides which, the US visa waiver program does not require the UK to be in the EU. There are lots of non-EU counties like South Korea, New Zealand and Singapore in the program so Brexit will have no effect on entry requirements, whether you're travelling on an Irish or UK passport.

Kopparberg Strawberry and Lime · 18-08-2019 3:43pm

coylemj wrote: »

Just because you're connecting through the UK doesn't mean you'll be subject to any new rules. It's your passport that counts, not where you're coming from. When you land in the US, you'll end up in the same immigration queue as people from all sorts of places - EU, non-EU European countries, Africa, Asia etc.

Besides which, the US visa waiver program does not require the UK to be in the EU. There are lots of non-EU counties like South Korea, New Zealand and Singapore in the program so Brexit will have no effect on entry requirements, whether you're travelling on an Irish or UK passport.

I do understand for the states side it'll be business as usual.

It was just the UK end concerning.

For example if you need a visa to go to the UK after brexit even if just connecting through an airport. That's kind of more my concern !

Cheers for your reply

coylemj · 18-08-2019 3:54pm

Kopparberg Strawberry and Lime wrote: »

For example if you need a visa to go to the UK after brexit even if just connecting through an airport. That's kind of more my concern !

You will not need a visa to enter the UK on an Irish passport after Brexit. If you did, the UK would have to double the number of staff in the Ballsbridge embassy to deal with thousands of applications every day and what would be the point?

Even if they allowed visa-free travel but required every Irish person to show his/her passport, that would require that they suddenly hire dozens of extra staff in Luton and Stanstead airports and Aer Lingus flights to Heathrow would have to be diverted from T2 to a terminal with passport lanes.

Won't happen.

Kopparberg Strawberry and Lime · 18-08-2019 3:57pm

coylemj wrote: »

You will not need a visa to enter the UK on an Irish passport after Brexit. If you did, the UK would have to double the number of staff in the Ballsbridge embassy to deal with thousands of applications every day and what would be the point?

Even if they allowed visa-free travel but required every Irish person to show his/her passport, that would require that they suddenly hire dozens of extra staff in Luton and Stanstead airports.

Won't happen.

To us that makes perfect sense.... Just a shame brexit is such a cluster fck that have to wonder these things.

I'm hopeful it will go fine without issue like you say, I just wanted to ask anyway just incase I miss anything !

Cheers again !

bigar · 18-08-2019 4:17pm

I would say what applies to everything concerning what could happen after Brexit: no one really knows.

As for what the car rental is concerned, I would recommend going direct through one of the major players (Hertz, National, Alamo, Avis,...) as they will let you choose which car you want from a certain class. This is not always the case when going through a third party.

Last time I was in LA, I used Alamo and could take my pick out of 20+ cars.

shovel · 03-11-2019 9:40pm

Hi.
I've been to london a few times over the years and stayed with relations .
This trip, the relations are not an option so I'm asking for recommendations on where to stay in london on a budget.
Just myself and my teenage son ("he wants to look around").
We're flying into stansted.
Based on the ground connections from stansted,what area of london would you suggest to stay
TIA

anne burnell · 03-11-2019 10:03pm

We stayed in a premier inn at tower bridge and it was super . Very central and convenient to everywhere . Great location and good price

Padraig Mor · 04-11-2019 2:00pm

shovel wrote: »

Hi.
I've been to london a few times over the years and stayed with relations .
This trip, the relations are not an option so I'm asking for recommendations on where to stay in london on a budget.
Just myself and my teenage son ("he wants to look around").
We're flying into stansted.
Based on the ground connections from stansted,what area of london would you suggest to stay
TIA

Based on personal experience I'd suggest Tottenham Hale (Premier Inn) or Stratford (Premier Inn, Travelodge, or Holiday Inn Express).

Prominent_Dawg · 11-11-2019 1:17pm

Sorry to sound snobby but why is it that all hotels in all the main cities outside London look like inner Dublin council flats, how on earth can people justify to stay in them

Trampas · 18-11-2019 5:21pm

Anyone recommend hotel or apartment for 2 weekend nights for family of 4. 2 kids under 5 so prefer an apartment if possible so not in bed at 8pm reading a book because can’t turn on a tv.

Be heading from Heathrow, Gatwick or city.

Don’t mind paying 200 odd a night if place is worth it. Location as central a possible as seems less wouldn’t get me much

Thanks

anne burnell · 18-11-2019 11:10pm

Check out premier inn at tower bridge

endabob1 · 19-11-2019 4:42pm

Trampas wrote: »

Anyone recommend hotel or apartment for 2 weekend nights for family of 4. 2 kids under 5 so prefer an apartment if possible so not in bed at 8pm reading a book because can’t turn on a tv.

Be heading from Heathrow, Gatwick or city.

Don’t mind paying 200 odd a night if place is worth it. Location as central a possible as seems less wouldn’t get me much

Thanks

If you are after an apartment I would have a look at Airbnb

whomitconcerns · 20-11-2019 8:32am

Trampas wrote: »

Anyone recommend hotel or apartment for 2 weekend nights for family of 4. 2 kids under 5 so prefer an apartment if possible so not in bed at 8pm reading a book because can’t turn on a tv.

Be heading from Heathrow, Gatwick or city.

Don’t mind paying 200 odd a night if place is worth it. Location as central a possible as seems less wouldn’t get me much

Thanks

Those 3 airports are quite far apart and the transport options differ, so depends on which you are using. City by far the easiest (and most expensive usually)

niallo32 · 21-11-2019 11:18am

I have to fly to Tirana (Albania) via Gatwick.

EI flight land in the South Terminal @ 12.20pm

BA flight due to leave from the South Terminal @ 13.30pm

Is it too tight or do I just walk from one gate to another? It's on a Sunday lunchtime. Hand luggage only

Cheers..

Tenzor07 · 21-11-2019 11:33am

There's usually some sort of delay coming into busy Gatwick airspace, so assuming your flight lands on time, i'd let the cabin crew know you have to run for another flight and see if you can disembark first...however, you'll still have to wait for the Bus to take you to the terminal, then exit, cross the landside terminal and back in through security and out to the gates, which could be at the end of the pier..

All in less than 1 hour as the flight is leaving at 1.30pm, so boarding would close around 12.50pm..

Del2005 · 21-11-2019 11:38am

niallo32 wrote: »

I have to fly to Tirana (Albania) via Gatwick.

EI flight land in the South Terminal @ 12.20pm

BA flight due to leave from the South Terminal @ 13.30pm

Is it too tight or do I just walk from one gate to another? It's on a Sunday lunchtime. Hand luggage only

Cheers..

Did you book the flight directly with 1 airline or did you book the flights separately? If it's the first the airline should know how long to get from gate to gate and if you don't make the 2nd flight will have to get you on the next flight. If you booked separately then it's seems very tight.

niallo32 · 21-11-2019 11:43am

Haven't booked yet but was looking at Aerlingus from Dublin (for the tier points) and BA to Tirana.

Wasn't sure if they used an airbridge or a bus, think I'll take the earlier flight from Dublin to be sure

Thanks..

un5byh7sqpd2x0 · 21-11-2019 11:47am

Tenzor07 wrote: »

There's usually some sort of delay coming into busy Gatwick airspace, so assuming your flight lands on time, i'd let the cabin crew know you have to run for another flight and see if you can disembark first...however, you'll still have to wait for the Bus to take you to the terminal, then exit, cross the landside terminal and back in through security and out to the gates, which could be at the end of the pier..

All in less than 1 hour as the flight is leaving at 1.30pm, so boarding would close around 12.50pm..

Is there no transfer zone in Gatwick? Boarding won't even have opened at 12:50 not to mind closed... Are you mad?

ted1 · 21-11-2019 11:55am

niallo32 wrote: »

Haven't booked yet but was looking at Aerlingus from Dublin (for the tier points) and BA to Tirana.

Wasn't sure if they used an airbridge or a bus, think I'll take the earlier flight from Dublin to be sure

Thanks..

Book it all on the one ticket. If you miss your flight they’ll need to sort you out with an alternative.

They may also have someone there to meet you and rush you through.

Padraig Mor · 21-11-2019 11:57am

Tenzor07 wrote: »

There's usually some sort of delay coming into busy Gatwick airspace, so assuming your flight lands on time, i'd let the cabin crew know you have to run for another flight and see if you can disembark first...however, you'll still have to wait for the Bus to take you to the terminal, then exit, cross the landside terminal and back in through security and out to the gates, which could be at the end of the pier..

All in less than 1 hour as the flight is leaving at 1.30pm, so boarding would close around 12.50pm..

No bus for Ireland arrivals at Gatwick anymore. If the OP sits up front they could be through pretty quick.

First Up · 21-11-2019 12:04pm

niallo32 wrote:

Haven't booked yet but was looking at Aerlingus from Dublin (for the tier points) and BA to Tirana.

I use Turkish Airlines through Istanbul for all my flights to the Western Balkans. I wouldn't risk LGW for the sake of a few airmiles

Tenzor07 · 21-11-2019 12:34pm

Dogg Munde wrote: »

Is there no transfer zone in Gatwick? Boarding won't even have opened at 12:50 not to mind closed... Are you mad?

Not that i've noticed..

Gate normally closes 30 mins before departure, so 1pm.

niallo32 · 21-11-2019 6:24pm

First Up wrote: »

I use Turkish Airlines through Istanbul for all my flights to the Western Balkans. I wouldn't risk LGW for the sake of a few airmiles

I used to do the same but missed a connection home with a late incoming flight from Belgrade. Spent a few hours in Istanbul getting messed around and haven't been back (that was flying Business, would hate to see economy)

First Up · 21-11-2019 6:43pm

niallo32 wrote:

I used to do the same but missed a connection home with a late incoming flight from Belgrade. Spent a few hours in Istanbul getting messed around and haven't been back (that was flying Business, would hate to see economy)

That can happen anywhere I suppose. Istanbul is usually great for tight connections - I've made some in under 30 minutes (suitcase too!)

If both your flights were with Turkish, I assume they put you up in the airside hotel which is very handy. The Turkish lounge is great too (I assume the new airport is as good!)

There was a time when Malev through Budapest was the way to go for anywhere in the region but no more alas.

niallo32 · 21-11-2019 7:58pm

First Up wrote: »

That can happen anywhere I suppose. Istanbul is usually great for tight connections - I've made some in under 30 minutes (suitcase too!)

If both your flights were with Turkish, I assume they put you up in the airside hotel which is very handy. The Turkish lounge is great too (I assume the new airport is as good!)

There was a time when Malev through Budapest was the way to go for anywhere in the region but no more alas.

Missed flight and the security situation just took if off my radar. I took plenty of flights with tight connections, in one door, up the stairs and at new gate in five minutes. The multi floor lounge was great too.

Will look at Turkish again.

whomitconcerns · 22-11-2019 8:47am

niallo32 wrote: »

Missed flight and the security situation just took if off my radar. I took plenty of flights with tight connections, in one door, up the stairs and at new gate in five minutes. The multi floor lounge was great too.

Will look at Turkish again.

You land domestic arrivals in Gatwick no where to go to transfer so upstairs and through security. Could be fine but book on one ticket to be sure

Marcusm · 22-11-2019 11:54am

anne burnell wrote: »

Check out premier inn at tower bridge

There’s a new one at Borough High Street too which is even handier for many locations and for transport options.

shrapnel222 · 22-11-2019 12:30pm

there's one in kings cross as well which is incredibly handy for London, and it's a great area (granary square and coal drop yard) for food, drinks, a wander

Muahahaha · 19-12-2019 5:40pm

Off to London in a few weeks and looking for things to do outside the usuals which I've already done. Any suggestions or recommendations? Was thinking of a boat trip down the Thames or along those lines.

Also any good sites for discounts in London, is Groupon still the main one or something else?

ancapailldorcha · 19-12-2019 5:41pm

You could get the boat to Greenwich park, see the Royal Observatory finish with a meal and a film at the O2.

shrapnel222 · 20-12-2019 10:47am

Muahahaha wrote: »

Off to London in a few weeks and looking for things to do outside the usuals which I've already done. Any suggestions or recommendations? Was thinking of a boat trip down the Thames or along those lines.

Also any good sites for discounts in London, is Groupon still the main one or something else?

You can take the boat from richmond all the way out to hampton court (Takes about 2 hours). if it's nice weather it's a lovely day out, and hampton court is stunning

Fogmatic · 21-12-2019 1:13pm

The Barbican Centre is a favourite of mine; exhibitions, music performances in all genres, open days in the big conservatory, with teas available (tropical plants - nice and warm!); interesting, rarely-shown old movies in the friendly little cinema, etc. Very pleasant place to wander round, nice atmosphere. (The foyer there is my favourite when I'm in the area and in need of refreshments).

BowWow · 09-01-2020 9:10pm

Visiting London in a few weeks, years since there, some questions...

Use AIB Debit card or get a Revolut card?
Is AIB Debit Card "free" on contactless for London transport?

Thanks..

Tenzor07 · 11-01-2020 5:22pm

BowWow wrote: »

Visiting London in a few weeks, years since there, some questions...

Use AIB Debit card or get a Revolut card?
Is AIB Debit Card "free" on contactless for London transport?

Thanks..

Always used my AIB debit card on the Bus, tube and ferries without issues, it's only EUR to Sterling so you're not gonna get hammered with charges.

I'd only get a revolut card for international travel.

jackboy · 10-02-2020 10:10pm

Heading to a spurs match in April and plan to overnight around London Fields. Looking for hotel and pub recommendations.

Hotel needs to be reasonably cheap and close to nightlife.

Pub should have a good choice of beers, relaxed with no loud music.

grayzer75 · 11-02-2020 4:09pm

jackboy wrote: »

Heading to a spurs match in April and plan to overnight around London Fields. Looking for hotel and pub recommendations.

Hotel needs to be reasonably cheap and close to nightlife.

Pub should have a good choice of beers, relaxed with no loud music.

You could try the Craft Beer Co. in Covent Garden.

dragona · 11-02-2020 5:22pm

I had a trip booked, and return ticket from Luton on the 10th March.Last flight to Dublin .Have had a bot of a health scare and need to attend an appointment on the 9th so a bit stupid I know but was panicking, I just bought another ticket. Which leaves a ticket spare and probably would have cost more to change the flight than to buy a new one, What can I do woth it, nothing I suppose, just am annoyed that they are getting my dosh twice

All you have to do is pay the name change, but I didn't think about it at the time.
if anyone wants it, pm me

Johnny Sausage · 12-02-2020 8:48am

A flight from Luton on the 10th March is €5.87 on ryanair at the moment

a name change is about 100e or so?

dragona · 16-02-2020 6:23pm

Johnny Sausage wrote: »

A flight from Luton on the 10th March is €5.87 on ryanair at the moment

a name change is about 100e or so?

It's 35 euro. I paid for the last flight including priority and the two bags. I'm not using it, if someone wants it and wants to saves a tenner, they are welcome to it.

Jimbob1977 · 04-03-2020 12:32pm

Hi all,

I've been seeking an answer online, but I can't find the precise solution.

I'm going to London next week.

One journey will require three legs:

1. Heathrow Connect from T5 to Heathrow Central (T2/T3)

2. TFL Rail from Heathrow Central to Ealing Broadway.

3. Tube from Ealing Broadway to North Acton.

I have an Oyster card from years ago and I know that all methods of transport mention above will accept them.

My question is - how many times should I be tapping... and when?

If I exit the Underground through a swipe barrier, am I required to tag onto the TFL Rail?

What if there's no physical barriers between modes of transport and I can stroll from train to train?

Any help would be greatly appreciated. I want to avoid penalty fares for missed tagging.

Johnny Sausage · 04-03-2020 12:37pm

Jimbob1977 wrote: »

Hi all,

I've been seeking an answer online, but I can't find the precise solution.

I'm going to London next week.

One journey will require three legs:

1. Heathrow Connect from T5 to Heathrow Central (T2/T3)

2. TFL Rail from Heathrow Central to Ealing Broadway.

3. Tube from Ealing Broadway to North Acton.

I have an Oyster card from years ago and I know that all methods of transport mention above will accept them.

My question is - how many times should I be tapping... and when?

If I exit the Underground through a swipe barrier, am I required to tag onto the TFL Rail?

What if there's no physical barriers between modes of transport and I can stroll from train to train?

Any help would be greatly appreciated. I want to avoid penalty fares for missed tagging.

just tap where required, there is a daily cap on costs, shouldnt cost much on the tube with oyster

in some instances its cheaper to use a revolut or other contactless card rather than Oytser (irish banks may charge for the coversion thought)

Heathrow to North Acton

Jimbob1977 · 04-03-2020 12:41pm

Johnny Sausage wrote: »

just tap where required, there is a daily cap on costs, shouldnt cost much on the tube with oyster

in some instances its cheaper to use a revolut or other contactless card rather than Oytser (irish banks may charge for the coversion thought)

Heathrow to North Acton

Thanks!

If there is no physical barrier on the second leg, but there is a tapping device beside its platform.... should I tap again or just hop on?

Johnny Sausage · 04-03-2020 12:50pm

Jimbob1977 wrote: »

Thanks!

If there is no physical barrier on the second leg, but there is a tapping device beside its platform.... should I tap again or just hop on?

i always just tap when starting and ending the journey unless its required to do so for changing lines etc.

its 4 times cheaper to go via tube insted of TFL rail, takes 8 minutes longer

ted1 · 04-03-2020 12:58pm

They use debit cards, no need for the Oyster card. Just tap when you get to a turnstile

Johnny Sausage · 04-03-2020 1:00pm

ted1 wrote: »

They use debit cards, no need for the Oyster card. Just tap when you get to a turnstile

yeah but an irish debit card can work out more expensive wiht non euro fees

Our Greater London Megathread

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