Why You Should Skip the Tube and Try London Buses
I knew the Brits liked queuing, but even in tourist-heavy London, queuing for the red double-decker buses was a pleasant surprise.
Instead of my usual Tube rides, I decided to explore the city by bus.
What a difference! At each stop, people stood in surprisingly neat lines—despite the mix of tourists and locals—waiting patiently for their turn to get on. No pushing, no shoving, just calm and polite faces.
When the bus arrived, everyone moved in an orderly way. As if they had rehearsed it beforehand.
And the best part: people actually gave up their seats for others. If someone elderly or with children came on, someone would immediately stand and offer their spot with a smile.
It was like stepping into another world, where kindness and respect were part of the daily commute.
So, next time you’re in London, skip the Tube for a day and experience the magic of British queuing on the buses.
Hi!
I was in London last year in October, for the first time alone, without students, family or friends.
For the first time as well, I took busses. I enjoyed that a lot for you can see many sights and parts of the town you never see only taking the tube.
I had a wonderful, fascinating time in London. So I recommend to take a bus wherever possible in London.
Hi Gabi,
Lovely to hear from you.
It was my daughter’s idea to take the buses, and I really enjoyed it. As you say, you miss so much when you only use the Tube.
Yes, London is a fascinating city—well-worth visiting!