Discover hidden stories, popular London landmarks new and old and free events happening throughout the city using your Smartphone. There are lots of amazing apps that can assist you to make the most out of any trip to the capital.
Savvy travellers can turn to apps for easy access of the places and events they wish to see and attend in London. Please be aware that using some apps may incur extra data charges; check your data allowance with your provider before downloading them, or get some of the useful apps using London’s many free Wi-Fi hot spots.
Here are some useful free apps to make your trip in London a little easier:
- London Official City Guide App
This amazing free app available on iPhone and Android is extremely useful and helps you utilise your time in London, providing full offline access to maps and guides, including transit information. It also offers tips to find top attractions, restaurants and weather information, all without any extra roaming charges.
Details: Free, iOS, Android
- Citymapper
Even if you have access to Google Maps on your phone, Citymapper is useful if you want to master London’s comprehensive and complex public transport networks. Just put in the address of your destination and the app will provide you an estimated time for walking, cycling, taxi or using public transportation to reach the spot. Also, it gives “rain safe” options, which is really helpful in a city that sees a lot of rain. Further, it keeps you updated on travel disruptions and closures.
Details: Free, iOS, Android
- Santander Cycles (a.k.a. “Boris Bikes”)
The self-service cycle scheme was rebranded to Santander Cycles but is known to Londoners as “Boris Bikes”. This official app is designed to help you find the nearest docking station in your area with available bikes. Further, once you are done with your ride, the app will help you find an empty bay available to ditch your wheels.
Details: Free, iOS, Android
- National Trust
Eager to go out on a day trip, away from the hustle and bustle of city life? National Trust app can help you find the ideal place. The app has saved the names of historic interest or places rich in natural beauty in Wales, England, and Northern Ireland. This fantastic app features more than 400 beautiful properties and locations, from where you can search the place that you like. Also get an up-to-date calendar of current events taking place in the city. National Trust app can help you find those hidden treasures, which might be missing in a tour guide book.
Details: Free, iOS, Android
- YPlan
If you want to get the last minute deals and ideas, download the Yplan app. The app is smartly designed to offer all information in detail – whether you’re looking for a comedy club, a late night museum, West End musicals or a secret supper club. Yplan keeps you updated on what’s happening in the city. You can apply filters for specific information like price, event type, and view in a list, or use the map function, as per your convenience. Apart from all these, the useful app hosts flash sales with discounted tickets.
Details: Free, iOS, Android
The above mentioned apps try to prevent many pitfalls or simply make life on the road easy and more convenient.
About the Author:
I am Krishna, I like to meet new people, explore new places and share my experiences. Travelling intrigues and rejuvenates me. I am currently working as a blogger for thesqua.re, a community for travelers specifically dealing in major cities such as London, Paris and New York.