Transport for London – your complete guide to the city’s mobility network

When talking about Transport for London, the public authority that runs buses, the underground, trams, river services and road schemes across the capital. Also known as TfL, it coordinates more than 5 million passenger journeys every day, making the city move smoothly despite its size.

One of TfL’s flagship services is the London Underground, the world’s oldest subway system. It stretches over 400 km, serves 270 stations and runs 24 hours on Fridays and Saturdays. Alongside the tube, the London Buses network operates around 700 routes, covering every neighbourhood and offering a lifeline for commuters, tourists and night‑shift workers alike. Both services share a common fare system, which simplifies travel across the whole city.

Paying for a ride has never been easier thanks to contactless payment, which includes Oyster cards, contactless bank cards and mobile wallets. The system records each journey in real time, applies daily caps automatically, and cuts queue times at stations. Because the payment method works on buses, the tube, the DLR and even river boats, passengers enjoy a seamless experience without juggling multiple tickets.

Another key piece of TfL’s puzzle is the Congestion Charge, a daily fee for driving within central London during peak hours. Introduced to reduce traffic, lower emissions and fund public transport upgrades, the charge pushes drivers toward greener options such as public transit, cycling or walking. The revenue directly supports service improvements on the underground and bus network, creating a virtuous loop between road pricing and better alternatives.

How TfL shapes daily travel and future growth

Beyond day‑to‑day operations, TfL runs a powerful Journey Planner that aggregates real‑time data from all modes, giving users accurate arrival times, crowding information and suggested routes. This tool helps riders make smarter choices, especially during disruptions or major events. TfL also backs the city’s sustainability goals by expanding electric bus fleets, installing more cycle‑hire stations, and exploring autonomous vehicle trials.

Looking ahead, the Crossrail (officially the Elizabeth line) exemplifies TfL’s long‑term vision. This new east‑west railway adds 73 km of track, links Heathrow to Abbey Wood and promises faster, higher‑capacity journeys for millions of users. Its integration with the existing tube and rail network illustrates how TfL continually layers new services on top of a solid foundation.

All of these elements—underground lines, bus routes, contactless fares, congestion pricing and upcoming projects—combine to create a transport ecosystem that keeps London moving. Below you’ll find a curated collection of articles that dive deeper into each topic, from the history of the tube to the impact of the congestion charge on city life. Ready to explore the details? Let’s see what insights await you in the posts that follow.