London Pass
 

I am getting a London Pass. Was anyone, who has used one, disappointed in some of the "free" admissions; i.e., they weren't really free or a hassle, etc? Likewise, were any of the "free" admissions a real positive surprise. Any tips would be appreciated. Thanks

If you're talking about the "London for Less" pass that comes with a good guidebook and map, it's handy if it's your first time in London (because the book--with a nice vinyl jacket--and map are good. DON'T sign the pass until you arrive at the first location at which you wish to use it. It's active for two weeks from that date. Small potatoes on discounts to attractions (I think 1 lb off the Tower of London, same at Madame Toussaud's), but we got our money back when we ate at a few of the restaurants that offer 50% off. (None are fine dining, mind you, but the Bella Pasta chain has consistently decent--for the price-- Italian fare, great bread and a nice young staff. Sometimes you just want a meal, not an experience). <BR>Again, if it's your first time there, I'd spring for the $29.95 (or whatever it is now). Not a bad deal.

There is a new edition of London for Less that was just published June 2001. I got it from Amazon for about $16. We leave for London next week, so I don't know yet how useful it will be.

Dennis, <BR>My daughter and I just returned from London. We had purchased the London Pass, along with the travel card. We kept track of what it would have cost us without the pass and travel card. We more than got our money's worth, in addition, at the Tower, Windsor, and several other places we did not have to stand in the long lines but went right in. The only things that were not free were the audio players for the tours (which we had not expected to be free anyway). We utilized the bus tour and the river cruise also. We felt like we more than got our money's worth and have no problem recommending the London Pass.

Where would you buy the London pass? Can you buy in London or do you have to buy before you leave?

There have been extensive postings regarding the London Pass, Vistor Travel Card, etc. outlining the pros and cons of each. Suggest you use the search function which will bring them all up for you.

Two weeks ago we purchased our London Passes at the Tourist Information Center in Victoria Station. Only disappointment was that it didn't get us in Westmister Abbey (it does get you in to the Westminster Abbey Chapter House, next door). This was spelled out in the liturature, we just didn't read it closely enough. In the end, we saved a few pounds using the Card, but not having to wait in lines (especially at London Tower) was the real value to us.