4khansen

First trip to Europe and trying to figure out whether we can catch the train (Picadilly Line I think?) to Holborn station as we are staying at the Renaissance Chancery Court. It doesn't look like we would need to transfer to another form of transportation as the hotel is only 2 minutes from the Holborn station?

It looks like it is about a 1 1/4 hour train ride? Is this right? Also, can we use an Oyster card for this? and how much money would it take from the Oyster card? I assume we can go back to the airport the same way?

Thanks!

P_M

I can answer some of your questions. Yes you can take the tube and 1 1/4 hours sounds just about right. I've never used the Oyster card but I believe that is possible. (someone else will confirm this for you) As for going back the same way, make sure you get on a train that says "Heathrow Airport" on it because I don't think all trains on that line do. Also, what time is your flight home? I wanted to take the tube to Heathrow last year but my flight left at 8am and the tube would not have gotten me to LHR at the required checkin time of 6am.

4khansen

Thanks for the information....the flight would probably be in the midafternoon leaving from Heathrow...how much would the train cost for this trip?

janisj

You stop at the tube station at Heathrow, where you buy your Oyster card. Tell the agent how long you will be in London, and then he will tell you how much you should put on your Oyster. When you are talking to the ticket agent be sure to tell him you want to include the round trip extension for Heathrow.

The various options to load on your oyster can be pretty complicated - so instead of trying to figure it out - let the agent tell you how much you'll need. S/he won't cheat you - they know all the fare options.

PatrickLondon

Yes, the Renaissance Chancery Court is barely 100 yards from Holborn underground station. Take the exit marked for the British Museum and turn right.

4khansen

Thank you for your help on this....sounds like the Oyster card is the way to go? I assume this card can be used for various public transportation options throughout the city? or just within certain parameters?

PatrickLondon

Yes: it's a magnetic/electronic pre-payment card, and fares are deliberately set at levels to encourage people to use them. Whatever you do, don't pay cash for individual fares.

All about the options here:

http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tickets/oysteronline/2732.aspx

4khansen

Now this may be a stupid question but would a family of four use one card for a week long visit or 4 cards... one for each person? All are adults in this case.

JudyC

One card for each person.