A move to London can feel terrifying - especially if you're new to living in the UK. However, as complicated and overwhelming as the city can feel at times, you'll quickly learn so many things about the city that will make it feel like a second home.
Here are some of the things you'll realise about the UK capital in your first months of living here. Get a head start on settling in by learning them now!
10 things that make your move to London a little less scary..
The tube is your new best friend
London has some of the best public transport of any capital city, and the tube (what locals call the London Underground train network) is its crown jewel. The tube is a network of 11 train lines, all serving different routes and areas, and the Elizabeth line and London Overground run alongside it.
Switching between lines at a station is as simple as getting off one train and hopping on another, and if you haven't worked out how to read the colourful map yet then station staff or apps like Citymapper can help. Just grab your Oyster card, or a contactless credit or debit card, and head underground.
The weather can be pure chaos
London is famous for its rain, but that's only part of the story. Expect days with rain in the morning, blustering winds at lunch time, beautiful sunshine in the afternoon and rain again in the evening, and prepare accordingly. Carry a collapsible umbrella, sunglasses and a scarf in your bag at all times and you can't go wrong.
A move to London means learning to deal with Lime Bikes
As well as great public transport, you can also zip around the city on a rented scooter or eBike. Just be warned, many riders leave these scattered around the pavement and in people's way. Avoid annoying pedestrians by finding a proper bay to park yours when you're done - your fellow Londoners will thank you.
Sorting out your bills is complicated
Council Tax, energy, water, broadband, insurance and more - London is an expensive city to live in, and sorting out your bills can feel like a nightmare. Luckily, there's free, expert advice available from Please Connect Me who can get everything set up in one quick call.
There are plenty of free activities
London might be an expensive city, but there's also lots of incredible free things to enjoy. Many of London's best museums are free, including the world famous Natural History Museum, Science Museum and National Gallery. London's incredible parks are also free to visit, and are the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon.
Tipping isn't essential, but it is appreciated
The UK doesn't have the tipping culture of some other countries, but tips are still very much appreciated. Be sure to check your bill in a restaurant before you tip however - it's common for a 'service charge' of 10-15% to be automatically included in the total, and there's no need to tip on top of this.
There is free healthcare for all (but don't forget to register)
The NHS provides healthcare that's free at the point of use for people who are eligible, and it's an amazing part of life in the UK. Register with your local GP as soon as you arrive - you don't need to be unwell to do it.
If you're moving here on a visa, you'll usually have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your visa application before you travelled. It's worth checking on GOV.UK what that does and doesn't cover, as some services are charged for separately.
Different neighbourhoods, different vibes
From bohemian Notting Hill to punk rock Camden, vibrant Peckham to late-night Soho, every London neighbourhood has its own vibe. Explore as much as possible and find your favourite spots in the city.
You can recycle almost anything (but you need to know where)
London is a green city, both literally and in terms of protecting the environment. You can recycle almost everything in the city, but you need to know if it's something that can go in your kerbside recycling bins or taken to a larger collection point like a supermarket. Your local council's website will tell you what goes where - find yours on GOV.UK if you're not sure which borough you're in.
Embrace many new beginnings
Above all - don't be scared. Or rather, it's okay to be scared, but do it anyway! London is an incredible city that rewards exploration and experimentation. Try that cool looking local coffee shop, spend a Sunday wandering between street markets or grab tickets to that event you've never heard of. The best way to enjoy London is to make it your own.
Want more practical help before you arrive? Read the first 8 things to do when you're moving to London and the 7 biggest problems you'll face when moving to London.
