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Accessible public transport

Getting around by public transport can sometimes present some difficulties for people who are wheelchair users or who have limited mobility. However, the accessibility of public transport in London has improved greatly in recent years.

The Transport for London website offers an accessibility guide.

All London buses are low-floor buses, which means their suspension can be lowered to pavement level to create level access for wheelchair users, people with buggies and pushchairs, people with assistance dogs, and people with mobility impairments. The new Routemaster bus is also fully accessible.

All London buses are fitted with wheelchair ramps, and have a designated space for one wheelchair.

All London buses have priority seats, situated at the front of the bus, which are intended for the use of people with disabilities, older people, pregnant women, and those carrying young children.

Mobility scooters on London buses

Go to our page on Mobility Scooters to find out more.

Unfortunately not all Tube stations have step-free access, but London Underground has 84 stations which are step-free from street to platform.

You will see these indicated by a blue wheelchair on a white background on the Tube map.

Some stations are also step-free from street to train - these are shown by a white wheelchair on a blue background on Tube maps.

You can download a Step-Free Tube Guide to help you find stations with step-free access.

An audio guide to the Tube, DLR and London Overground is also available.

You can always ask a member of staff to help you get to the platform. All staff have regular training on how to assist passengers with mobility problems, including those with visual impairments, and will help as far as it is safe to do so.

All Tube trains have priority seats, situated near the doors, which are intended for the use of people with disabilities, older people, pregnant women, and those carrying young children.

All car parks at Transport for London stations have free spaces for Blue Badge and other parking badge holders.

If you need help buying a ticket, you can get help from a member of Transport for London staff. 

Each station has at least one ticket machine with lower buttons and coin and card slots for wheelchair users. All Transport for London ticket offices have induction loops, which you can use by switching your hearing aid to the T position.

Train operating companies can usually arrange for staff to meet you at your departure station, accompany you to the train and see you safely on board. Similar arrangements can be made at your destination station and other stations if you need to change trains. Ramps can be provided to help people using wheelchairs to get on and off trains easily.

You will need to contact the train company that operates the stations you are travelling from and to.

The National Rail website provides detailed information about rail services and train companies in London, covering routes, timetables, fares and accessibility information for stations and trains.

This is a TFL scheme for those who find it difficult to stand when using public transport. The badge and accompanying card removes the awkwardness of customers who struggle to get a seat to explain their need for a seat to others.

These are now available through the TFL website, or by calling 0343 222 1234.

Go to our page on Toilet Facilities to find out more.

Last updated: 14/07/2021
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