Parliament Square is one of the most reputable locations in London. It is centrally located in Westminster and is bounded by other reputable buildings such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey. Many visitors are keen to find out how to get to Parliament Square in London without hassle.
This guide will show you every way possible to get to Parliament Square, whether you choose to take a method of public transport or to walk. Our aim is to make planning your trip as easy as possible.
Understanding Parliament Square Location
Parliament Square is in Westminster, central London. Its location makes this a very important point for tourists, political visitors, and locals. Being aware of the location helps you to work out the best way to arrive. The square is near Westminster Bridge, the River Thames, and more attractions. Once you are familiar with the area, getting to the best way to get to Parliament Square in London becomes simple.
Getting to Parliament Square by Tube
Closest Tube Stations
The Underground in London is one of the quickest ways to get to the square. The closest tube station, a very short distance away, is Westminster Station, literally right next to Parliament Square. Westminster tube station sits at the intersection of three lines: the Jubilee, the Circle, and the District. When you exit the station, you will immediately see Parliament Square.
Other Nearby Tube Stations
If Westminster Station is very busy, you can use St. James’s Park Station or Embankment Station, which are also just a short walk. Once you are at one of these, you will be able to easily follow the signs or a map to Westminster. The more options you have to get a quick journey to Parliament Square in London, the easier it is for you during busy times.
Getting to Parliament Square by Bus
If you want to travel to Parliament Square by bus, then buses are a great option if you want the opportunity to take in London on the way. They can also be a direct route to the parliament. Several bus routes stop close to the square, including bus routes 3, 11, 12, 24, 87, 88, 148, 159, and 453, including other bus routes traveling into central London to Westminster.
Where to get off?
Most of these buses stop very close to Parliament Square. You are going to want to look for buses that have a stop either called Westminster Station or Westminster Abbey, as a stop is usually close to both. If you deboard the bus at one of these points, you will both be close enough to walk and also not too far away that if you do have to leave the bus at the next stop, you can still get to Parliament Square.
Giving people options when learning how to get to Parliament Square in London is also affordable when traveling by bus.
Travel by Train
National Rail Stations
Trains are also available to visitors coming in from greater than central London. The closest main rail stations are Victoria Station, Charing Cross Station, and Waterloo Station. From any of these you will be able to walk, as well as be close enough to use a short bus or underground connection using these stations.
Walking from Train Stations
If you like to walk, Charing Cross and Waterloo train stations are about a 15- to 20-minute walk from Parliament Square. Walking is a great way to take in the sights of London as you travel to Westminster, and many travelers combine walking with other means of getting to fully enjoy getting to Parliament Square in London.
Using London Taxis or ride-hailing services
London’s black cabs are very iconic and very convenient. You basically tell the driver you want to go to Parliament Square. Most drivers will be familiar with the area and not need any more explanation. It is a direct route to get there as opposed to walking.
Uber, Bolt, and FreeNow operate all over London too. As with taxis, booking a ride on the app can take you straight to the square. This is an easy answer among the methods of how to get to Parliament Square in London if you want a private ride.
Walking to Parliament Square
If you are already doing some sightseeing in London, then walking is usually the best option. From Trafalgar Square it takes about 10 minutes. From Buckingham Palace it takes roughly 15 minutes, and both journeys will take you through some historical streets.
Why Walking is Ideal: Walking enables you to see and feel the ambience of Westminster. Walking also gives you the opportunity to stop to admire statues, memorials, and parks, among others. If you’re visiting somewhere in central London, walking is the easiest way to arrive at Parliament Square while also seeing some sights on the way.
Cycling to Parliament Square
Public bike hire is available in London, known by the brand name of Santander Cycles. You can hire a bike from docking stations throughout the city and cycle to Westminster. The docking stations are located near Parliament Square, so returning your bike is straightforward.
Cycling in central London is well supported with marked lanes for cycling. You should always adhere to road signs and safety precautions. For carbon-friendly travelers, cycling is a sustainable and healthy way of learning how to get to Parliament Square in London.
Driving to Parliament Square
Driving is an option, but probably not a good one in terms of traffic and parking. There are car parks around Westminster, but they may be expensive. You should check parking availability before you leave home or the office.
Also, remember that Parliament Square is part of London’s Congestion Charge zone. Drivers entering this area are subject to a daily charge. This puts off some drivers; unless you have a specific need, public transport is a better option than driving for many. If you prefer to use your own vehicle, this is one of the options available for getting to Parliament.
It is very easy to get to Parliament Square because of its central position and transport links. You can arrive at Parliament Square by a number of convenient means of transport: tube, bus, taxi, train, or even walking.
Knowing how you will arrive at Parliament Square in London will help visitors save time, travel with ease, and enjoy their visit without unnecessary confusion. Planning ensures you can make use of the most suitable transport option, which allows you the freedom to enjoy the history at Westminster when you arrive.
