Affordable Travel in London: TfL Freezes Bus and Tram Fares, Benefiting Tourists

Published on December 12, 2025

In a significant move to support both Londoners and tourists, Transport for London (TfL) has announced a freeze on bus and tram fares until July 2026, despite expected increases in Tube and rail fares. This decision, led by Mayor Sadiq Khan, is part of a broader strategy to cushion the impact of rising travel costs while continuing essential investments in London’s transport infrastructure. This announcement follows a multi-year funding deal with the government worth 2.2 billion GBP, which was agreed upon as part of the 2025 Spending Review.

As London recovers from the impacts of the pandemic, tourism in the city continues to rebound. The fare freeze, which will keep bus and tram fares unchanged, is aimed at supporting the cost-of-living for London residents and at encouraging continued tourist visits to the capital. With tube and rail fare increases expected to follow inflation plus one percent (RPI+1), this fare freeze comes as a welcome relief for those looking to explore the city on a budget.

Supporting London’s Tourism Sector

The fare freeze is expected to benefit tourists from both the UK and abroad who are eager to explore London’s attractions. Iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, and the London Eye remain some of the top draws for international travelers. By keeping bus and tram fares at current levels, TfL is making it easier for tourists to access these sites and enjoy more affordable travel across the city.

Public transport is a critical aspect of tourism in London, as it connects visitors to some of the city’s most popular districts and hidden gems. The buses and trams provide flexible and inexpensive travel options, making it easier for tourists to visit areas outside the typical tourist spots, such as Notting Hill, Camden Market, and Greenwich Park. With the fare freeze in place, tourists will have greater flexibility to explore more of what London has to offer, while also helping to sustain the city’s tourism industry.

Moreover, tourism professionals in the city can now promote affordable travel packages that include bus and tram services, ensuring that tourists get the best value for their time spent in London. The affordability of these options will also make it easier for visitors to extend their stays and discover more areas within London and its vibrant neighborhoods.

Impact on London’s Transport Accessibility

The Mayor’s decision to freeze bus and tram fares comes at a time when the cost-of-living crisis continues to impact residents and visitors alike. By reducing the burden of transport costs for both local commuters and tourists, TfL ensures that public transport remains an accessible and convenient option for everyone. Visitors to London can rest assured that their daily travel expenses will not increase, allowing them to focus more on sightseeing and less on rising transport costs.

This freeze, in conjunction with the government’s multi-year funding deal, allows TfL to invest in much-needed upgrades and enhancements to London’s transport network, including modernizing bus fleets and improving accessibility across the network. For tourists with mobility challenges or those traveling with families, the improvements in accessibility will make getting around London even easier, supporting a more inclusive tourism experience.

Impact on Tube and Rail Services

While bus and tram fares remain frozen, Tube and rail fares are set to rise, following the agreed increase of inflation plus one percent (RPI+1). While this increase is inevitable due to ongoing maintenance and upgrades to London’s Underground and overground systems, the fare freeze on buses and trams helps balance the impact for tourists who may rely more on buses for flexibility and cost-effective travel.

For tourists staying in central London, buses and trams are often the best option for exploring, as they offer routes that pass through multiple neighborhoods, allowing travelers to experience different parts of the city. The fare freeze is expected to ensure that tourists can continue to use these services with minimal impact on their travel budgets.

Encouraging Sustainable Tourism in London

TfL’s fare freeze also supports London’s efforts to promote sustainable tourism. By maintaining affordable transport options, the city encourages more tourists to use public transport instead of private vehicles, helping reduce traffic congestion and carbon emissions. This is particularly important as London aims to meet its sustainability goals and enhance its green credentials, appealing to eco-conscious travelers who prioritize sustainable travel options.

For tourism operators, the freeze offers an opportunity to market eco-friendly travel experiences in London. Tourists seeking a more sustainable way to explore the city can now do so with the added benefit of affordable, eco-conscious transport options. As London continues to embrace sustainable practices, it is positioning itself as a leader in green tourism in the UK and Europe.

Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond

As London’s tourism sector continues to recover, the fare freeze is expected to contribute to the city’s growth in tourism arrivals, ensuring that visitors from around the world can easily experience all that the capital has to offer without financial barriers. With the London 2026 Tourism Manifesto set to further boost global interest in the city, the investment in affordable public transport will play a key role in ensuring that the city remains one of the most visited destinations worldwide.

For tourists planning to visit London in 2026 and beyond, the affordability and accessibility of public transport will make the city even more attractive as a destination. As part of a broader plan to invest in sustainable tourism and transportation, this fare freeze highlights London’s commitment to welcoming tourists from all over the world.