London Pass: What It Is and How It Saves You Money on Attractions

When you’re visiting London, the London Pass, a prepaid sightseeing pass that grants entry to dozens of top attractions and includes unlimited public transport. Also known as a London tourist card, it’s designed for travelers who want to see more without paying full price at every door. This isn’t just a discount card—it’s a time-saver, a line-skipping tool, and a way to plan your days without constantly checking prices.

The London Pass works with major sites like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and the London Eye. It also includes access to the DLR, London’s automated light rail system that connects key areas like Canary Wharf and Greenwich, plus the Tube, buses, and Overground. That means you’re not just saving on entry fees—you’re saving on transport too. If you’re planning to visit three or more paid attractions in a day, the pass usually pays for itself. And if you’re traveling with kids or staying multiple days, the savings grow fast.

But it’s not just about the big names. The pass unlocks hidden gems too—like the Churchill War Rooms, the Postal Museum, and even guided walking tours. You get entry to places you might skip because the price feels steep, but with the pass, it’s already covered. It’s especially useful if you’re not sure what you want to do each day—you can just grab the pass, pick a spot from the list, and go. No need to book ahead for most attractions, and many let you walk right in.

Some travelers think the London Pass is only for tourists who rush from one landmark to the next. But it’s just as useful for people who want to explore deeper. Want to spend an afternoon at the Victoria and Albert Museum, then catch a riverboat to Greenwich? The pass covers both. Looking for a quiet morning at the National Portrait Gallery before hitting Harrods for lunch? Covered. The real value isn’t just in the price—it’s in the freedom to move without thinking about cost every step of the way.

There’s no magic trick to using it right. Buy it online, pick your days, activate it when you start using it, and keep it handy. Don’t overbook yourself—pick a few key spots per day and leave room to wander. The best days are the ones where you stumble into something unexpected, like Neal’s Yard or a hidden bar in Soho, and you didn’t have to pay for it at all.

Below, you’ll find real guides from people who’ve used the pass—what they loved, what they skipped, and how they made it work on a budget. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, these posts will help you decide if the London Pass fits your trip… and how to get the most out of it.