London travel for visitors.

[DeathMetalMum]

We have a trip to Harry Potter studios and London planned over Easter. Originally we were traveling down by train and staying near the shard.

Due to train strikes and engine work we are now staying in Watford, and will drive. We want to travel into London by train/tube on two days, and possibly get a bus or two to go past a couple of sights.

I've looked at TFL and completely confused. Dc are 10&12 so I can get an oyster card for 10 year old but not 12 year old? There's also mention of travelcards and day passes I think. Some they recommend you sort before arriving. Anyone have any suggestions on the best option.

Kids under 11 travel for free. They just have to go through the barriers with parents.

Any chance you can pretend 12 yo is 11.

As under 11s travel free they are set up to allow children through with parents at the tube stations.

In my experience the people on the gate are fairly flexible and will let through a 12 year old without any question.

If you want to play by the rules you need to get a standard Oyster and then have a child discount added to it - details in the young visitor discount section at https://tfl.gov.uk/fares/free-and-discounted-travel/11-15-zip-oyster-photocard?intcmp=55575#on-this-page-6

I would just take them both through the gate with you. It's not like they have ID to show to prove their age. You can pay for yourself by contactless - or easier, applepay or something similar, so you don't even need to get a card out.

You just use your contactless card (debit card, credit card etc) and use the access gates at the side and you all go through together.

No one needs an oyster.

Just check for the trains from Watford to London. Not all national rail in London do the free travel without a zip card.

London overground should be free for under 11s