Baby in London

[Cuddlesinthekitchen]

I have the unfortunate task of taking my 7 month old to London on Thursday for an appointment at GOSH.

We do not live there and therefore DS has never been to London. I plan on driving then using the tube but I was wondering whether DS will need ear defenders? I know sometimes I find the tube can be loud and has that awful nails on a blackboard noise at times but just wanted to know what those who live there do?

TIA

No, he'll be fine.

Used to live in London until a year ago. If its during the day in the week the tube is a lot quieter. Mornings like 7 8 am and weekends are the worst.

I think he will be fine. At that age they kinda like new environments and noises. The trains themselves aren't that loud. It's the hustle and bustle.

Just make sure you check the tube station has step free access if you plan to take a buggy.

Alternatively, go a bit earlier and grab a bus? London buses are great - every 5 to 10 minutes and your little one will get to see so much out the window.

I never used ear defenders.

I recommend a sling for the tube - much easier than wrestling a buggy and will keep your baby snuggly and content.

Not the noise that's the problem but the access, are you taking a pram? I used to use the bus 90% of the time at that age because navigating the Tube with pram + baby stuff was a bit hard going.

My understanding is that black drivers don’t charge for taking parents and children to GOSH . It’s why I always tip them. Much less hassle to use a cab anyway.

Babies tend to love the tube noises IME- sends them to sleep!
Definitely best off with a sling as per a PP but if you can't do that you'll be fine- there's literally always someone who will offer to help you carry the buggy up or down steps
Hope the appointment goes well.

@HerkyBaby reread your post 😅

No, you won't need ear defenders. If you see ear defenders in use it's probably that that child has sensory issues, one of my DC is one of them.

Agreed that you don’t need ear defenders BUT London is going to be absolutely rammed on Thursday due to the Queen lying in state. If you can drive and park close to GOSH, that might be better.

Thank you all,

I will probably be taking him in his carrier but he may need pram for naps. I’ve got a babyzen yoyo so I can easily carry this on my shoulder if I need to while DS chills in the sling.
Just not looking forward to how busy it may be with lots of people going to Buckingham Place and Westminster Hall.

Should have typed London Black Cab drivers. Thanks for the heads up .

@Porridgeislife
do you know of anywhere?
I would, in a pre baby life have driven to Stanmore/Canons Park and parked there then tube to central area. But of course everything is 10x harder with a small person in tow and another 10x harder, what with all the visitors to see the Queen lying in state.