Myself and teenage son first trip to London, mobility issues, advice needed

[Notspeaking9363]

Myself and 14 year old son are going to London for 4 nights/5 days in aug. Train is booked to euston and we sre staying at a budget hotel near to Tower Bridge.
Want to see all the usual attractions but we have a few issues id like advice on. I have put together a rough itinerary using chat gpt to group the activities together each day depending on location.
I have mobility issues, back and leg pain. I cannot walk long distance and need to sit and rest every 10 mins or so. It's going to be tough for me but I will push myself for my son.
We both suffer from anxiety/claustrophobia and dont really want to use the tube. Due to my pain I dont really want to stand for buses either. Will we be ok using uber to get around the different locations ? 2 day there and back from the hotel?
Second issue is what do we do during the evenings? I would like to experience London at night but think we will feel abit vulnerable, especially getting back to the hotel at night. Any tips or advice for this?
Really looking forward to it, going to put lots of effort into planning it to make it work for our specific needs

Use black cabs to trave or uber.

The buses are also fine and if you’re travelling out of rush hour they will be fine. Advice takings walking stick maybe a then people can see your struggle and will give you a seat

In many museums you can hire mobility scooters. Look in advance as might have to pre book.

Out in evening fine. You will be going from place to hotel via taxi so no issue.

Maybe book a theatre show one evening. Inamo is fun to eat at one evening also. Pre book everything as things fill up and you don’t want to have to walk more finding alternatives

Your trip sounds amazing, and it’s great to see you planning ahead to make it enjoyable for both of you! London is absolutely doable even with mobility and anxiety challenges, and it seems like you’re already off to a great start with your plans.
For transport, Uber is a reliable option and widely used. It spares you the hassle of waiting for buses or navigating the Tube, which can be overwhelming even for those without claustrophobia. Just keep in mind that traffic in Central London can get heavy, especially during peak hours (4–7 pm), so plan for some extra time or shorter outings.
Consider using Uber Access (wheelchair-accessible vehicles, which are more comfortable even if you don’t use a wheelchair) or traditional black cabs, known for their helpful drivers experienced with mobility issues. Black cabs can be flagged down or booked in advance, and many attractions have nearby taxi ranks.
Build in plenty of rest stops—cafes, quiet gardens, or museums with seating are perfect for taking breaks. Spots like the Southbank, Covent Garden, and areas around St James’s Park or Buckingham Palace offer seating to relax and enjoy the atmosphere without feeling rushed.
Check if the attractions you plan to visit offer mobility aids or access passes. Many major sites, like the Tower of London and museums, provide free carer tickets and seating options.
London evenings are magical, and there are plenty of relaxed ways to enjoy them. Consider a Thames river cruise at sunset or after dark for seated views, the Sky Garden (free with advance booking) for stunning vistas and a calming vibe, or a cozy dinner near your hotel in areas like Tower Bridge or St Katharine Docks. You’ll feel less stressed about getting back.
You could also consider a drive around the illuminated sights in an Uber or taxi, enjoying London at night from the comfort of a car.
If you’re concerned about returning late, try heading out around 7 or 8 pm and aim to be back by 9:30 or 10. London tends to quiet down outside the party areas. For added peace of mind, you might let the hotel reception know your plans each evening and ask them to expect you back by a certain time.
You’re clearly a thoughtful mum putting so much effort into this – your son will cherish the experience, even if you don’t manage everything on the list. London has plenty to offer and can adapt to your needs.

Wow thanks ChatGPT! 🙄

Don't you think you're being a bit too rude? I was only trying to share my ideas to help the OP. Why not try to offer something better instead?

Outside of peak hours buses are fine, look at the river boats too (uber but part of the transport system so you tap on and off with debit cards). At night use uber to your hotel. Its pretty safe so don’t worry about being out at night, just the normal keep belongings close etc advice like anywhere else. Remember that the circle line and district lines are not deep underground, just steps so may be an option, no escalator etc.

Outside of peak hours buses are fine, look at the river boats too (uber but part of the transport system so you tap on and off with debit cards). At night use uber to your hotel. Its pretty safe so don’t worry about being out at night, just the normal keep belongings close etc advice like anywhere else. Remember that the circle line and district lines are not deep underground, just steps so may be an option, no escalator etc.

Outside of peak hours buses are fine, look at the river boats too (uber but part of the transport system so you tap on and off with debit cards). At night use uber to your hotel. Its pretty safe so don’t worry about being out at night, just the normal keep belongings close etc advice like anywhere else. Remember that the circle line and district lines are not deep underground, just steps so may be an option, no escalator etc.

London is very safe at night in central areas.
Uber is great but often same price as black cabs, most bus stops have a bench type thing to perk on.
Around London bridge, in the evening you can walk through borough market...lots of restaurants and bars, along south bank..lots going on for summer.
Or over tower bridge and st Katherine's docks are pretty ..lots of great food places.
All very safe .
On Southbank you can see free open air cinema go to BFI and see all archived TV shows for free.
There are free open air cinema at kings cross too.
Lots of fun stuff

ChatGPT is right about evening boat rides though. They’re fabulous, although sunset might be a bit late depending on how tired you get.

Don't discount the DLR. Apart from Bank at one end, it's all above ground, very modern access-friendly stations, great views and goes to some interesting places.

Black cabs can be tricky to get. I use a wheelchair and go to London regularly. I’ve never managed to get the hang of buses but Ubers are usually quick and easy to get, if not overly cheap.

if you have a wheelchair you can get big Ubers that take wheelchairs.

Hi OP, I live in London and have mobility problems. Overall whilst it is a tiring city it is pretty accessible. Many of the attractions are very used to supporting visitors with access issues and usually have information on their websites about how to access them and I'd they have wheelchairs/mobility scooters to borrow. You might need to book them in advance but not always.

TfL have lots of advice about getting round London if you have mobility problems. You can also get a "Please offer me a seat" badge if you find it difficult to ask directly. Most people are very good and will offer a seat without being asked if they see you need one.
https://tfl.gov.uk/transport-accessibility/please-offer-me-a-seat

Like Greenwich - and you could do DLR one way & boat the other.

If you're avoiding the tube (fair enough), the Elizabeth line might be a possibility outside of rush hour. It still goes underground, but the trains are larger and air conditioned.

Not knowing your itinery, I'd recommend caution with trying to see too much. I've lived here for 25+ years, and London is still a bloody tiring place as a tourist. All the museums and galleries involve a lot of walking around - somehow I find the 'museum amble' more tiring than a good brisk walk.

Londoners may seem standoffish, but they will help you - but you may have to ask. I had a bad knee a couple of years ago and had to walk with a stick for a while, and kept getting offered seats on the train/tube, and people offering to carry luggage.