Getting to London, ON
Via Rail
If you’re travelling from Toronto to London, one of the most relaxing ways to start your journey is with a VIA Rail ride from Toronto’s Union Station. In just under 2.5 hours, you’ll be whisked past southern Ontario's countryside and arrive in the heart of London. VIA Rail trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and washrooms, making the journey both pleasant and convenient. Prices range from around $40 to $160, depending on how early you book and the class you choose. For those flying into Toronto Pearson International Airport, it’s possible to connect to VIA Rail through UP Express and Union Station.
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FlixBus
Looking for a more budget-friendly option? FlixBus is available. It serves Kitchener, Windsor, Toronto, Ottawa, Sarnia, Chatham, Mississauga, and more cities. From Toronto, the journey takes a minimum of 2 hours and 5 minutes, with most trips including just one stop along the way. With 17 departures per day, it’s simple to find a time that fits your schedule. To get the best fares, book early through the FlixBus website or FlixBus App, where your ticket is stored digitally for added convenience and sustainability.
If you need to travel to London from surrounding smaller communities outside Toronto, Middlesex County Connect is a valuable local transit service connecting rural Middlesex County municipalities to London and nearby urban centres such as Woodstock, Ingersoll, St. Thomas, and Southwold. The service operates three routes, providing vital transportation options for rural communities. Route 1 (Lucan, Ilderton, Arva, and London) and Route 2 (Woodstock, Ingersoll, Putnam, Dorchester, and London) run on weekdays only, while Route 3 (Dorchester, London, and St. Thomas) operates Monday through Saturday.
Riders must pay an exact fare of $5.00 using cash (no change given) or by credit/debit card on board. For students, a 30-day unlimited ride pass is available for $160 through the Blaise Transit app on Google Play and the Apple App Store, valid across all routes. To access the discounted fare, students must create a student profile in the app and show a valid student ID when boarding. The pass is non-refundable and becomes active upon purchase. For real-time updates on service changes or delays, riders can download the Blaise Transit app, visit the service alerts page, or call 1-888-465-0783 between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily. You can also sign up for E-Alerts to receive email notifications about route and stop changes.
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Accessibility
London Transit is designed with accessibility in mind. All LTC buses are low-floor models that include ramps and kneeling features for easier boarding. There are designated spaces for mobility devices such as wheelchairs and walkers. Audible stop announcements are made onboard to assist passengers who are blind or have low vision.
Access Bus
For those who need additional support, LTC’s Specialized Transit (Access Bus) is a shared ride, curb-to-curb service designed for individuals who, due to a disability, are unable to use conventional transit. This service must be booked in advance and operates within London city limits. While Specialized Transit provides an essential transportation option for those who need it, trips are not guaranteed, and the service operates under policies and procedures. Riders are encouraged to familiarize themselves with current guidelines to ensure a smooth and accessible transit experience.
Bringing Bikes on Public Transit
London makes it easy to combine cycling with public transit. All LTC buses are equipped with front-mounted bike racks, allowing riders to bring their bikes along for convenient multimodal trips around the city. Riders can also bring a bike on the FlixBus in certain situations, click here for details. Additionally, folding bicycles are permitted on VIA Rail trains for a fee, offering flexibility for longer-distance travel.
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Art Accessible via Public Transit
Public transit in London isn’t just about getting from A to B, it’s also a chance to experience the city’s creative side. Local artists have transformed transit-adjacent spaces into vibrant galleries that reflect London’s identity and values.
Don’t miss:
- Market Lane Mural Corridor
- How to get there: Served by many downtown LTC bus routes, including Route 2, 4, 6, 13, and 90.
- Tucked between Dundas Place and Covent Garden Market, Market Lane has been transformed from a simple alleyway into a vibrant outdoor art gallery. Downtown London installed large-scale murals that feature trees and birds, paying tribute to the city's nickname, The Forest City. Completed in fall 2020, the Market Lane Murals, titled Forest City Playground, were created by local artists Stephanie Boutari, Hawlii Pichette, and Meaghan Claire Kehoe. These stunning works of art have turned once-blank walls into an inspiring visual experience and are a must-see for anyone visiting the downtown core
- Museum London (421 Ridout St N)
- How to get there: Take any LTC bus that stops near King Street or Queens Avenue, then walk a few minutes to Ridout Street.
- Museum London is the city’s leading establishment for art and regional history. It houses more than 5,000 works of art and 45,000 artifacts, with a strong focus on Southwestern Ontario artists. The gallery regularly features thought-provoking exhibitions, artist talks, and community events. Its location by the Thames River also makes it perfect for a scenic walk before or after your visit.
- The Art Exchange / Westland Gallery (156 Wortley Road in Wortley Village)
- How to get there: Bus routes such as Route 15 or 5 serve Wortley Village.
- A vibrant, community-focused gallery showcasing contemporary Canadian artists. It’s a great stop if you’re exploring one of London’s most charming neighbourhoods.
- TAP Centre for Creativity (203 Dundas Street)
- How to get there: Located right on Dundas Place, served by many major LTC routes.
- TAP is a multidisciplinary arts space offering rotating exhibits, theatre productions, and workshops. Its location in the heart of downtown makes it a convenient cultural hub.
What to do in London
London has plenty of attractions you can easily visit using public transit. Here are a few highlights worth exploring:
- The London Music Hall of Fame
- Located on Dundas Street, take LTC Routes 2, 5, 15, or 20 to explore this downtown gem. London, Ontario, is proud to be Canada’s first UNESCO City of Music, and there’s no better place to dive into its musical roots than the London Music Hall of Fame. This welcoming space celebrates the artists, producers, and trailblazers who shaped London’s vibrant music scene. Since 2003, new inductees have been honoured each year, with exhibits featuring memorabilia, instruments, and stories that bring their legacies to life.
- The Market at Western Fair District
- 900 King Street – Take LTC Routes 2 or 20 to reach this vibrant destination in the heart of Old East Village, where the community comes together to celebrate local food, talent, and creativity. With two floors and more than 100 unique vendors, visitors can explore a variety of offerings, including fresh produce, meats, plant-based foods, artisan gifts, vintage finds, books, home décor, and wellness products.
- Banting House National Historic Site
- Take LTC Route 13 to visit the home of Sir Frederick Banting, the co-discoverer of insulin. Banting House shares the story behind one of the most important medical breakthroughs and includes exhibits, a sculpture garden, and the Flame of Hope monument.
- Victoria Park
- 580 Clarence Street – Take LTC Routes 4, 6, or 13 to reach this central green space in downtown London. Victoria Park is perfect for strolls, people-watching, or relaxing under the trees. It hosts major festivals like Sunfest, Ribfest, and the Lighting of the Lights, making it a great spot to unwind or enjoy live events throughout the year.
- Covent Garden Market
- Take LTC Routes 2 or 20 to visit this vibrant market offering fresh produce, gourmet food, handmade goods, and cultural eats. Serving the community since 1845, the market remains a hub for shopping, dining, and special seasonal events like holiday markets.
Cycling
Local Areas to Explore by Riding Bikes
London is home to a growing network of bike paths and scenic routes, making it a great city to explore on two wheels. Here are some popular areas you can discover by bike:
- Thames Valley Parkway (TVP): This 40-kilometre multi-use path runs along the Thames River and connects parks, neighbourhoods, and downtown London. Ideal for leisurely rides or scenic commutes.
- Gibbons Park to Springbank Park: Start at Gibbons Park near Western University and follow the TVP west toward Springbank Park, one of London’s largest green spaces with river views and nature trails.
- Old East Village: Ride through this vibrant, artsy neighbourhood and stop at local cafés, The Market at Western Fair District, and independent shops along the way.
- Downtown and Riverwalk Loop: Ride through the downtown core and cross the pedestrian bridges along the river for views of the city’s public art, architecture, and parks.
Bike Rentals
Looking to rent a bike? Bike rentals are available at several locations:
- Trek Bicycle Store of London
- Situated at 4487 Wellington Road South, this store is accessible via LTC Route 93.
- Trek Bicycle Store provides high-quality, well-maintained bicycles suitable for various terrains. Their rental fleet includes city bikes and e-bikes, each rental accompanied by a helmet and lock. This store is perfect for riders interested in trying out different bike styles or exploring London's diverse cycling routes.
- Boler Mountain
- Located at 689 Griffith Street and accessible via LTC Routes 5 and 17, Boler Mountain is a great spot for those eager to experience London’s scenic trails and outdoor charm by bike.
- Boler Mountain offers nearly 20 km of looped trails suitable for various skill levels. Bike rentals are available on-site for two hours or a 24-hour off-property rental. Each rental includes a helmet, and a valid ID and credit card are required.
- Gremlins Bicycle Emporium
- Found at 623 Richmond Street, this shop is in the downtown area and is well-served by multiple LTC bus routes (06,13, and 02). Its central location ensures easy access for those travelling by public transit, with several bus stops located within a short walking distance. Gremlins Bicycle Emporium is a local favourite offering a selection of new and used bikes for rent. Their rentals come equipped with lights, a bell, a helmet, and a lock, making them a convenient choice for city exploration.
Before you ride, make sure to check hours of operation and reserve in advance if possible. Helmets are highly recommended, and Ontario law requires them for riders under 18.
