The Best Ways to Get to Our Laser Eye Surgery Clinic on Harley Street
Being one of the world’s leading Laser Eye Surgery clinics, we often welcome patients from all over London, the country, and the globe. So, whether you’re arriving in the capital by train, road, or air, knowing the best ways to reach our Harley Street clinic is definitely handy.
For many, arriving in London can be an overwhelming experience. The UK’s capital city is a bustling and hectic hotspot for tourists, residents, and businesses alike. There’s no denying that the crowds and spectacles can be a shock to the system on first arrival, and that’s without worrying about how you’re going to get around this mammoth of a city.
Of course, most people who visit London are eager to try out the iconic red buses or the teeming London Underground. After all, with over 270 Tube stations and 19,000 bus stops, you’re sure to be able to get pretty close to your final destination, particularly if you’re headed to the well-connected Harley Street.
But what about if you want to avoid the frenzied crowds in the Underground or the round-the-houses bus routes? After all, there are times when public transport just isn’t suitable or reliable, particularly if you have an appointment to stick to or if your eyes are sensitive to pollution or poor air quality.
So, how can you reach the London Vision Clinic without relying on the tube or buses? Well, you’ll be glad to hear you have a few options!
The British Black Cab
Perhaps second only to London’s red buses in terms of icon status, the Black Cab is a fantastic way to get around the capital. Not only do they offer convenience, taking you straight to the door of your destination, but you can also rest assured that your driver knows the best route to get you there.
In fact, London’s black cab drivers have passed one of the most difficult navigation tests in the world. Known as The Knowledge of London, this rigorous test involves learning some 320 routes, 25,000 streets, as well as the businesses and landmarks on them! So, riding in the back seat of a Hackney carriage not only offers a quick (and dry) way to get around town, it’s also a great way to see and learn more about London.
On asking your cabbie to take you to London Vision Clinic, you can rest assured you’ll be there in a jiffy – and you might even learn more about the interesting history of Harley Street on your way!
Rent a Car
London’s public transport is a great way to get around the city at most hours of the day. But for some, there’s nothing like driving their own car. If you prefer to be the one behind the wheel but have arrived in London without the comfort of your own car, it’s good to know you still have options.
There are a huge number of rental car options in London. You can choose from pick-up locations at the airport, major train stations, and in various other areas of the city. Of course, if you want to avoid the charges for driving through the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), you’ll have to be sure your rental car meets the emissions standards!
You will also have to bear in mind that you will be unable to drive following your Laser Eye Surgery treatment. We also advise patients to avoid public transport during the immediate post-operative period, so you will need to make other arrangements.
All in all, a rental car is a great way to get to our Harley Street clinic – at least for your pre- and post-operative appointments; however, you will also have to scope out where you can park nearby. Luckily, there are several short-stay, paid car parks in the vicinity.
Public City Bikes
Again, getting on a bike is definitely not a good idea immediately following your Laser Eye Surgery treatment. But travelling by one of London’s many public bicycles is generally a great way to get around the city, including to our Harley Street clinic (at least for your pre-operative assessment!).
Santander Cycles is London’s biggest cycle hire scheme with more than 12,000 bikes parked at around 800 docking stations around the city. All you need is a bank card, and you can be on your way! It’s no wonder the scheme has become so popular with locals and tourists alike since its introduction.
At just £3 for a 30-minute single ride, hiring a bike for your journey is incredibly convenient and cost-effective. What’s more, with 1 in 6 Santander Cycles being an e-bike, you won’t have to break a sweat to get where you’re going!
Bowl of Chalk
The simple option of taking a walk – or a bowl of chalk in Cockney rhyming slang – can often be one of the most enjoyable ways of getting around, particularly in a city as beautiful as London. You can take a route that drops by some of the city’s most popular and interesting sights and landmarks without having to spend a penny. Of course, you’ll want to check the weather forecast beforehand!
A great reason for travelling to our Harley Street clinic on foot is its close proximity to one of London’s (and potentially, the world’s) greatest parks, Regent’s Park. Covering an area of just under 400 acres, Regent’s Park is packed full of large open spaces, tree-lined pathways, and diverse wildlife, including over 100 species of wild birds and a healthy population of hedgehogs.
Why not make a day of your visit to London Vision Clinic? Drop by the park to hire a boat or feed the ducks. Or, if you fancy heading further afield, take a stroll up Primrose Hill and check out the fantastic view of London’s city skyline. It’s the perfect way to spend the day after your initial consultation or before your treatment.
If you’d like to learn more about reaching our Harley Street clinic or need help planning your trip, get in touch with one of our friendly clinic coordinators – they’re always on hand to help! If you’re ready to start your journey to clear vision, Book a Consultation today.