42 million passengers pass through Charing Cross Station each year. Some are heading to work in the City, others are visitors coming to experience London's world class attractions. The station is a busy place, so follow our top tips for effortless transit.
Charing Cross Station is a 24 hours a day operation. The ticket and information office is open 4.30am to 1.05am,with machines available for buying tickets at other times. Left luggage is open from 7am to 11pm on weekdays and the lost property office is open during office hours.
Charing Cross has its own Underground station on the Northern Line for easy connections to elsewhere in London. It's just a short walk towards the Thames to Embankment station, which is served by the Bakerloo, Circle, District and Northern lines.
If you don't want to have to leave the station to get a quick lunch and risk missing your train, there is a range of sandwich shops, fast food outlets and newsagents within the station concourse. Outside, there are hundreds of options from burgers to fine dining within a short walk from the station.
Charing Cross Station is in the heart of London, just a short stroll from Trafalgar Square. Quick tube connections allow you explore the rest of the city's historic buildings, parks and museums at your leisure.
One of London's most famous museums is one of the closest to Charing Cross Station. The National Gallery in Trafalgar Square has an enormous collection of European masterpieces by the likes of Vermeer, Rembrandt and Van Gogh. Admission to the main galleries is free, with a small charge for temporary exhibitions.
Just across the river from Charing Cross, the area between Waterloo and Westminster bridges is one of London's best leisure areas. Take in the great views from the riverside walk, take a flight on the famous London Eye, have a meal in one of the many restaurants, or take the kids to the huge Sea Life Aquarium.
If you are visiting in the summer months, book your slot online to get behind the palace walls and see the magnificent state rooms. At other times of year, try to time your visit to coincide with the Changing of the Guard ceremony.