Transport for LondonApplications
Why does it take 14 days to process applications?
We ask that you allow 14 days notice for a number of reasons. This applies to Internet applications and postal or fax applications alike.
We need to check for any planned changes or disruptions to the transport services you intend to use, such as diversions or service suspensions.
We also need to check whether any other school parties travelling on the same day are using the same TfL service at the same time, in which may lead to potential congestion. If you intend travelling by National Rail, we need to check with the appropriate train operating company that they can accommodate your school party on the train you specify in your application.
Where necessary, we will contact you to discuss the possibility of adjusting your travel arrangements.
Finally, we rely on the Royal Mail for delivery of your tickets, and generally like to get them in the post at least seven days before your date of travel, so that you should receive them in plenty of time for your trip.
How early can I apply for tickets?
There is no hard-and-fast rule as to how early you can apply for school party tickets. For practical reasons, we suggest you apply no more than two months in advance of your date of travel.
Please note, however, that applications received more than one month in advance will be held until nearer the date of travel, so that we can check for any planned changes or disruptions to transport services. It is your responsibility to check that the place you are visiting is open and can accommodate your party.
In the event of conflicting applications from different schools, priority will be given to that which was received first.
