The North Circular (A406) and South Circular (A205) provide an orbital route for access to inner London.  The M25 motorway encompasses Greater London and was originally designed as a by-pass for through traffic, however it is used extensively for local travel as well and is an extremely busy road, especially during rush hour.

The main routes out of London are:

• North A1 and M1
• South and South West A3 and M3
• South and South East A2 and M2
• East Anglia A11,  M11 and A12
• West A4 and M4
• West and Midlands A40 and M40

Congestion Charging

The Congestion Charge applies to any motorised vehicle crossing into the relevant area between 7am and 6.00pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays). Traffic signs make it very clear when drivers are approaching, entering and leaving the congestion charging zone. On the approach to the congestion charge zone, directional signs indicate which routes take drivers into the charging zone and which roads do not.

On entering the Congestion Charge zone the vehicle becomes liable to a £8 charge, which must be paid prior to midnight on the same day or £10 if paid by midnight on the following day. The charge can be paid over the telephone, through a website, at petrol stations, by text message, at BT Internet kiosks and at designated newsagents. The charge increases dramatically the longer it remains unpaid. Disabled badge holders are exempt from the charge.