To get anywhere in the UK you need post code (and sometimes house number). You can search an address using postcode, and your taxi/Uber driver will be able to find it.
Google maps can show you directions to most places via public transport. Citymapper for iOS or Android in big cities can find train or bus schedule, ticket prices for all means of transportation. It is better than Google Maps for showing road works, transport diversions, closures, etc.
You can travel by train for free within 48 hours of your arrival: https://www.networkrail.co.uk/stories/britains-train-operators-offer-free-travel-for-ukrainian-arrivals, same for buses: https://www.route-one.net/news/free-bus-travel-on-arrival-in-england-for-ukraine-refugees.
If you can afford it, Uber and other taxi services are available, but the fares can be high. Depending on where you're going, a trip from a London airport to the city could cost £100 or more.
There are express trains from Gatwick and Heathrow airports, but they are also pricey. If you are not in a hurry, you can go from Heathrow by London Underground, and from Gatwick - by regular trains, which will be 3-4 times cheaper.
Travelling locally
- Bus. There are many bus companies. You will need to find one that serves your area. Find a smartphone app that shows bus schedule and stops. You can pay by contactless bank card, Apple Pay, sometimes also cash.
Taxi. Uber, Gettaxi, small local companies, some have their own apps. Black cabs are the only ones that you can flag, but they're also the most expensive.
Travelling around the country
- Train. nationalrail. Search for cheaper fares: https://www.splitmyfare.co.uk/ , https://trainsplit.com/
- Bus. National Express (bus), Megabus
The train is probably the most expensive form of transport in the UK, often more expensive than flying, but it is also one of the fastest means of travel.
In the rush hour when everyone commutes to work and back, tickets are most expensive (peak rate), the rest of the day they're cheaper. A round-trip ticket can cost the same or almost the same as a one way ticket.
If you take a train with someone and do so regularly, consider buying a Railcard. You'll pay a lump sum upfront, but can save a lot on trips, even if you don't commute every day.
In London, you can pay by contactless (PayPass, Apple Pay/Google Pay), or you can buy an Oyster card.
Can I use Ukrainian driving license/car
- Ukrainian license is valid for 12 months, after that you must change your license (only for automatic, only for B category) or sit a driving test, both theory and practice.
- You can drive a car with Ukrainian license plate for 6 months.
- If you have a car, you must pay road tax every year.
- A driver must have insurance. Your choice of insurance will be limited if you drive a car with Ukrainian license plate.
- If your car is older than 3 years, you need to pass Ministry of Transport Check. https://www.gov.uk/getting-an-mot.
More information in the document here: https://bit.ly/ua-uk-faq.