Technically, you can drive into Putney without paying a penny to the Congestion Zone overlords. But don’t celebrate just yet—Putney High Street has its own traffic gremlins. Think of it as a free-entry trap where you still might lose your soul (and an hour of your life) to the South Circular.
If you’re driving from central London to Putney, you’ll cross the border from the zone into freedom around Wandsworth. The sign says “Welcome to Putney,” but I swear it should say, “You saved £15—now deal with this roundabout.” That’s the trade-off.
What About the ULEZ? Don’t Get Them Mixed Up!
Ah, the ULEZ—the Congestion Zone’s grumpier, air-obsessed cousin. The Ultra Low Emission Zone does cover Putney. Yes, you read that right. So while you’re free from the Congestion Zone charge, if your car is older than a 2005 diesel or a 2006 petrol, you’ll pay £12.50 per day to drive through Putney. It’s like escaping one toll booth only to hit another one built by a climate-conscious Pixar villain.
Check your car’s ULEZ status before you go. Nothing ruins a trip to the River Café (the affordable one, near the bridge) like a surprise fine in the mail. That’s the real congestion—of your wallet.
