How to Use the TfL MCP in VS Code Copilot

Q: How do I handle service disruptions using TfL and VS Code Copilot?

Use getlinestatus. It provides a clear, structured view of the entire network's status—from 'Good Service' to 'Suspended'. Your code can easily read this severity level to adjust logic.

Q: Can VS Code Copilot help plan complex TfL journeys?

Yes. The getjourney tool handles the complexity of combining multiple modes (tube, bus, etc.) into a single, detailed result set for your application logic.

Q: How do I use the MCP Server to find arrival times in TfL and VS Code Copilot?

First, you run searchstoppoint to get a valid stop ID. Then, pass that ID into getarrivals to pull predicted time data for buses or tube trains.

Ensure your team builds robust transit apps with TfL real-time data via VS Code Copilot.

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Connect TfL MCP to VS Code Copilot

Create your Vinkius account to connect TfL to VS Code Copilot — we handle the hosting, security, and runtime updates so you don't have to. No server setup required.

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Setup TfL with VS Code Copilot

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Verify London road conditions using MCP Server

When building any driving feature, call `get_road_status` to check the current status of specific roads (like the A40). It returns operational info and corridor details. This helps your team write code that accounts for real-time closures before a user even starts planning their journey.

Determine bike station capacity with VS Code Copilot

Using `get_bike_points` lets you check the status of thousands of docking stations across London. You get back IDs, coordinates, total capacity, and current available bikes. This is essential for writing front-end logic that advises users on bike availability before they leave home.

Identify locations using TfL data with VS Code Copilot

Need to find a specific POI or station? `get_place_search` returns place IDs, names, and categories. You can filter by type (Museum, Park) right in your code. This capability allows your team to map out entire areas of London programmatically.

Setup guide

Set up TfL MCP in VS Code Copilot

Prerequisites

VS Code 1.99 or later with GitHub Copilot extension
Active Vinkius subscription with a valid endpoint token

1

Open MCP configuration

Open the Command Palette (Cmd+Shift+P / Ctrl+Shift+P) and run "MCP: Add Server". Select HTTP (Streamable) as the server type. VS Code will create .vscode/mcp.json in your workspace.
2

Add the TfL MCP

Paste the JSON snippet shown on the right into your .vscode/mcp.json. Replace [YOUR_TOKEN_HERE] with your endpoint token from cloud.vinkius.com.
3

Switch to Agent mode

Open Copilot Chat (Cmd+Shift+I / Ctrl+Shift+I) and switch to Agent mode using the dropdown. MCP tools are only available in Agent mode — they do not appear in Edit or Ask modes.
4

Verify the connection

In the Copilot Chat input, type # to list available tools. You should see the TfL tools listed. Try asking: "List my recent TfL transactions" and Copilot will invoke them automatically.

.vscode/mcp.json

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "tfl-mcp": {
      "url": "https://edge.vinkius.com/[YOUR_TOKEN_HERE]/mcp"
    }
  }
}

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Independent Platform Disclaimer: Vinkius is an independent platform and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, verified by, or otherwise authorized by TfL. All third-party trademarks, logos, and brand names are the property of their respective owners. Their use on this website is strictly for informational purposes to identify service compatibility and interoperability.

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Common questions about TfL MCP in VS Code Copilot

Use `get_line_status`. It provides a clear, structured view of the entire network's status—from 'Good Service' to 'Suspended'. Your code can easily read this severity level to adjust logic.

Yes. The `get_journey` tool handles the complexity of combining multiple modes (tube, bus, etc.) into a single, detailed result set for your application logic.

The server gives highly structured data: station coordinates, service types (e.g., 'elizabeth-line'), vehicle IDs for arrivals, and specific accessibility details.

First, you run `search_stop_point` to get a valid stop ID. Then, pass that ID into `get_arrivals` to pull predicted time data for buses or tube trains.

The MCP Server accesses operational status feeds, geographic coordinates, and predicted arrival timestamps. It's focused on public infrastructure mapping.

Use it with your favorite AI tools

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