Getting to London from the Airport
London is served by five main airports — Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton and City. Each has different transport options into the city at very different prices. Here's the practical breakdown for each.
Heathrow (LHR)
The closest major airport to central London. The Elizabeth line (Crossrail) is the most convenient option — direct to Paddington, Liverpool Street and beyond in around 25–40 minutes depending on destination, fares from around £11.80 with contactless payment. The Heathrow Express to Paddington is faster (15 minutes) but significantly more expensive (around £37 single booked in advance, more on the day). The Tube (Piccadilly line) is cheapest but takes about an hour.
Gatwick (LGW)
The Gatwick Express to London Victoria takes about 30 minutes and costs around £21.30 single booked in advance. Regular Southern and Thameslink trains on the same route are slower but cheaper — often around £11–15 and worth comparing when booking.
Stansted (STN)
Further out, used primarily by low-cost carriers. The Stansted Express to Liverpool Street runs in about 47 minutes, around £23–28. Coach services (National Express, Terravision) are significantly cheaper but take 75–90 minutes or more depending on traffic.
Luton (LTN)
Thameslink trains to St Pancras take around 25 minutes from Luton Airport Parkway (connected to the terminal by a short transfer bus or shuttle), roughly £18–22. Coaches are cheaper but slower.
London City (LCY)
The most central airport — DLR to Bank station takes about 22 minutes and costs standard Tube fares using contactless. Excellent value and speed if your flight uses it.
Tips
- The Elizabeth line is the best all-round Heathrow option — fast, direct and priced reasonably with contactless.
- For Gatwick, compare Gatwick Express vs Southern rail fares before booking — same route, often very different prices.
- Taxis from Heathrow to central London can cost £45–80 depending on destination and traffic — rarely the best option.
- London City Airport's DLR connection is underrated — fast, cheap and rarely busy.