London is served by six major airports, each offering different benefits depending on the traveler's needs. The busiest and main hub is Heathrow Airport (LHR), known for its extensive international connections and multiple terminals that handle long-haul flights and global carriers. Heathrow is located west of central London and offers a wide range of transport options.
Gatwick Airport (LGW) is the second largest, renowned for a mix of international and European flights, with good transport links to central London. Stansted (STN), Luton (LTN) and Southend (SEN) airports mainly serve low-cost and charter airlines, catering mostly to budget travelers flying within Europe. London City Airport (LCY), the closest to central London, is favored by business travelers for its proximity and quick transit access, mainly servicing short-haul and domestic flights.
| Airport | Main role | Flight Connections | Transport to City | Proximity | Shopping & Food | Other Passenger Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heathrow Airport (LHR) | Main international hub | Extensive global connections, long-haul and short-haul, over 180 destinations worldwide | Heathrow Express train to London Paddington (15-20 min, £25), Tube (Piccadilly line, ~50 min, £6), buses and taxis available | 24 km (15 miles) west of central London | Extensive range of luxury shops, duty-free, boutiques, and over 90 restaurants and bars | Multiple terminals with comprehensive passenger services; 24-hour airport with lounges, hotels, and business facilities |
| Gatwick Airport (LGW) | Second largest, international and European focus | Serves over 200 destinations, mainly European and international routes | Gatwick Express train to London Victoria (30 min, £20); Thameslink and Southern trains; buses and taxis | 45 km (28 miles) south of central London | Wide shopping options including duty-free shops and many cafes, bars, and restaurants | Two terminals (North and South) with good passenger facilities and transport links to London |
| Stansted Airport (STN) | Low-cost carrier hub | Primarily budget airlines flying European routes | Stansted Express train to Liverpool Street (47 min, from £10), coach services to central London | 64 km (40 miles) northeast of central London | Shopping includes World Duty Free and various food outlets, more limited than larger airports | Single terminal, focused on budget travelers; fewer amenities but efficient for low-cost flights |
| Luton Airport (LTN) | Budget European flights | Mainly low-cost European airlines | Shuttle bus to Luton Parkway train station, train to central London (40-60 min); coaches to Victoria and other locations | 55 km (34 miles) northwest of central London | Range of cafes, pubs, Starbucks, and some branded shops | Single terminal airport ideal for budget travelers; fewer facilities than main hubs |
| London City Airport (LCY) | Business traveler hub | Short-haul flights primarily to European cities and UK destinations | Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Canary Wharf and Bank (15-20 min), taxis and buses available | 11 km (7 miles) east of central London | Limited shopping, mix of cafes and quick dining options | Small airport with fast check-in and security, ideal for quick business trips |
| London Southend Airport (SEN) | Budget and charter flights | Low-cost and seasonal flight routes mainly in Europe | Train to London Liverpool Street (approx. 53 min), coach services available | 64 km (40 miles) east of central London | Basic shopping and food options | Small airport with convenient rail services; limited amenities |
With six major airports serving London, travelers have many options depending on their budget, destination and convenience preferences. Heathrow excels for international travelers seeking extensive connections and premium services, while Gatwick also offers strong international and European links. For budget-conscious travelers, Stansted, Luton and Southend provide ample low-cost flight options. London City Airport is best suited for business travelers desiring the quickest access to the city center.
If you are looking for detailed info on the different London airports, click on the airport profiles below.
