London is one of the most well connected cities in the world.
Its connections around the UK are pretty incredible with an expansive train network, bus connections and a wonderful highway system.
But it’s not just the local connections that are outstanding though- London is actually home to no less than 6 international airports! And two of them are consistently in the world’s top 20 busiest airports; so it would be fair to say you’ll pretty much never struggle to find a flight to the city from anywhere in the world!
If you’re an international traveller, then not only is it important to get to grips with the city’s airports; you’ll also need a cosy and luxurious place to stay for your time in the city. Book a room in The Piccadilly London West End Hotel for a luxurious stay in the city centre, allowing for quick access to every major attraction in the city.
Now let’s take a look at everything you’ll need to know about London’s 6 international airports.
Heathrow Airport
Heathrow Airport is the busiest airport in London and the United Kingdom, with over 80 airlines serving over 80 million passengers annually.
Located in the western part of London, the airport features four modern terminals that are equipped with all the necessary facilities, including lounges, shops, and restaurants. Heathrow also has a variety of hotels within close proximity, making it convenient for travellers with early-morning or late-night flights.
Transportation options from Heathrow are plentiful, including the London Underground, which offers direct access to the city centre and other parts of London, and can be accessed from every single terminal!
The Heathrow Express is a non-stop train service that runs between the airport and Paddington Station in just 15 minutes- so taking full advantage of your West End hotels special offers should be no problem!
Several bus and coach services run from the airport to various destinations within London and beyond. Taxis and private car services are readily available at the airport, providing a convenient option for travellers.
Gatwick Airport
Gatwick Airport is London’s second-largest airport and is located to the south of London.
The airport serves over 50 airlines and has more than 40 million passengers annually. It has two terminals, with a range of facilities that cater to the needs of travellers, including shops, restaurants, and lounges- although it is not quite as modern as some of Heathrow.
Gatwick also has a transit hotel, which is convenient for travellers with early-morning or late-night flights, but it can be an expensive place to stay.
Transportation options from Gatwick include the Gatwick Express, a train service that runs between the airport and Victoria Station in just 30 minutes.
Other train services also run from Gatwick’s train station, connecting to various parts of London and beyond. Several bus and coach services are also available, as well as taxis and private car services.
Stansted Airport
Stansted Airport can be found north of London, just off the M11, and serves around 25 million passengers annually- so it’s a fair bit quieter than its big brothers!
It has a single terminal, but it serves over 170 airlines from various parts of the world and offers great connections all around Europe.
The airport has a range of facilities, including shops, restaurants, and lounges, as well as places to stay and connections to the nearest towns.
Transportation options from Stansted include the Stansted Express, a direct train service that connects the airport to Liverpool Street Station in around 45 minutes. Several coach services also run from the airport to various parts of London and beyond, with the addition of taxis and town cars- although these are far and away the most expensive choices.
Luton Airport
Luton Airport is just north west of London’s city centre and serves around 18 million passengers annually. It’s quieter and smaller, but just as nice an airport to fly from.
It has a single terminal and a range of airlines operate from it- namely EasyJet and other smaller airlines. Once again the connections to Europe are excellent, and whilst you can fly to other locations, the frequency of the flights is much lower than other airports.
The airport has several facilities, including shops, restaurants, and lounges that offer great comfort.
Transportation options from Luton include a free shuttle bus service that connects the airport to Luton Airport Parkway railway station. From there, trains run to central London in around 30 minutes. Several coach services also run from the airport to various parts of London and beyond. This is probably the most ‘difficult’ to access in terms of its journey, but it won’t take you more than an hour and will not cost you too much either!
London City Airport
London City Airport is located pretty much slap bang in the middle of the city. It serves around 5 million passengers annually, most of whom are business people.
It has a single terminal, and several airlines operate from it- although the connections are largely based around financial hubs and business locations. If you’re looking for first class lounges or places to work whilst you travel, this is the place for you!
Transportation options from London City Airport include the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) service, which provides a quick and convenient way to get to central London and Canary Wharf, with trains running every few minutes.
The airport is also well connected to other parts of London via the London Underground and various bus services.
London Southend Airport
London Southend Airport is a smaller airport located to the east of London, near the coast.
Serving around 2 million passengers annually it is quite a lot smaller than London’s other airports, so lends itself to those looking for a relaxed and hassle free travel experience.
It has a single terminal, with a range of facilities, including shops, restaurants, and lounges- everything you’d need to keep yourself entertained. It is a popular choice for travellers flying in and out of London to many European locations.
Transportation options from Southend Airport include a train service that connects the airport to Liverpool Street Station in just over an hour, making it an ideal option for those travelling to the city centre. Several bus and coach services also run from the airport, connecting to various parts of London and beyond.
International London
London is truly an international city, and its travel connections are pretty much unlimited.
Make the most of your time in the city, and enjoy your stunning room at the Piccadilly West End Hotel, one of the very best boutique hotels in West End London.
Follow this guide to make sure you travel to the perfect airport for your trip, and are able to enjoy a gorgeous helping of the finest in-house Indian afternoon tea London has to offer, after a quick and easy journey from the airport.
