The Best Way to Travel Between London Airports

Traveling between London's various airports can be a logistical challenge, but with the right information and planning, it can be manageable. This guide will help you navigate the best transportation options for traveling between Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, and London City airports.

Overview of Transportation Options

When traveling between London airports, you have several options available: express coaches, trains, and buses. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice largely depends on your specific needs, such as budget and departure/arrival times.

Heathrow to Gatwick

The express coach service is a convenient way to travel between Heathrow and Gatwick airports.

Advantages: It takes around 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic. Regular services ensure a reliable schedule. Stops include Terminal 5.

Disadvantages: Make sure you get the correct coach, as misdirected journeys can result in unexpected detours, such as heading towards Oxford.

Heathrow to Other Airports

To travel from Heathrow to London City or Stansted airports, you will need to first transit into London via the Heathrow Express or Elizabeth Line (formerly known as the Heathrow Connect).

II. Heathrow to London City:

Take the Heathrow Express to Paddington or Gloucester Road. From there, transfer to the Docklands Light Railway (DLR). Use the DLR to get to London City Airport.

III. Heathrow to Stansted:

Take the Heathrow Express to Paddington. From Paddington, take an Overground train to Stansted Mountfitchet. From there, catch a Stansted Express to Stansted Airport.

Gatwick to Other Airports

Traveling from Gatwick to Heathrow, Stansted, or London City airports involves similar procedures but in reverse.

To travel from Gatwick to Heathrow:

Catch the Gatwick Express to London Victoria, London Bridge, or Cannon Street station. Transfer to the Heathrow Express.

To travel from Gatwick to Stansted:

Catch the Western Line train to London Victoria. Take the Overground to Stansted Mountfitchet and then the Stansted Express.

To travel from Gatwick to London City:

Catch the Western Line train to London Victoria. Transfer to the Docklands Light Railway. Use the DLR to get to London City Airport.

London City Airport

London City Airport is conveniently situated near the city center, making it accessible via various public transport modes.

Tips:

You can purchase a Zone 1–3 Travelcard or use your Oyster Card for direct travel. Every journey starts or ends in a designated zone, and you can check current travelcard information on the TfL website.

Heathrow Airport

Heathrow offers great connectivity and convenience when compared to other airports in the London area.

Tips:

You can purchase a Zone 1–6 Travelcard or use your Oyster Card. This travelcard includes both Heathrow and central London. The travelcard is especially useful as it counts towards the daily cap, which is a maximum amount you have to pay each day.

Gatwick Airport

Gatwick is more challenging when it comes to travel cards due to its distance from central London.

Tips:

For the Gatwick Express, you can use your Oyster Card, but the price remains the same. It does not contribute to the daily cap.

Luton and Stansted Airports

The travelcards and Oyster Cards are not effective for Luton and Stansted airports. Here are your options:

Buy a normal train ticket, which may be more expensive compared to using travelcards or Oyster Cards.

Driving or taking a private taxi may also be options, depending on the distance from your home or hotel.

With so many options available, you can choose the best mode of transportation to suit your needs and preferences.