Traveling to Stansted Airport from London or nearby areas may seem like a challenge at first. But with various transport options available, choosing the right one doesn’t have to be hard. Whether you’re on a tight budget, in a hurry, or looking for comfort, this guide will help you navigate how to get to Stansted Airport. We will cover everything from taxis, buses, trains, to driving your own car, and provide all the details you need, including costs, pros, cons, and additional helpful tips for each mode of transport.
Overview of Stansted Airport’s Location and Accessibility:
Stansted Airport is located 42 miles (68 kilometers) northeast of Central London, making it one of the key international airports in the capital. The airport is well-connected by road and rail, with easy access to both London and other major cities in the UK. With multiple transport options available, Stansted is easily accessible no matter where you’re starting from. Whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or a study trip, you’ll find there’s a transportation method that suits your needs.
Also Read: How to Get to Heathrow Airport
How to Get to Stansted Airport: Best Transport Options
1. How to Get to Stansted Airport by Train
The train is one of the most popular and efficient ways to get to Stansted Airport. The Stansted Express is the fastest and most direct option for travelers from Central London, providing a quick and comfortable journey.
Trains to Stansted depart from London Liverpool Street Station and travel on the Stansted Express, which is the quickest way to the airport, taking about 47 minutes. If you’re traveling from other parts of London or nearby cities, you may need to change at key transfer stations like Tottenham Hale or Stratford. Although the Stansted Express is the main service, Greater Anglia Trains also operate routes that connect to Stansted, albeit at a slower pace.
Types of Trains:
- Stansted Express: A direct, fast service that runs every 15 minutes during peak times.
- Greater Anglia Trains: These are slower than the Stansted Express but more affordable. You’ll need to change at Tottenham Hale or other stations, which may add extra time to your journey.
Train Cost Comparison:
| Train Service | Cost (One-Way) | Journey Time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stansted Express | £12.50 to £20 | 47 minutes | Every 15 minutes |
| Greater Anglia Trains | £10 to £15 | 1 hour 10 minutes | Less frequent, varies |
Pros of Taking the Train:
- Fast and Frequent: The Stansted Express is the fastest option, and trains depart regularly.
- Comfortable: Trains offer spacious seating with free Wi-Fi, making the journey enjoyable.
- Convenient: With multiple departures throughout the day, you’ll have no trouble finding a train at your preferred time.
Cons of Taking the Train:
- More Expensive: The Stansted Express can be quite pricey, especially if booked last minute.
- Limited Luggage Space: Trains can get crowded, and luggage space may be limited, making it tricky for travelers with large suitcases.
- Multiple Transfers: Greater Anglia trains often require transfers, which may add time to your overall travel.
Pro Tip:
Book your tickets in advance online to secure the best rates and avoid last-minute price hikes. Travel during off-peak times to ensure a quieter, more comfortable journey.
2. How to Get to Stansted Airport by Taxi
If you prefer door-to-door service or are traveling with heavy luggage, taking a taxi to Stansted offers convenience and comfort, though it can be more expensive.
Taxis provide a direct route from your location to the airport. The trip typically takes between 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on traffic. It’s perfect for those with a lot of luggage, a tight schedule, or those traveling with family or in a group.
Taxi Cost:
- From Central London to Stansted: £100 to £150 one-way, depending on traffic and time of day.
- From Oxford or Cambridge to Stansted: £120 to £160 one-way.
Taxi Cost Comparison:
| Route | Cost (One-Way) | Journey Time | Traffic Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central London to Stansted | £100 – £150 | 1 hour 15 minutes – 1.5 hours | Heavy traffic may cause delays |
| Oxford to Stansted | £120 – £160 | 1.5 hours | Dependent on traffic |
Pros of Taking a Taxi:
- Comfortable and Convenient: Taxis offer door-to-door service, so you won’t have to worry about changing modes of transport.
- Private: Great for groups or those traveling with large amounts of luggage, offering a private and relaxed journey.
- Available 24/7: Taxis are available at any time of day or night, ideal for early morning or late-night flights.
Cons of Taking a Taxi:
- Expensive: The cost of a taxi can be high, especially during peak travel hours.
- Traffic Dependent: The time it takes to get to Stansted can vary depending on traffic, especially during rush hour.
- Not Always Ideal for Solo Travelers: Solo travelers may find taxis expensive and less cost-effective compared to public transport.
Pro Tip:
Use a taxi-sharing service if you’re traveling alone to save on costs or share a ride with friends or colleagues.
Helpful for you: Routes to Avoid Traffic from Milton Keynes to Stansted Airport
3. How to Get to Stansted Airport by Bus
For travelers on a budget, buses are the most affordable way to get to Stansted. National Express runs regular services from key points in London and other major cities.
Introduction to Bus Travel to Stansted:
National Express operates a regular coach service to Stansted from several locations in London, including Victoria Coach Station. The journey takes about 1 hour 45 minutes, which is slower than the train but offers a much more budget-friendly alternative.
Bus Cost:
- National Express Bus: Prices start as low as £8 when booked in advance. Tickets purchased last minute may cost up to £20.
Bus Cost Comparison:
| Route | Cost (One-Way) | Journey Time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central London to Stansted | £8 – £20 | 1 hour 45 minutes | Frequent throughout the day |
Pros of Taking the Bus:
- Budget-Friendly: Buses are the cheapest option, especially if you book in advance.
- Comfortable: National Express coaches offer comfortable seats, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi.
- Frequent Departures: Buses depart regularly, making it easy to find one that fits your schedule.
Cons of Taking the Bus:
- Slower Travel Time: The bus journey is longer than both the train and taxi options.
- Less Flexibility: Buses have set departure times, so you need to plan your travel ahead.
- Delays: Like taxis, buses can be affected by traffic, particularly during rush hours.
Pro Tip:
Booking your bus tickets well in advance guarantees you the best rates, especially during peak travel seasons.
Also Read: Tips for Stress-Free Travel from Milton Keynes to Stansted Airport
4. How to Get to Stansted Airport by Car
Driving to Stansted offers flexibility and a direct route, but it’s important to factor in parking costs and traffic conditions.
Introduction to Car Travel to Stansted:
If you’re driving to Stansted, the airport is easily accessible from the M11 motorway. The journey from Central London takes about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes. There are multiple parking options available at the airport, including short-term, long-term, and off-site parking, each catering to different needs and budgets.
Parking Cost:
| Parking Type | Cost (Per Day) | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Short-Term Parking | £4.50 per hour | Located near terminal |
| Long-Term Parking | £30 per day | Located a bit further away |
| Off-Site Parking | £10 per day | Shuttle service to terminal |
Pros of Driving:
- Flexibility: You can leave whenever you want and stop for breaks along the way.
- Direct Route: No need to switch between modes of transport; simply drive directly to the airport.
- Comfortable: Traveling in your own vehicle offers more privacy and comfort, especially if you’re traveling with a family or a group.
Cons of Driving:
- Costly Parking: Airport parking, especially for long stays, can be expensive.
- Traffic: The journey duration can be delayed due to heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours.
- Stress of Navigation: Driving in unfamiliar areas can be stressful, especially if you’re not accustomed to the roads around Stansted.
Pro Tip:
Book parking in advance to save on long-term rates. If you’re traveling during peak hours, try to leave earlier to avoid heavy traffic on the roads.
Tips for Choosing the Best Transportation Option
Speed
- Stansted Express: The fastest option, taking just 47 minutes from Liverpool Street Station.
- Taxi: Travel time can vary, typically around 1 hour depending on traffic.
- Bus: The slowest option, taking around 1 hour 45 minutes.
Budget
- Bus: The most affordable choice, with tickets as low as £8 if booked early.
- Stansted Express: A bit pricier, ranging from £12.50 to £20.
- Taxi: The most expensive, typically £100-£150 depending on your departure location.
Comfort
- Taxi: Offers the most comfort with door-to-door service, especially if traveling with luggage.
- Stansted Express: Comfortable seating and enough space for luggage, but can be crowded.
- Bus: Comfortable, but can feel less private, especially during longer trips.
Convenience
- Stansted Express and Taxi: Direct routes to the airport with no transfers.
- Bus and Car: More flexible departure points and times, but may involve longer travel times.
Conclusion
There are many ways to get to Stansted Airport, depending on your preferences and budget. Whether you choose the speed of the Stansted Express, the affordability of buses, or the convenience of a taxi or car, each option offers distinct advantages. Make sure to consider your travel needs, budget, and time constraints to select the best route for your journey.
FAQs
What Tube Line Goes to Stansted Airport?
There is no direct tube line to Stansted, but you can take the Central Line or Piccadilly Line to Liverpool Street Station, then switch to the Stansted Express.
What Stations Go to Stansted?
The main stations serving Stansted include London Liverpool Street (for Stansted Express), Tottenham Hale, and Stratford.
How Long Does It Take to Get to Stansted from London?
The journey from Central London to Stansted takes between 47 minutes on the Stansted Express to 1 hour 30 minutes by car or taxi.