Are you planning to travel through London but have to change airports? You might be wondering if it is possible to transfer airports in London.
Well, the answer is yes! While it might seem like a daunting task, it is quite doable. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about transferring airports in London.
Why Transfer Airports?
There are many reasons why someone would need to transfer airports in London. For instance, if you are flying from one country to another and your connecting flight has a different departure airport, you’ll have to change airports. Another reason could be that you want to switch airlines or the airport where your flight lands does not serve your intended destination.
Transferring Between Heathrow and Gatwick Airports
Heathrow and Gatwick are two of the most popular airports in London. They are approximately 45 kilometers apart, and there are several ways that you can transfer between them.
By Train
One of the easiest ways to transfer between Heathrow and Gatwick airports is by train. The fastest train service is called the Gatwick Express and runs every 15 minutes from both airports. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes, and tickets cost around £20 for a single journey.
By Bus
Another option for transferring between Heathrow and Gatwick airports is by bus. The National Express operates regular coach services between the two airports with journey times ranging from 75-120 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Prices start at around £15 for a single journey.
By Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route or have a lot of luggage, taking a taxi might be the best option for you. Taxis can be pre-booked or hailed at either airport with prices starting at around £60 for a one-way trip.
Transferring Between Heathrow and Stansted Airports
Heathrow and Stansted airports are approximately 87 kilometers apart. While it is possible to transfer between the two airports, it can be quite time-consuming.
If you want to transfer between Heathrow and Stansted airports by train, you’ll have to change trains twice. The journey takes around 90 minutes and costs approximately £25 for a single journey.
The National Express operates regular coach services between Heathrow and Stansted airports with journey times taking around 2 hours depending on traffic conditions.
Taking a taxi from Heathrow to Stansted can be quite expensive, with prices starting at around £120 for a one-way trip. It is recommended that you pre-book your taxi before arrival to ensure availability.
Transferring Between Gatwick and Stansted Airports
Gatwick and Stansted airports are approximately 138 kilometers apart, making transferring between them quite challenging.
Unfortunately, there are no direct train services between Gatwick and Stansted airports. You would need to take the Gatwick Express to London Victoria station then take another train from London Liverpool Street station to Stansted Airport. The journey takes around 3 hours in total, with prices starting at around £40 for a single journey.
National Express operates coach services between the two airports with journey times ranging from 4-5 hours depending on traffic conditions. Prices start at around £25 for a single journey.
Taking a taxi from Gatwick to Stansted can be very expensive due to the long distance between the two airports. Prices start at around £200 for a one-way trip.
Conclusion
Transferring airports in London can be quite a challenge, especially if you are not familiar with the city. However, with careful planning and research, it is possible to transfer between airports smoothly and efficiently. Whether you choose to travel by train, bus, or taxi, make sure to book in advance to ensure availability and avoid any last-minute stress.