Welcome / London / Stansted Airport to City Centre

Getting from Stansted Airport to Central London

April Dwyer

Travel/Copy Writer - 10+ years with private, NGO and startups | Adventure Seeker/World Explorer

September 30, 2024

London Stansted Airport (STN) is one of the fastest-growing airports in Europe. When traveling from the airport to the city center of London, the available transfer options are a taxi, private airport transfer, trains, and buses. Taking a Stansted Airport taxi or a private Stansted Airport transfer is very convenient, but it can also be expensive. The 64 km journey is estimated to take around 1 hour and 30 minutes with a door-to-door drop-off.

Traveling on the Stansted Express train is the fastest transportation option, with an average transfer time of 48 minutes to London Liverpool Street. A cheaper alternative is either the Airport Bus Express or a National Express bus. These should be booked in advance to secure the best price and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes to the city center.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to London at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi Learn more

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2PASSENGERS

OPTION	PRICE	DURATION	AVAILABILITY
Taxi	€113	60min	24/7
Stansted Express	€37.50	48min	05:30–00:30
National Express	€40.40	100min	24/7
Airport Bus Express	€38	70min	05:00–03:00
Welcome Airport Transfer	€129	60min	24/7

How to get from Stansted Airport to London by taxi

For a convenient and relaxed journey from Stansted Airport to London City, it’s always best to choose a Stansted Airport taxi. The official taxi provider at Stansted Airport is Street Cars which provides metered and air-conditioned taxis that can typically accommodate between 3 and 4 passengers. The approximate travel time is 1 hour under normal traffic conditions, although it can take up to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on the exact distance to your hotel.

How much is a taxi from Stansted Airport to London?

Taxis from Stansted Airport to London use a taximeter that calculates fares based on the distance and the time traveled. In addition, extra charges might apply for tolls, traveling at night, on weekends, and on public holidays. Nevertheless, the average cost of a taxi from Stansted Airport to London is £100 (€118.90).

Cost

€120

Trip Duration

60 Min.

*Rates may vary unless you book your taxi in advance.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Taxis are available 24/7 at Stansted Airport.

Where can I get a taxi from?

Street Car taxis can be found at the official taxi rank outside the terminal’s exit doors. There is also an information and reservations desk inside the International Arrival Hall.

Convenience

In terms of convenience, taxis offer the best service. You don’t have to stand outside in the cold waiting for public transport, you can simply hop into a taxi and start enjoying London. Taxi rides might be more expensive, but the convenience they offer can’t be compared to other forms of transportation.

Editor’s Note

Stansted is the third busiest airport in the UK. Therefore, you might have to wait in line to get a taxi which could add a substantial amount of time to your journey.

Useful Tips

Never accept rides from random individuals who may approach you as you leave the airport as these could be unlicensed drivers who might charge you a much higher rate.

Always make sure your taximeter is reset and working properly throughout your trip.

If your driver chooses to use a toll road, they must tell you in advance as this will add an extra charge to your final fare.

Traffic in London can be extremely hectic, so if you're traveling during rush hour, your travel time could double.

How to get from Stansted Airport to London by train

Traveling from Stansted Airport to London on the Stansted Express is the fastest way to get to London. The trains terminate their 48-minute journey at Liverpool Street Station, located in the main business district of London, with a few stops along the way including Tottingham Hale where you can connect with the London Underground.

How much is the train from Stansted Airport to London?

One-way adult tickets from Stansted Airport to Liverpool Street Station in the city center of London cost as little as £9.90 (€11.80) when booked in advance. If you plan on buying your ticket on the day of your arrival, you might end up paying £23.90 (€28.40) which is more than double the price.

You can purchase your train tickets online, or from the ticket counters and automated ticket machines in Stansted Airport train station.

Cost

€18.75

Trip Duration

48 Min.

The wait time is around 15 minutes.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Stansted Express trains run to Liverpool Street railway station from 05:30 to 00:30.

Where do I get the train from?

The Stansted Airport train station is located right under the passenger terminal and can be easily accessed via lifts, escalators, or ramps. To find it, all you need to do is follow the signs from Baggage Claim and you will be lead straight to the lifts.

Convenience

While the Stansted Express train is affordable and easily accessible, it doesn’t drop you off in the most convenient location in the city. Liverpool Street Station is located in the central business district of London, not a place tourists necessarily want to visit as there are little to no hotels around. Therefore, you will need to take another train, taxi or bus to reach your accommodation.

Timetables

Stansted Express Timetable

Airport to Liverpool Street Station

Editor’s Note

Liverpool Street Station has many facilities such as restaurants, shops, pubs and underground connections to all lines.

Useful Tips

Children under 5 years old travel for free, and kids aged between 5 and 15 travel for half price.

Express trains are air-conditioned with free WiFi and luggage storage area.

Make sure you have your ticket with you at all times as there might me random checks throughout the journey.

Keep an eye on your belongings at all times.

Getting from Stansted Airport to London by bus

When you opt for a bus from Stansted Airport to Central London there are many different route options to choose from, so wherever you’re staying in the city, you should be able to find a stop that suits you. There are four different National Express routes, the A6 to A9, which run to London Victoria Station, Bethnal Green, and Stratford. Depending on the route, the buses stop at Whitechapel, Liverpool Street, and Marble Arch. The journey time takes between 1 hour and 1 hour and 40 minutes, depending on the destination.

How much is the bus from Stansted Airport to London?

The further in advance you buy your National Express bus tickets, the cheaper they are. However, if you book them on the day of your arrival, expect to pay around £17 (€20.20) for a trip from Stansted Airport to Central London.

You can buy your tickets from the National Express counter in the Arrivals Hall at Stansted Airport or online in advance.

Cost

€20.20

Trip Duration

100 Min.

The wait time is around 15 minutes.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

National Express buses run 24/7.

Where do I get the bus from?

As soon as you exit the Arrivals Hall, you will see the bus station directly in front of you. Buses run every 15 to 30 minutes, so you are likely to see a bus waiting for passengers.

Convenience

Bus rides from Stansted Airport to the metropolitan area of London are affordable and with so many different routes, it’s easy to get dropped off near your hotel. However, do not be surprised if you get stuck in traffic, which can significantly increase your travel time. To beat the rush hour, you can always use the non-stop trains. Alternatively, you can pre-book a private transfer so you don’t have to wait or organize bus tickets.

Timetables

National Express Bus Information

Editor’s Note

To reduce your travel time, change to the London Underground at Stratford Station.

Useful Tips

Buses are equipped with toilets, power outlets, air-conditioning and free WiFi.

Make sure you are getting on the correct bus as there are 4 different routes.

Expect less frequent services through the night.

Booking your tickets in advance can ensure much cheaper prices.

Getting from Stansted Airport to London by bus

Another bus alternative is the Airport Bus Express A21 service. This service is slightly cheaper and runs between the airport and Liverpool Street, with a stop at Stratford, taking around 1 hour and 10 minutes excluding waiting.

*It’s possible to continue on to Bethnal Green which takes a further 15 to 20 minutes.

How much does the express bus cost?

It’s best to book your ticket in advance to get the best price, but if you book on the day of your arrival you’ll pay £16 (€19) for a single ticket. Tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket counter in the Arrivals Hall at the airport.

Cost

€19

Trip Duration

100 Min.

Buses depart approximately every 30 minutes.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Buses run daily between 05:00 and 03:00.

Where does the bus depart from?

The Airport Bus Express departs from the same area as the National Express bus services, from bays 24 and 25.

Convenience

Similar to the train journey, Liverpool Street isn’t a convenient stop for most travelers, meaning you’ll likely have to change to another bus or the London Underground at Stratford to get to your final destination. If you’re traveling with luggage or the weather is bad – as it often is in London – this can be quite stressful.

Timetables

Airport Bus Express Timetables

Editor’s Note

Unless you purchase your ticket at the airport, your ticket will only be valid for the date you entered at the time of booking.

Useful Tips

Save money by booking a return journey.

Your ticket includes two pieces of luggage. Anything more than this may be charged an additional fee.

The timetable is often updated so it is best to check it prior to traveling to ensure there is a bus that suits your flight schedule.

How to get from Stansted Airport to London by private transfer

Private transfers are the most popular way to get from Stansted Airport to Central London due to their convenience and reliability. Services like those provided by Welcome Pickups offer complete flexibility including the option of a fully customized vehicle that suits your needs. When you book a private Stansted Airport transfer you’ll receive:

A guaranteed on-time pickup
Flight monitoring
24/7 customer support
Competitive fixed rate fees
English-speaking driver
An airport meet-and-greet

Overall, your local driver will give you a mini-tour of the city on the way to your hotel, offering insights and advice to help you get the most out of your stay in London.

How much is a private transfer from Stansted Airport to London?

When you book a private transfer with Welcome Pickups, you’ll receive the added benefit of a fixed price including all tolls, surcharges, and extra costs. This means that, unlike a taxi, if you happen to get stuck in traffic, you won’t have to worry about watching the meter go up, and you won’t need to pay an airport pick-up fee.

To get to the city center, you’ll pay £108.40 (€129) for two passengers in a stylish sedan, or £152.90 (€182) for up to 5 passengers. Bookings can be made either online or via the Welcome Pickups app and take just 60 seconds; so make sure you have your flight details ready.

Cost

€129

Trip Duration

60 Min.

*When booked in advance your vehicle will be waiting upon arrival.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Private transfers can be arranged from Stansted Airport 24/7.

Where will my private transfer depart from?

Once you land at Stansted Airport, head to the Arrivals Hall and you’ll find your personal driver waiting for you. Their details and a photo will be e-mailed to you the day before you travel to help you recognize them and they’ll also hold a sign with your name on it. Following the introductions, you’ll be taken to your pre-selected private vehicle so your transfer to London can begin.

Convenience

Private transfers cost pretty much the same as a taxi – or less if you’re traveling in a larger group – while also providing extra flexibility and comfort. They offer reliable services with guaranteed on-time pickups, ideal for families who want to prioritize their time and enjoy their vacation without the hassle of constantly trying to arrange transport.

Editor’s Note

Your driver will receive live status updates on your flight’s scheduled arrival, so they can adjust the pick-up time in case of a delay.

Useful Tips

Bookings are paid by credit card at the time of booking, so you won't need to worry about making a payment on the day of your arrival.

Tipping your driver in the UK isn’t common but you're always welcome to add a little extra on top of the fare through the app if you wish.

It's best to book a pick-up time at least 30 minutes after arrival when you land at Stansted Airport.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in London. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

Frequently asked questions

How do I get from Stansted Airport to London?

There are four modes of transportation available from Stansted Airport; taxi, private transfer, train, or bus. A private transfer or taxi from Stansted Airport to London takes around 1 hour but is the only direct and door-to-door option. The Stansted Express train to Liverpool Street Station takes 48 minutes or you can opt for the bus which takes between 1 hour and 1 hour and 40 minutes.

What is the cheapest way to get from London Stansted to the city?

The cheapest way to get to central London from Stansted Airport is to take the A21 Airport Bus Express to Liverpool Station which costs £16 (€19) per person for a one-way trip.

How much is a train from Stansted Airport to London?

The price of a train ticket from Stansted Airport to Central London depends on how far in advance you book your ticket. Nevertheless, tickets typically cost between £9.90 (€11.80) and £23.90 (€28.40), and they can be purchased at the airport train station from the ticket desks, automated machines, or online in advance.

How far is Stansted Airport to London city center?

The distance between Stansted Airport and Central London is approximately 64 km. This journey will take approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes by bus, 1 hour and 30 minutes by taxi, and just 48 minutes by train.

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