What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From London Airport to the City?
London is home to several major airports — London City Airport, Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, and Stansted — each offering different transport options into central London. But if you’re travelling on a budget, you’re probably wondering: “What is the cheapest way to get from any London airport to the city?”
The good news: every London airport has affordable transport options, especially trains, buses and local rail services. This guide compares the cheapest routes from each airport and helps you pick the best value option for your journey.
For airport-specific guidance, also explore:
👉 How Do I Get From London City Airport to the Centre of London?
👉 How Much Does It Cost to Go From London City Airport to London?
1. Cheapest Way From London City Airport (LCY) to London
LCY is the closest airport to Central London.
Cheapest Option: DLR (Docklands Light Railway)
Cost: £3 – £6 with Oyster or contactless
Travel Time: 20–30 minutes to Bank, Tower Gateway or Stratford
This is the most economical and straightforward option for most travellers.
If you want to compare all transfer types for busy travellers:👉 The Top Airport Transfer Options for Busy Travellers
2. Cheapest Way From Heathrow Airport to London
Cheapest Option: London Underground (Piccadilly Line)
Cost: £5.50 – £6.50 (Oyster/contactless)
Travel Time: 50–60 minutes to Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square or King’s Cross
This is the most cost-effective solution, though not ideal for heavy luggage.
3. Cheapest Way From Gatwick Airport to London
Cheapest Option: Thameslink Train
Cost: £9 – £12 (off-peak)
Travel Time: 30–40 minutes to Blackfriars, Farringdon or St Pancras
Gatwick Express is faster but more expensive. Thameslink offers the best budget-friendly balance.
4. Cheapest Way From Luton Airport to London
Cheapest Option: Luton Airport Shuttle Bus + Thameslink Train
Cost: £3.50 shuttle + £12–£16 train
Travel Time: 35–50 minutes to St Pancras
Still one of the most affordable ways to enter central London.
5. Cheapest Way From Stansted Airport to London
Cheapest Option: National Express Bus
Cost: £10 – £14
Travel Time: 50–80 minutes, depending on traffic
The Stansted Express train is faster but pricier, while the bus is the cheapest.
6. What About Private Transfers — Are They Worth It?
Even though private transfers are not the cheapest, they offer the best value for travellers who want:
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Fixed pricing
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Guaranteed pickup
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Door-to-door comfort
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Reliable service even during late-night or early-morning flights
These benefits are especially important for families, business travellers and those with luggage.
For enquiries or bookings: 👉 Contact London City Transfer
7. Quick Comparison Table — Cheapest Options by Airport
| Airport | Cheapest Transport | Cost | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| London City (LCY) | DLR | £3–£6 | 20–30 mins |
| Heathrow (LHR) | Underground | £5–£6.50 | 50–60 mins |
| Gatwick (LGW) | Thameslink | £9–£12 | 30–40 mins |
| Luton (LTN) | Shuttle + Train | £15–£20 | 35–50 mins |
| Stansted (STN) | National Express | £10–£14 | 50–80 mins |
FAQs
1. What is the absolute cheapest way to get from any London airport to the city?
Public transport — DLR, Underground, buses, or local trains — always offers the lowest fares.
2. Which London airport is closest to the city centre?
London City Airport (LCY) is only 6 miles from Central London.
3. Is taking a bus cheaper than train services?
Yes, buses are often cheaper, but trains are faster and more comfortable.
4. Are airport transfers cheaper when booked in advance?
Yes, booking early can secure better rates and avoid price surges.
5. What is the best option for travellers with luggage?
A private transfer is the most comfortable and stress-free choice.
