How to Get from Stansted Airport (STN) to Central London
London Stansted Airport (STN), as the third biggest airport serving London and a hub for low-cost European carriers, is situated 40 miles north of Central London. Despite its distance, there are several efficient transport options for getting to the city center. This guide will help you choose the best mode of transportation based on your preferences.
Quick Picks:
- Budget: Coach Services (National Express, Terravision, and easyBus)
- Speed: Stansted Express Train
- Comfort: Pre-booked Minicab
- Night: Coach services operate 24 hours
Train Services (Stansted Express)
The Stansted Express offers a direct route to London Liverpool Street, making it the fastest ground transportation option.
- Cost: From £19, with advance fares starting at £9.70.
- Journey Time: 47 minutes.
- Frequency: Every 15 minutes from early morning until late night.
- Tips: Booking in advance can secure lower fares, and group discounts are available.
Coach Services (National Express, Terravision, and easyBus)
Coaches offer an economical way to reach central London, with services running 24 hours a day.
- Cost: Starts at £2 with easyBus if booked in advance, £6 for National Express, and £9-£10 for Terravision.
- Journey Time: 50 to 90 minutes, varying by destination and time of day.
- Frequency: Continuous, 24-hour service.
- Tips: Advance booking is highly recommended for the best rates.
Taxi
For a more personal and direct route to your destination, pre-booking a minicab is advisable.
- Cost: £70 - £100+, depending on destination.
- Journey Time: Around 1 hour.
- Tips: To avoid queues and secure the best rates, book online in advance, with minicabit recommended.
Comparison Table
|
Option |
Service |
Price (£) |
Time (min) |
Frequency |
Distance (km) |
Notes |
|
Train (Stansted Express) |
High-speed train |
19+ (9.70 advance) |
47 |
Every 15 min |
64 |
Fastest option, advance discounts |
|
Coach (National Express, Terravision, easyBus) |
Coach |
2+ (easyBus advance), 6+ (National Express), 9-10 (Terravision) |
50-90 |
24 hours |
64 |
Cheapest option, pre-booking recommended |
|
Taxi/Minicab |
Pre-booked taxi |
70-100+ |
60 |
On-demand |
64 |
Direct, pre-booking advised |
Additional Considerations:
- Accessibility: Ensure to check each service for accessible options if needed.
- Taxi and Private Hire: Pre-booking is essential for fixed rates and avoiding queues.
- Coach and Train Times: Vary by day and night; planning according to your arrival time is recommended.
Remember, prices and times are subject to change, so always check the latest details on official websites or apps for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Do you want to experience London like a local?
Wrapping things up, we've walked through the steps of getting from Stansted Airport straight to the heart of London, all to make your travel as smooth and fun as possible. But don't stop now! If you're ready to dive into everything London has to offer, our detailed digital itinerary is exactly what you need. Packed with both iconic spots and hidden gems, it's crafted to make your trip hassle-free and filled with genuine discoveries.
Get your London’s itinerary HERE
Looking for other London airports?
For detailed insights and a direct comparison of all major London airports, check out our Comparison of all London Airports article.
If you're interested in specific information about each airport, here are direct links to our dedicated articles:
- Heathrow Airport (LHR)
- Gatwick Airport (LGW)
- Luton Airport (LTN)
- London City Airport (LCY)
- Southend Airport (SEN)
Each one provides focused information, helping you choose the right airport for your travel needs in and out of London.
