Choosing the Best UK Airport for Your First Overseas Trip to England

If you're planning your first overseas trip to England, one of the crucial decisions you'll need to make is which airport to fly into. The two main airports serving metropolitan London are Heathrow (LHR) and Gatwick (LGW), with a third, quieter option being London City (LCY). Each has its advantages and disadvantages, making the choice depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Heathrow Airport (LHR)

Heathrow is one of the world's largest and most active international airports. If you're flying direct from the United States, for instance, it's likely that your flight will land here. From Heathrow, you can take the London Underground (known colloquially as the Tube), a train, or a bus into London. I've taken the Tube from Heathrow into the city on various occasions, and it's a reasonable option. However, during peak hours, the Tube can be quite crowded and slower.

Another option is to book a pre-booked car service, which can be more comfortable and cost-effective for travel to other parts of the city. On one occasion, we booked a car service from Heathrow to Southampton and found this to be easier and less expensive than the bus and train, especially for a group of people.

Gatwick Airport (LGW)

Gatwick is another major international airport, located closer to the M25, the motorway circling London. Flights to Gatwick from other countries are less common than Heathrow, but still do exist. From Gatwick, you can easily take a train into London, which takes about an hour. This is generally a more pleasant journey, with Gatwick being a more modern and spacious airport compared to Heathrow.

If you are not interested in taking a train, you can also take the Heathrow Express from Gatwick. While the train ride is faster, it is also more expensive and less frequent. The Heathrow Express will allow you to reach Heathrow from Gatwick in just 49 minutes, but it may not be the most suitable choice if you have more time.

London City Airport (LCY)

London City Airport is the smallest of the three main airports serving London. It is located in the East End, close to the City of London and the docklands. This airport is often the best option if you prefer a quieter and faster route to the city center. The airport has a shorter taxi ride to central London, but the routes in and out can be limited depending on the time and day.

However, the choice of aircraft at London City makes a significant difference. To make the most of London City, you need to ensure that the aircraft serving your flight is approved for this airport. I would recommend checking the approved aircraft list for your specific flight to ensure you reach London City in the most convenient way.

Tips for Getting Around London

Once you're in London, getting around the city is relatively straightforward. A common and convenient way to explore is by using the London Underground (Tube). This extensive network can take you to all corners of the city—though some lines may be more crowded or slower than others. However, if you plan to travel during peak hours, be prepared for crowds.

A Oyster card is a popular and convenient way to pay for transport, including trains from the airport. Oyster online - Transport for London - Oyster cards provides comprehensive information on purchasing Oyster cards, and you can even order a visitor Oyster card from the same site.

Conclusion

Choosing the right airport to fly into London depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you have a flight to Gatwick and London, it may be more pleasant and less expensive to take the train into the city. Conversely, if you have a flight to Heathrow and plan to travel to the west side of the country, it might be better to book a direct train or pre-book a car service. London City, in particular, can be the best option for a quieter and faster journey to the city center, but you need to ensure the right aircraft is serving your flight.

Whichever airport you choose, make sure to check the airport's website for the most up-to-date information on transportation options and airport facilities. Planning ahead will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to England.