Shared Airport Shuttle or Private Car in London: Which Is Better?

Shared shuttles and coaches carry passengers from London’s airports to central stops and some hotels. A private car takes only your party, directly to your address. Here is how they compare.

Shared shuttles and coaches

• Cheapest per person for solo travellers.
• Fixed timetables or waiting until the vehicle is full.
• Several stops before yours; journeys can be long in traffic.
• Drop-off at a central stop or selected hotels, not always your door.

Private car

• A fixed price per vehicle, shared by your group.
• Leaves as soon as you have your bags; no other passengers.
• Door to door, including homes and offices.
• Driver waiting in arrivals with your name; 60 minutes of free waiting.
• Child seats free on request.

Cost compared

For one traveller, a shared shuttle is cheaper. For a family or group, a private car is often competitive: from Heathrow to Oxford Circus, an Economy Sedan for up to 4 starts from about £47, and a Standard Van for 6 about £80.

Time compared

A private car from Heathrow to the West End takes about 50 minutes in normal traffic. A shuttle can take much longer once you add waiting time and the stops at other hotels.

Which suits you?

• Solo traveller on a budget: a shared shuttle or coach.
• Family, group, business traveller: a private car.
• Late arrivals: a private car, as shuttles may not run.

Booking a private car

Enter the airport and your address on the booking form. See London airport transfer prices and airport transfers for families.

Business travellers

For a meeting straight after landing, a private car means no waiting for other passengers and a predictable journey. You can work or take calls on the way, and book for colleagues by entering their names and phone numbers.

Groups and families

Because the fare is per vehicle, groups share one price. A Standard Van takes 6 passengers and 4 suitcases; a minibus takes up to 16 passengers and 10 suitcases. Child seats are fitted free on request – add the children’s ages in the booking notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a shuttle cheaper than a private car?

For one person, yes; for groups, often not.

Does a private car stop for other passengers?

No, it is for your party only.

How long does a car take from Heathrow?

About 50 minutes to the West End in normal traffic.

Are child seats available?

Yes, free on request in our private cars.

Do shuttles run at night?

Often not; check the timetable.