Stansted to Central London: Stansted Express, Coach or Private Car
Stansted is a long way from central London, so the way you travel in makes a real difference to your day. Here is how the options compare.
Stansted Express
Trains run to Tottenham Hale and Liverpool Street, taking about 50 minutes to Liverpool Street. Quick and reliable for the City and east London; you will need the Tube or a taxi for the rest of the journey.
Coach
Coaches run to several central London stops, including Victoria, Stratford and Liverpool Street. Cheap, but slow in traffic, and luggage space is shared.
Private car
Door to door. In normal traffic, allow about 1 hour 15 minutes to the West End and about 45 minutes to Canary Wharf. Fares start from about £76 to Canary Wharf and about £85 to Oxford Circus in an Economy Sedan for up to 4 passengers; a Standard Van for 6 is about £145 to Oxford Circus.
Which to choose
- Travelling alone and light to the City: the Stansted Express.
- Lowest cost: the coach.
- Family, group or heavy luggage: a car – one fare for everyone and no changes.
- Early-morning or late-night flights: a car, as trains and coaches run less often.
Taxi or train: the numbers
For one traveller, the train costs less. For four people with suitcases, four train tickets plus a taxi from Liverpool Street often come close to the fixed fare of a car – and the car goes straight to the hotel. For six people, a van is usually the better value.
Booking a car
Enter Stansted and your address on the booking form. Your driver waits in arrivals with your name; the first 60 minutes after landing are free. See Stansted transfers and Stansted to Canary Wharf.
Going back to Stansted
From central London, leave about three and a quarter hours before a short-haul departure. Choosing “Return” when you book adds the trip back with a discount on the return leg.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Stansted Express take?
About 50 minutes to Liverpool Street.
How long does a car take?
About 1 hour 15 minutes to the West End in normal traffic.
How much is a car to central London?
From about £76 to £85 per vehicle, depending on the address.
Is a car worth it for a family?
Often, once you add up train tickets and onward taxis.
Do you cover early flights?
Yes, at any hour.
