A Complete Guide to London City Airport
London City Airport is one of the most convenient and business-focused airports in the UK. Established in 1987 and located just minutes from central London, it is a convenient gateway for domestic and European travel. London City Airport, known for its compact layout and efficient operations, is particularly appealing to business travellers seeking speed, reliability, and convenient access to the capital.
With streamlined check-in procedures, rapid security screening, and a single-terminal design, the airport offers a smooth, stress-free travel experience. In this blog, we will explore London City Airport in detail, including its location, transport links, parking facilities, terminal layout, dining options, shopping, amenities, nearby hotels, and destinations.
Where is London City Airport Located?
Address: Royal Docks, Newham, London, E16 2PX, United Kingdom.
Phone: +44 20 7646 0000
Surrounding Area: Situated near the River Thames and within easy reach of Canary Wharf, the O2 Arena, ExCeL London, and key financial centres, making it a preferred choice for corporate travellers.
Airlines Flying out of London City Airport
London City Airport is served by a range of reputable airlines that offer efficient connections to key destinations across the UK and Europe. These airlines focus on short-haul routes, ensuring efficient schedules and frequent departures.
Airlines operating from the airport include:
- Aurigny
- Loganair
- British Airways
- LOT Polish Airlines
- ITA Airways
- Lufthansa
- KLM
- Luxair
- SWISS
How to Get to London City Airport?
Public transport is the most suitable way to get to London City Airport. Different options suit different preferences and schedules:
Docklands Light Railway (DLR)
The Docklands Light Railway is a direct public transport link to London City Airport via the DLR station. The DLR connects the airport to major transport hubs, including Bank and Tower Gateway. This link allows easy access to the London Underground network.
Bus Services
London City Airport is connected to the surrounding area, including Stratford, Silvertown, North Woolwich, and Prince Regent DLR Station, via local bus routes, including the 473 bus. Buses typically run every 10–12 minutes and provide a direct link to the airport.
Bicycle
For those who prefer cycling over buses or cars, London City Airport offers local cycling routes and secure bicycle parking. Bike racks are available for travellers living nearby who choose to commute by bicycle.
Chauffeur Services with PJ Chauffeurs
For easy, comfortable pickup and drop-off services, PJ Chauffeurs provides luxury chauffeur transfers to and from London City Airport. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, our team guarantees you arrive at your destined location comfortably and in style.
London City Airport Parking Options
London City Airport offers a range of on-site and nearby parking options to suit both short- and long-term travellers.
Pre-Booked Parking
Passengers can pre-book parking online up to 1 year before their departure date. They often benefit from discounts of up to 78% compared to drive-up rates for advance booking. You can pre-book for stays of a minimum of one day, provided bookings are made at least six hours before you arrive.
Short Stay Parking
Short-stay parking is situated near the terminal building, providing convenience for passengers who need to park for a short period. This parking option is a little more expensive than pre-booking, but it’s suitable for quick trips.
Long Stay Parking
The official on-site long-stay park is within walking distance of the terminal. Long-stay parking should be within a short walk of the terminal, with options such as key drop-off and meet-and-greet services. Booking online in advance helps you avoid higher drive-up rates and find deals.
Blue Badge Parking
Blue Badge holders at London City Airport have access to designated parking bays in the Short and Long Stay car park. To ensure easy access, this parking is located near the terminal, E16 2PB. To provide disabled people with extra privileges, blue badge holders can park at a discounted rate.
Different Terminal at London City Airport
London City Airport has only one terminal. This terminal has two levels: arrivals are handled on the ground floor, while departures are on the upper floor.
Key Details
- This terminal is structured with 18 gates arranged within a single main area, ensuring efficient, easy access.
- The ground floor of this terminal features check-in decks, bag drop facilities, and a visitor information desk.
- After passing through security on the upper level, passengers arrive in the departure lounge, which features shops, bars, and cafés.
- This single-terminal setup allows for shorter, faster transit times compared to larger airports.
Restaurants and Cafés at London City Airport
Despite its compact size, London City Airport features a selection of dining options.
| Restaurant | What They Offer |
|---|---|
| Caffè Nero | Italian-style coffee with a selection of freshly prepared food |
| Pret | A variety of hot and cold snacks, drinks, and freshly made treats |
| Soul and Grain | Sandwiches, salads, hot meals, and baked goods |
| Juniper and Co | Baked goods from Paul Rhodes, Forman's smoked salmon, local cheeses, plus a wide selection of local spirits, fine wines from Jeroboams, and craft beers |
Shopping at London City Airport
London City Airport has various shops, primarily located after security in the departure lounge. These shops offer a range of essentials and luxury items.
Aelia Duty Free: Fragrances and skincare products, spirits, sweets, and a selection of British goods and memorabilia
Boots: A wide range of toiletries, travel essentials, health and beauty products, plus snacks
InMotion: Headphones, speakers, tablets, and mobile accessories from leading brands, including Apple and Samsung
WHSmith: A comprehensive selection of books, magazines, health and beauty essentials, souvenirs, digital gadgets, and refreshments such as snacks and drinks
Amenities at London City Airport
London City Airport features modern amenities personalised for business travellers and leisure travellers.
Assisted Travel Services for passengers requiring extra support
Advanced CCTV Scanners to allow laptops or liquids remain in bags
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, enabling passengers to stay connected
VIP Airport Concierge for fast-track and premium assistance
ATMs are available before and after security
Baby-Changing facilities for families travelling with infants
Hotels Near London City Airport
Hotels at LCY are primarily located in the nearby Royal Docks and ExCeL London areas, offering options from budget to luxury. The highly rated and closely located options include:
Courtyard by Marriott London City Airport
Location: 10 Connaught Rd, London E16 2AE
Free airport shuttle: No
Courtyard by Marriott is just a 7-minute walk from the LCY and DLR stations. This luxurious hotel has 184 soundproofed, air-conditioned rooms, as well as a kitchen and bar for dining. Each room has 55-inch Smart TVs, free high-speed Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, safes, and rainfall showers. It also features a 24-hour front desk, 3 meeting rooms, a small 24/7 gym, and a business centre. To stay at this hotel, a £50 deposit is typically required and refunded at checkout.
Sunborn London Yacht Hotel
Location: Royal Victoria Dock, London E16 1AA
Free airport shuttle: No
Sunborn London is a unique 108-metre luxury superyacht hotel permanently moored in London’s Royal Victoria Dock. 133 guest rooms and 5 suites, including 45m² Yacht Executive Suites and 35m² Yacht Junior Suites, make this hotel a luxurious one. The hotel includes the Lands End Restaurant, Sundown Bar, and event facilities. Picture yourself in a grand room aboard a luxurious yacht, where the solitariness and individuality of sailing combine seamlessly with the comfort and elegance of a five-star hotel. Moreover, the hotel is located in a prime spot for visiting ExCeL Exhibition Centre, with easy access to central London via rail, cable car, and river transport.
Travelodge London Excel
Location: 1016 Dockside Rd, London E16 2FQ
Free airport shuttle: No
The Travelodge London Excel is a modern hotel with 130+ rooms renovated in 2022. It is conveniently located near London City Airport, offering comfort and convenience for travellers. The hotel offers large beds, 24/7 reception, a bar-café, and paid parking, with functional, air-conditioned rooms ideal for business or leisure travellers. 24-hour reception, Wi-Fi, parking, and wheelchair access make for a comfortable stay for travellers. Additionally, this hotel also has an on-site Bar Café that serves breakfast, light bites, and dinner.
Destinations Served by London City Airport
LCY primarily serves business and leisure destinations across the UK and Europe, with key hubs including:
- Amsterdam
- Dublin
- London
- Antwerp
- Edinburgh
- Luxembourg
- Barcelona
- Faro
- Malaga
- Belfast
- Florence
- Milan
- Bergerac
- Frankfurt
- Mykonos
- Berlin
- Geneva
- Nice
- Billund
- Glasgow
- Palma
- Chambery
- Guernsey
- Prague
- Ibiza
- Rome
- Isle of Man
- Rotterdam
- San Sebastian
- Skiathos
- Salzburg
- Split
- Thessaloniki
- Vilnius
- Zurich
Conclusion
London City Airport delivers a convenient, all-in-one travel experience for both business and leisure travellers. Passengers can enjoy a stress-free journey due to its prime location near central London, efficient terminal, and a wide range of parking options. Various restaurants, cafés, shops, and airport amenities fulfil every need. With its efficient terminal, excellent transport links, premium amenities, and a wide range of destinations, it continues to be one of the most convenient airports in the UK for short-haul travel.