We are asked on a daily basis what is the cheapest and best way to get from Stansted Airport to (central) London? So, we thought we would post this for those people visiting London for first time via Stansted Airport.

Most people flying into Stansted Airport from Ireland will most likely be flying with Ryanair as Aerlingus only fly to either Heathrow or Gatwick. The most efficient way to get into London from Stansted is via the Stansted Express. Stansted Express trains operate every 15 mins between 5.30am and 11.45pm. The journey time from Stansted Airport to Liverpool Street Station takes approx 46 mins.
So where do you buy your ticket? Here are a number of options…

Option 1: Buy your Stansted Express ticket online. Strange as this may be…ticket prices on the Stansted Express website are more expensive than the price you pay at their ticket desk or on board?
Ryanair passengers (using 6 digit flight reservation number) can purchase discounted Stansted Express tickets via their website.  A single journey ticket via Ryanair website costs £18.00 £15.00 saving you £3.00 (16%). A return ticket costs £26.50 £21.50 saving you £5.30 (20%)! Note that you only need the ticket confirmation number contained in the booking confirmation email along with any credit/or debit card when collecting your ticket  from any of the ticket machines at Stansted Airport, Liverpool Street Station and Tottenham Hale Station.

Stansted Express Tickets

Option 2: Buy your Stansted Express ticket in flight. Ryanair cabin crew sell discounted Stansted Express tickets on board all Stansted bound flights. Same prices as above. Tip…you can pay in Euro and save more money by requesting to collect your change in Sterling (depending on cabin crew’s mood!)

Option 3: Buy your Stansted Express ticket at the airport ticket desk or on board the train. A single fare purchased either at the ticket desk or on the train works out £1.00 cheaper at £17.00 vs £18.00 online. This option is probably best for those who are not travelling with Ryanair.

Note: Children under 5 years of age travel free!

Tags: Liverpool Street Station, Stansted Airport, Stansted Express, Stansted Express tickets