These are the 5 Cheapest Airports to Fly Into London in 2025

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Dreaming of a London getaway? Whether it’s iconic sights like Big Ben, charming pubs in Soho, or day trips to the English countryside, this city is always calling. I’ve flown to London several times over the years, and I’ve never paid more than $400 roundtrip from the US—so I know the tricks to make it affordable.

For 2025, I’ve analyzed hundreds of flight routes to find the five cheapest airports to fly into: Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, Stansted, London City, and even Southend. With a few budget tips included, you can save big on airfare and spend more on exploring this unforgettable city. Here’s where to land to make your London adventure happen without breaking the bank!

#1 tip to find cheap flights to London

Looking for cheap flights to London? Before diving into all the top airports to fly to London, I want to share a quick tip on how to save money on airfare.

For the past 3 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to get amazing flight deals. All you have to do is enter your home airport and where you want to go, and from there, they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals. And the coolest part? It’s 100% FREE! In 2024, I’ve saved thousands of dollars from their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $285 roundtrip fare from Boston to London.

There’s a free and a premium version – the free one has pretty much everything you’ll need. Though if you’re like me and travel a lot, it’s worth upgrading to the paid version for $49 per year. I recommend signing up for the free trial (you can cancel at any time) to try it for yourself. And if you like it, use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Now without further ado, here are the best London flights in 2025.

Cheapest Places to Fly to in London in 2025

Ready to fly to London in 2025? The beauty of Europe awaits you. Below are the cheapest airports to London from the US and around the world.

1. London Heathrow Airport (LHR)

• 🏠 Location: About 14 miles west of Central London
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: High traffic volume from global carriers creates competitive pricing
• ✈️ Best Airlines: British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Skip the Heathrow Express and take the Elizabeth Line or Piccadilly Line to save $20–$30 on the ride into the city.

London Heathrow Airport is the UK’s largest airport and one of the busiest in the world, which works in your favor when it comes to flight deals. Fares from major US cities like New York, Boston, and Chicago often range from $420–$720 roundtrip, especially in February, March, or late October when crowds thin out.

Its well-connected location makes it a smart base for travelers. You’re less than an hour from Central London and within reach of side trips to Windsor Castle, Oxford, or even Brighton with a quick train ride.

The terminals are modern, and immigration tends to be smoother in the early mornings. For those flying long-haul, this airport offers some of the widest route options and flexible schedules.

Fun Fact: Heathrow has five terminals, and Terminal 5 has won multiple awards for best airport terminal. That means smoother transfers and better dining options for travelers on layovers or long-haul flights.

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2. London Gatwick Airport (LGW)

• 🏠 Location: About 30 miles south of Central London
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Serves both low-cost and long-haul carriers with frequent fare wars
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Norse Atlantic, easyJet, JetBlue
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use Southern or Thameslink trains instead of the Gatwick Express to save $15–$20 one-way.

Flying into Gatwick Airport is a smart choice if you’re looking to balance convenience with affordability. It often serves up solid roundtrip deals from cities like New York, Boston, and DC, usually in the $390–$650 range. 

Despite being a bit farther from the city center, the airport connects smoothly to London by train and makes a great base for exploring coastal spots like Brighton or historic towns like Arundel.

Security lines here tend to move quickly, and the terminals are well-equipped with shops, lounges, and dining. It also hosts more budget airlines than Heathrow, which can help shave down the cost of multi-leg European trips. Travel in January or November when demand is low, airfares drop, and London’s major attractions are far less crowded.

Fun Fact: Gatwick has the world’s busiest single-use runway, handling over 55 aircraft movements an hour. It runs so efficiently, delays are surprisingly rare for such a major hub.

3. London Stansted Airport (STN)

• 🏠 Location: Around 40 miles northeast of Central London
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Major hub for European budget airlines
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Ryanair, Jet2, PLAY
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book flights arriving before 9 AM or after 8 PM to snag the lowest fares from low-cost carriers.

Stansted Airport is your go-to airport for rock-bottom deals on flights to and from Europe. While it primarily handles short-haul routes, it often features competitive roundtrip deals from the U.S. through connecting European cities. Expect prices between $420–$690 from New York or Chicago. February and early spring bring lower demand, making it one of the most budget-friendly times to fly in.

The airport works great as a launchpad to explore Southeast England. Historic Cambridge is just an hour away, and you can easily reach charming towns like Saffron Walden or Colchester. Coastal destinations like Southwold or Clacton-on-Sea are within reach if you’re up for a road trip.

With its focus on quick turnarounds and efficient terminals, Stansted keeps things moving. Trains to London’s Liverpool Street station run every 15–30 minutes, and you’ll often find fewer delays compared to busier hubs.

Fun Fact: Stansted has its own dedicated budget terminal layout designed to speed up boarding and cut turnaround times, which means faster flights and lower costs for passengers.

4. London Luton Airport (LTN)

• 🏠 Location: Around 35 miles north of Central London
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Dominated by ultra-low-cost carriers flying across Europe
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Wizz Air, easyJet, Ryanair
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book early morning flights and use the Luton Airport Parkway rail service to save money on transportation.

Luton Airport is a practical choice for budget-minded travelers, especially those planning onward travel to Eastern Europe or the Mediterranean. Roundtrip flights from major U.S. cities with connections can dip into the $390–$620 range, especially in March or October when fares tend to drop and crowds thin out.

While it’s smaller than Heathrow or Gatwick, Luton excels at short-haul European traffic and can be a convenient entry point if you’re staying north of London. Consider exploring nearby destinations like St Albans, a cathedral town full of Roman history, or even heading toward the Chiltern Hills for countryside day trips.

The airport has undergone recent renovations to improve its layout and traveler flow. It’s also known for quick check-ins and boarding, making it popular with frequent fliers who value speed and affordability.

Fun Fact: Luton Airport has one of the shortest runway taxi times in the UK. That means you’ll spend less time waiting on the tarmac and more time getting where you need to go.

• Read next: Cheap Places to Fly from the UK

5. London City Airport (LCY)

• 🏠 Location: Just under 10 miles east of Central London
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Close proximity reduces transit costs, and it often has flash sales for European destinations
• ✈️ Best Airlines: British Airways, KLM, Lufthansa
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Skip the taxis by using a contactless bank card or Oyster card to hop on the DLR right outside the terminal. It’s fast, easy, and far cheaper than a cab into Central London.

London City Airport is ideal for travelers who want to land close to the action. Fares are usually higher here, but you can still snag roundtrip deals from New York in the $520–$740 range during shoulder months like May or November. Keep an eye out for limited-time sales on premium economy seats.

This airport is especially convenient if you’re staying in East London or traveling for business. Attractions like the Museum of London Docklands, Canary Wharf, and Greenwich are within a quick ride. The DLR station right outside the terminal makes city access fast and affordable.

Its compact size and no-fuss layout mean you can often get from plane to train in under 20 minutes. That kind of speed is rare in a major capital city and can save you hours compared to bigger hubs.

Fun Fact: London City’s short runway and steep approach angle make it one of the few airports in Europe where pilots need special training. It also leads to quieter landings, which is a plus for nearby neighborhoods and travelers alike.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to London
• You may also like: Beautiful Places to Visit in the UK

Frequently Asked Questions About the Cheapest London Airports to Fly Into

Explore practical insights and tips related to the cheapest airports to fly into London with our FAQ section, designed to enhance your budget-friendly travel experience.

What is the cheapest airport to fly into in London?

For those aiming to minimize travel costs, airports like London Luton (LTN) and London Stansted (STN) often emerge as leading options. They frequently showcase budget-friendly flights, particularly via low-cost carriers like easyJet and Ryanair. While these airports aren’t directly within London’s city limits, they boast efficient, economical transport links to the heart of the city. This makes them top picks for travelers who prioritize both affordability and convenience.

What month is the cheapest to fly to London?

The cost of flying to London often fluctuates based on the season. Generally, the winter months, except the peak festive stretch from mid-December to early January, tend to have lower flight prices. January and February, right after the holiday rush, usually offer cost-effective fares. Yet, to maximize savings, it’s wise to regularly track flight prices and use fare alert tools. Discounts and promotions can emerge anytime. It is also at these months where accommodations in London offer best deals.

The best part? With a little bit of research and flexibility, you can find amazing deals on the cheapest places to fly from London. These include cities like Riga, Sofia, Brussels, Milan, and Vienna. 

What is the cheapest day to fly to England?

To snag the most affordable flight to England, consider booking a midweek departure. Flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays often come with more attractive price tags compared to the more popular travel days like Fridays and Sundays. However, always remember that prices vary based on multiple factors. Consistent fare monitoring and flexibility can lead to the best deals.

How can travelers ensure they are booking a flight to the cheapest airports to fly into London?

To land a flight to one of London’s most budget-friendly airports, lean on flight comparison tools. These platforms facilitate fare exploration across various airlines and airports. With flexibility in travel dates and a willingness to consider alternative airports, travelers can sift through numerous price points. This ensures they find a fit for their budget and needs.

How early should I book my flight to secure the best fare?

To strike a balance between early booking benefits and potential last-minute deals, consider booking your flight about 4-6 weeks before travel. For high-demand times like summer or holidays, booking several months in advance is advisable to sidestep potential price hikes.

Is it possible to find last-minute deals to London airports?

Certainly. While advance booking is a common route to savings, airlines sometimes offer last-minute deals, especially if they have unsold seats as the departure date nears. For those open to spontaneous travel, checking platforms specializing in last-minute deals and setting up fare alerts can yield significant savings.

How does the choice of airline influence the cost of travel to London?

Airline selection can majorly shape travel costs. Typically, low-cost carriers, like Ryanair and easyJet, one of the best airlines to fly to Europe, operating from airports such as Luton and Stansted, provide more wallet-friendly fares. These airlines are often the go-to for budget-conscious travelers.

What additional costs should be considered when flying into London?

Beyond just the flight price, travelers should factor in extra costs like airport transfers, baggage fees, and in-flight purchases. Additionally, evaluating the airport’s location concerning one’s London destination is essential, as both transit time and costs can differ markedly between airports.

How does the time of year influence flight prices to London?

Seasons play a significant role in flight pricing to London. Peak tourist times, like summer and the December holidays, often carry higher fares due to increased demand. In contrast, off-peak periods, notably the winter months (excluding holidays), often offer more budget-friendly flight options.

What are some tips for finding the best flight deals to London?

Scoring the best deals requires a mix of flexibility, continuous fare tracking, and leveraging various online tools. Being adaptable with travel dates and airports can reveal different pricing options. Flight comparison sites are essential tools for scouting and contrasting fares. Setting up fare alerts ensures timely notifications about price drops or promotions. Lastly, considering alternative booking strategies, such as choosing a different airport or accepting a layover, might unlock further savings.

Final Thoughts on London’s Cheapest Airports

Exploring one of the cheapest places to fly to in Europe, London, with its rich history and lively streets, doesn’t have to be a costly endeavor. By choosing from the cheapest airports to fly into London, travelers can embark on their London adventure without stretching their budget. Whether landing at Luton’s busy runways, Southend’s convenient terminals, or other budget-friendly options, each airport sets the stage for a memorable journey. With iconic landmarks and bustling avenues, London invites visitors for unforgettable experiences, all while prioritizing affordability.