London Stansted (STN) Airport Guide

London's Stansted Airport handles almost 23 million passengers each year and is the third-busiest airport in the UK.

Located 48 kilometres north-east of London, the airport is served by the Stansted Express rail service.

Some of Stansted Airport's most popular international destinations include Dublin, Rome and Milan and the airport is served by airlines including Air Berlin, Air Malta and Eastern Airways.

Stansted Airport Amenities

Most British airports are home to a good selection of facilities and Stansted is no exception.

When it comes to shopping, there are plenty of stores to choose from, with popular high street brands such as All Saints, Accessorize and La Senza all located at the airport. Passengers can also browse the airport's collection of designer shops, which include Hugo Boss, Kurt Geiger and Mulberry.

Stansted Airport has two duty free shops; one of which is located after security and one in the airport's arrivals hall, ensuring that passengers do not miss out on the opportunity to snap up some discounted goods.

There are restaurants to suit all tastes, from the stylish Caviar House and Prunier Seafood Bar and Ponti's Italian restaurant to family favourites such as Frankie and Benny's and Burger King. Those looking for a healthier bite can head to Giraffe Juice, which serves up a tasty range of smoothies, yoghurts, milkshakes and freshly made sandwiches.

Passengers looking to relax and freshen up are also well catered for at Stansted. Showering facilities are available in the departure lounge and for a small fee travellers can buy a towel and soap.

The airport is also home to a Servisair Executive Lounge, which is ideal for passengers facing a long wait. For a small charge passengers can gain access to the lounge up to three hours before their flight and enjoy complimentary refreshments, wireless internet access and comfortable chairs.

Business passengers will find meeting and conference facilities at Stansted's United Business Centre or at the nearby Hilton and Radisson SAS hotels.

Terminals at London Stansted

Stansted Airport is home to just one passenger terminal building, which has a train station located directly below.

Stansted Transport Links

For passengers travelling to and from London city centre, the Stansted Express is a convenient option. The train station is located directly beneath the airport terminal and services depart every 15 minutes. Journey time is approximately 45 minutes and a single fare comes in at £18.

A slightly more economical option is to take the bus. There are plenty of companies operating from Stansted, including National Express, which charges £10.50 one-way and Terravision, which operates services every 30 minutes and offers single fares for £9.

Taxis are also available from the airport. These are operated by Checker Cars and passengers will find a reservations desk in the international arrivals hall, as well as a courtesy telephone. A taxi journey to the city centre costs around £99, depending on location.

Those making their onward journey from one of London's other airports can also travel by train, bus or taxi.

National Express operates regular services from Stansted Airport to both Gatwick Airport and Heathrow Airport, while those wanting to travel by train can take the express service to London and take a connecting train to either airport.