30th November 2023

From Train to Plane: Stansted Express's guide to Stansted Airport

Where is Stansted Airport

London Stansted Airport stands as a central hub, welcoming over 27 million passengers each year. It distinguishes itself as the only major London airport with substantial runway capacity and boasts an unparalleled European route network in the UK. This sets it apart, surpassing all counterparts and attracting a significant influx of visitors from the continent. Operational around the clock, 365 days a year, the airport adheres to night quota restrictions from 23:30 to 06:00, ensuring efficient and responsible service. The statistics underscore its significance, with an even 50:50 split between UK and non-UK passengers, making it a hub of international connectivity.

Where is Stansted Airport Located

Stansted Airport is located approximately 42 miles northeast of central London, in the county of Essex, England. The airport links to over 200 destinations across 40+ countries, securing its position as the second-most European destination-rich airport in Europe, trailing only behind Munich. Its robust facilities include a single runway measuring 3,049m by 46m, 10,608 sqm of retail space featuring 50+ shops, restaurants, and cafes, 100+ check-in desks, 35,000 car parking spaces, and up to 110 aircraft parking stands.

How Many Terminals at London Stansted Airport?

Stansted Airport is a single terminal airport, meaning that all facilities are on one level. The train terminals are located directly beneath airport, with lifts, escalators and on hand for transporting luggage with ease.

The terminal at Stansted Airport is well-organised, with separate areas for departures and arrivals. Typically, the check-in desks, security, and departure gates are located in the departures area, while arrivals include baggage claim, customs, and other facilities for passengers arriving at the airport.

London to Stansted Airport via Stansted Express

For a quick and hassle-free journey from London to Stansted Airport, the Stansted Express offers a swift rail link of approximately 47 minutes from London Liverpool Street. In comparison, coach journeys from London to Stansted Airport can take around 1.5 to 2 hours or even longer, depending on traffic conditions. Other convenient routes include a 35-minute trip from Tottenham Hale and a 45-minute to 1-hour journey from Stratford to Stansted Airport on the Stansted Express. These efficient rail connections underscore the convenience and time-saving advantages of opting for the Stansted Express when traveling to and from Stansted Airport.

According to CAA data, 53% of passengers utilise public transport, reflecting the airport's dedication to sustainable and eco-friendly travel practices. London Stansted Airport stands out as a vibrant and well-organised hub, effortlessly linking various destinations while placing a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and passenger convenience.

Stansted Express Terminal to Stansted Airport

Upon disembarking from the Stansted Express at the dedicated train terminal, travellers can effortlessly make their way to Stansted Airport's main terminal by following clear signage. Navigating through the train station, this well-designed and integrated connection ensures a seamless transition, allowing travellers to access check-in counters, security, and other facilities within the main terminal promptly. The convenience of the Stansted Express terminal's location beneath the airport terminal facilitates a quick and straightforward journey for individuals traveling to or from Stansted Airport.

You can take a virtual tour of the station before you travel here: https://virtualtour.greateranglia.co.uk/stansted_airport/

Facilities at Stansted Airport

Shopping

Discover the array of shops awaiting you at Stansted Airport, in the duty-free zones, you'll encounter familiar names like Boots and Accessorize, perfect for grabbing those last-minute holiday essentials that may have slipped your mind in that last minute dash. For those seeking designer items, Stansted Airport houses renowned brands like Hugo Boss, Fat Face, Dune, Hamleys, JD, Mulberry, and Ted Baker. Pre-journey, there are accessible stores, primarily comprising food outlets and WHSmith, but remember that liquids are restricted beyond this point.

Operating generally from 4 am to 10 pm, with some exceptions, such as World Duty Free which cater to the entire flight schedule, you'll likely find shops open whenever your flight arrives or departs. Not bound by typical Sunday trading hours, these duty-free havens maintain consistent opening times on Sundays.

Currency Exchange and Banking

Currency exchange services and banking facilities are available to assist travellers with financial transactions and currency needs. While euros are accepted, note that most shops only take euro notes (not coins), large notes might not be universally accepted, and change is provided in pounds. Stansted Airport boasts a bureau-de-change for currency conversion, though it's worth considering the typically higher exchange rates at airports. Situated past security in the airport's singular terminal, the duty-free section ensures you encounter all the mentioned shops on route to your gate.

Restaurants at Stansted Airport

Discover a culinary journey at Stansted Airport where a diverse array of dining options awaits. Whether you are craving something nutritious and healthy from the range at Leon, the classic pub-style fare and breakfast delights at Wetherspoon Express, or the fresh and organic offerings of Pret a Manger, the airport has your dining preferences covered, with many more options available.

Leon: A fast-food chain with a focus on natural ingredients, Leon offers a range of healthy and flavourful options.

Wetherspoon Express: Part of the JD Wetherspoon chain, this pub-style eatery provides a range of pub classics, breakfast options, and beverages.

Pret a Manger: Known for its fresh and organic offerings, Pret a Manger provides a variety of sandwiches, salads, and hot drinks.

Lounges at Stansted Airport

If you’re looking a stress-free luxurious place to rest whilst at Stansted airport, then The Escape Lounge may be for you. It’s the only lounge area at Stansted so be sure to book your spot before arrival to avoid disappointment.

Location: Airside - International Departure Terminal. Proceed through Security Checks and the Duty-Free area. The entrance to the lounge is located between 'Terracotta Italian Kitchen' and 'Pret A Manger.’

Wi-Fi in Stansted Airport

London Stansted Airport offers complimentary Wi-Fi access, allowing travellers to surf the web on their laptops, mobile phones, or tablets for up to 4 hours in any 24-hour period. To access the free Wi-Fi, simply connect to the '_Free WI-FI' network. This service is available in the terminal and lounges. Additionally, passengers can opt for a high-speed pay-as-you-go Wi-Fi service with 10 times faster speeds for £1, ideal for uninterrupted gaming, movie watching, and media content streaming.

Information Desks at Stansted Airport

Information desks are strategically located throughout the airport to assist passengers with inquiries, directions, and general information. The airport information desk is in the international arrivals area. It is open 24 hours a day and provides help with general airport enquiries, flight information and paging calls.

Special Assistance Services at Stansted Airport

Assistance at Stansted Airport is easily accessible through help points located in each Short Stay Car Park, including the Red, Orange, Green, Fast Track, and Express Set Down areas. Help phones are also available outside the terminal entrance doors and along the outer lane pavement of the set-down area. Services include free wheelchair assistance and support with transporting baggage to the check-in area. Stansted Airport provides assistance services for passengers with reduced mobility or special needs, ensuring a comfortable and accessible travel experience.

Airport Hotels Near Stansted Airport

There are several hotels located near Stansted Airport, providing convenient accommodation options for travellers with early or late flights. Here’s some listed below:

Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport: If you’re not looking to travel this hotel is conveniently located within the airport grounds, offering modern amenities, a fitness centre, and on-site dining.

Holiday Inn Express London Stansted Airport: Situated just off the M11 motorway, this hotel provides a comfortable stay with free Wi-Fi, breakfast included, and a shuttle service to the airport.

Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport: Located within walking distance of the airport terminal, this hotel features contemporary rooms, a fitness centre, and complimentary breakfast.

London Stansted Airport emerges as a vital hub with a distinctive role in international travel, connecting over 27 million passengers annually to a vast network of destinations. With its strategic location, efficient single-terminal design, and commitment to accessibility through the Stansted Express, the airport stands out in the European aviation landscape. Boasting diverse facilities, from upscale shops to convenient hotels, and emphasising sustainability with robust public transport usage, Stansted Airport prioritises passenger experience. Complimentary Wi-Fi, information desks, and special assistance services further underscore its dedication to seamless, inclusive travel. Overall, Stansted Airport seamlessly blends efficiency, connectivity, and passenger-centric services, making it a dynamic and essential player in the aviation industry.

Take the worry out of travel with Stansted Express, ensuring hassle-free transfers to and from Stansted Airport. With tickets starting from £9.90, what’s the wait? Book your tickets today and start your holiday the right way with Stansted Express.