A Complete Guide to London City Airport (LCY): Everything You Need to Know (Part 2)
Nestled in the vibrant Royal Docks of East London, London City Airport (LCY) is a standout hub for travelers seeking proximity to central London. Since opening in 1987, this compact yet efficient airport has become a favorite among business travelers and tourists alike. Join us on a journey through London City Airport with this comprehensive guide that covers everything from transport options to top dining spots and the best destinations.
Location and Accessibility
London City Airport is located just 6 miles from the heart of London, making it the closest airport to the city. Situated only 3 miles from the bustling business district of Canary Wharf, this airport’s prime location offers swift access to central London. This convenient setup makes LCY a choice pick for quick, hassle-free departures and arrivals, whether you’re off on a short-haul business trip or a leisurely weekend getaway.
How to Get to London City Airport
LCY’s excellent transport links mean you have a range of options for reaching the airport:
- Docklands Light Railway (DLR): The most popular route to LCY, the DLR connects you directly to the London Underground network, with key transfer stations like Bank and Tower Gateway. The DLR also links to Stratford International, making access from various parts of the city a breeze.
- Bus: Local buses provide another budget-friendly option. The 473 bus services connect LCY with locations like Stratford, Silvertown, and North Woolwich, while the 474 bus serves Canning Town, East Beckton, and North Woolwich.
- Cycling: For those nearby, LCY is accessible via local cycle routes. With bicycle racks available at the airport, it’s a convenient, eco-friendly choice.
- Umbrella Transfers Chauffeur Service: Elevate your experience by booking with Umbrella Transfers for a private and luxurious ride to and from LCY. Umbrella Transfers chauffeur service ensures a smooth, comfortable journey, allowing you to avoid parking hassles, local taxi negotiations, and traffic stress.
Parking at London City Airport
London City Airport offers a variety of parking options to suit your needs. Here’s an overview:
- Pre-Booked Parking: Book your parking in advance, up to a year before your departure. This option allows you to save up to 78% on regular rates, providing peace of mind and significant savings.
- Short Stay Parking: Located close to the terminal, this is ideal for those with quick trips. Although rates are slightly higher, it’s worth the convenience for short stays.
- Long Stay Parking: This option is perfect for longer trips, located a short walk from the terminal with both pre-booked and on-the-day payment options available.
- Blue Badge Parking: For passengers with disabilities, designated Blue Badge spaces are available at discounted rates near the terminal.
- Pick-Up Area: Conveniently located close to the main car park, this area is ideal for those dropping off or picking up passengers, with short-stay rates applied.
Inside the Terminal: Facilities and Amenities
The London City Airport terminal is compact but well-organized, designed to offer a smooth and efficient travel experience. The single, two-level terminal has 18 gates with hardstand access, meaning passengers board directly from the tarmac, as the airport does not use jet bridges. Here’s a breakdown of what’s inside the terminal:
- Check-In and Security: On the ground floor, you’ll find the check-in desks and initial service facilities. Passengers can quickly move up to the security area on the upper level, where CT security scanners speed up the process by eliminating the need to remove laptops and liquids.
- Departure Lounges and Gates: Post-security, travelers can relax in a modern waiting area with shops and dining options, designed around the west and east piers. Clear corridors lead down to ground-level boarding gates, which are easy to navigate, thanks to LCY’s efficient layout.
Dining Options at London City Airport
Before take-off, you’ll find a delightful selection of restaurants and cafes at LCY, ready to satisfy any craving. Here’s a look at the airport’s dining highlights:
- Caffè Nero: Known for its Italian coffee and savoury menu, Caffè Nero provides a cozy ambience for travelers to recharge.
- Pret a Manger: Perfect for a quick bite, Pret offers a variety of wholesome snacks, beverages, and sandwiches, all crafted without preservatives.
- Soul & Grain: For a fresh and wholesome meal, this spot offers sandwiches, salads, hot dishes, and artisan coffee.
- Juniper & Co: This upscale eatery highlights local flavours with ingredients from Paul Rhodes’ bakery, local cheeses, and Forman’s salmon, alongside wines from Jeroboams and a wide array of local spirits.
Shopping at London City Airport
Though compact, London City Airport provides a range of shops catering to last-minute needs and travel essentials:
- Aelia Duty-Free: Beyond security, Aelia Duty-Free presents an impressive collection of skincare, fragrances, spirits, sweets, and British memorabilia.
- Boots: Stock up on toiletries, health essentials, snacks, and beauty items.
- InMotion: Your tech stop, featuring travel accessories from brands like Apple and Samsung, from headphones to chargers.
- WHSmith: Find books, magazines, snacks, and souvenirs for all your travel needs.
Nearby Hotels for Rest and Relaxation
For travelers with an early flight or a late arrival, London City Airport is near several excellent hotels that offer comfort and convenience:
- Courtyard by Marriott London City Airport: A short 7-minute walk from LCY, Courtyard by Marriott offers spacious rooms, a well-equipped gym, and delectable dining options. Perfect for business travellers and leisure guests, it’s close to The O2 and Canary Wharf.
- Sunborn London Yacht Hotel: Enjoy a unique stay on a luxury yacht at Royal Victoria Dock. This floating hotel combines privacy and exclusivity with stunning views and high-end dining options, ideal for a memorable stay in London’s Docklands.
- Travelodge London Excel: Offering budget-friendly comfort, this hotel is located near ExCel and is equipped with signature king-size beds, providing a restful night’s sleep at an affordable rate.
Airport Amenities for a Seamless Experience
London City Airport prioritizes passenger convenience, providing a host of amenities to make your journey as smooth as possible:
- Assisted Travel Services: For those requiring additional help, LCY offers various assisted travel options.
- Wi-Fi Access: Stay connected with free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal.
- Seating and Power: Ample seating and plug-in stations are available in the departure lounge and near gates.
- Concierge Services: The airport’s VIP service offers a luxury experience with exclusive pre-flight relaxation and assistance with arrivals.
- Currency Exchange and ATMs: Located throughout the terminal, Global Exchange provides a range of currency options, while ATMs are accessible before and after security.
- Baby Changing and Family Facilities: Parents will find well-equipped baby changing rooms located near gates and restrooms.
Destinations from London City Airport
From London City Airport, you can jet off to a variety of exciting destinations across Europe and the UK. Here’s a quick look at some top destinations:
- Amsterdam – Perfect for a city break filled with canals, art, and historic charm.
- Barcelona – Enjoy the beach, incredible architecture, and vibrant nightlife.
- Edinburgh – Soak up the history and culture of Scotland’s capital.
- Florence – The Renaissance city, full of art, history, and Italian elegance.
- Zurich – Explore Switzerland’s financial hub, surrounded by stunning alpine scenery.
The Best Way to Get to and From London City Airport
The best way to experience seamless travel to or from LCY is with Umbrella Transfers chauffeur service. Umbrella Transfers eliminates the hassle of local taxi fares, parking, or navigating through traffic, offering reliable rides between LCY and major cities like Cambridge, Oxford, Manchester, and more. With pre-booked transportation, you can count on a stress-free journey with a professional chauffeur who guarantees comfort and punctuality, ensuring you arrive at your destination on time and in style.
London City Airport offers the unique advantage of a city-center location combined with world-class facilities, providing an easy and pleasant travel experience. Whether you’re jetting off for business or exploring Europe, London City Airport is an exceptional gateway to London and beyond.
FAQ
What are London City Airport’s hours of operation?
LCY operates with weekday hours from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., closes earlier on Saturdays (at 12:30 p.m.), and reopens Sundays at 12:30 p.m. This schedule maintains a 24-hour quiet period for local residents each weekend.
What is the status of the recent expansion plans?
London City Airport recently received approval to raise its passenger capacity from 6.5 million to 9 million per year. However, the government rejected the airport’s request to extend Saturday operating hours past 12:30 p.m., maintaining the curfew despite the new capacity.
How do I get to London City Airport?
Located just six miles from Central London, LCY is easily accessible by the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), several bus routes, and a range of private transport options. Many passengers also opt for Umbrella Transfers or other private car services for convenience.
What parking options are available?
London City Airport offers pre-booked parking, short-stay, and long-stay options. There are also designated Blue Badge spaces close to the terminal for passengers with disabilities, providing flexibility for a range of parking needs.
Which airlines fly from London City Airport, and where can I travel?
LCY hosts several airlines, including British Airways, Lufthansa, and KLM, connecting passengers to numerous destinations across Europe, such as Amsterdam, Zurich, and Florence, as well as within the UK.
What new technology is available for a smoother travel experience?
LCY recently introduced advanced CT scanners that allow passengers to keep liquids and electronics in their carry-on bags, significantly speeding up the security process. This technology has been well-received, particularly during peak hours.
What amenities and dining options are available in the terminal?
The terminal includes various amenities, like free Wi-Fi, baby-changing stations, and accessible seating with charging ports. Dining options range from quick-service spots like Pret a Manger and Caffè Nero to the upscale Juniper & Co, which features locally sourced dishes.
