London Stansted Airport (STN) serves as a vital hub for millions of travelers each year, particularly for those flying with low-cost European carriers.
Despite its name, STN is actually located in Essex, approximately 35 miles (55 km) northeast of Central London. Renowned for its single, easy-to-navigate terminal and modern design, Stansted offers a generally smooth travel experience that makes it one of the busiest airports near London.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, from getting to the airport to navigating the terminal and finding the best places to eat.
Stansted Airport Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Source: Depositphotos.
Airport Overview and Terminal Layout
Stansted is one of London's major international gateways and is the largest base for Ryanair, offering flights to over 120 destinations.
IATA Code:STN
Location: Stansted Mountfitchet, Essex, UK
Distance from Central London: Approx. 35–42 miles (55–67 km)
Terminals: Stansted operates with a single main passenger terminal.
Designed by the famous architect Sir Norman Foster, the terminal is known for its high-tech architecture and emphasis on an unobstructed flow for passengers.
Gate Satellites: After security, passengers are transported to one of the three satellite buildings (where the departure gates are located) via an Airside Transit System (a shuttle train). Allow ample time for this transfer, especially during peak hours.
Source: Depositphotos.
Getting To and From London Stansted Airport (STN)
Stansted is well-connected to London and other parts of the UK, offering several convenient transport options.
1. The Stansted Express (Train)
The Stansted Express is the fastest and most direct route between the airport and the capital.
Route: Connects Stansted Airport with London Liverpool Street station.
Journey Time: Approximately 47–50 minutes.
Frequency: Trains run every 15-20 minutes, 7 days a week.
Stops: Also calls at Tottenham Hale (for Victoria Line Underground connections).
Tip: The train station is located directly beneath the terminal building, with a walk of less than 5 minutes to check-in/arrivals.
Source: Depositphotos.
Quick tip: Standard London Oyster cards and contactless bank cards are typically not accepted for this journey, so you must purchase a ticket in advance or at the station. Advance tickets can be purchased online from as low as £9.90 one-way.
2. Bus and Coach Services
Coaches are generally the most budget-friendly option, with services running 24 hours a day.
Operators: Major operators include National Express and Flibco.
Key Destinations in London: Victoria Coach Station, Liverpool Street, Stratford, and Baker Street.
Journey Time: Varies greatly depending on traffic and destination, typically 75–90+ minutes to central London.
Source: Depositphotos.
Quick tip: Pre-booking coach tickets, especially with National Express, can offer significant savings.
3. Driving, Parking, and Inter-Airport Transfers
Stansted is conveniently located just off the M11 motorway.
Motorway Access: Directly accessible from Junction 8A of the M11.
Parking Options: The airport offers a range of parking, including Short Stay (closest to the terminal), Mid Stay, Long Stay, and the premium Meet & Greet service.
Inter-Airport Taxi Transfer: For those connecting between flights, a dedicated taxi gatwick to stansted transfer is the most direct but costly option. The distance is approximately 70-75 miles (113-120 km), and the journey time typically ranges from 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending heavily on M25 motorway traffic. Pre-booked private hire vehicles offer fixed rates.
4. Taxi and Private Transfer
Taxis and private transfers offer the ultimate convenience, especially if traveling in a group or with a lot of luggage.
Location: The official taxi booking service is located in the international arrivals concourse.
Cost: Expect to pay substantially more than public transport for a ride to Central London (e.g., £65-£180 depending on the service and traffic).
Food Places In and Near Stansted Airport
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Whether you need a quick caffeine fix, a traditional pub meal, or a sit-down pre-flight dinner, Stansted has numerous options both before and after security.
Food Places In Stansted Airport (Airside – After Security)
The departure lounge is where you will find the largest selection of restaurants and cafes.
This area of food places at the stansted airport caters to all tastes, with many establishments opening early (around 04:00 or 05:00) until the last departing flight.
Pub & Casual Dining:
The Windmill (Wetherspoons): A classic British pub experience with pub food, ales, and plenty of seating.
The Illustrious Bar & Café: Offers a mix of drinks and cafe fare.
The Camden Bar & Kitchen: Inspired by the vibrant London area, serving pub classics and street food.
Fast & Healthy Options:
Itsu: Specializes in healthy, Asian-inspired fast food, including sushi and noodles.
Leon: Mediterranean-inspired, ‘good' fast food with vegan-friendly choices.
Pret A Manger: Sandwiches, salads, soups, and coffee.
Coffee & Snacks (24 Hours):
Starbucks / Harris + Hoole: Coffee, teas, and pastries.
Food Places Landside (Before Security / Arrivals)
Source: Depositphotos.
If you are waiting for an arrival or haven't checked in yet, options are available in the check-in and arrivals areas.
Burger King: A staple fast-food option.
Costa Coffee: Open 24 hours in the Arrivals area for coffee and snacks.
Caffè Nero: Open 24 hours in the coach station area.
M&S Simply Food / WHSmith: Great for grabbing snacks, drinks, and meal deals to take with you.
Food Places Near Stansted Airport (Local Area)
If you have a layover or are staying in a nearby hotel, the local area offers more traditional dining experiences.
Birchanger Green Service Station: Located just 10 minutes from the airport off Junction 8 of the M11, this services area has several familiar chains, including Burger King, KFC, and Starbucks. (Car needed).
Stansted Mountfitchet Village: The nearby village offers charming local pubs and restaurants, approximately 10 minutes by car.
The Lion & Lamb (Pub food, British cuisine).
The Dog & Duck (Picturesque village pub).
The Cork House Bar & Bistro (Wine bar and restaurant).
Bishop's Stortford: A larger town just a short drive away with a wider variety of restaurants, including Indian, Italian, and gastro-pubs.
Airport Facilities and Services
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Stansted offers a range of services designed to make your journey more comfortable.
Wi-Fi and Charging: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. Charging stations are also provided.
Lounges: The Escape Lounge is available to all passengers for a fee, offering complimentary food, drinks, and a quiet retreat before your flight. Pre-booking starts from around £38.99 per person.
Shopping: A vast selection of shops is available airside, including duty-free (World Duty Free), fashion (BOSS, Ted Baker, Accessorize), and travel essentials (Boots, WHSmith).
Assisted Travel: Passengers requiring special assistance should notify their airline at least 48 hours before travel.
Prayer Room: A multi-faith prayer room is located landside, near Check-in Zone J.
Family Facilities: There are dedicated family lanes at security and baby changing facilities across the terminal.
Conclusion
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London Stansted Airport is a modern, efficient airport that prioritizes passenger flow.
By utilizing the Stansted Express for the quickest city link, pre-booking your parking or coach tickets, and knowing the simple, single-terminal layout, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free start to your journey.
Give yourself enough time to navigate airport security, take the transit to your gate satellite, and perhaps enjoy a meal at one of the many great eateries.
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