London is served by several major airports, and two of the most common for leisure and low-cost carriers are Gatwick (LGW) and Stansted (STN). Both are south of the capital but in different directions, which means taxi journey times and prices from Central London, the City, or west London suburbs can differ significantly.
This guide helps you decide which airport fits your schedule and budget — and how a pre-booked fixed-price taxi compares with train-plus-tube combinations when you are travelling with family, heavy luggage, or an early departure.
Distance and typical journey times
From Central London, Gatwick is generally closer: expect roughly 45–75 minutes by road depending on whether you use the M23, A23, and current traffic around Croydon and the South Circular. Stansted is farther north-east, often 60–90 minutes via the M11, with variable delays near the Blackwall Tunnel or North Circular if you are coming from west London.
Early-morning runs to Stansted can be faster when roads are quiet; Friday afternoon outbound traffic to Gatwick can add twenty minutes or more. Always build buffer time into airport transfers — airlines recommend check-in deadlines regardless of how you travel to the terminal.
Cost considerations
Stansted’s greater distance usually means a higher taxi fare than Gatwick from the same London starting point. However, “cheaper” is not only about the quoted taxi price: a family of four may find a single vehicle competitive with four train tickets plus luggage hassle.
With Airport Transfers Taxi you see your fare before payment. That makes it easy to compare Gatwick vs Stansted for the same pickup address when you are still choosing flights.
When Gatwick wins
- You live or stay in south London, Surrey, or Sussex
- Your airline operates heavily from Gatwick (many leisure and long-haul routes)
- You want a shorter road journey from Westminster or Victoria
- You prefer North or South Terminal clarity for repeat travel
When Stansted wins
- Your flight is with airlines focused on STN
- You are already north or east of London (Essex, Cambridge corridor)
- You need a single direct car for a group or lots of luggage
- Late-night arrivals when train services are limited
Book the right transfer
Once you have chosen your airport, book your transfer early for fixed pricing and peace of mind. Explore our Gatwick and Stansted airport pages, or use the booking form for a quote tailored to your postcode and flight time.