Cheap Flights to London: Find the Best Deals and Plan Your Trip
When you search for cheap flights to London, affordable air travel options that connect you to one of the world’s most visited cities. Also known as budget flights to London, these deals let you land in the UK without draining your wallet—whether you’re visiting for business, a quick weekend, or a long stay. London isn’t just one airport—it’s five major ones, each with different airlines, prices, and transport links. Knowing which one to fly into can save you hundreds.
Most travelers assume Heathrow is the only option, but Gatwick, London’s second-busiest airport with tons of budget carriers like Ryanair and EasyJet often has better deals. Stansted, a hub for low-cost European flights is another winner for travelers from Eastern Europe or the Mediterranean. Even Luton, a smaller airport with shuttle buses to central London can offer rock-bottom fares if you’re willing to trade a 30-minute ride for a 50% discount.
Booking early doesn’t always mean cheaper. The sweet spot? Book 2 to 3 months ahead for summer trips, but keep an eye out for flash sales in January or September. Midweek flights—Tuesday and Wednesday—are usually the cheapest. Avoid weekends, holidays, and major events like the London Marathon or Royal Ascot. Also, don’t forget to check nearby cities like Birmingham or Manchester. Sometimes flying there and taking a cheap train to London costs less than flying direct.
What you save on the ticket can vanish in baggage fees, airport transfers, or hidden taxes. Always compare the total price, not just the base fare. Some budget airlines charge extra for seat selection, carry-ons, or even printing a boarding pass. Use tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to track price trends and set alerts. You’ll spot when prices drop and grab a deal before it’s gone.
London’s transport system is efficient, but it’s not free. If you land at Heathrow, the Piccadilly Line gets you into central London for under £6. If you’re at Gatwick, the train to Victoria costs around £10. Skip the taxis unless you’re traveling late at night or with a group. A simple Oyster card or contactless payment card covers buses, tubes, and trains—no need to buy a tourist pass unless you’re planning 5+ days of heavy travel.
There’s no magic trick to cheap flights to London, but there are clear patterns. The people who score the best deals know the airports, time their bookings, and avoid the traps. You’ll find dozens of real stories below—from travelers who found £49 roundtrips from Edinburgh to London, to those who saved by flying into Luton and biking to their hotel. Whether you’re planning your first trip or your tenth, these posts give you the exact steps, tips, and mistakes to avoid. No fluff. Just what works.
