London Stansted Airport (STN), located approximately 48 kilometers northeast of central London, is a significant international airport serving London and the southeastern regions of England. Known for its distinctive architecture, including the iconic floating roof of its terminal, Stansted is one of the UK's busiest airports. The airport primarily caters to European, domestic and a few international destinations.
Terminal layout and gates
Stansted Airport features a single terminal design that handles both arrival and departure operations.
Check-in and departure area: The terminal's main hall includes extensive check-in facilities and a wide array of shops, eateries and lounges. Security processes are streamlined to facilitate quick access to the departure gates.
Arrivals hall: Located on the ground level, the arrivals area provides easy access to transport services, baggage claim and customs inspection points.
Gates: The terminal has 88 boarding gates spread across three satellite buildings, which are accessible via an automated track transit system, ensuring passengers reach their gates on time.
Baggage handling at Stansted – connecting flights
At Stansted Airport, the baggage handling system is designed to efficiently manage the needs of both domestic and international travelers.
Single ticket connections
For passengers traveling on a single ticket through airlines like Ryanair, baggage is typically checked through to the final destination and customs checks are conducted upon first entry into the country.
Multiple tickets or different airlines
Passengers with multiple tickets or those flying different airlines may need to collect and recheck their baggage, particularly when switching carriers or if the tickets are not linked.
Security routine at the airport
Security at Stansted Airport is stringent, with all passengers required to undergo security screening before entering the departure lounge. This includes a walk-through metal detector, luggage x-ray, and sometimes random searches or additional screenings.
Passengers flying within the Schengen Area usually face minimal passport checks once inside the zone. Travelers on flights outside the Schengen Area must undergo comprehensive passport control and may face detailed customs inspections, depending on their destinations.
Find the best restaurant – dining options
The airport offers a variety of dining options to suit all tastes and preferences. Listed below you find some popular alternatives that are all located in departures.
Pret A Manger: Offers organic coffee, sandwiches, salads and pastries, ideal for quick dining.
Harris + Hoole: A popular coffee shop known for its artisan coffees and snacks.
Wetherspoon: Provides a traditional British pub experience with a wide range of meals and beverages.
Relax in the Espace Lounge
The Escape Lounge at Stansted Airport offers travelers a chance to relax and is accessible to all passengers for a fee, regardless of airline or travel class. Located after security in the main departure area, the lounge features everything from comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi to complimentary food and drinks.
Hotels near Stansted Airport
Several hotels near Stansted Airport offer convenient accommodations for travelers. Here we present a few of the available options.
Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport: Directly connected to the terminal, offering first-class amenities and meeting facilities.
Holiday Inn Express London Stansted: Located a few minutes from the airport, providing modern comfort and a complimentary breakfast.
Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport: Directly connected to Stansted Airport via a covered walkway, the Hampton by Hilton offers contemporary rooms equipped with soundproof windows, free Wi-Fi and included hot breakfast.
See all hotels near Stansted Airport
Transportation to and from Stansted Airport (STN)
Stansted Airport is well-connected to London and other parts of the UK, and you can choose between several different transportation options.
Train: The Stansted Express provides the fastest link to central London, reaching Liverpool Street in about 47 minutes.
Bus: Multiple bus services, including National Express and Terravision, offer direct routes to London and other major cities.
Taxi and ride-sharing: Taxis and services like Uber are readily available, with competitive fares to surrounding areas.
Car rental: Major car rental companies operate from the airport, allowing easy access to explore the region.
There is also the possibility of choosing a car transfer from the airport to Liverpool Street Station or other parts of London – follow the link below to find available options.
London, United Kingdom
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