London Heathrow Airport (LHR) is the closest airport to Wembley, located approximately 18 km (11 miles) from the destination. This translates to a 30-minute drive or around 40 minutes by public transport, depending on traffic and time of day.
Transport Options from Heathrow to Wembley:
- Underground (Tube):
Take the Piccadilly Line from Heathrow to Acton Town, then switch to the District Line to reach Wembley. The total travel time is about 45–50 minutes.
Cost: Roughly £6–£12 for an Oyster Card or contactless payment.
- Taxi or Ride-Sharing Services:
Taxis are a convenient option, especially if you’re traveling with luggage. Expect charges of around £40–£50, depending on traffic.
- Shuttle Services:
Pre-booked shuttles are available, offering convenience. These can cost £20–£30 per person.
- Car Rentals:
Heathrow has several rental providers if you prefer driving. Parking near Wembley is available, though it’s recommended to book in advance for event days.
Airlines Serving Heathrow:
Heathrow offers direct international flights from major hubs worldwide, making it an excellent choice for overseas travelers.
Leading airlines include British Airways, Emirates, Lufthansa, and Delta.
Alternative Nearby Airports
If Heathrow doesn’t suit your plans, consider these alternatives:
1. London City Airport (LCY)
- Distance from Wembley: Approximately 25 km (15.5 miles)
- Driving Time: Around 45 minutes
- London City Airport is ideal for business travelers or those flying in from European destinations. However, it has fewer international flight options.
Pros:
- Quicker processing times due to its smaller size.
- Convenient for short-haul flights.
Cons:
- Limited long-haul flight options.
Travel Options:
Take the DLR to Bank Station, then switch to the Jubilee Line toward Wembley.
2. London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
- Distance from Wembley: Approximately 55 km (34 miles)
- Driving Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
- Gatwick serves both international and budget airlines, such as EasyJet and Ryanair, making it an excellent option for travelers seeking affordable flight deals.
Pros:
- More budget-friendly flight options.
- Excellent rail links to Central London.
Cons:
- Longer travel time to reach Wembley.
Travel Options:
Take the Gatwick Express to Victoria Station, then switch to the Underground to continue to Wembley (via the Victoria Line).
3. London Luton Airport (LTN)
- Distance from Wembley: Roughly 40 km (25 miles)
- Driving Time: Around 40–50 minutes
- Known for its budget-friendly airlines (e.g., Wizz Air, Ryanair), Luton is a good alternative for cost-conscious travelers.
Pros:
- Affordable flights to/from Europe.
- Smaller, easily navigable airport.
Cons:
- Limited premium airline options.
Travel Options:
Take the train from Luton Airport Parkway to Central London, then transfer to the Underground for Wembley. Travel time totals about 1 hour.
How to Get from the Airport to Wembley
Regardless of the airport you choose, there are plenty of transportation methods to get you to Wembley.
1. Public Transport
- Fast and cost-effective, particularly if using an Oyster Card or contactless payment.
2. Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services
- It is ideal for travelers with a lot of luggage or those who prioritize comfort—book in advance for a fixed price to avoid unexpected costs.
3. Car Rentals
- It is ideal for group travelers or those planning to explore beyond Wembley. Just beware of parking constraints near the stadium on event days.
4. Shuttle or Private Transfers
- Convenient for families and groups, offering door-to-door service. Prices range depending on service and group size.
NOTE: Always check transport schedules and factor in potential delays during peak times or significant events.
Tips for Choosing the Right Airport
1. Consider Flight Availability:
Heathrow is best for long-haul international flights, while Luton and Gatwick offer more budget-friendly, short-haul options.
2. Evaluate Travel Time:
Choose the airport closest to your location to minimize commuting time, especially if you have a tight schedule.
3. Plan for Events:
Wembley is a significant event hub, so be prepared for traffic congestion during concerts or matches. Arrive early to avoid stress.
4. Budget-Friendly Choices:
If saving money is a priority, look for budget-friendly airports like Luton or Gatwick—but weigh the additional travel time to Wembley.
Enhance Your Airport Experience
Why not eliminate the hassle of traveling through the airport altogether?
Enjoy Fast Track services for expedited immigration and security clearance, or unwind at a premium airport lounge through ComfortPass.
Relax with gourmet food, Wi-Fi, and unbeatable comfort before or after your flight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How far is Wembley from Heathrow Airport?
Wembley is approximately 18 km (11 miles) from Heathrow, with a driving time of 30 minutes.
2. What’s the best way to get from Heathrow to Wembley?
The Underground (Piccadilly Line) is the most budget-friendly option, while taxis offer added comfort and faster travel times.
3. Which airports have direct flights to Heathrow or Gatwick?
Heathrow offers direct flights from major international hubs like New York, Dubai, and Tokyo. Gatwick mainly provides European connections.
4. Should I rent a car or use public transport?
Public transport is sufficient for reaching Wembley. Consider renting a car only if you’re traveling in a group or planning to explore beyond Wembley.
5. Can I pre-book Fast Track or Lounge services?
Yes, visit ComfortPass to pre-book and make your travel seamless.
6. Is parking available at Wembley?
Yes, but availability is limited. Pre-book parking for guaranteed spots during events.
7. How early should I leave for Wembley during event days?
Plan to arrive at least 2–3 hours early to account for congestion around the stadium.
8. Are trains reliable for traveling to Wembley?
Yes! The London Underground and Overground services are efficient and reliable for reaching Wembley.
9. Which airport has the best budget airline options?
Both Gatwick and Luton have several budget airline options, including EasyJet and Ryanair.
10. Do all airports support late-night arrivals?
Yes, most London airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick, and Luton, accommodate flights throughout the day and night.
Ultimately, London Heathrow Airport is the best option for quick access to Wembley, thanks to its excellent transport links and international connectivity.
However, alternatives such as Gatwick and Luton offer great options for those prioritizing cost or specific airlines.
With a bit of planning and some of the handy tips above, your trip to Wembley is bound to start on the right foot.
