Diverse, cosmopolitan and steeped in history, London is truly a world-class destination, visited by millions of people from around the globe each year. Due to its colossal size and status as one of the biggest cities in Europe, it has five major airports that combined make one of the busiest airport networks in the world.
London to Edinburgh flights can leave from Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton or London City airports. Low cost airlines tend from fly into Stansted, Luton and Gatwick, while Heathrow is the largest airport and one of the busiest in the world. London City Airport is the smallest with one runway. Being centrally located, it is primarily used by business travellers.
Travel to London airport
Flights to Edinburgh from Stansted, Luton, Gatwick, Heathrow or London City airports run frequently. For those heading out west to Heathrow, the Heathrow Express from Paddington (15-20 minutes) or the slower underground Piccadilly line are the most practical. Gatwick, in the south, is connected via the Gatwick Express or local Thameslink train services that run from London Victoria Station. Luton is north west, served by a combined train service from St Pancras International Station (approximately 35 minutes) and shuttle bus from London Luton Parkway station, while Stansted Airport in the north east can be reached by train from Liverpool Street. London City Airport is already situated in the centre of the city.
Arriving in Edinburgh
Dramatically sited across a series of hills, Edinburgh's UNESCO-listed medieval centre is teeming with interesting sights and history. The city's main attraction, the stone-walled Edinburgh Castle, offers stunning views of the city and a rich heritage to explore, such as the Royal Palace. Edinburgh's other key sight is the Royal Mile, a network of atmospheric cobbled streets where treasures such as Mary King's Close, the gothic St Giles' Cathedral, shopping, cosy pubs and restaurants are found. If you fancy a "wee dram o' whisky" head to The Scottish Whisky Experience, a perfect introduction to this fine smoky malt. In summer, the city hosts the Edinburgh Festival, an energetic programme of performance, comedy and music.
Travelling to the city centre
Cheap flights from London to Edinburgh arrive at Edinburgh Airport, 8 miles from the city centre. Drivers reach the city via the A8 Glasgow Road. The Airlink 100 bus connects with Waverly Bridge, which is close to Princes Street and the main rail and bus stations (approximately 30 minutes). If you arrive at night, the N22 night bus runs to the city centre. There is also the Lothian bus, which stops at RBS World Headquarters, the Scottish Parliament and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the city centre and Ocean Terminal. Alternatively, a frequent tram service links the airport to the city and can be picked up at Edinburgh Park, Haymarket, Murrayfield Stadium and Princes Street.