Welcome to London Stansted Airport!

We’ll take you through all you need to know to smoothly navigate Stansted Airport. We’ll guide you through every part of the Stansted experience: from arriving and passing through customs to the best ways to travel between the airport and Central London. We’ll share tips on finding food spots, exploring duty-free shopping, navigating to your departure gates, and more. Whether you're a seasoned flyer or visiting for the first time, you’ll be equipped with all the necessary information to make the most of your time at Stansted.

So sit back, relax, and let us take you on a complete tour of Stansted Airport - let’s make sure you’re prepared for a smooth and exciting travel experience!

Arriving at Stansted

As you step off the plane, Stansted’s modern design welcomes you. If you’re arriving internationally, you’ll be directed toward customs and immigration; if you're arriving domestically or from another European country, simply follow the “Arrivals” signs. Keep an eye out for clear, easy-to-follow signposts that make navigating through Stansted’s busy terminals a breeze. And if you need assistance, friendly staff members are always around to help.

E-Gates and Entry

If you have an ePassport, the e-Gates offer quick and efficient passport control for a smooth entry. Just scan your passport, wait for the gates to open, and you’re good to go! Be sure to remove hats and glasses for a speedy process. If you’re a bit unsure, or your scan does not work, there’s staff nearby to guide you through.

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Customs at Stansted

Once you pass the e-Gates, you'll find customs. If you have nothing to declare, just walk through the green channel. But if you’re carrying items that need to be declared, head over to the red lane for a quick check by customs. Stansted is known for being efficient, so you can expect minimal delays. Just keep in mind you might listen to an alarm and the doors may close suddenly!

Transport from Stansted to London

From Stansted, reaching Central London is easy with the Stansted Express train. It takes you directly to Liverpool Street Station in about 45 minutes and is the quickest, most convenient option. If you’re headed toward East London, trains and buses to Stratford are also available and ideal for a budget-friendly option. Buses take a bit longer but are great if you want to save a little money. If you’re going to Stratford, you can then use the DLR or metro from the station right across the Westfield Stratford Mall.

Departing from Stansted

Ready to take off? When departing from Stansted, follow the large, easy-to-read signs directing you to the departure area. If you’re checking bags, head over to the designated airline counters or self-check-in kiosks, where you can print luggage tags and boarding passes with ease. Once your bags are sorted, it's time for security. Stansted’s security is efficient, but remember to follow the standard airport rules: remove any liquids over 100 ml, take off your belt if you're wearing one, and be ready to take out your electronic devices.

Give yourself about two hours if you’re flying domestically and three hours for international flights to be on the safe side.

Duty-Free Shopping and Currency Exchange

Welcome to duty-free heaven! Stansted’s duty-free area is a wonderland for travelers, with everything from luxury perfumes and skincare to designer fashion, electronics, and travel essentials. Love a good deal? Duty-free offers you the chance to save on high-end brands and pick up unique items at tax-free prices. Whether you’re looking for a last-minute gift or just indulging in some retail therapy, you’ll find endless options here. Popular shops like World Duty Free and WHSmith make shopping a breeze.

Need to handle some currency exchange? Stansted’s got you covered with multiple Travelex counters throughout the terminal, along with ATMs for quick cash withdrawals. Rates can sometimes be a bit higher at the airport, so check ahead if you have time. If you’re traveling internationally, you can even pre-order your currency online and pick it up here to make things even smoother.

And if you’re heading home with leftover British pounds, Stansted’s exchange services make it easy to switch back to your local currency before boarding—just one more way Stansted keeps things convenient for travelers.

Lounges and Dining Options

Once you’re past security, Stansted’s lounges and food options open up a world of comfort and taste.

If you’re in the mood for a meal, Stansted’s food area has something for everyone, from fast-food chains like McDonald’s and Burger King to more unique, sit-down options offering international cuisine. You’ll find everything from classic British fish and chips to sushi, pasta, and vegan-friendly spots. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, there’s a taste for every traveler here. And don’t miss the coffee shops scattered throughout if you need a caffeine boost before boarding!

Check out Stansted's lounges, like the Escape Lounge if you have time and want a quiet place to recharge. There, you’ll find cozy seating, Wi-Fi, charging stations, and a selection of snacks, drinks, and even full meals—all complimentary with lounge access. The Escape Lounge offers a calm oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the terminal, so you can relax and recharge before your flight.

Getting to Your Gate

As your departure time approaches, keep an eye on the information screens located throughout the terminal to check for your gate assignment. Stansted is thoughtfully laid out, with plenty of clear signage and helpful airport staff to guide you if you need assistance. Some departure gates may be a short distance away, so plan a few extra minutes if you need to hop on Stansted’s quick and efficient shuttle train, which connects passengers between terminals. The ride is fast and easy, giving you plenty of time to get to your gate without the stress of rushing.

And for those final pre-flight essentials, you’ll find restrooms along the way to your gate. Stansted makes a point of providing well-placed restrooms throughout the terminal, so you’re never far from one if you need it.

Stansted truly aims to make every part of your journey - from arrival to departure - as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Now, all that’s left is to board and enjoy your flight!

Staying at the Radisson Blu Hotel

If you’re looking for a convenient place to stay near Stansted Airport, the Radisson Blu Hotel is a fantastic choice. Known for its modern rooms, exceptional amenities, and a unique highlight - the iconic Wine Tower Bar, a four-story structure featuring aerial acrobats who retrieve wine bottles - it’s a spot worth experiencing.

Located right on the airport grounds, the hotel offers an ideal blend of comfort and ease, allowing you to safely walk from the airport terminal to the hotel without ever leaving the airport premises. The short walk is made even better with a rain-covered pathway that stretches across most of the distance, so you’ll stay dry and protected even in typical British weather! This convenient setup makes it perfect for travelers catching early flights or arriving late, saving time and avoiding the stress of additional transit.

Once you’re ready to continue your journey, getting around from the Radisson Blu couldn’t be easier. The bus station, with routes into London and surrounding areas, is just minutes away from the hotel entrance, making it easy to reach Central London or nearby destinations.

Whether you’re just staying a night or longer, the Radisson Blu Hotel Stansted is designed to make the start or end of your journey as comfortable and convenient as possible.