Passing through London Airport? A layover in London is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 90 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into London, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Canada vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: London is roughly 90 minutes from YXU via London Transit bus. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in CAD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from YXU to London
You have two main options for getting from London Airport into town:
- London Transit bus: About 90 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 110 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How to Spend Your Time in London
For a layover visit to London, we’d suggest Covent Garden Market and Victoria Park. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
If you’d rather stay inside YXU — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- London International Airport Gift Shop
- Free Wi-Fi and Charging Stations
Best Bites Near YXU
For food in London, local travelers recommend The Church Key Bistro-Pub. If you have time for a second stop, Pizzeria Romana is another popular pick.
Back at YXU, The Famous Five Restaurant is the go-to. Famous Five Coffee & Snacks rounds out your in-terminal options.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for London:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $19 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $39 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage is available at Luggage storage/lockers are generally not available at YXU due to its size. Check with your airline if short-term storage is essential.. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in London.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and YXU is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into London and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Need a Nap? Options at YXU
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, YXU has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in London count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave YXU. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.