Passing through St. Helena Airport? A layover in Longwood is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 75 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.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at HLE:
First, verify that you can enter United Kingdom — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi takes about 75 minutes into Longwood, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — SHP is the currency here. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | ~75 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~95 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Longwood might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$8 USD
- A meal: ~$16 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$34 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Longwood, we’d suggest Longwood House (Napoleon’s Residence) and Jacob’s Ladder (Jamestown). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Longwood.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside HLE, you can spend time at St. Helena Airport Terminal Viewpoint or try Local Information & History Display. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near HLE
- In the city: The Mantis Restaurant (Longwood) and Anne’s Place Restaurant (Jamestown) are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Longwood.
- At the airport: Airport Terminal Cafe and Snack & Refreshment Kiosk will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Luggage Storage at HLE
Luggage storage options at HLE can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Longwood for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and HLE is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Longwood 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.
Rest Areas & Lounges
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at HLE.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Longwood with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Longwood may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.