8 Best Airports in the UK – Ranked!

If you’re planning a trip to the UK, the airport you fly into can set the tone for your entire adventure. Whether you’re touching down in London to check out the capital city, heading to the rugged landscapes of Scotland for a breath of fresh air, or exploring the fascinating history of Northern Ireland, picking the right airport can make your journey easier and even more enjoyable.

A British Airways aircraft taxiing on the runway at an airport, with the tail fin prominently displaying the Union Jack.

In this guide, we’ll take you through the best airports in the UK, with tips on where they can take you and what makes each one stand out. With easy connections, plenty of good spots to grab a coffee, and quick access to their respective cities, these airports have you covered.

So grab your passport, and let’s get started on planning your UK arrival!

1. London Heathrow Airport (LHR)

London Heathrow Airport is the biggest and busiest airport in the UK, making it a top choice for UK travellers. It has more direct long-haul routes than anywhere else in the UK, meaning that it’s also one of the top airports for layovers in Europe!

There’s plenty to keep you occupied here, whether your Heathrow layover is long enough for you to leave the airport or not. Terminal 5 alone is worth exploring, home to luxury boutiques like Harrods, Chanel, and Gucci, where you can indulge in some high-end shopping. If you’re hungry, Gordon Ramsay’s Plane Food restaurant in Terminal 5 offers sit-down meals with a view of the runway. Oh, and Terminal 5 even has its very own art gallery, where you can check out some impressive modern British art.

A fountain in front of a building in Trafalgar Square.

From there, you can easily visit Hyde Park, the British Museum, or take a walk through St James’ Park to Buckingham Palace before heading back to the airport for your next flight.

2. Manchester Airport (MAN)

Manchester Airport is the gateway to the north of England, with heaps of affordable flights, making it a great spot to fly into to kick off your UK adventure. If you’re leaving the UK, Manchester Airport has the most options after the London Airports when it comes to far-flung destinations.

View of Manchester tallest building Beetham Tower, reflecting in Manchester Canal.

One of the best things about Manchester Airport is how quickly you can get into the city. The train to Manchester Piccadilly takes just 15-20 minutes, giving you plenty of time to explore. Whilst you’re in town, Manchester Museum is a must-visit with its brilliant natural history exhibits. If you’re more into quirky spots, Chetham’s Library, the oldest public library in the English-speaking world, is a bit of a hidden gem right in the heart of the city.

3. Edinburgh Airport (EDI)

Edinburgh Airport is Scotland’s busiest airport, with a huge range of domestic and international flights. From here, you can fly directly to cities across Europe, including London, Paris, Amsterdam, and Dublin, as well as to North American destinations like New York and Toronto.

Edinburgh Scotland 6th Aug 2020 the Camera Obscura in Edinburgh,

Inside the airport, you can dive into Scottish culture right away. Grab your first sip of Scottish whisky or nibble on some locally-made shortbread from one of the many shops, or check into the Plaza Premium Lounge to kick back and unwind before your flight.

Getting into the city from Edinburgh Airport is a breeze, with the tram taking around 30 minutes to get you to Edinburgh’s city centre. Once there, you can explore iconic sites like Edinburgh Castle, walk the historic Royal Mile, or take in the mind-blowing views from Arthur’s Seat. You can’t miss Edinburgh on your UK trip!

4. East Midlands Airport (EMA)

East Midlands Airport might be smaller than some of its UK counterparts, but it’s got plenty of charm and makes for a surprisingly pleasant flying experience. Castle Rock Tap Room and Kitchen, where you can enjoy locally brewed craft beers and traditional dishes like bangers and mash, is a great option to pass the time before your flight.

From East Midlands Airport, the Skylink bus can take you to Nottingham in about 40 minutes. In Nottingham, you’ll find the oldest pub in the world, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, which allegedly has been open since 1189!

Another fabulous thing to see whilst you’re in Nottingham is the City of Caves, a network of sandstone caves that tell the city’s history from medieval times until the present day.

5. London City Airport (LCY)

London City Airport is a favourite for business travellers because of its super-convenient location – it’s so close to central London that you can practically see the skyscrapers from the runway! From here, simply hop on the DLR (Docklands Light Railway), and in just 20-30 minutes, you’ll be in Canary Wharf or the City, where you can check out St Paul’s Cathedral.

LONDON, UK - MAY 12 2015:St Pauls Cathedral London England, UK.The cathedral is one of the most famous and most recognisable sights of London.St Paul's also possesses Europe largest crypt.

If you’re lucky enough to have a bit more time, the nearby Greenwich area is a fantastic place to explore. Visit the Royal Observatory for some stargazing history, or take in the riverside views from the historic Cutty Sark ship before you head back to the airport.

Inside the airport, everything is set up to be as quick and easy as possible. Grab a bite to eat at Pilots Bar & Kitchen, where you can enjoy a classic British dish like fish and chips or a hearty English breakfast, and then board your flight to your next destination!

Top tip: Flights to and from London City Airport usually don’t show up at the top of the results when using flight comparison sites since flights here are usually more expensive than those using London Stansted, London Heathrow, and other London airports that aren’t as conveniently located. Your best bet is to search for this airport specifically if you want to use it.

6. Glasgow Airport (GLA)

Glasgow International Airport is your launchpad to Scotland’s largest city. You can catch flights to London, Berlin, Madrid, and even New York from here. Inside the airport, you can grab a bite of haggis at one of the airport’s restaurants or enjoy a craft beer at one of the bars.

Getting to the city centre is quick and easy – it’s just a 15-minute drive away on the Airport Express bus. Once you’re in Glasgow, you can visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery, explore the stunning Glasgow Cathedral, or check out the Riverside Museum, which shows off the city’s transport history.

Glasgow is also famous for its live music scene – head to King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, where bands like Oasis got their start, or catch a gig at the Barrowland Ballroom, one of the city’s most noteworthy venues.

7. Belfast International Airport (BFS)

Belfast International Airport is Northern Ireland’s main airport, offering flights to places like London, Amsterdam, Barcelona, and even Orlando. Though it’s on the smaller side, the airport has a welcoming feel. You can grab a bite at the Lagan Bar, or, if you’re after some peace and quiet, the Causeway Lounge offers comfy seating, snacks, and a nice view of the runway.

Getting to Belfast city centre is a breeze – just catch the Airport Express 300 bus, and you’ll be there in about 30 minutes. Once in the city, there’s a lot to explore. The Titanic Belfast museum is a must-see, diving into the story of the famous ship that was built right here in the city. The Belfast Black Cab tour is a brilliant way to get a local’s perspective on Belfast’s history, taking you around the most important sites during the Troubles.

8. Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LPL)

Liverpool John Lennon Airport is, like the name suggests, your entry point to the home of The Beatles! The airport leans into its musical heritage, with a yellow submarine sculpture standing at the airport’s entrance.

Bronze statue of the Beatles stands at the Pier Head on the side of River Mersey, sculpted by Andrew Edwards and erected in December 2015

You can fly direct here from London, Edinburgh, Belfast, Glasgow and the Isle of Man, as well as a bunch of other destinations spread all across Europe!

From Liverpool John Lennon, the 500 bus will get you to the city centre in about 25 minutes, and once you’re in town, you’ve got plenty of iconic sights to choose from. You can dive into the story of the world’s most famous band at The Beatles Story museum, or take a ferry across the Mersey for some unbeatable views of the Liverpool skyline.

Whilst in Liverpool, don’t miss having a drink and checking out live music at one of the most famous music venues ever – the Cavern Club!

FAQs About the Best Airports in the UK

Can you leave the airport during a layover in the UK?

Yes, you can leave the airport during a layover in the UK as long as you have enough time and the necessary visa (if required). Be sure to factor in travel time to and from the city, and leave plenty of time for security screening on your return.

London, UK - Big Ben and Westminster Bridge.

What is the busiest airport in the UK?

Heathrow Airport (LHR) is the busiest airport in the UK, handling over 75 million passengers annually. It’s a major hub for international travel and offers numerous connections worldwide.

Which UK airport is closest to London?

London City Airport (LCY) is the closest airport to central London, located just 10 miles from the city centre. The DLR (Docklands Light Railway) connects the airport to central London in around 20-30 minutes.

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