Air travel has become an increasingly popular mode of transportation in recent years and the UK is home to a number of excellent airports that cater to passengers’ needs. In this guide, we will take a closer look at some of the best UK airports and examine what makes them stand out from the rest.
London Heathrow Airport
Located in the west of London, Heathrow Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, servicing over 80 million passengers annually.
In addition to its convenient location, Heathrow offers a wide range of amenities to its passengers. For example, the airport has several lounges, including the Emirates Lounge, which offers complimentary food and drinks, as well as shower facilities. There are also numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars, such as Gordon Ramsay’s Plane Food, where you can enjoy a high-quality meal before your flight.
For travelers with children, the airport has play areas and kid-friendly restaurants, making it a great choice for families. Additionally, Heathrow offers fast and convenient transportation options, such as the Heathrow Express, which can take you to downtown London in just 15 minutes.
Manchester Airport
Located in the north of England, Manchester Airport is the third-busiest airport in the UK, after Heathrow and Gatwick. The airport has undergone significant expansion in recent years and now offers a wide range of amenities to its passengers.
For example, Manchester Airport has runways visitors park, where visitors can see a wide range of aircraft, including Concorde.
There are also several lounges, including the Escape Lounge, which offers complimentary food and drinks, as well as free Wi-Fi and comfortable seating. For those traveling with children, the airport has a dedicated play area, as well as a family lounge, where families can relax before their flight. Manchester Airport also has a range of restaurants, cafes, and bars, including The Grain Loft, which offers stunning views of the airfield.
Also read: Fun things to do guide to Manchester
Bristol Airport
Located just 8 miles south of Bristol city center, Bristol Airport is a relatively small airport that offers a convenient and hassle-free travel experience. Despite its size, the airport has a wide range of amenities, including several restaurants, cafes, and bars, such as The Cabin, which offers a range of freshly-made sandwiches and pastries.
Bristol Airport is also a great choice for travelers who are driving to the airport as there are several car parks available, with competitive prices and convenient shuttle services to the terminal. In addition, the airport has a range of shops, including duty-free shops, where you can pick up last-minute souvenirs or gifts for loved ones.
For those traveling with young children, the airport has a soft play area and baby-changing facilities, making it a great choice for families.
London Gatwick Airport
London by drone
Located south of London, Gatwick Airport is known for its efficient and speedy check-in and security processes. The airport has two terminals, both offering a range of amenities for passengers. For example, Gatwick Airport has a range of lounges, including the No.1 Lounge, which offers complimentary food and drinks, shower facilities, and a quiet work area.
Gatwick Airport also has a wide range of dining options, including top-quality restaurants such as Jamie Oliver’s Diner and Caviar House & Prunier Seafood Bar.
For those looking for some retail therapy, the airport has over 100 shops, ranging from high-end fashion brands to souvenir shops. Gatwick Airport is also a great choice for families, with a range of child-friendly facilities, including play areas and kid-friendly restaurants.
Edinburgh Airport
Located in the heart of Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh Airport is a modern and efficient airport that offers a wide range of amenities to passengers.
The airport has several lounges, including the No.1 Lounge, which offers complimentary food and drinks, as well as a quiet work area. Edinburgh Airport also has a range of dining options, including Italian restaurant Carluccio’s and Scottish pub The Gathering.
For those traveling with young children, the airport has a play area and baby-changing facilities. Additionally, Edinburgh Airport has a range of shops, including duty-free shops, where you can pick up last-minute souvenirs or gifts for loved ones.
The airport is easily accessible by public transport, with regular bus and tram services to the city center.
East Midlands Airport
Located in the heart of England, East Midlands Airport is a great choice for travelers looking for a stress-free travel experience. The airport has several lounges, including the Escape Lounge, which offers complimentary food and drinks, as well as a quiet work area.
East Midlands Airport also has a range of dining options, including American diner Frankie & Benny’s, and a Starbucks coffee shop. For those traveling with young children, the airport has a play area and baby-changing facilities. Additionally, East Midlands Airport has a range of shops, including duty-free shops, where you can pick up last-minute souvenirs or gifts for loved ones.
The airport is easily accessible by public transport, with regular bus and train services to nearby Leicester, Nottingham, and Derby.
Birmingham Airport
Located in the heart of England, Birmingham Airport is a modern and efficient airport that offers a wide range of amenities to passengers.
The airport has several lounges, including the No.1 Lounge, which offers complimentary food and drinks, as well as a quiet work area. Birmingham Airport also has a range of dining options, including Nando’s, All Bar One, and Costa Coffee. For those traveling with young children, the airport has a play area and baby-changing facilities.
Additionally, Birmingham Airport has a range of shops, including duty-free shops, where you can pick up last-minute souvenirs or gifts for loved ones. The airport is easily accessible by public transport, with regular bus and train services to Birmingham city center, as well as to nearby towns and cities. It also offers great airport parking options if you get there on your own.
Stansted Airport
Located in the east of England, Stansted Airport is a popular choice for travelers who want to avoid the crowds and long lines of other London airports. The airport has several lounges, including the Escape Lounge, which offers complimentary food and drinks, as well as a quiet work area. Stansted Airport also has a range of dining options, including Pret A Manger, Burger King, and Leon.
For those traveling with young children, the airport has a play area and baby-changing facilities. Additionally, Stansted Airport has a range of shops, including duty-free shops, where you can pick up last-minute souvenirs or gifts for loved ones. The airport is easily accessible by public transport, with regular bus and train services to London city center.
Insider’s tip:
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In conclusion, the UK is home to several excellent airports that offer a wide range of amenities to passengers. Whether you’re looking for a convenient location, a stress-free travel experience, or a range of dining and shopping options, there is an airport in the UK that will meet your needs.
From the bustling Heathrow Airport to the family-friendly Bristol Airport, each airport has its own unique features and facilities that make it stand out from the rest. So, next time you’re planning a trip, take some time to explore your airport options and choose the one that’s right for you.