Travelling between London Stansted Airport (STN) and Heathrow Airport (LHR) is a common route for passengers with connecting flights or onward long-haul journeys. Although the two airports are not directly connected, there are several efficient train-based travel options that make the journey convenient and straightforward.

In this guide, we explain the top 5 ways to travel from Stansted to Heathrow via train, including combinations of rail links, shuttle services, and connecting lines. This article also includes internal links to strengthen your website’s airport transfer SEO silos.

Best Train-Based Ways to Travel From Stansted to Heathrow

1. Stansted Express → Elizabeth Line (Most Popular Train Route)

The most popular rail-based route from Stansted to Heathrow combines the fast Stansted Express with the new and convenient Elizabeth Line.

Route Breakdown

1. Stansted Express → London Liverpool Street

2. Elizabeth Line → Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3 / 4 / 5

Total Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes

Why Choose This Route?

✔ Frequent trains
✔ Comfortable journey
✔ No need to cross London via Tube
✔ Direct Elizabeth Line connection to all Heathrow terminals

For more information on Stansted transfer options, check: 👉 London Stansted Airport Transfers

2. Stansted Express → London Paddington → Heathrow Express (Fastest Premium Train Route)

If you want the fastest rail option and don’t mind transferring twice, this route is excellent.

Route Breakdown

1. Stansted Express → London Liverpool Street

2. Elizabeth Line or Tube → Paddington Station

3. Heathrow Express → Heathrow Airport

Total Travel Time: 1 hour 30–40 minutes

Pros

✔ Fastest train option
✔ Premium comfort
✔ Reliable and frequent

Cons

❌ Higher cost
❌ More changes

For passengers driving to Stansted or picking someone up, this guide is helpful: 👉 Stansted Airport Drop-Off Guide

3. Greater Anglia Train → London Stratford → Elizabeth Line

This is a great option for travellers staying in East London or looking for a cheaper rail combination.

Route Breakdown

1. Greater Anglia Train → Stratford

2. Tube (Central Line) → Liverpool Street

3. Elizabeth Line → Heathrow

Total Travel Time: 1 hour 45 min – 2 hours

Pros

✔ Multiple route variations
✔ Good for East London stays
✔ Affordable fare combinations

Cons

❌ Requires Tube changes
❌ Can be busy during peak commuter times

If you need onward transfers from Heathrow, explore:👉 Heathrow Airport Transfers & Pick-Up Services

4. Stansted Express → Tube Across Central London → Heathrow

A traditional city-crossing route, suitable for travellers who want to visit central London along the way.

Route Breakdown

1. Stansted Express → Liverpool Street

2. Tube (Central / Circle / Hammersmith & City / Piccadilly Line)

3. Piccadilly Line → Heathrow

Travel Time: 2 hours or more

Pros

✔ Cheapest Tube connections
✔ Flexible route variations
✔ Useful if visiting London attractions

Cons

❌ Slowest rail-based route
❌ Not suitable for heavy luggage

5. National Rail Combinations + Rail-Air Links (Flexible Rail Option)

Travellers can also use multiple National Rail services through London’s major terminals:

Possible route combinations include:

• Stansted → Cambridge → Kings Cross → Farringdon → Heathrow

• Stansted → Tottenham Hale → Victoria Line → Elizabeth Line

• Stansted → Liverpool Street → Bus/Shuttle → Heathrow

Travel Time: Varies from 1 hour 50 min to 2.5 hours

Best For:

✔ Flexible schedules
✔ Off-peak savings
✔ Tourists staying in varied London locations

Train vs Taxi From Stansted to Heathrow

While this guide focuses on train-based routes, many travellers ultimately prefer a direct taxi because it eliminates stress and saves time.

Taxi Advantages

✔ Direct door-to-door travel
✔ No train changes
✔ Ideal for groups & heavy luggage
✔ 24/7 availability

For a fast taxi quote:👉 Contact Us

Comparison Table: Stansted to Heathrow Travel Options

Final Recommendation:

If you want the best balance of speed, simplicity, and cost, choose:

⭐ Stansted Express → Elizabeth Line

If you want the fastest and most comfortable option:

⭐ Stansted Express → Paddington → Heathrow Express

If you prefer zero changes, heavy luggage support, or late-night travel:

⭐ Book a Private Taxi Transfer:👉 Contact Us