London Heathrow Airport Bus to London City
Routes, Costs & Schedule (2026) — The cheapest way from LHR to central London
Quick Facts
£5–£15
From
45–90 min
Journey Time
Every 15–30 min
Frequency
Bus Routes from Heathrow
| Route | Destination | Price | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Express A1 | Victoria Coach Station | £10–£15 | 60–75 min |
| National Express A2 | Golders Green / Finchley | £10–£15 | 75–90 min |
| TfL Route 111 | Kingston upon Thames | £1.75 | 50–60 min |
| TfL Route 285 | Twickenham / Staines | £1.75 | 40–55 min |
| TfL Route N9 (Night) | Trafalgar Square | £1.75 | 70–85 min |
How to Buy Tickets
- TfL buses (111, 285, N9): Contactless card or Oyster only — no cash. Tap on at the reader by the driver.
- National Express: Book online at nationalexpress.com for the cheapest fares, or buy at the ticket desk in the terminal.
- Apps: The National Express app and TfL Go app both let you plan journeys and manage Oyster balance before you land.
Step-by-Step: Arrivals to Bus Stop
- 1Clear customs and collect bags in the Arrivals hall of your terminal (T2, T3, T4 or T5).
- 2Follow green 'Bus & Coach' signs to the ground transportation level — lifts or escalators take you there.
- 3For TfL buses, find the local bus stop outside the terminal forecourt — stops are clearly marked by number.
- 4For National Express coaches, head to the Central Bus Station (T1/T2/T3) or dedicated coach bays at T4 and T5.
- 5Tap your Oyster/contactless card or show your National Express e-ticket and board.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest bus from Heathrow to central London?+
The night bus N9 is the cheapest option at £1.75 flat fare, running to Trafalgar Square. During the day, no direct TfL bus reaches central London, so National Express to Victoria (from £10) is your best central option.
Can I use cash on Heathrow buses?+
No — all TfL buses in London are cashless. You must use an Oyster card or contactless bank card. National Express coaches accept cash at ticket desks but not on board.
How long does the bus from Heathrow to Victoria take?+
The National Express A1 coach to Victoria Coach Station takes approximately 60–75 minutes depending on traffic. Allow extra time during morning and evening rush hours.
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