Traveling from the historic streets of Cambridge to the business hub of London City Airport (LCY) is a frequent route for professionals and international travelers alike. Located approximately 56 miles (90 km) south of Cambridge, London City Airport is uniquely positioned in the heart of London’s Docklands.
Since there is no direct rail or bus link to the terminal doors, choosing the right transfer method depends on your priority: speed, cost, or comfort.
1. By Train (The Balanced Choice)
While there is no "Airport Express" for this route, the train is often the most reliable way to avoid the unpredictable traffic on the M11.
The Route: Take a fast train from Cambridge Station to London Kings Cross or St Pancras International (approx. 50 minutes). From there, take the Southeastern service to Stratford International, then transfer to the DLR (Docklands Light Railway) directly to the London City Airport station.
Total Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.
Estimated Cost: £30 – £75 (depending on how far in advance you book).
Best For: Solo travelers and those looking to avoid road congestion.
2. By Car or Private Taxi (The Fastest Choice)
If you are traveling with heavy luggage or in a small group, a door-to-door transfer is significantly more convenient.
The Route: Most drivers take the M11 south, merging onto the A12 or A13 toward the Docklands.
Travel Time: Usually 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes in clear traffic. However, during morning peak hours (07:00–09:30), this can easily double.
Estimated Cost: * Private Hire/Uber: £115 – £160.
Driving/Parking: Fuel costs are roughly £15–£20, but airport parking fees at LCY are premium.
Best For: Families, business groups, and travelers with bulky bags.
3. By Coach/Bus (The Budget Choice)
This is the most affordable option, though it requires more time and at least one transfer.
The Route: Take a National Express or FlixBus from Cambridge Parkside to London Stratford. From the Stratford bus terminal, you can take a local bus (Route 473) or the DLR to the airport.
Total Travel Time: 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes.
Estimated Cost: £10 – £25.
Best For: Budget-conscious travelers with flexible schedules.
Quick Comparison Table
| Method | Avg. Duration | Approx. Cost | Direct? |
| Train + DLR | 1h 30m | £35 | No (2 Changes) |
| Private Taxi | 1h 05m | £120+ | Yes |
| Coach + DLR | 2h 30m | £15 | No (1 Change) |
Pro-Tips for a Smooth Transfer
Check the DLR Status: The Docklands Light Railway is the final leg for both train and bus travelers. Check the
TfL Status Updates Avoid the "Cambridge Airport" Confusion: Ensure your driver or booking app specifies London City Airport (LCY). Cambridge has its own regional airport (CBG), which primarily handles private and charter flights.
The "Stratford" Hack: If you are taking the train, aiming for London Liverpool Street instead of Kings Cross can sometimes be easier. From Liverpool Street, it is a quick hop on the Elizabeth Line or Central Line to Stratford to catch the DLR.
Traveler's Note: If your flight is during Monday morning rush hour, always allow an extra 45 minutes regardless of your chosen transport method. The Blackwall Tunnel and A13 area near the airport are notorious for bottlenecks.
Which of these options fits your schedule best, or are you looking for a specific recommendation for a group?
