

Cheap Car Hire at London City Airport (LCY)






Welcome to London City Airport!
Located in the heart of London’s fast-paced business district, London City Airport (LCY) is the perfect entry point for both business and leisure travelers. Known for its convenience and accessibility, this airport offers easy access to the city and the surrounding areas, making it ideal for those looking to explore London or the wider United Kingdom. London City Airport is situated just 11 kilometres (7 miles) east of Central London, meaning that within minutes of landing, you can be in the midst of London’s vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and iconic attractions. From the mighty Tower of London to majestic flag-topped Buckingham Palace, everything is just a short drive away. For visitors looking to explore beyond the capital, renting a car offers the flexibility to visit other must-see destinations across the whole of the UK. Upon arriving at London City Airport, you can conveniently pick up your hire car directly from the rental desks located in the terminal, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free start to your journey. Renting a vehicle is ideal if you plan to explore not only the sights of the historic capital city of London, but also nearby towns, scenic drives, and hidden gems. You can drive to beautiful countryside destinations, charming coastal towns, or even venture further to iconic landmarks across England, Wales, Scotland and beyond. While London City Airport is a popular choice for easy access to the banking institutions, brokerages, finance houses and traders of The City, there are other airports that serve London such as Heathrow (LHR), Gatwick (LGW), and Stansted (STN) being key alternatives. Heathrow is approximately 38 kilometres (24 miles) west of London, Gatwick is 45 kilometres (28 miles) south, and Stansted is around 50 kilometres (31 miles) northeast. Southend Airport (SEN) and London Luton (LTN) also serve the capital. Regardless of which airport you choose, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore London and the UK on your own terms.
London’s streets are known for being bustling, especially in areas like the West End, the City of London, and near major tourist attractions. It is essential to be aware of the congestion charge zone in Central London, which applies during certain hours. Fortunately, London City Airport’s location just outside this zone makes it a convenient starting point to reach nearby destinations while avoiding the congestion charge area. You can also explore the outskirts of London and beyond, where the driving conditions are less hectic. When driving in London, keep in mind that traffic can be heavy, particularly during rush hour (typically between 7:30 AM and 9:30 AM and 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM). Major routes like the A13, A12, and M25 surround the capital, and these highways are well-maintained, making it easy to venture to other parts of the UK.
Driving in London
From the moment you collect your hire car at London City Airport, the treasures of London and the wider UK are at your fingertips. Just 11 kilometres (7 miles) away, Central London beckons with its iconic landmarks. Drive past the timeless Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, with their gothic grandeur, or meander through leafy St. James’s Park to Buckingham Palace. The city’s streets are dotted with red buses and phone boxes, while Victorian and Georgian architecture adds a sense of historical depth to this bustling metropolis. Just 6 kilometres (4 miles) from the airport lies Greenwich - famous throughout the whole of the United Kingdom as the global reference point for time zones- is a charming riverside enclave steeped in maritime history. Visit the Royal Observatory to stand astride the Meridian Line, explore the Cutty Sark, or enjoy the serenity of Greenwich Park, with views across the Thames to Canary Wharf, just 3 kilometres (2 miles) away. Here, gleaming skyscrapers rise above the river, juxtaposing London’s modernity with its storied past.
Handsome, regal Windsor with its cobbled streets and grand Windsor Castle, provide an unforgettable glimpse into royal life just 43 kilometres (27 miles) from the airport. Further afield, the elegant university city of Cambridge, 81 kilometres (50 miles) to the north, enchants visitors with its historic colleges, punting along the River Cam, and picturesque streets. Venture west to the ‘City of Spires’ Oxford, 96 kilometres (60 miles) from the airport, where dreaming spires and historic libraries evoke centuries of academic brilliance. Southward, Brighton’s coastal charm awaits at 117 kilometres (73 miles). Stroll the vibrant pier, admire the Royal Pavilion’s exotic architecture, or enjoy the artistic buzz of this seaside city.

The prehistoric mystery of Stonehenge, located 129 kilometres (80 miles) from London City Airport, offers a dramatic contrast to the tranquillity of the Cotswolds, just 145 kilometres (90 miles) away. Here, honey-hued cottages nestle in rolling hills, epitomising the quintessential English countryside. Closer to London, Hampton Court Palace, at 38 kilometres (24 miles), invites you to step into the world of King Henry VIII and his magnificent riverside retreat. With so much diversity within a few hours’ drive, a hire car from London City Airport unlocks the freedom to discover the UK’s vibrant cities, serene countryside, and rich history at your own pace. Every journey is an adventure, every destination a story waiting to be explored.
Tips and FAQs
Booking your hire car in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons like summer or the Christmas holidays, to secure the best rates and availability. If your plans include visiting other airports like Heathrow or Gatwick, you can also arrange for your rental car at those locations. Whether you’re planning to see the sights of London, enjoy a countryside road trip, or head to the coast, a rental car offers you unparalleled flexibility.
London City Airport (LCY)
Number of terminals: 1 terminal (domestic & international)
Location of car rental desks: Main terminal, arrivals hall
Distance to fuel station: Approximately 1 km
Nearest city: London
Major roads: A13, A12, M25, A2, A11

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