Luton Airport sits about 35 miles north of Heathrow. While it's the closest of the four big London airports to Heathrow, the connection is still tricky — there's no direct train, and the M25 traffic between them is regularly heavy. Here's how to transfer between LHR and LTN in 2026.
Heathrow to Luton: Distance & Time
Distance: approximately 35 miles via the M25, M1 and A1081.
Drive time: 60-90 minutes typically. Peak traffic and motorway accidents can push this to 2+ hours.
Option 1: Pre-Booked Taxi
The most reliable option for inter-airport transfers.
Journey: 60-90 minutes door-to-door.
Price: £80-95 standard saloon, £110-150 larger.
Flight monitoring included on the Heathrow side. Get instant quote.
Option 2: National Express Coach
The 757 National Express service runs between the airports.
Frequency: Every 60-90 minutes, 24 hours.
Journey time: 80-110 minutes.
Price: £25-35 one-way.
Option 3: Train (via St Pancras)
Slow but possible:
- Heathrow → Paddington (Heathrow Express, 15 mins)
- Paddington → St Pancras (Tube/Hammersmith line, 25 mins)
- St Pancras → Luton Airport Parkway (East Midlands Railway, 25-40 mins)
- Luton Airport Parkway → Terminal (DART shuttle, 5 mins)
Total: 2-2.5 hours. Cost £35-60.
Which to Choose?
For most travellers, taxi or coach are the practical options. Taxi for tight connections; coach for budget. Train only if you happen to be near St Pancras with light luggage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Heathrow from Luton Airport?
About 35 miles via the M25 and M1. Drive time is 60-90 minutes.
Is there a direct train from Heathrow to Luton?
No direct train. The fastest rail route requires changes at Paddington and St Pancras and takes 2-2.5 hours.
How much is a taxi from Heathrow to Luton?
A fixed-price taxi is typically £80-95 for a standard car.
What is the cheapest transport between Heathrow and Luton?
National Express 757 coach at £25-35 one-way is the cheapest direct option.
How long should I allow between flights at Heathrow and Luton?
Allow at least 4-5 hours between Heathrow arrival and Luton departure to account for traffic, baggage and check-in.
Book Your Transfer
Skip the hassle of changing trains, dragging luggage between platforms, and uncertainty about timing. Get an instant fixed-price quote or call 01753 575757. We cover transfers between all UK airports and to any address in Berkshire, Bucks, Surrey, London and beyond.
