06/05/2017
Navigating your way from London City Airport (LCY) to the ExCeL London exhibition centre is a breeze, with several convenient and efficient transport options available. Whether you're attending a major conference, a trade show, or a captivating event, knowing the best route can save you precious time and hassle. This guide will walk you through the most popular and practical ways to make this journey, ensuring you arrive at ExCeL London refreshed and ready.
The Direct Bus Route: A Quick Connection
For many visitors, the most straightforward option is the direct bus service. Operated by London Buses, this route provides a swift connection specifically designed to serve travellers moving between London City Airport and the ExCeL London. The service is frequent, running every 10 minutes throughout the day, seven days a week, making it a reliable choice regardless of when your flight lands or when your event begins.
The bus departs directly from London City Airport, making it incredibly easy to find after you've collected your luggage. The journey itself is remarkably short, typically taking approximately 5 minutes. The bus arrives at West Silvertown DLR Station, which is conveniently located very close to the ExCeL London complex. This makes it an ideal choice for those who prefer to stay above ground and enjoy a glimpse of the local area.
Understanding the DLR Connection: Speed and Efficiency
While the bus offers a direct link, the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) is another highly efficient method of reaching ExCeL London from London City Airport. The journey involves a short hop on the DLR from the airport's own station to a nearby interchange, followed by a second DLR journey to the ExCeL's dedicated station.
The DLR station at London City Airport is located just a short walk from the main terminal building, making access seamless. From London City Airport DLR Station, you can take a DLR train towards Beckton or Gallions Reach. The key is to alight at Canning Town station. From Canning Town, you will need to change platforms to catch another DLR train heading towards Woolwich Arsenal. The stop you need for ExCeL London is Custom House. The total journey time via DLR typically takes around 8 minutes and covers a distance of approximately 2 miles. The DLR is known for its punctuality and offers a modern, comfortable ride.
DLR Journey Breakdown:
| Leg of Journey | Departure Station | Arrival Station | Approx. Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | London City Airport DLR | Canning Town | 3-4 minutes |
| 2 | Canning Town DLR | Custom House (for ExCeL) | 4-5 minutes |
The total journey time is estimated at around 8 minutes, not including waiting times or transfer time at Canning Town. Services are frequent, ensuring minimal delays.
Comparing Your Options: Bus vs. DLR
Both the direct bus and the DLR offer excellent ways to travel between London City Airport and ExCeL London. The best choice for you will depend on your personal preferences and priorities.
| Feature | Direct Bus | DLR |
|---|---|---|
| Directness | Yes, direct service | Requires one change at Canning Town |
| Frequency | Every 10 minutes | Very frequent, multiple services per hour |
| Journey Time | Approx. 5 minutes | Approx. 8 minutes (excluding transfers) |
| Boarding Point | London City Airport | London City Airport DLR Station |
| Alighting Point | West Silvertown DLR Station | Custom House DLR Station (for ExCeL) |
| Convenience | Very high for direct travel | High, with integrated transport network |
The bus is arguably simpler due to its direct nature. However, the DLR offers a slightly more modern experience and integrates seamlessly with London's wider public transport network, should you need to travel further afield after your event.
Frequency and Operating Times
Both the direct bus and the DLR services operate with high frequency throughout the day. The bus runs every 10 minutes, ensuring you rarely have to wait long. The DLR, as part of TfL's extensive network, also offers very frequent services, with trains running multiple times per hour, particularly during peak times. It's always a good idea to check live travel information on the TfL Go app or website for the most up-to-date timings, especially if travelling late at night or early in the morning.
Ticketing and Payment
Payment for both bus and DLR services within London is typically made using an Oyster card, a contactless payment card, or a mobile device with contactless payment enabled. These methods are generally cheaper than purchasing single paper tickets. You can easily top up your Oyster card at any DLR station or purchase contactless tickets. Ensure you tap in and tap out correctly at the start and end of your DLR journey to be charged the correct fare. For the bus, you only need to tap in when boarding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is there a direct train from London City Airport to ExCeL London?
A1: While there isn't a direct train in the traditional sense, the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) provides a very efficient light rail service that connects London City Airport to ExCeL London with just one change.
Q2: How far is London City Airport DLR station from ExCeL London?
A2: The DLR journey from London City Airport DLR Station to Custom House Station (for ExCeL London) covers approximately 2 miles and takes about 8 minutes, excluding transfer times.
Q3: Can I get a bus directly to London City Airport from ExCeL London?
A3: Yes, there is a direct bus service that runs from West Silvertown DLR Station (near ExCeL London) to London City Airport. Services depart every 10 minutes and take approximately 6 minutes.
Q4: What is the best way to travel if I have a lot of luggage?
A4: Both the bus and the DLR are generally accessible. The DLR trains have designated spaces for luggage, and the direct bus provides easy access. Consider the proximity of the bus stop to your terminal exit versus the DLR station entrance.
Q5: Are there taxis available at London City Airport?
A5: Yes, black cabs (hackney carriages) and pre-booked private hire vehicles are readily available at London City Airport. This is a more expensive option but offers door-to-door convenience.
Alternative: Taxis and Ride-Sharing
For those seeking ultimate convenience or travelling with significant luggage, a taxi or a pre-booked ride-sharing service is always an option. Black cabs are readily available outside the terminal building at London City Airport. Private hire vehicles can also be booked in advance. While this offers a direct, door-to-door service, it will be considerably more expensive than using public transport. The journey time by taxi will vary depending on traffic conditions but is generally comparable to the DLR or bus journey time.
In conclusion, whether you opt for the direct bus or the efficient DLR, reaching ExCeL London from London City Airport is a simple and quick process. Both options are frequent, reliable, and cost-effective, ensuring your visit to this vibrant London venue starts on the right foot.
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