| From | Rosehill, Sutton SM1 |
|---|---|
| To | Stansted Airport, Essex (single terminal) |
| Distance | Roughly 60 to 70 miles, depending on route |
| Typical drive time | About 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes |
| Usual routes | M25 east via the Dartford Crossing, then the M11 |
How we get to Stansted
Stansted is on the far side of London from us, so the question is always which way round. Most of the time our drivers take the A217 to the M25, go east and cross the Thames at Dartford, then join the M11 north to junction 8. The Dartford Crossing is tolled, and it can queue badly at peak times. When it does, the driver may go the other way round the M25, past Heathrow and the M1. Cutting straight through central London is rarely quicker, and we avoid it unless the motorway is closed.
Planning for early departures
Stansted is a big base for short-haul and holiday airlines, and many of their flights leave soon after dawn. That means a very early start from Sutton. When you book, give us your flight time and we will suggest a pickup time that allows for the long drive, the chance of roadworks, which are often scheduled overnight on the motorways, and the check-in and security time your airline asks for.
Some travellers would rather stay near the airport the night before. We can take you to a hotel close to Stansted in the evening; our hotel transfer taxi page explains the options.
Arriving at Stansted
Stansted has one terminal, so you will not be dropped at the wrong building. The airport charges for vehicles using the express drop-off area outside the terminal. We will tell you how this is handled in your fare when you book. For collections, your driver waits in the car park and meets you in arrivals if you have booked meet and greet. Because we track your flight, a delay in the air does not leave you waiting for a car.
Comfort on a long airport run
On a drive of well over an hour, space matters more than it does on a short trip. Families and groups often choose a 6 seater MPV or a 7/8 seater, so that luggage is not piled on laps. Tell us if anyone needs a child seat or a front seat. If you need a comfort stop on the way, just ask the driver.
Skis, golf clubs and sports bags
Stansted is a popular airport for ski trips and golf breaks, and that means bulky bags. Ski bags and golf bags take up much more room than a suitcase, so please tell us about them when you book. Depending on how many people are travelling, an estate car or a larger vehicle may be needed to fit everything in safely. It is much easier to sort this out on the phone than at 4am on your drive.
Other London airports
If you have a choice of airport, it is worth knowing that Gatwick and Heathrow are both much closer to Sutton than Stansted, and Luton is a similar distance. For business flights to Europe, London City Airport is another option. Anyone catching a train to Stansted can take one of our cars to London Bridge or into the City first. We cover Sutton, Wimbledon and the rest of the areas we cover.
Questions we get asked
How long is the drive from Rosehill to Stansted?
Typically about 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, but the M25 and the Dartford Crossing can add a lot at busy times. We plan the pickup with a margin.
Is the Dartford Crossing toll included?
Ask when you book, and we will confirm exactly what your fixed fare includes, including any tolls and the airport drop-off charge.
Do you do Stansted pickups late at night?
Yes. We work 24/7 and track your flight, so we can collect you whenever you land.
Can I stop on the way to Stansted?
Yes. A short comfort stop can be arranged. If you need an extra pickup on the way, add it when you book so it is included in the fare.