Air travel begins the moment you step into an airport. In England, airports vary from massive international hubs to cozy regional terminals. Travelers in 2025 have highlighted airports that combine efficiency, comfort, and convenience. This guide ranks the top 10 airports in England based on traveler satisfaction, facilities, accessibility, and overall experience.
Exeter is praised for its quick check-in, smooth security process, and friendly staff. The airport is small enough to avoid long walking distances but equipped with modern amenities.
Key Facilities
Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
Cafés, bars, and a local gift shop
Car rental services and ample parking
Transport Links
20-minute drive from Exeter city center
Regular taxi and bus services connecting to surrounding towns
- Tip: Travelers recommend arriving 1 hour before flights because queues are usually short, making it stress-free for both business and leisure travelers.
Location: Devon, South West England
Passenger Numbers: ~500,000 annually
Traveler Rating: 80% satisfaction
2. Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LPL) – The Rising Star
Liverpool Airport has seen a 21% growth in passenger traffic, reflecting its increasing popularity. Travelers love its modern check-in areas and lively atmosphere, especially during weekends.
Key Facilities
On-site shopping, cafés, and duty-free stores
Business lounges for premium passengers
Free Wi-Fi and charging stations
Transport Links
10-minute taxi ride to Liverpool city center
Regular bus services and park-and-ride options
Easy access to the M62 motorway
- Tip: The airport is ideal for short-haul flights across Europe. Pre-booking parking online can save money and time.
Location: Liverpool, North West England
Passenger Numbers: ~5 million annually
Traveler Rating: High satisfaction with amenities
3. London City Airport (LCY) – The Capital’s Convenient Choice
Its proximity to central London makes it a favorite among business travelers. Security and boarding are fast and efficient, and the airport has a modern, compact layout.
Key Facilities
Executive lounges and business facilities
Variety of cafés and restaurants
Wi-Fi and charging points
Transport Links
DLR (Docklands Light Railway) connects to the city
Taxi services and riverboat links available
Walking distance to Canary Wharf
- Tip: Due to its small size, arrive just 90 minutes before your flight, unless traveling during peak summer months.
Location: London, Docklands
Passenger Numbers: ~6 million annually
Traveler Rating: 76% satisfaction
4. Bournemouth Airport (BOH) – The Coastal Delight
Bournemouth Airport is loved for its stress-free environment and punctual flights. It is small but provides a warm, local feel.
Key Facilities
Cafés, bars, and gift shops
Car hire services and nearby hotels
Free Wi-Fi
Transport Links
3-mile drive from Bournemouth town center
Shuttle bus services to hotels and local train stations
- Tip: It’s perfect for holiday travelers heading to the South Coast. Booking early gives access to lower fares and quieter check-in.
Location: Dorset, South Coast
Passenger Numbers: ~600,000 annually
Traveler Rating: Excellent for efficiency and comfort
5.. Newcastle International Airport (NCL) – The Northern Powerhouse
Newcastle Airport combines modern facilities with local warmth, reflecting the famous Geordie hospitality. It’s the busiest airport in North East England.
Key Facilities
Lounges for business and premium travelers
Variety of cafés, bars, and shops
Wi-Fi, currency exchange, and car hire
Transport Links
Metro service to Newcastle city center in 25 minutes
Taxi, bus, and coach services
Close to A1(M) motorway
- Tip: Ideal for domestic and European flights. Arrive early if traveling during holidays as traffic and security lines increase.
Location: Newcastle upon Tyne
Passenger Numbers: ~5.1 million annually
Traveler Rating: 83% satisfaction
6. Norwich Airport (NWI) – The Quiet Gem
Norwich Airport offers a peaceful and efficient travel experience, making it ideal for those seeking a calm start to their journey. Its compact size ensures minimal walking distances and swift security processes.
Key Facilities
Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
Cafés and a duty-free shop
Car hire services and ample parking
Transport Links
5-mile drive from Norwich city center
Regular bus services connecting to local areas
- Tip: Arrive 90 minutes before your flight to enjoy a relaxed pre-flight experience without the usual airport hustle.
Location: Norwich, East of England
Passenger Numbers: Approximately 300,000 annually
Traveler Rating: High satisfaction for tranquility and efficiency
7. Inverness Airport (INV) – Scotland's Award-Winning Hub
Inverness Airport has been named one of Europe’s best airports for its size, winning the Airport Service Quality Award for Best Airports in Europe serving under two million passengers. It also earned recognition for having the Most Dedicated Staff in Europe for the third consecutive year The Sun.
Key Facilities
Free Wi-Fi and charging stations
Cafés, bars, and a gift shop
Car hire services and nearby hotels
Transport Links
10-minute drive from Inverness city center
Bus services connecting to surrounding areas
- Tip: Ideal for travelers exploring the Scottish Highlands, offering a serene and efficient travel experience.
Location: Inverness, Scotland
Passenger Numbers: Under 2 million annually
Traveler Rating: Recognized for excellent customer service
8. Cardiff Airport (CWL) – Wales' Gateway
Cardiff Airport provides a convenient gateway to Wales, with efficient services and a friendly atmosphere. It’s particularly favored by travelers seeking direct connections to European destinations.
Key Facilities
Free Wi-Fi and charging points
Cafés, bars, and a duty-free shop
Car hire services and ample parking
Transport Links
12-mile drive from Cardiff city center
Regular bus services and train connections
- Tip: For a smooth journey, consider using the T9 Cardiff Airport Express bus service, which offers direct connections to the city center.
Location: Cardiff, Wales
Passenger Numbers: Approximately 1.5 million annually
Traveler Rating: High satisfaction for regional connectivity
9. Southampton Airport (SOU) – The Cruise Port Connector
Southampton Airport serves as a convenient entry point for cruise passengers embarking from the nearby port. It offers efficient services and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a favorite among cruise travelers.
Key Facilities
Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
Cafés, bars, and a duty-free shop
Car hire services and nearby hotels
Transport Links
20-minute drive from Southampton city center
Train services connecting to London and other major cities
- Tip:Travelers embarking on cruises can benefit from the airport’s proximity to the port, allowing for a seamless transition from flight to cruise.
Location: Southampton, South East England
Passenger Numbers: Approximately 2 million annually
Traveler Rating: High satisfaction for cruise travelers
10. Belfast City Airport (BHD) – Northern Ireland's Favorite
Belfast City Airport offers a convenient and efficient travel experience, with quick check-in processes and friendly staff. It’s particularly favored by travelers seeking connections to the UK and Europe.
Key Facilities
- Free Wi-Fi and charging stations
- Cafés, bars, and a duty-free shop
- Car hire services and ample parking
Transport Links
10-minute drive from Belfast city center
Regular bus services connecting to local areas
- Tip: Arrive early during peak travel times to enjoy the airport’s efficient services without the usual crowds.
Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland
Passenger Numbers: Approximately 3 million annually
Traveler Rating: High satisfaction for efficiency and service
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right airport can make or break your travel experience. In 2025, travelers in England have highlighted airports that prioritize comfort, efficiency, and accessibility.
From Exeter Airport, with its stress-free regional charm, to Newcastle International Airport, offering modern facilities and warm northern hospitality, each airport on our list has something unique to offer.
Smaller airports like Bournemouth and Norwich demonstrate that convenience and smooth processes can often outweigh sheer size, while hubs like London City provide unmatched accessibility to the capital.
Whether traveling for business, leisure, or a short weekend getaway, using one of these top-rated airports ensures a seamless start and end to your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which is the best airport in England for international flights?
Answer: London City Airport and Manchester Airport are ideal for international travel due to their extensive flight networks and modern facilities.
2. Are smaller airports like Exeter and Bournemouth worth using?
Answer: Absolutely! They offer shorter wait times, less crowded terminals, and a stress-free travel experience.
3. How early should I arrive at these airports?
Answer: For regional airports, 1–1.5 hours is usually sufficient. For major hubs like London City or Manchester, aim for 2–3 hours before your flight.
4. Do these airports offer good transport links to city centers?
Answer: Yes, all top airports provide taxis, buses, or train/metro connections to nearby cities. Some, like London City Airport, are extremely close to central areas.
5. Where can I find detailed reviews of UK airports?
- Answer: Trusted sources include Which? UK Airport Reviews and Timeout UK Airport Rankings.
