Whether you’re jetting off for a holiday or traveling for business, your airport experience can set the tone for your entire journey. In 2025, UK airports continue to compete on efficiency, passenger comfort, and modern facilities. Based on traveler reviews, service quality, accessibility, and amenities, here are the top 10 best airports in the UK this year.
1. Heathrow Airport (LHR) – Best for Global Connectivity
Location: London
Annual Passengers (2024): Over 78 million
London Heathrow is consistently ranked among the top international airports in Europe. What makes Heathrow stand out in 2025 isn’t just its size—it’s the world-class lounges, upgraded Terminal 5 experience, and seamless connections to major global cities.
Why Travelers Love It:
Extensive international flight options
Heathrow Express: only 15 minutes to Central London
Excellent dining (try Gordon Ramsay Plane Food in Terminal 5)
Recently revamped security systems with faster checks
- Tip: If you’re flying long haul, Terminal 5 offers one of the most luxurious pre-flight experiences in the UK.
- Visit Heathrow Airport
2. Manchester Airport (MAN) – Best for Northern UK Travelers
Location: Manchester
Annual Passengers (2024): 29 million+
Manchester Airport has made huge improvements over the past few years. With the £1.3 billion Transformation Programme finally near completion, Terminal 2 is now one of the most advanced in Europe.
Why Travelers Love It:
Wide range of European and transatlantic flights
Terminal 2’s sleek design and layout
Smooth security and passport control experience
Better transport links, including the Metrolink and train services
- Tip: Book FastTrack security in advance to skip long queues during peak hours.
- Visit Manchester Airport
3. Edinburgh Airport (EDI) – Best Regional Airport in Scotland
Location: Edinburgh
Annual Passengers (2024): Over 15 million
Serving as the gateway to Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh Airport is beloved for its efficient layout, cleanliness, and quick baggage handling. It’s the busiest airport in Scotland and is especially popular among European travelers.
Why Travelers Love It:
Clean, modern, and easy to navigate
Friendly staff and great customer service
Direct flights to major cities like Amsterdam, Paris, and New York
Strong Wi-Fi and co-working lounge options for business travelers
- Tip: Use the tram from the city center—it’s cheap, quick, and drops you right at the terminal door.
- Visit Edinburgh Airport
4. London Gatwick Airport (LGW) – Best for Budget & Holiday Flights
Location: West Sussex, near London
Annual Passengers (2024): 35 million+
Gatwick is a top choice for both leisure and low-cost travel. With a reputation for operational efficiency and strong airline partnerships like EasyJet, Gatwick is the best UK airport for budget-conscious travelers.
Why Travelers Love It:
Great value flights to Europe and North Africa
User-friendly terminals with solid food options
South Terminal features a wide selection of duty-free shops
Upgraded train connections to London in just 30 minutes
- Tip: If you’re flying with a budget airline, make sure to check which terminal you’re using—EasyJet mainly uses the North Terminal.
- Visit Gatwick Airport
5. Bristol Airport (BRS) – Best Small Airport Experience
Location: North Somerset
Annual Passengers (2024): Around 9 million
Bristol Airport may be smaller, but it’s consistently praised for its efficient services, low delays, and traveler-friendly layout. For those in South West England and Wales, it’s a gem for short-haul European trips.
Why Travelers Love It:
Stress-free check-in and quick security lines
Compact and easy to navigate
Ample parking and convenient bus connections
Great coffee spots and relaxed atmosphere
- Tip: Book airport parking early—spaces fill up fast, especially during summer holiday months.
- Visit Bristol Airport
6. Birmingham Airport (BHX) – Best for Central England Access
Location: Birmingham
Annual Passengers (2024): 12+ million
Birmingham Airport is a convenient hub for travelers in the Midlands. In 2025, BHX continues to improve with terminal expansion and better transport links, including the new HS2 developments in the pipeline.
Why Travelers Love It:
Central location makes it ideal for domestic and short-haul flights
Good selection of shops and lounges, including Aspire Lounge
Regular flights to Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East
Efficient baggage handling and friendly customer service
- Tip: The Air-Rail Link gets you from Birmingham International train station to the terminal in under 2 minutes.
- Visit Birmingham Airport
7. London City Airport (LCY) – Best for Business Travelers
Location: East London
Annual Passengers (2024): 5 million+
London City Airport is a favorite for professionals thanks to its ultra-fast check-in, minimal queues, and proximity to Canary Wharf. If you’re short on time, this airport is a game-changer in 2025.
Why Travelers Love It:
Extremely fast boarding and security—often under 30 minutes
Walk-off boarding for many flights
Short runway, so only smaller jets—quieter and less crowded
Perfect for business trips to EU cities like Frankfurt, Zurich, and Amsterdam
- Tip: Avoid peak weekday mornings when corporate travel peaks.
- Visit London City Airport
8. Belfast City Airport (BHD) – Best Airport in Northern Ireland
Location: Belfast
Annual Passengers (2024): 2.7 million
George Best Belfast City Airport stands out for being compact, calm, and efficient. Located just 3 miles from Belfast city centre, it’s a go-to for domestic and short European routes.
Why Travelers Love It:
Short travel times from the city
Friendly staff and smooth boarding
Excellent for UK mainland connections (London, Manchester, etc.)
Less crowded than Belfast International
- Tip: Great airport for first-time flyers or elderly passengers due to its small size and straightforward layout.
- Visit Belfast City Airport
9. Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LPL) – Best for Quick Turnarounds
Location: Liverpool
Annual Passengers (2024): 5 million+
Liverpool John Lennon Airport has come a long way. Known for low-cost flights and short waiting times, it’s favored by travelers who prioritize convenience over luxury.
Why Travelers Love It:
Efficient bag drop and security—often under 20 minutes
Great Ryanair and EasyJet connections across Europe
Small but clean and well-maintained terminal
Beatles-themed decor adds a local touch
- Tip: Don’t miss the iconic John Lennon statue near departures—it’s a photo spot!
- Visit Liverpool Airport
10. Newcastle International Airport (NCL) – Best for North East England
Location: Newcastle upon Tyne
Annual Passengers (2024): 4.5 million+
Newcastle International is praised for its friendly vibe, clean facilities, and strong European flight network. It’s especially popular for holidaymakers heading to Spain, Greece, and Portugal.
Why Travelers Love It:
Straightforward layout and minimal delays
Direct Metro access from the city
Good selection of food outlets and shops
Award-winning customer service
- Tip: Check out the Aspire Lounge for a relaxed pre-flight atmosphere with panoramic views of the runway.
- Visit Newcastle Airport
Final Thoughts
In 2025, UK airports are continuing to evolve, offering smoother check-ins, better passenger services, and faster security clearances. Whether you’re flying internationally or staying within Europe, choosing the right airport can seriously elevate your travel experience.
Want the best experience? If you’re based in the South, Heathrow or Gatwick are great choices. Traveling from the North? Manchester is your go-to. For a smaller, more relaxed experience, Bristol and Edinburgh are standout picks.
FAQs – Best UK Airports in 2025
Q: Which UK airport is the most international in 2025?
A: London Heathrow (LHR) remains the most international, offering flights to over 200 global destinations.
Q: What’s the best UK airport for budget travel?
A: London Gatwick (LGW) is popular for low-cost carriers and holiday charters.
Q: Which UK airport has the best security experience in 2025?
A: Edinburgh and Manchester (new Terminal 2) are praised for fast, streamlined security processes.
Q: Is Heathrow or Gatwick better for connecting flights?
A: Heathrow offers better international connections; Gatwick is ideal for Europe.
Q: Are there any airports in the UK with sleeping pods or lounges?
A: Yes, Heathrow and Manchester both have sleep pods, lounges, and even showers in certain terminals.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
