Rating the Best Major UK Airports

Travelling through an airport can be a very mixed experience, especially if your work requires you to be a confident and regular flyer. This experience can range from efficient and fun to chaotic and stressful; a large part of this can often be down to the airport you’re flying from or arriving at. In this article, we’ve reviewed the top airports in the UK and rated them based on several key factors, including waiting times, amenities, and overall atmosphere.

London Heathrow Airport (LHR)

London Heathrow Airport is the busiest in the UK and one of the most frequented worldwide, making it a true behemoth in the aviation space. Heathrow is the primary entry point for people visiting London and is an international travel hub for tens of millions of people annually.

Busyness and Waiting Times at London Heathrow Airport

Heathrow is a vast airport with tens of millions arriving or departing each year. Last year, around 80 million people passed through the airport, which can lead to some congestion. However, the airport is well-staffed and runs smoothly during peak hours.

London Heathrow Airport’s Offerings and Amenities

London Heathrow Airport is among the very best in terms of amenities. From high-end shops to fast food and gourmet restaurants, you will stay energised. But if you’d prefer to be in a secluded, calm airport lounge, several are available, which are perfect for private plane users.

London Heathrow Airport’s Overall Atmosphere

Despite being a busy airport connecting people from all over the world, London Heathrow Airport generally has a very relaxed atmosphere. While the airport’s size can confuse first-time visitors, there are always staff to help you get to the right place.

London Gatwick Airport (LGW)

Taking a prime position in the capital city and the second busiest airport in the UK, London Gatwick Airport serves both domestic and international flights.

Busyness and Waiting Times London Gatwick Airport

London Gatwick Airport can get very busy during peak periods, especially during school breaks or bank holidays. The airport’s team has made many changes during this period, such as automated systems, but for private air travellers, this should be fine.

London Gatwick Airport’s Offerings and Amenities

With just over 40 million passengers passing through the airport, London Gatwick Airport has all the facilities you’d expect from a top international travel hub. Perfect for both budget and intermediate travellers, both terminals have a range of amenities, such as restaurants and shops.

London Gatwick Airport’s Overall Atmosphere

While London Gatwick Airport might not be as flashy as London Heathrow Airport, it’s just as functional. It can become chaotic, as is often the case for the more ‘budget’ airports, but it’s still a great place to travel from, and the staff are generally accommodating and willing to help.

Manchester Airport (MAN)

As the biggest airport in the North of England, Manchester Airport is the third busiest in the UK. It welcomes many domestic and international visitors.

Busyness and Waiting Times at Manchester Airport

Manchester Airport can become quite busy and congested, particularly in the mornings and late afternoons. The waiting times are generally manageable. However, it has been known to take a couple of hours to move through security during peak hours. The airport could benefit from additional staffing during peak hours.

Manchester Airport’s Offerings and Amenities

Although Manchester Airport lacks speed and efficiency, it makes up for it in terms of access to amenities and facilities. It has a good selection of shops and restaurants, and while it doesn’t rival London Heathrow in terms of luxury, it offers everything a traveller might need.

Manchester Airport’s Overall Atmosphere

The general vibe at Manchester Airport is quite relaxed compared to nearby airports. However, peak times can become quite stressful as people become frustrated with the queues. The airport’s ongoing improvements are promising, making it a solid choice for northern travellers.

Edinburgh Airport (EDI)

Outside of London and Manchester, Edinburgh Airport is the busiest airport in the UK and Scotland.

Busyness and Waiting Times at Edinburgh Airport

Edinburgh Airport can become quite backed up, particularly during the summer festival season and holiday periods. However, the airport, for the most part, is well-organised, and security lines, while sometimes long, typically move at a reasonable pace.

Edinburgh Airport’s Offerings and Amenities

Edinburgh Airport offers a good range of shops and eateries, where you can enjoy both international foods and local Scottish delicacies. The selection is broad and caters to different tastes and budgets. The airport’s lounges are also very welcoming, offering a comfortable, relaxing space.

Edinburgh Airport’s Overall Atmosphere

Edinburgh Airport has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, reflecting the city’s warmth. Staff are typically accommodating, and the airport is easy to navigate.

Flying to and From the UK

Each major UK airport has its unique characteristics and strengths. Despite its busyness, Heathrow stands out for its vast amenities and efficiency, while Gatwick provides a solid experience with good facilities and often cheaper commercial flights. Manchester and Edinburgh airports deliver pleasant and efficient experiences, reflecting their regional charms. The best choice for you will likely depend on your location, the nature of your journey, and your personal preferences for amenities and atmosphere.