The good news: LCY closes late
London City is built for business travellers. Bag drop typically closes 30 minutes before departure and hand-baggage-only passengers can often make it through security in 15. No other London airport gives you that margin.
The catch: that only helps if you arrive. The DLR runs every 8–10 minutes but involves at least one change from most of London, and it stops entirely if there is a signal failure or a strike.
Fastest option by where you are
- Canary Wharf / Docklands: the DLR is genuinely quick — 10 minutes. Take it.
- The City / Bank: DLR direct, about 22 minutes. Fine if it is running.
- West London / Heathrow side: the Elizabeth line to Custom House then a short walk, or a car. With luggage, a car.
- Anywhere in Kent, Essex or the Home Counties: a car, every time. Rail routes involve two changes and a lot of luck.
- After a DLR strike or failure: a car. There is no rail alternative that reaches the terminal.
If you need a car now
We run to LCY 24/7 at fixed fares agreed before the driver moves. WhatsApp your postcode and we will tell you honestly whether the flight is makeable — and if it is not, we will say so rather than take your money.
Related
DLR down? See our DLR strike guide. Flying tomorrow morning instead? Book a fixed-fare LCY transfer.