Global Suppliers at London City
Authorized partnerships with global brands stationed at LCY Airport.
All-Inclusive LCY Protection
Drive out of London City Airport with absolute confidence. Every booking automatically includes Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Third-Party Liability, and Theft Protection.
We ensure total transparency: the rate you book covers your essential insurance needs and includes 24/7 UK-wide breakdown assistance as standard.
Car Hire Desk Access
All rental providers at London City Airport are conveniently located right next to the short-stay car park. Because the airport is so compact, it is just a very short, flat walk directly outside the main terminal building—no shuttles required.
For terminal maps and live flight information, we recommend checking the official London City Airport website.
What Our London City Customers Say
Verified reviews from travelers who rented directly from London City Airport.
"Fantastic service at London City Airport. The car rental desks were just steps from the terminal exit, and we were in Canary Wharf in less than 15 minutes."
"Very smooth pick-up process. Used the car to drive out to Essex for the weekend. Highly recommend an automatic for the city traffic!"
"Best prices I found for an LCY rental. The car was ready and waiting with no hard sell at the desk."
"Returning early was a breeze with the drop box, and the walk back to the terminal took just two minutes."
"Absolutely no hidden fees. The price I saw online was exactly what I paid at the London City desk."
"The car broke down which was surprising as it was brand new, but I guess nothing is perfect! However, I was very happy with the support. The car change over was very quick and professional. Thank you Sarah for the great customer service."
"Very straightforward access onto the A13 straight out of the airport. The premium vehicle selection is top-notch."
"Modern fleet and efficient customer support. Got me out of the airport traffic in record time heading into the City."
Essential Driving Guide out of London City Airport
Landing at LCY? Familiarise yourself with these vital rules of the road before exiting the airport in your rental.
Navigating the A1020 & A13
Leaving LCY places you right on the A1020 (Royal Docks Road). This connects quickly to the A13, which is the main artery heading west into Central London or east towards the M25 and Essex. Be prepared for heavy traffic during peak commuting hours.
Manual vs. Automatic
Manual transmission is standard in the UK. However, given the stop-and-start nature of driving through Central London traffic, we strongly recommend filtering for an automatic vehicle when you book for a significantly more relaxing drive.
London ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone)
London City Airport is located entirely within the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), which operates 24/7 across all London boroughs. Fortunately, our modern LCY rental fleet is highly compliant, meaning you won't face the daily £12.50 penalty charges.
The Congestion Charge
The airport itself is outside the Congestion Charge zone. However, if you drive west into Central London during charging hours, you will need to pay the £15 daily fee online. Watch for the large red 'C' signs painted on the road.
Blackwall Tunnel & Dartford Crossing
Heading south of the river? You'll likely use the Blackwall Tunnel or Dartford Crossing. Both can experience heavy traffic, and the Dartford Crossing requires a cashless online toll payment (the Dart Charge) by midnight the following day.
Returning the Car (Fuel)
If you have a 'Full-to-Full' fuel policy, there is an Asda petrol station conveniently located on the A112 just a few minutes from the airport entrance. Fill up here to avoid expensive refuelling penalty charges at the desk.
Urban London Driving
London roads feature extensive bus lanes and cycle superhighways. Never drive in a bus lane during its active hours (usually clearly signposted on blue signs), as this is monitored by cameras and will result in an automatic fine sent to your rental agency.
Current UK Fuel Costs
UK fuel is sold by the litre. Prices in London can be slightly higher than the national average, currently around £1.45 - £1.65 per litre. We advise choosing a 'Full-to-Full' fuel policy to control your own refuelling costs.
*As this is a volatile and ever-changing item, these prices were last updated on: .
Popular Drives from London City Airport
Because LCY is so centrally located in the Docklands, it serves as the ultimate gateway for business and leisure. Here are the top scenic drives and spots our customers visit after picking up their rental.
Canary Wharf
Distance: 4 miles (10 mins via A1261)
Head directly west to the major financial district and shopping hub.
Child-Friendly? Yes! The Museum of London Docklands is nearby and fantastic for kids.
Pro Tip: Use the underground car parks at Jubilee Place or Cabot Square for secure parking.
The O2 & Greenwich
Distance: 5 miles (15 mins via Blackwall Tunnel)
Drive under the Thames to reach the world-famous entertainment venue and historic Greenwich.
Child-Friendly? Great for exploring the Cutty Sark and Greenwich Park.
Pro Tip: The Blackwall Tunnel often suffers from congestion; check live traffic before departing.
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
Distance: 5 miles (15 mins via A12)
Head north to Stratford to see the legacy of the 2012 Games and shop at Westfield.
Child-Friendly? Excellent open spaces for walks and the massive ArcelorMittal Orbit slide.
Pro Tip: Westfield Stratford City offers extensive, secure parking right next to the park.
Central London (West End)
Distance: 10 miles (40 mins via A13)
Drive right into the heart of the capital for theatre, dining, and world-class museums.
Child-Friendly? Perfect for visiting the Natural History and Science Museums.
Pro Tip: Remember to pay the daily Congestion Charge if driving in during operating hours.
Epping Forest
Distance: 15 miles (35 mins via M11)
Head north on the M11 to escape the city into thousands of acres of ancient woodland.
Child-Friendly? Great for hiking, cycling, and exploring the Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge.
Pro Tip: Several free car parks are dotted around the forest, making it a budget-friendly nature trip.
Lakeside & Bluewater Shopping
Distance: 20 miles (40 mins via A13/M25)
Drive east to two of the UK's largest out-of-town shopping and leisure destinations.
Child-Friendly? Both centres offer massive indoor play areas and cinemas.
Pro Tip: To reach Bluewater, you will need to pay the Dartford Crossing toll (Dart Charge).
Southend-on-Sea
Distance: 35 miles (50 mins via A13)
Drive straight down the A13 to the Essex coast to see the world's longest pleasure pier.
Child-Friendly? A classic British seaside day out with arcades and Adventure Island.
Pro Tip: The seafront car parks can be exceptionally busy on sunny summer weekends.
Cambridge City Centre
Distance: 55 miles (1 hr 15 mins via M11)
A straightforward drive north to the historic university city.
Child-Friendly? Kids will love punting on the River Cam.
Pro Tip: Parking in central Cambridge is extremely limited. Use the Trumpington Park & Ride on the southern approach.