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Arriving in London

Practical tips for getting from the airport to your homestay smoothly.

Arriving in London

What to expect when you land, and practical tips for getting to your homestay smoothly.

Quick checklist (before you travel)

  • Save your host address and postcode (UK zip code) in your phone.
  • Save your host contact details and your London Homestays booking details.
  • Plan your route from the airport/station to your homestay in advance.
  • Make sure you know your typical check-in time window (see below).
  • Install WhatsApp (very common in the UK) and contact your host to let them know your travel schedule.
  • If your arrival time changes, message your host as soon as you can.

Check-in times (typical)

Most hosts work during the day, so arrival times are usually:

  • Weekends: check-in after 14:00 and before 20:30
  • Weekdays: arrivals are usually after 18:00 and before 20:30

If you need to arrive outside these times, tell us in advance. We will try to arrange this with the host, but it depends on whether the host is available and agrees.

When you arrive at the homestay

Ring the doorbell or knock on the door. Your host is expecting you.

If no-one answers immediately:

  • Wait a moment and try again
  • Call or message your host
  • Check you have the correct address and postcode

If you have confirmed your arrival time but the host is not home:

  • Message your host and wait for a reply
  • Contact London Homestays during office hours where possible
  • Out-of-hours emergency support details are provided at booking confirmation and via our office voicemail.

Your host will show you to your room, explain key house rules, and answer questions. For more detail, see the Student Guidelines.

Getting to your homestay

London is large, and airports can be far from where you will stay. Please consider travel time and cost before booking flights.

Useful tips:

  • Use a journey planner (for example TfL Journey Planner or Citymapper) and save the route on your phone.
  • Phone and data: download your route or offline maps before leaving the airport/station. Free Wi‑Fi is available at most airports and major stations, but may not work on trains.
  • Most public transport accepts contactless bank cards. You can also use an Oyster card.
  • Keep your valuables close and be cautious in crowded areas (stations, escalators and busy streets).
  • First-night tip: if you arrive late and you are self-catering, you may want to buy basic food and water before travelling to your homestay. Ask your host about the nearest shops when you arrive.

If you are delayed or arriving late

If your flight/train is delayed, message your host as soon as possible with your updated arrival time.

If you think you will miss the agreed check-in window, contact us during office hours where possible. Out-of-hours emergency support details are provided at booking confirmation and via our office voicemail.

Using WhatsApp with your host

Many hosts use WhatsApp, and it can be a simple way to stay in touch on travel day.

WhatsApp can be helpful for:

  • Letting your host know if your flight/train is delayed or you are running late
  • Sharing your estimated arrival time (ETA)
  • Asking for a location pin, a photo of the front door, or the best place to meet (if needed)
  • Confirming the postcode and any entry instructions

Please keep messages clear and polite, and avoid sharing sensitive information (for example bank card details).

WhatsApp is not an emergency service. In an emergency, call 999.

Airport transfers (optional)

If you would like an airport transfer, contact us in advance. If available, we can help arrange collection from major London airports.

To request a transfer, please include:

  • Airport and terminal
  • Flight number (or train station and arrival time)
  • Your arrival date and expected arrival time
  • Number of passengers and amount of luggage
  • Your destination postcode (if known)

If you arrange your own taxi, we recommend using licensed taxis/minicabs or official taxi ranks at airports and stations.

Arriving via Heathrow

Heathrow has strong transport links. Depending on where you are staying, you may use the Underground, Elizabeth line, train services, coach, or a licensed taxi. Check the latest routes and fares before you travel.

Arriving via Gatwick

Gatwick is well connected by train and coach services into London. Plan your route to your homestay (including the final connection) before you travel.

Arriving via Stansted

Stansted is further from central London. Train and coach services are common options. Late-night arrivals may take longer and cost more, so plan ahead.

Arriving via Luton

Luton is outside London, but it serves London with train and coach services. Journey times can vary, so please plan your route in advance, especially for late-night arrivals.

Arriving via London City Airport

London City Airport is closer to central London than other airports and is connected by public transport. Check the latest route options before you travel.

Arriving by Eurostar (St Pancras International)

St Pancras International (King’s Cross St Pancras) is a central London station with excellent Underground and bus connections. Plan your route to your homestay using the full address and postcode.

Need help?

  • Email: info@londonhomestays.com
  • Office hours: Mon–Fri 9am–5pm
  • Phones: 11am–3pm
  • WhatsApp: 020 8395 0333 (message-only, office hours; not for emergencies)

Emergency services: call 999.

Urgent medical advice (non-emergency): contact NHS 111.

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