Thinking about a trip from Dublin to London? It is one of those journeys that is easier than it sounds. I still remember the first time I traveled from Dublin to London. I was excited, a little nervous, and honestly had no idea which way to go. When I started looking, I realized there are technically ten different ways to make the trip. Flights to multiple airports, ferry plus train, ferry plus coach, direct coach, driving, or even renting a car. It felt overwhelming at first.
But after trying a few of them, I learned that most travelers really only need to focus on three main options. Flying is the fastest and simplest choice and it is perfect when you want to maximize your time in London. SailRail, which is the ferry plus train or coach, is slower but scenic and surprisingly relaxing. It almost feels like part of the trip is the destination. Driving or taking a direct coach is flexible and budget-friendly, especially if you are traveling with friends or want to bring more luggage.
In this guide, I am sharing my experience with all three options along with tips, travel times, and costs. By the end, you will have a clear idea of the best way to go from Dublin to London so your trip is stress-free, smooth, and maybe even a little fun along the way.
Flying from Dublin to London
Flying is the quickest way to get from Dublin to London, especially if you only have a weekend or a short trip. The flight takes around 1 hour 20 minutes, and there are several options depending on where you want to land in London.
Here are the main airports with direct flights from Dublin:
- Heathrow: Central location with fast Tube and train connections.
- Gatwick: Slightly further but convenient, connected by train.
- Stansted & Luton: Popular for budget airlines, travel to central London takes longer.
- London City: Best if you are heading to East London or Canary Wharf.
From my experience, budget airlines like Ryanair and Aer Lingus often offer great deals if booked early. Full-service carriers such as British Airways include more comfort and checked luggage, but cost more.
Table01: Airline and Airport Comparison
| Airline | Airport | Avg. Cost (One-Way) | Time to Central London |
| Ryanair | Stansted / Luton | €25–€60 | 50–70 mins by train |
| Aer Lingus | Heathrow / Gatwick | €60–€120 | 30–60 mins by train/Tube |
| British Airways | Heathrow | €100–€180 | 30 mins by Heathrow Express |
| CityJet / BA | London City | €90–€150 | 20 mins by DLR/Tube |
Budget flights are great for saving money, but it’s important to check how long it will take to reach central London from the airport. Flights to Stansted or Luton are cheaper, but the train or coach ride into the city can take around an hour. Heathrow flights cost more, but once you land, you can get to central London quickly using the Heathrow Express or the Tube.
Flying is the best choice if you want to get to London fast and hassle-free, especially for short trips where every hour counts.
SailRail: A Scenic Ferry and Train Journey from Dublin to London
If you are not in a rush and enjoy a more relaxed, scenic journey, SailRail is a fantastic way to travel from Dublin to London. The idea is simple: take a ferry from Dublin Port to Holyhead in Wales, then hop on a train straight to London Euston, or sometimes a coach to London Victoria.
The total journey usually takes 6 to 8 hours, depending on the ferry schedule and train connections. It is longer than flying, but many travelers, including me, actually enjoy the journey itself. Watching the Irish coastline fade away, feeling the fresh sea breeze, and then settling into a comfortable train seat is far less stressful than airports, security checks, and baggage limits.
Tickets are usually around €58 one-way, and you can book directly through Irish Rail or ferry operators like Stena Line or Irish Ferries. The price includes both the ferry and train leg, so you don’t have to worry about separate tickets.
One thing to keep in mind is timing and weather. Ferry schedules can shift in rough weather, so always allow a little buffer time. But overall, it is a comfortable, luggage-friendly, and scenic option, especially if you like a slower pace or are traveling with friends or family.
Table 02 : Comparing SailRail and Ferry Coach Travel
| Option | Total Time | Approx. Cost | Comfort | Best For |
| Ferry & Train | 6–8 hours | €58 | More space, relaxed, scenic views | Travelers who want comfort and scenery |
| Ferry & Coach | 6–9 hours | €55–€60 | Slightly less comfortable, but flexible | Budget travelers or those going to Victoria Station |
When I took SailRail, it didn’t feel like just getting from Dublin to London. The journey itself felt like part of the adventure. I could bring my luggage without stressing about extra fees, watch the sea roll by, and just kick back with a snack or a good book on the train.
Direct Coach and Driving Options
If you prefer more control over your schedule or want to save money, coaches and driving can be surprisingly good choices. Both let you travel comfortably without the stress of airports, and each has its own charm.
01 Direct Coach from Dublin to London:
I have taken the direct coach a few times, and one thing I love is how budget-friendly it can be. Tickets usually cost between €45 and €65 for a one-way trip, making it one of the cheapest ways to reach London. Overnight departures are perfect if you want to save a night in a hotel and maximize your time in the city.
The journey has a steady rhythm with the ferry crossing followed by the coach ride, which almost makes the travel part of the adventure itself. Bringing small comforts such as a travel pillow, snacks, and music can make the long ride feel surprisingly relaxing.
02 Driving or Car Options:
Driving from Dublin to London is a different kind of experience. Renting a car one-way and taking the ferry from Dublin to Holyhead allows you to travel at your own pace. Total costs, including rental, ferry, and fuel, can range from €250 to €380 for a solo traveler, but if you share the journey with friends or family, it becomes much more affordable.
The biggest advantage of driving is flexibility. You can stop wherever you like, stretch your legs in small towns, and even take scenic detours along the way. It also allows you to carry as much luggage as you need and avoid crowded stations or buses. From my trips, driving with friends made the journey feel like a mini road trip, turning travel time into part of the experience rather than simply moving from Dublin to London.
4. Comparing All Travel Options
Looking at all the travel options together makes it much easier to decide what suits you best. Flights are the fastest way to get from Dublin to London. Heathrow gives quick access to central London, while Stansted or Luton can be cheaper but add extra travel time on trains or buses. Choosing the right airport can save you hours and make short trips more enjoyable.
SailRail offers a slower but relaxing journey, with plenty of space, easy luggage handling, and scenic ferry and train views. Coaches are great for budget travelers, especially overnight trips that can save a hotel night, and a pillow and snacks make the ride more comfortable. Driving gives complete freedom to stop, explore small towns along the way, and carry extra luggage, making it ideal for groups or families who want the journey itself to be part of the adventure.
Here’s a quick table to see all the options at a glance:
| Mode of Travel | Approx. Door-to-Door Time | Typical Cost | Comfort & Extras | Best For |
| Flight | 3–5 hours | €35–€116 | Fast, minimal luggage hassle | Travelers short on time |
| SailRail | 6–8 hours | ~€58 | Relaxed, scenic, luggage-friendly | Those who enjoy the journey |
| Ferry and Coach | 6–9 hours | €55–€60 | Budget-friendly, flexible arrival points | Budget travelers |
| Direct Coach | 12 hours | €45–€65 | Overnight option, luggage friendly | Students, backpackers |
| Driving / Car | 7–10 hours | €250–€380 | Flexible stops, carry extra luggage | Groups, families |
Things to Do in Dublin Before Leaving
Before heading to London, you might have a few hours to enjoy Dublin, and using that time wisely can make your trip feel more relaxed and memorable. Even a short walk, a good meal, or a quick visit to a favorite spot can add a special touch to your journey.
Taking these small moments to enjoy Dublin before leaving not only gives you a break from travel stress but also makes your journey to London feel more enjoyable and personal.
Ready to Travel from Dublin to London? Choose Your Perfect Route Today!
Getting from Dublin to London is easier than many people think once you know your options. Flights save time and get you into the city quickly. SailRail offers a relaxed and scenic experience, coaches are budget-friendly and convenient for overnight travel, and driving gives you freedom to stop and explore along the way.
Think about what matters most for your trip. If speed is the priority, flying is your best bet. If you enjoy the journey itself and want space to relax, SailRail is perfect. For those traveling on a budget, coaches are reliable, and for groups or families, driving can turn the trip into a mini adventure. Choosing the right route ensures your journey is smooth, stress-free, and enjoyable from start to finish.
Have you traveled from Dublin to London recently? I would love to hear about your experience and any tips you discovered along the way. Share your journey in the comments, and let’s help fellow travelers make the most of theirs. For more travel tips follow the Facebook and Instagram page of Dublinz.
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