Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from East Midlands Airport to Nottingham city center for most travelers is the Skylink Express bus (Service 130). It offers a good balance of cost, frequency, and convenience. The journey takes 30-45 minutes and costs around £6-£7 for a single ticket. For direct door-to-door service, a pre-booked taxi takes 25-35 minutes but costs significantly more (£35-£50). There is no direct train from the airport.
Skylink Express Bus: The Best Value Option
Operated by Kinchbus, the Skylink Nottingham (service 130/140) is the dedicated, frequent bus link connecting East Midlands Airport directly to Nottingham city center. It is the most recommended option for solo travelers, couples, and budget-conscious visitors due to its low cost and reliable service.
Step-by-Step Guide & Key Details
- Find the Bus Stop: Upon exiting the arrivals hall, turn left and follow signs for "Buses & Coaches." The Skylink bus stop is clearly marked just outside the terminal building.
- Frequency & Schedule:
- Daytime (Mon-Sat): Every 15-20 minutes.
- Evening & Sunday: Every 20-30 minutes.
- Night Service (24/7): Operates all night, with reduced frequency (approx. every 60 minutes) between midnight and 5 AM. Check the latest timetable on Kinchbus.
- Journey Time: Typically 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and your specific destination in the city center.
- Tickets & Fares (2024):
Ticket Type Approx. Price Notes Adult Single £6.50 - £7 Paid on board or online. Adult Return (Day) £10 - £11 Good for round trips same day. Group Ticket (Up to 5) £16 (Day) Excellent value for families/groups. Payment: Contactless card/phone, exact cash, or purchase in advance via the Kinchbus website/app for potential discounts.
- Luggage: Buses have dedicated luggage space. There is no strict size/weight limit for reasonable airport luggage.
- Key Stops in Nottingham City Center:
- Nottingham Railway Station (South Entrance): Ideal for connecting to national rail services.
- Friar Lane: Close to the Lace Market and historic pubs.
- Victoria Bus Station (Final Stop): Central hub with connections to local buses.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Very cost-effective, frequent service, 24/7 operation, direct route, free Wi-Fi on board, easy to find at airport.
Cons: Journey time can be affected by road traffic, not a door-to-door service, can be busy during peak times.
Taxi & Private Transfer: Door-to-Door Convenience
For maximum convenience, especially with heavy luggage, late-night arrivals, or groups of 3-4 people, a taxi or pre-booked private transfer is the best choice.
Options, Costs, and Booking
- Official Airport Taxis: The taxi rank is located directly outside the arrivals hall. These are metered, but fares to Nottingham city center are typically a fixed zone fare. Always confirm the approximate price before starting your journey.
- Pre-Booked Private Transfers: Recommended for guaranteed service and fixed price. Companies like A2B Radford Taxis or Skylink Cars are licensed by the airport.
| Vehicle Type | Approx. Fare (Pre-booked) | Journey Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Saloon (4 seats) | £35 - £45 | 25-35 min | Couples, small families |
| People Carrier (6-8 seats) | £50 - £65 | 25-35 min | Large families/groups |
| Executive Car | £55+ | 25-35 min | Business travel |
When to Choose a Taxi: Late-night/early morning flights, travelers with mobility issues, large groups where cost can be split, or if you simply value time and convenience over cost.
Warning: Avoid unlicensed "touts" inside the terminal offering rides. Always use the official rank or a pre-booked service.
Train via East Midlands Parkway (The Indirect Route)
It's crucial to understand that East Midlands Airport does not have its own train station. The "train" option involves a multi-leg journey and is rarely the best choice for a direct city-center transfer.
The Complicated Journey Breakdown
- Leg 1: Airport to East Midlands Parkway Station.
- How: Take the Skylink bus (towards Derby) or a taxi.
- Time & Cost: Bus takes 10-15 mins (£3-£4). Taxi takes 10 mins (£10-£15).
- Leg 2: Train from East Midlands Parkway to Nottingham Station.
- Frequency: Trains run by East Midlands Railway every 30-60 minutes.
- Journey Time: Approximately 8-12 minutes on the train.
- Train Fare: An off-peak single ticket costs around £5-£7 if purchased in advance.
Total Cost & Time Estimate
Total Cost: £10 - £25+ per person (bus+train or taxi+train).
Total Time: 45 - 70 minutes (including waiting and transfers).
Verdict: This option is only worth considering if you have a railcard, are heading somewhere specific near Nottingham Station, or have already purchased a through-ticket that includes this route. For most, the direct Skylink bus is simpler and cheaper.
Renting a Car at East Midlands Airport
East Midlands Airport is a major hub for car rentals, with desks for companies like Europcar, Hertz, Avis, and Sixt located in the Arrivals hall.
Is It Right for Your Trip to Nottingham?
- For Nottingham City Center Only: NOT Recommended. You'll face city traffic, one-way systems, and expensive city center parking (e.g., Trinity Square or Victoria Centre car parks can cost £15-£25 for 24 hours).
- For Exploring the Region: Recommended. If you plan to visit the Peak District, Derby, Lincoln, or the countryside immediately after landing, renting a car provides excellent flexibility.
- Drive Time to Nottingham: The drive itself is straightforward via the A453 and takes 25-40 minutes.
Tip: Always book your rental car in advance online for the best rates. Ensure your rental includes permission to drive in the UK's city centers and check for any potential Clean Air Zone charges.
Cost & Time Comparison: EMA to Nottingham City Center
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (One Way) | Journey Time | Convenience / Notes | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skylink Express Bus | £6 - £7 (Adult Single) | 30 - 45 mins | High. Frequent, direct, 24/7. | Best Value for most travelers, solo, couples, budget. |
| Taxi / Private Transfer | £35 - £50 (Car) | 25 - 35 mins | Very High. Door-to-door, fixed price if booked. | Most Convenient for families, groups, late nights, lots of luggage. |
| Train via Parkway | £10 - £25+ (Bus+Train) | 45 - 70+ mins | Low. Multiple transfers, infrequent vs. bus. | Rail enthusiasts or those with specific through-tickets. |
| Rental Car | £30 - £70/day + fuel + parking | 25 - 40 mins (drive only) | Medium for city, High for region. Parking hassle in city. | Travelers exploring the wider East Midlands region. |
Winner for Cost: Skylink Bus.
Winner for Speed & Convenience: Taxi/Private Transfer.
Winner for Overall Balance: Skylink Bus.
Traveler Tips & Experience
Insider Advice for a Smooth Journey
- Book Bus Tickets Online: Download the Kinchbus app or buy tickets online before you fly. It can sometimes be slightly cheaper and guarantees you a ticket if the bus is busy.
- Late-Night Arrivals: While the Skylink runs all night, if your flight lands after midnight and you're tired, pre-booking a taxi is worth the peace of mind. Have the local taxi number saved: A2B Radford (0115 942 2222).
- Weekend & Event Traffic: Nottingham is a vibrant city. On weekend evenings or during major events (e.g., cricket at Trent Bridge, Goose Fair), traffic into the city can be heavier. Allow extra time if taking the bus or taxi.
- Free Airport Wi-Fi: Use the airport's free Wi-Fi to check the live bus times on the Kinchbus website or to book your taxi/transfer upon arrival.
- Group Travel Hack: The Skylink Group Day Ticket (£16 for up to 5 people) is phenomenal value. If there are 3 or more of you traveling together, this is cheaper than individual singles.
- If You Have Hours to Kill: The airport has limited amenities. If you have a long wait for a bus or pickup, there is a café and a pub in the arrivals area.
FAQs: East Midlands Airport to Nottingham Transfers
What is the cheapest way to get from East Midlands Airport to Nottingham city center?
The cheapest way is by taking the Skylink Express bus (Service 130). A single adult ticket costs around £6-£7, and the journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. It's significantly cheaper than taxis or trains.
Is there a direct train from East Midlands Airport to Nottingham?
No, there is no direct train station at East Midlands Airport. The nearest train station is East Midlands Parkway, which is about a 10-15 minute taxi or Skylink bus ride away. From there, you can catch a train to Nottingham Station, making the total journey more complex and often not faster than the direct bus.
How much is a taxi from EMA to Nottingham city center and how long does it take?
A pre-booked taxi or private transfer typically costs between £35 and £50 for a standard car. The journey takes 25-35 minutes in normal traffic. It's the most convenient door-to-door option, especially for families or those with lots of luggage, but also the most expensive.
How frequent is the Skylink bus from the airport to Nottingham?
The Skylink Nottingham service (Number 130) is very frequent. During peak daytime hours, buses run every 15-20 minutes. Early morning and late-night services are less frequent, running every 30-60 minutes. It operates 24/7, making it reliable for early or late flights.
Can I use contactless payment on the Skylink bus?
Yes, you can pay on the Skylink bus using contactless debit/credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or exact cash. You can also buy tickets in advance online via the Kinchbus website or their app, which is recommended for the best fares.
What is the best option if I arrive late at night or very early in the morning?
The Skylink bus operates 24 hours a day, so it remains the best budget option. However, services are less frequent between midnight and 5 AM (approx. every hour). For ultimate convenience and safety at odd hours, pre-booking a taxi or private transfer is highly recommended.
Where does the Skylink bus drop off in Nottingham city center?
The Skylink Nottingham bus has several key stops in the city center, including: Nottingham Railway Station (South Entrance), Friar Lane, and Broadmarsh (formerly Broadmarsh Bus Station). The final stop is at the Victoria Bus Station, which is centrally located.
Is it worth renting a car at East Midlands Airport for going to Nottingham?
For a short visit solely to Nottingham city center, renting a car is generally not cost-effective or convenient due to city traffic, congestion charges (if applicable), and expensive parking. The Skylink bus or taxi are better. Renting a car is only advisable if you plan to explore the wider region like the Peak District or Derbyshire immediately after arrival.