Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from London City Airport (LCY) to the University of Greenwich is via the DLR (Docklands Light Railway). Take the direct DLR train towards Lewisham and alight at Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich station. The journey takes 30-40 minutes, costs approximately £2.70 – £3.40 with an Oyster/contactless card, and involves no changes. For groups or those with heavy luggage, a pre-booked private transfer might be more convenient despite the higher cost (£35-£55).
1. DLR (Docklands Light Railway): The Recommended Route
The DLR is an automated light metro system and is the most efficient and integrated public transport link from London City Airport directly to the heart of Greenwich. It's reliable, frequent, and offers stunning views of Canary Wharf and the Docklands.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Find the Station: Follow signs for “Trains” inside the London City Airport terminal. The DLR station is located within the airport building, accessible via lifts or escalators.
- Board the Train: Take any eastbound DLR train on the Platform 1 (destination: Lewisham or King George V). All trains on this platform stop at Cutty Sark.
- The Journey: Enjoy the 25-minute ride. Key stops you'll pass include Canary Wharf (for financial district connections) and Greenwich (for the National Maritime Museum). Do not alight at “Greenwich” DLR station—continue one more stop to “Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich”.
- Arrive & Walk: Exit the station using the lifts or stairs. The University of Greenwich's Old Royal Naval College gates are directly opposite, a 2-minute walk.
Fares, Tickets & Payment:
| Payment Method | Single Fare (Off-Peak)* | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Contactless Card/Device | ~£3.40 (Zone 1-3) | Most Recommended. Simply tap the yellow reader at the start and end. Daily and weekly caps apply. |
| Oyster Card | ~£3.40 (Zone 1-3) | Same as contactless. Can be topped up at the airport station. Link a Railcard for 1/3 off off-peak fares. |
| Paper Ticket | ~£6.30 (Anytime) | Not recommended. More expensive and less flexible. Only use if you cannot pay by card. |
*Peak fares (Weekdays 06:30 – 09:30 & 16:00 – 19:00) are higher. Travel off-peak if possible.
Service Frequency & Hours:
- Frequency: Every 5-10 minutes.
- First Train from LCY: Around 05:30 (Mon-Sat), 07:00 (Sun).
- Last Train from LCY to Cutty Sark: Around 00:15 (Mon-Sat), 23:30 (Sun).
Luggage & Accessibility: All DLR trains have ample space for suitcases and are fully step-free and wheelchair accessible from the airport terminal to the final destination.
2. Taxi & Private Transfer: Door-to-Door Convenience
Ideal for those with heavy luggage, travelling in a group, or arriving late. While significantly more expensive, it offers maximum comfort and direct delivery to your specific university building.
Black Cab vs. Pre-Booked Private Hire:
- Black Taxi (Metrocab): Available at the rank outside arrivals. They charge by meter. Estimated cost: £35 – £50. Journey time 20-40 minutes. They can carry up to 5 passengers and are wheelchair accessible.
- Pre-Booked Minicab/Private Transfer: Often cheaper than a black cab if booked in advance. Companies like Addison Lee or minicabit offer fixed prices. Estimated cost: £30 – £45. You'll be met in arrivals with a name board.
When is a Taxi Worth It?
- Group of 3-4 people (splitting the fare makes it competitive).
- Arriving after the last DLR has departed.
- Carrying excessive or fragile equipment (e.g., musical instruments, sports gear).
- If you have mobility issues that make navigating public transport challenging.
Warning: Avoid unlicensed 'touts' inside the terminal offering rides. Always use the official rank or a pre-booked service.
3. Bus & Night Bus: The Budget Back-Up
Slower but cheaper than the DLR, buses are a valid option if you're not in a hurry or if the DLR is suspended.
Daytime Route: 474 Bus
- Route: From London City Airport (Silvertown City Airport) bus stop to Greenwich Church Street / Cutty Sark.
- Journey Time: 35-50 minutes, heavily dependent on traffic.
- Frequency: Every 10-15 minutes.
- Cost: £1.75 with Oyster/contactless (Hopper fare applies – unlimited bus/tram journeys within one hour).
Night Service: N550 Bus
This is your only public transport option if you land between 00:30 and 05:00.
- Route: From London City Airport to Trafalgar Road / Greenwich Park (a 10-minute walk to the university).
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes.
- Key Advice: Check the TfL Bus status page for real-time updates before relying on this service.
4. Walking & Cycling: The Scenic Route
For the truly energetic traveler with light luggage, the journey can be an adventure itself.
- Walking: A 1-hour, 3-mile walk. Route: Follow the Thames Path east from the airport through the Royal Docks and into Greenwich. It's picturesque but not practical with luggage or in poor weather.
- Cycling: A 20-25 minute ride. Santander Cycles docking stations are available near the airport and throughout Greenwich. Use the TfL cycle map to plan. Cost: £1.65 for a 24-hour bike access fee, plus usage charges if your journey exceeds 30 minutes.
5. Cost & Time Comparison: At a Glance
| Mode | Journey Time | Approx. Cost (One Way) | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DLR | 30-40 min | £2.70 – £4.40 | Most travelers (Best overall) | Direct, frequent, reliable. Use contactless. |
| Taxi | 20-40 min | £35 – £55 | Groups, late arrivals, heavy luggage | Traffic can cause delays and cost spikes. |
| Bus 474 | 35-50 min | £1.75 | Solo budget travelers, no time pressure | Subject to London traffic congestion. |
| Walking | 60+ min | Free | Exercise, sightseeing, fair weather | Not suitable with luggage or in rain. |
Verdict: For 90% of students and visitors, the DLR is the clear winner in terms of cost, speed, and ease.
6. Traveler Tips & Local Insights
🎒 Luggage Solutions:
If you have large bags and are going straight to university accommodation, consider sending them ahead with a luggage forwarding service like Send My Bag. This lets you travel on the DLR hassle-free.
🧭 Navigating the DLR:
The front of the DLR train offers a driver's-eye view! It's a fun experience. Remember, the doors do not open automatically—you must press the green button to alight.
📱 Essential Apps:
- Citymapper: The best app for London travel. It will give you real-time options, including the quickest DLR departure.
- TfL Go: Official London transport app with live maps and status updates.
⚠️ Peak Times to Avoid:
If you land on a weekday between 8-9:30 AM, the DLR will be crowded with commuters heading to Canary Wharf. Be prepared for a busy train.
FAQs: London City Airport to Greenwich University
What is the cheapest way to get from London City Airport to Greenwich University?
The cheapest way is to take the DLR (Docklands Light Railway) to Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich station, which is directly adjacent to the university's main campus. A single fare using an Oyster or contactless payment card costs approximately £2.70–£3.40 off-peak.
What is the fastest way to get from London City Airport to Greenwich University?
The fastest way is typically a taxi or pre-booked private transfer, taking 20–40 minutes depending on traffic. The quickest public transport option is the DLR, with a journey time of about 30–40 minutes from LCY to Cutty Sark station, including a short walk.
Is there a direct train from London City Airport to Greenwich University?
There is no single 'train', but there is a direct DLR (Docklands Light Railway) service. You can take the DLR from London City Airport station (inside the terminal) directly to Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich station without changing lines. The journey is seamless.
How do I pay for the DLR from London City Airport?
The easiest ways are: 1) Using a contactless debit/credit card. 2) Using an Oyster card. 3) Purchasing a paper travelcard from the ticket machines. Ensure you tap in and tap out with the same card/device. Fares are capped daily.
Can I use my UK railcard for travel from LCY to Greenwich?
Yes, but not directly at the gates. You must link your Railcard to your Oyster card at a London Underground station ticket office (not at LCY). Once linked, you get a 1/3 discount on off-peak pay-as-you-go fares on the DLR, tubes, and buses.
Is the DLR from London City Airport wheelchair accessible?
Yes. All DLR stations and trains are step-free and wheelchair accessible. London City Airport station has lifts from the terminal to the platform. The trains have level boarding and dedicated spaces.
What should I do if I arrive at London City Airport late at night?
The DLR operates until around 00:30 (12:30 AM) on most nights. For arrivals after this, your only public transport option is the N550 night bus. Taxis and pre-booked private transfers are available 24/7 but are significantly more expensive.
Where exactly does the DLR drop me off for Greenwich University?
It drops you at 'Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich' station. Upon exit, the University of Greenwich's iconic Old Royal Naval College campus (including the Student Centre and Dreadnought Building) is directly in front of you, a 2–5 minute walk away.