Liverpool Airport Transport

Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LPL) offers a variety of transport choices to suit every traveler’s needs, whether you’re heading to the city center, further afield, or planning your onward journey. Here’s a detailed guide to each option, including locations, approximate prices, usual destinations, and handy tips.

Buses and Shuttles

Main Services:

Arriva Airlink 500:

Route: Airport ↔ Liverpool City Centre (Liverpool ONE Bus Station)
Duration: 20–30 minutes
Frequency: Regular, every 30 minutes
Price: £2–£5 (may vary; currently around £2–£3)
Location: Bus stop is just outside the main terminal entrance.
Features: Free Wi-Fi, power outlets, leather seats, wheelchair accessible.

The Airlink 500 is the fastest and most direct option to the city center, ideal if you have luggage or want a hassle-free ride.

86A and 82A Buses:

Route: Airport ↔ Liverpool City Centre (via local neighborhoods)
Duration: 45–60 minutes
Price: From £2.10
Location: Same bus stop as the 500.

The 86A is cheaper and takes a scenic route through the city. Great if you want to see more of Liverpool’s daily life.

Other Destinations:

Buses also connect to Liverpool South Parkway station for trains to Manchester, Birmingham, and more.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing (VTC)

Taxis:

Location: Taxi rank is immediately outside the terminal, near the roundabout with the Yellow Submarine sculpture.
Price: To Liverpool city center, expect to pay around £20, depending on traffic.
Booking: No need to pre-book; taxis are usually available at all hours.

Tip: For fixed prices and no waiting, consider booking a private transfer in advance. Drivers will meet you at arrivals with a sign, and prices are agreed upfront (no hidden fees).

Ride-Hailing (Uber, etc.):

Availability: Uber and other VTC services operate at LPL.
Meeting Point: Usually at the designated pick-up area in the car park; check your app for precise instructions.
Price: Similar to or slightly less than regular taxis, depending on demand.

Booking a ride-hailing service can sometimes be cheaper during off-peak times, but traditional taxis are often faster if you’re in a hurry.

See more information

Train/Metro/Tram

Train:

Direct Service: There is no direct train station at the airport.

Nearest Station: Liverpool South Parkway (about 2 miles/3 km from the terminal).

How to Get There: Take the 86A bus (every 15–30 minutes) or a taxi (5–10 minutes).

Train Destinations:

Frequent trains to Liverpool Lime Street (city center), Manchester, Birmingham, Runcorn, Crewe, Stafford, Nottingham, Stockport, Sheffield, Leeds, York, and more6.
Trains run every 30 minutes to major cities during the week, hourly on Sundays.

Price: Bus to station from £2.10; train fares vary (e.g., to Manchester from £8–£15).

If you’re traveling to another UK city, this is often the fastest and most economical option. Buy tickets online or at the station for the best prices.

Car Hire (Rental Cars)

Location: Car rental desks are located in the Arrivals hall, just after baggage reclaim.
Companies: Major brands like Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Enterprise, and Budget operate here.
Booking: It’s best to book in advance, especially in peak times, for better rates and guaranteed availability9.
Price: From £25–£40 per day for a small car, but varies by company, car type, and insurance.

See more information

Compare prices online before your trip. If you plan to explore the region (e.g., the Lake District, North Wales), a rental car offers maximum flexibility.

How to Get to the Airport

From Liverpool City Centre:

Bus: 500 Airlink (fastest), 86A/82A (cheapest).
Taxi/Uber: 20–30 minutes, around £20.
Train: Take a train to Liverpool South Parkway, then bus/taxi to the airport.

From Manchester:

Train: Take a direct train to Liverpool South Parkway, then bus/taxi.
Car: About 45–60 minutes via M62.

From Other Cities:

Train: Most UK cities connect via Liverpool Lime Street or South Parkway.
Coach: National Express and Megabus run services to Liverpool city centre, then transfer to bus/taxi.

Tip: Always allow extra time during peak hours or if you’re unfamiliar with the route. Early morning flights may require booking a taxi or private transfer in advance, as public transport is less frequent overnight.

Transport Summary Table

Option	Location at Airport	Price (to city centre)	Duration	Main Destinations	Tips
Airlink 500 Bus	Outside terminal	£2–£5	20–30 min	Liverpool ONE, city centre	Fastest, direct, Wi-Fi onboard
86A/82A Bus	Outside terminal	£2.10	45–60 min	City centre, South Parkway	Cheapest, scenic city route
Taxi	Taxi rank, outside terminal	£20	20–30 min	Anywhere in Liverpool	24/7, fixed price if pre-booked
Uber/VTC	Car park pick-up area	£15–£25	20–30 min	Anywhere in Liverpool	Use app for pick-up location
Train (via bus)	Bus to South Parkway station	£2.10 + train fare	35–60 min	Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, etc.	Best for longer UK journeys
Car Hire	Arrivals hall	From £25/day	Flexible	Anywhere (self-drive)	Book ahead for best rates

Liverpool Airport’s transport options are varied, reliable, and accessible for travelers with luggage or mobility needs. For the best value, use the Airlink 500 bus or book a transfer in advance. For regional travel, combine bus and train for speed and savings. Always check schedules ahead of time, especially for early or late flights.