Trial of Overnight Trains to Stansted Airport Set for This Summer

The Stansted Express is set to introduce overnight train services on Fridays this summer, enhancing transport links to Stansted Airport. From Friday, July 3 to September 26, trains will operate every 30 minutes between Stansted Airport and Tottenham Hale. This new service allows passengers to seamlessly connect with the Victoria line of the Night Tube. Additionally, some early morning services will still run to or from Liverpool Street station.

Enhancing Passenger Experience Through Public Ownership

This initiative forms part of a broader enhancement plan for passengers, which has been implemented since Stansted Express, along with the wider Greater Anglia network, transitioned to public ownership in October 2025. The journey between Stansted Airport and Tottenham Hale takes approximately 36 minutes, offering a significantly quicker alternative compared to the National Express buses, which are currently the sole mode of transport available during the night.

Greater Anglia has announced that railway teams have adapted their engineering and maintenance schedules to facilitate these overnight services once a week. In March, the introduction of contactless rail travel to Stansted Airport further streamlined the travel experience for passengers, making it faster and more convenient.

Government Support for Improved Rail Services

Rail Minister, Lord Peter Hendy, expressed enthusiasm for the new services, stating, “This is exactly what public ownership of our railways makes possible. As we build Great British Railways, we’re bringing train operators and Network Rail together under one roof, allowing us to plan smarter, work faster, and deliver more for passengers.” He highlighted that these overnight Stansted Express services would significantly benefit those arriving late or travelling for early flights, providing direct access to London via the Night Tube.

Jamie Burles, the Managing Director of GBR Anglia, added, “Stansted Express already offers the fastest and most convenient route between London Stansted Airport and the capital. This trial aims to extend that convenience to more passengers, whether they are landing late on a Friday night or heading to the airport for an early Saturday flight.”

Collaboration for Future Growth

Burles noted that this initiative exemplifies the advantages of closer collaboration within the rail network, made possible through public ownership. By integrating the operations of Stansted Express and Network Rail Anglia under the GBR Anglia framework, the teams have been able to reassess engineering plans and trial these additional services whilst ensuring essential maintenance is upheld. He emphasised the importance of monitoring demand closely and reiterated that with the inclusion of contactless pay-as-you-go options at Stansted Airport, this initiative represents a significant step toward making rail travel to the airport simpler, more flexible, and more accessible for all passengers.