Cheap British Airways flights to London

Mar–May (Spring): Cherry blossoms in Kew Gardens, Chelsea Flower Show, mild weather perfect for strolling South Bank. Jun–Aug (Summer): Wimbledon Championships, Notting Hill Carnival, long daylight hours and rooftop bars. Sep–Nov (Autumn): Crisp air, changing leaves in Hyde Park, London Film Festival, spooky tours of the Tower. Dec–Feb (Winter): Magical Christmas markets (Winter Wonderland), Boxing Day sales, cosy pub fires and New Year’s fireworks over the Thames. All year: World‑class museums (free admission), West End plays, endless foodie festivals and iconic landmarks any time you visit.

Planning a trip to London? South African passport holders generally need a visa to visit the United Kingdom. The appropriate visa and supporting documents depend on your reason for travelling and personal circumstances.

Before booking flights, confirm the latest visa, passport and any transit requirements directly with UK Visas and Immigration or an authorised visa application centre. Allow sufficient time for your application, as requirements and processing times can change.

Travel information disclaimer: Visa, passport, entry and transit requirements may change without notice. This information is a general guide and does not guarantee visa approval, boarding or entry. Always confirm the latest requirements with the relevant embassy, consulate or immigration authority for every country you will visit or transit through, and with your airline before departure. Travellers are responsible for obtaining the correct documents. To the extent permitted by law, Travelstart cannot be held responsible for inaccuracies, changes to requirements, visa refusals, denied boarding or entry, or resulting costs.

Vaccinations
No mandatory vaccines for entry.
Stay up to date on routine immunisations (MMR, DTP, flu).
Recommended: consider Hepatitis A if you plan off‑the‑beaten‑path trips.

Safety Tips
London is generally very safe, street crime is low but always stay alert.
Keep an eye on valuables in crowded areas like Tube stations and markets.
Emergency numbers: 999 for police/ambulance/fire.
Tap water is safe.
Public transport is efficient and well‑lit; late‑night Tube and night buses on key routes.

Find accommodation in London to suit your trip, from budget-friendly hotels and self-catering apartments to boutique stays and luxury hotels. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic getaway or a sightseeing break, compare London hotels by location, facilities and price to find your ideal stay.

Consider Covent Garden for theatre and shopping, South Bank for riverside attractions or Kensington for museums. Choose accommodation near an Underground station to make exploring easier, and check room sizes, breakfast options and cancellation terms before booking. Compare accommodation on Travelstart and book a London stay that fits your plans and budget.

Getting around London is easy to plan with the London Underground (Tube), buses, trains and walking routes connecting many popular attractions. Choose accommodation near a transport link and plan your journeys around the sights you want to visit.

The Tube is useful for travelling between neighbourhoods, while buses offer a chance to see more of the city along the way. Use an Oyster card or an accepted contactless card or device to pay as you go. Check current routes and service updates before travelling; overseas card fees may apply.

Walking is a good option for exploring nearby attractions in central London. For airport journeys, compare rail, coach, taxi and private transfer options based on your arrival airport, luggage and accommodation location. Allow extra time for traffic when travelling by road.

Planning to explore beyond London? Compare car rental options with Travelstart for your pick-up location and dates. Check insurance, deposits, mileage limits and driving-document requirements before booking. If your itinerary includes driving in London, factor in parking and check applicable road charges, including the Congestion Charge.

British Airways is a UK-based international airline formed in 1974, with a heritage dating back to 1919. A founding member of the oneworld alliance, it connects travellers to destinations across the UK, Europe and beyond.

For South African travellers, British Airways offers direct flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town to London Heathrow, with onward connections to cities such as Amsterdam, Edinburgh and New York.

Explore British Airways flights to London and Cape Town, or compare flights from Cape Town to Amsterdam via London. Whether you’re planning a holiday, visiting family or travelling for business, compare fares, baggage allowances and travel dates, and book your British Airways flight with Travelstart.

British Airways offers direct flights to London. Select your travel dates to see currently available direct flights, departure times and arrival airports.

Your arrival airport is usually London Heathrow Airport (LHR), which is approximately a 45 to 60-minute drive from central London.

Baggage allowances depend on the fare and cabin class selected. Compare the cabin baggage, checked baggage and optional extras included in each fare before booking.

Travellers must carry a valid passport and meet the United Kingdom’s entry requirements, which may include a visa or Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) depending on nationality. Check the current UK entry requirements and British Airways’ travel document guidelines before travelling, particularly for children.

Compare several departure dates where possible. Midweek and off-peak flights may sometimes cost less, but prices depend on demand and availability. Search your dates to view current fares.