Overview
Los Angeles, the sprawling heart of Southern California, blends Hollywood glamour, Pacific beaches, world-class museums and year-round sunshine — a bucket-list favourite for UK travellers. The city is served by the huge Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), one of the busiest gateways to the American West. Comparing every fare in one place makes finding the right flight from the UK to LA quick and simple.
Best time to fly to Los Angeles
LA enjoys a mild, sunny climate almost all year. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer warm days, thinner crowds and the best value, while summer is peak season with higher demand. Fares typically ease outside the summer holidays and the Christmas period, so travelling in the shoulder months stretches your budget — check the price charts on this page for your dates.
Airlines and routes
British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and American Airlines fly direct from London Heathrow to Los Angeles in around 11 hours. Norse Atlantic offers direct service from London Gatwick, and connecting options via US and European hubs can be better value. Manchester also has seasonal direct or one-stop links. Comparing carriers for your exact dates is the surest way to secure the lowest fare.
Things to do in Los Angeles
LA packs in icons, beaches and culture across its many neighbourhoods:
- Hollywood Walk of Fame & Griffith Observatory: star-studded pavements and sweeping views over the city and the Hollywood Sign.
- Santa Monica Pier & Venice Beach: classic seaside fun, boardwalk energy and Pacific sunsets.
- The Getty Center: a free hilltop museum with masterpieces and stunning architecture.
- Universal Studios Hollywood: a full day of rides, film sets and behind-the-scenes tours.
- Downtown & the Arts District: galleries, rooftop bars and the striking Walt Disney Concert Hall.
At Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
LAX sits about 29 km southwest of Downtown LA, with extensive duty-free shopping, currency exchange, ATMs and dining. Ride-hailing, taxis and shuttle vans serve the terminals, and the new Automated People Mover connects to the Metro and the LAX-it pick-up zone. Hiring a car is popular, as LA is a driving city.
Top tips for finding cheap flights to Los Angeles
- Book roughly 2–4 months ahead for the best value — transatlantic fares climb close to departure.
- Avoid the summer and Christmas peaks; spring and autumn bring noticeably lower prices.
- Be flexible with your dates — midweek departures are often cheaper than weekends.
- Compare direct and one-stop options, and check both Heathrow and Gatwick departures.
Travel essentials
- UK travellers need an approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before flying — apply online in advance.
- A valid e-passport is required; no vaccinations are needed for entry.
- The local currency is the US dollar (USD).