Overview
Newark sits just across the water from Manhattan, which makes it one of the smartest gateways to New York and the wider tri-state area. New Jersey's largest city has plenty of character of its own too — a strong arts scene, leafy Victorian parks and the buzzing Ironbound dining district — and Newark Liberty International (EWR) is a major transatlantic hub with good choice from the UK. Searches for cheap flights to Newark rise sharply whenever the pound strengthens against the dollar.
Best time to fly to Newark
Spring (April to May) and early autumn (September to October) bring the most comfortable weather, with mild days and lighter crowds. Branch Brook Park's famous cherry blossom usually peaks in early to mid-April. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are cold with occasional snow. For the lowest fares, late January and February — outside the Christmas and New Year peak — are typically quietest; see the When to book chart above for this year's pattern.
Airlines and routes
United Airlines runs a major hub at Newark and flies direct from London Heathrow. British Airways also serves EWR non-stop from Heathrow. Direct flights from London take roughly 8 hours westbound and about 7 hours on the return, helped by tailwinds. From regional airports such as Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh or Glasgow you will usually connect — either through another UK or European airport, or via a US gateway — which adds a few hours to the journey.
Things to do in Newark
Newark rewards a day or two before you head into Manhattan.
- Newark Museum of Art: New Jersey's largest museum, strong on American and Tibetan collections, with its own planetarium.
- Branch Brook Park: home to one of the largest displays of cherry blossom trees in the United States, spectacular in spring.
- New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC): a leading venue for concerts, theatre and dance.
- Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart: a vast French Gothic cathedral, among the largest in North America.
- The Ironbound: a Portuguese and Brazilian neighbourhood packed with bakeries, grill houses and lively bars.
At Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
EWR lies about 16 miles (26 km) south-west of Midtown Manhattan and roughly 3 miles from downtown Newark. The AirTrain monorail links all terminals to Newark Liberty Airport rail station, where NJ Transit and Amtrak trains reach New York Penn Station in around 25 minutes. Taxis and ride-hailing services run into Manhattan in 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic, with fares payable in US dollars.
Top tips for finding cheap flights to Newark
- Book long-haul flights to Newark around two to five months ahead for the best balance of price and availability.
- Fly midweek — Tuesday and Wednesday departures are often cheaper than weekend ones.
- Avoid the summer holidays, Thanksgiving week and the festive period; late winter usually has the lowest fares.
- Compare United and British Airways, and check nearby New York JFK too, using the price charts on this page.
Travel essentials
Most UK passport holders do not need a visa but must hold an approved ESTA under the US Visa Waiver Programme for stays of up to 90 days; apply online well before you travel. Your passport should be valid for the length of your stay. The currency is the US dollar. No vaccinations are required, but travel insurance with solid medical cover is strongly advised given the cost of US healthcare.
