Book Cheap Flights to Beijing from UK

Cheap Flights to Beijing from the UK

Flights from London to Beijing take around 10 hours direct with Air China. The city is served by Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), located approximately 32km from the city centre.

Air China operates direct flights from London Heathrow. China Southern flies via Guangzhou with total journey times around 14-16 hours. Emirates flies via Dubai with total journey times around 15-17 hours.

Return fares range from £380-500 depending on season and how far ahead you book. June-August / Chinese New Year / October Golden Week pushes prices up 20-30%. November-February (excluding CNY) typically offers the best deals.

Beijing is the capital of China. Airport Express train (CNY 25, 30 mins to city), taxis (CNY 100-150), Didi ride-hailing available.

Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) – Facilities & Travel Guide

Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) is the primary gateway to Beijing, China. Located approximately 32km from the city centre, it handles both domestic and international flights. The airport connects Beijing to numerous global destinations and is well-equipped to handle passengers with a range of services and amenities.

Beijing Capital International Airport provides a variety of facilities to meet the needs of travellers. These include:

Terminals: T2 for Air China from London. T3 for most international flights.
Shopping and Dining: Duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafes offering local and international options.
Currency Exchange: Available throughout the airport.
Wi-Fi and Charging: Free Wi-Fi and charging stations are available in terminals.
Lounges: Business and VIP lounges for added comfort.

Beijing Capital International Airport is well-connected to the city centre by various transport options:

Taxis: Airport Express train (CNY 25, 30 mins to city), taxis (CNY 100-150), Didi ride-hailing available.
Private Transfers: Bookable for a direct and comfortable journey.

To ensure a smooth journey through Beijing Capital International Airport, here are a few additional travel tips:

Arrive Early: Arrive 2-3 hours before your flight.
Cash: Carry local currency (Chinese Yuan (CNY)) for minor purchases.
Security: Expect thorough security checks.
Flight Information: Keep an eye on the display boards for updates.

Flight Times to Beijing

The direct flight from the UK to Beijing with Air China takes about 10 hours.

If you're flying with a layover, here are the typical flight durations:

Via Guangzhou (China Southern): Around 14-16 hours total.
Via Dubai (Emirates): Around 15-17 hours total.
Via Doha (Qatar Airways): Around 14-16 hours total.
Via Amsterdam (KLM): Around 13-15 hours total.

It's recommended to have a minimum layover time of 2-3 hours.

Overnight layovers can sometimes be cheaper.
Dubai and Doha offer airport hotels for a comfortable rest.

Beijing operates on GMT+8 (8 hours ahead of London in winter, 7 hours in summer).

Airlines Flying to Beijing

Air China

China Southern Airlines

China Eastern Airlines

Emirates Airways

Qatar Airways

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

Beijing Flight Prices

Category	Period	Average Return Fares
Economy - Low Season	November-February (excluding CNY)	£380-500
Economy - Mid Season	March-May / September-October	£500-700
Economy - High Season	June-August / Chinese New Year / October Golden Week	£700-950+
Business - Low Season	November-February (excluding CNY)	£2,500-3,500
Business - High Season	June-August / Chinese New Year / October Golden Week	£3,500-5,000+

Booking Tips:

Book 6-8 weeks before travel to save up to 15-25%.
Avoid peak holiday periods: Prices surge by 30-50% during this time.
Fly midweek (Tue-Thu): Fares are often cheaper.
Consider one-stop flights: They can offer better value than direct flights.

Best Time to Book Beijing Flights

Price Patterns

Prices typically drop Tuesday/Wednesday for bookings

Last-minute deals rare for this route due to steady demand

Peak season (June-August / Chinese New Year / October Golden Week): Prices rise 20-40%

Sweet Spot

6-8 weeks before travel for best combination of availability and price.

Avoid Booking

Less than 2 weeks out (premium pricing)

During June-August / Chinese New Year / October Golden Week (prices spike)

School holiday periods if travelling with families

Things to do in Beijing

Forbidden City

Walk through the vast imperial palace complex that once ruled China for nearly 500 years.

Great Wall

Visit the Mutianyu section for dramatic views of one of the world’s greatest human-made structures.

Temple of Heaven

See where emperors once prayed for good harvests, surrounded by peaceful parkland.

Summer Palace

Explore lakes, pavilions, and gardens that served as the royal family’s summer retreat.

Hutong Life

Wander narrow alleyways to glimpse traditional courtyard living and old Beijing culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

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