East Midlands Airport is small and easy to navigate with children — the terminal is compact, distances are short, and it never feels overwhelming. The challenge for families is the onward journey, which is longer than at most UK airports.
The bus with children
The Skylink bus to Nottingham takes 50–60 minutes, and to Leicester, 75–90 minutes. That is a long ride with tired, restless children after a flight. The buses have luggage space and are comfortable enough, but managing suitcases, a pushchair, and children on a moving bus for nearly an hour is tiring.
Children under 5 ride free, and those 5–15 pay half fare (GBP 2.50). If your children are old enough to sit independently and you are traveling light, the bus is a reasonable option. With younger children or heavy luggage, it is not.
Car seats and taxis
EMA taxis do not carry child car seats. UK law exempts licensed taxis and private hire vehicles from child restraint requirements, but that does not make it safe — especially for a 30–60 minute journey on motorways.
Your options:
- Bring your own travel car seat — practical for short trips, less so with heavy luggage
- Book a private transfer with a car seat requested at booking — the driver installs it before arrival
Family transport comparison
| Option | Cost (family of 4, to Nottingham) | Journey time | Car seat | Luggage | |--------|----------------------------------|-------------|----------|--------| | Skylink bus | GBP 15.00 total | 50–60 min | N/A | Limited | | Taxi | GBP 35–50 | 30–45 min | Not available | Moderate | | Private sedan | GBP 45–60 | 30–45 min | On request | Good | | Private minivan | GBP 60–80 | 30–45 min | On request | Excellent |
Airport facilities for families
- Baby changing facilities in arrivals restrooms
- Free luggage trolleys at baggage reclaim
- The terminal is single-level after arrivals — no stairs or escalators to manage
- A small cafe and shop in arrivals for snacks and drinks
- The walk from arrivals to the bus stop or taxi rank is under 3 minutes
The recommendation
Given the longer distances from EMA, families with young children should seriously consider a private transfer — especially to Nottingham or Leicester. Spending an hour on a bus with a toddler and suitcases after a flight is avoidable for a modest cost. A minivan at GBP 60–80 to Nottingham, with car seats installed and luggage handled, is a much more comfortable start to your trip.