Before you book
- Check your passport is valid for your whole stay, and read the current rules on the official US government travel pages.
- Most UK visitors travelling for tourism under the visa waiver programme need an approved ESTA before flying. Apply only on the official US government website and check the current fee there. Unofficial sites charge extra.
- Take out travel insurance that covers medical care, which can be very expensive in the United States.
Flights
- Direct flights from London to New York take roughly seven to eight hours outbound and a little less coming back.
- Flights usually arrive at JFK or Newark. Both are well connected to Manhattan.
- New York is usually five hours behind the UK, so a morning flight often lands in the afternoon local time. Plan a gentle first evening to cope with jet lag.
From the airport to Midtown
- JFK: take the AirTrain to Jamaica or Howard Beach for the subway or the Long Island Rail Road to Manhattan, or use an official taxi rank or a pre-booked car.
- Newark: take the AirTrain to Newark Airport station, then NJ Transit to New York Penn Station, a short walk from Times Square.
- Use official taxi ranks. Avoid anyone who approaches you offering a ride.
Getting around
- Midtown is very walkable. The Theater District is around Times Square, roughly West 41st to 54th Streets.
- The subway runs all night. Contactless payment is accepted at turnstiles on the subway.
- Allow extra time for crowds in and around Times Square before curtain.
Money and tipping
- Prices shown in shops and on menus usually exclude sales tax, and tipping is expected in restaurants, commonly around 18 to 20 per cent.
- Tell your bank you are travelling and check foreign transaction fees on your card.
Phones, plugs and power
- US sockets are different from UK ones, so bring an adapter. Check your chargers support 120 volts.
- Check roaming charges, or use wifi calling.
Booking your shows
- Book your Broadway tickets before you travel for popular shows. Use the official seller or a trusted reseller, and compare.
- Curtain times are usually 7pm or 8pm, with matinees at 2pm. Aim to arrive 30 to 45 minutes early.
- Day-of rush and lottery schemes can save money if you are flexible.
A simple first-time plan
- Day 1: arrive, check in, walk through Times Square and have an early dinner on Restaurant Row.
- Day 2: a matinee, a walk in Central Park, an evening show.
- Day 3: a morning museum, a pre-theatre dinner and a final show before heading home.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the flight from London to New York?
Direct flights take roughly seven to eight hours outbound.
Do I need a visa to see Broadway from the UK?
Most UK visitors on a short tourist trip need an approved ESTA before flying. Apply on the official US government website and check the current rules before you travel.
How far is Times Square from the airports?
JFK and Newark are both around an hour or so from Midtown by public transport or car, depending on traffic.
Travel rules, fees and timings change. Check official sources and your airline before you travel.
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