London Heathrow Airport (LHR)

London Heathrow Airport offers travellers plenty of parking options, with 11 different official car parks within the airport perimeter! From short-term Terminal Parking just a few minutes from the terminals to more affordable, longer-term Park & Ride options – no matter which parking option you choose, you’ll enjoy easy access to the airport’s terminals, either within walking distance or via free shuttle buses. 

Renting a car is an excellent option if you plan to do a bit of exploring during your visit, whether you’re planning to self-drive around the capital or road trip all the way up to Scotland. All the major car rental companies, including AVIS, Budget, Europcar and Hertz, can be found in the Arrivals area of London Heathrow Airport. Talk to your Travel Expert about organising car hire for your trip or book it yourself online before you leave. 

Ah, the Tube. Mind the gap as you hop aboard the Piccadilly Line and ride the iconic London Underground into the city centre in just under an hour. This is one of the most affordable and budget-friendly transport options and you can pay for your journey on the Underground using contactless payment methods (no need for an Oyster card anymore!).

Although not technically considered part of London’s Underground network, the Elizabeth Line offers another convenient and affordable option for those heading from Heathrow into central London. 

If you’re connecting between flights at Heathrow Airport, there are plenty of transfer options and many of them won’t cost you a cent! The London Underground, Heathrow Express and Elizabeth Line run various free services between the terminals.  

Want that iconic London experience from the moment you touch down in the UK? Hail yourself a classic black taxi from outside the terminal! Drivers are fully licensed and have passed the famously difficult Knowledge of London exam, so you know you’ll be in good hands. Although a pricier option than jumping on the Heathrow Express or the Piccadilly Line, riding in a black taxi around the streets of London is an attraction in and of itself.  

The Heathrow Express train provides the fastest transport option from the airport to central London, with the trip from Terminal 2 or 3 into London Paddington station taking just 15 minutes. From London Paddington, you can easily connect to other destinations across the city via the greater Underground and TfL network.  

If your journey to or from Heathrow Airport is beginning or ending anywhere other than London, National Express is likely to be one of your easiest options. National Express (as well as other coach operators) run services from London Heathrow Airport to hundreds of destinations all over the UK.  

As one of the biggest international airports in the world, lots of airlines fly into and out of London Heathrow Airport, including British Airways, Air Canada, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Virgin Atlantic and more. For a more complete list of airlines servicing London Heathrow Airport, see above.  

As a general rule, you should aim to arrive at Heathrow Airport two hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic or short-haul flights to Europe and at least three hours before long-haul international flights. This should give you plenty of time to complete check-in, drop your bags and pass through any necessary security screenings before your boarding time. Keep in mind that you may experience longer lines and delays during busy travel periods, so check with the airport, airline or your Travel Expert directly for more information on recommended arrival times. 

There are plenty of transport options available from Heathrow Airport to central London, including the iconic black taxis, rental cars, the Heathrow Express service and the London Underground (specifically, the Piccadilly Line). 

Yes, there are lots of different airport lounges at Heathrow Airport, including the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge, Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounge, Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse Lounge, Qantas London International Lounge and multiple British Airways Lounges. Access to airport lounges may be possible depending on your ticket class, frequent flyer membership, credit card benefits or by purchasing a day pass. Check with the airline directly or talk to your Travel Expert for more information on how to access the airport lounges at London Heathrow Airport. 

Yes, there are a number of airport hotels to choose from at London Heathrow, including the Sofitel London Heathrow (located near Terminal 5) and the Crowne Plaza (accessible from Terminal 4). If you’re looking for showers or a quiet space to relax while you wait for your flight, check the opening times, facilities and whether you’re able to access any of the airline lounges at London Heathrow Airport. 

You may be able to earn loyalty points or rewards on eligible flights to or from London booked with us. When booking online, you’ll see a place to add your loyalty program or frequent flyer membership details if this is available, or you can ask your Travel Expert for help when booking in-store. If the booking meets your program’s requirements, you’ll earn points! For more information, check with your specific loyalty program and see our Booking Terms and Conditions. 

Keen for even more travel perks? Subscribe to our email list for birthday surprises, competition entries, exclusive deals and VIP pre-sale access to the hottest holiday savings around. 

Check-in times and baggage rules for flights departing from London Heathrow Airport will vary depending on your ticket, so make sure you confirm with your airline in advance. Remember, it’s often possible to check in online or via your airline’s app, which can help save time at the airport. For more information or help finding your check-in times and baggage limits, talk to your Travel Expert.  

There are four terminals at London Heathrow Airport: Terminal 2, 3, 4 and 5. Your departure terminal will be listed with your flight information, but don’t fret if you do find yourself in the wrong terminal! The London Underground, Heathrow Express and Elizabeth Line run various free services between the terminals. 

Yes, Heathrow Airport offers travellers plenty of parking options, with 11 different official car parks within the airport perimeter! From short-term Terminal Parking just a few minutes from the terminals to more affordable, longer-term Park & Ride options – no matter which parking option you choose, you’ll enjoy easy access to the airport’s terminals, either within walking distance or via free shuttle buses. Check with the airport directly for more information on booking airport parking and the current rates. 

Travelling with the little ones? You'll find dedicated baby changing facilities throughout Heathrow Airport, as well as family-friendly restaurants and Mr Adventure Stay & Play areas. Kids can also travel for free on the Heathrow Express.  

Keen to do a little retail therapy at Heathrow Airport? You’re in luck! There are plenty of stores available for you to browse before your flight, including well-known brands like Fortnum & Mason, Gucci, Hamleys and Harrods, as well as duty-free shops and dining options. Check London Heathrow Airport’s terminal map or website for an up-to-date list of stores and their opening information. 

While last-minute sale fares to and from London Heathrow may become available, you’ll generally find it pays to plan ahead, especially if you're booking international flights. As a rough guide, we recommend booking domestic flights three to six months in advance and international flights six to nine months before you plan to fly. When it comes to balancing flexible travel dates with the biggest savings, this should give you the best of both worlds!