London Heathrow Airport
London, United Kingdom · Since 1946
Last updated:
About LHR
London Heathrow Airport (LHR) is the busiest airport in the United Kingdom and one of the busiest in Europe. Located 23 km west of central London, it serves as the main hub for British Airways and a base for Virgin Atlantic. The airport has four operational terminals: T2 (The Queen's Terminal), T3, T4, and T5. Terminal 5 is the flagship British Airways terminal and one of the most modern in Europe. Heathrow handles over 80 million passengers annually and connects to more than 200 destinations worldwide.
Why "LHR"?
LHR stands for London Heathrow. The area was historically the hamlet of Heathrow in the parish of Harmondsworth.
Hub For
Airlines Operating
British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Lufthansa, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Air Canada, Qantas, Thai Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Air India, Turkish Airlines, Iberia, Aer Lingus, SAS Scandinavian, Swiss, Austrian Airlines, KLM, Air France, Finnair, LOT Polish, Ethiopian Airlines, South African Airways, Royal Jordanian, El Al, Kuwait Airways, Oman Air, Gulf Air
Terminals
Terminal 2 (The Queen's Terminal)
Opened in 2014, this modern terminal is the home of Star Alliance carriers. Features an award-winning design with natural light, extensive shopping and dining, and efficient transfer facilities.
Terminal 3
Serves a mix of oneworld and other international airlines. Currently undergoing improvement works. Connected to Terminal 2 via an underground walkway.
Terminal 4
Located south of the runway, connected by Heathrow Express shuttle. Serves a mix of international carriers, including several Gulf airlines.
Terminal 5
British Airways flagship terminal and the newest at Heathrow, opened in 2008. Three buildings (5A, 5B, 5C) connected by an automated people mover. Spacious, modern, and well-organized.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at LHR
British Airways
Terminal 5 Hub
Virgin Atlantic
Terminal 3 Hub
Aegean Airlines
Aer Lingus
Aeromexico
Air Algerie
Air Astana
Air Canada
Showing 8 of 82 airlines. View all airlines →
Getting There & Away
Heathrow Express train to Paddington Station in 15 minutes (£25). Elizabeth line (Crossrail) to central London in 30-40 minutes (£12.80). Piccadilly line Tube in 50-60 minutes (£5.50). National Express coaches to various UK cities. Taxis and Uber available from all terminals.
Taxi
£50-90 ($65-115)
45-60 minutes to city center
Public Transport
£5.50-6.70 ($7-9)
50-60 minutes by Tube to city center
Popular Destinations
Parking at LHR
Short stay from £5.50/hr, long stay from £35/day. Pre-booking online saves 50%+....
Short Stay Parking
Long Stay Parking
Business Parking
Valet Parking
Airport Lounges
British Airways Galleries First Lounge
Terminal 5
The crown jewel of BA lounges at their home terminal. Features a la carte dining by renowned chefs, Elemis spa treatments, private cabanas, fine wines and champagne, and luxurious shower suites.
Cathay Pacific First Class Lounge
Terminal 3
Elegant lounge featuring noodle bar with made-to-order dishes, champagne bar, relaxation area with daybeds, and premium shower suites.
United Polaris Lounge
Terminal 2 (The Queen's Terminal)
Premium lounge with United signature Polaris dining, craft cocktails, daybeds, and shower suites. One of the best Star Alliance lounges at Heathrow.
Emirates Lounge
Terminal 3
Dedicated Emirates lounge with Middle Eastern and international cuisine, Moët champagne, Voss water bar, and Timeless Spa.
Qatar Airways Premium Lounge
Terminal 4
Stylish lounge with Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine, premium beverages, spa facilities, and family area. One of the best lounges in Terminal 4.
Lufthansa Business Lounge
Terminal 2 (The Queen's Terminal)
German-efficient lounge in Terminal 2 with excellent hot food selection including Lufthansa signature currywurst, good wine list, and shower suites.
British Airways Galleries Club Lounge
Terminal 5
Large lounge for Club World passengers. Buffet dining, wide drinks selection, work areas, and shower facilities. Can get crowded during peak hours.
Plaza Premium Lounge
Terminal 2 (The Queen's Terminal)
Accessible independent lounge with hot food, bar service, shower rooms, and comfortable seating. Walk-in available at the door.
Where to Stay
Connected Hotels
Hilton London Heathrow Airport T4
Connected to Terminal 4 via a covered walkway
Full-service Hilton directly connected to Terminal 4. Features a swimming pool, fitness center, restaurant, and bar. Excellent for early morning departures from T4.
Hilton Garden Inn London Heathrow T2
Connected to Terminal 2 via a short covered walkway through the car park
Modern hotel adjacent to Terminal 2 and 3. Bright rooms, on-site restaurant, and easy access to Heathrow Express. Popular with transit passengers.
Sofitel London Heathrow
Directly connected to Terminal 5 via a covered walkway
Luxury hotel with direct access to Terminal 5. Features La Belle Epoque French brasserie, fitness center, and well-appointed rooms with runway views. The most convenient option for T5 passengers.
Nearby Hotels
Premier Inn Heathrow Airport T5
Near Terminal 5, shuttle bus available
Reliable budget option near Terminal 5. Clean rooms, Thyme restaurant for breakfast and dinner. One of the most affordable options near the airport.
Holiday Inn London Heathrow - Bath Road
118 Bath Road, Hayes. Hotel Hoppa bus to all terminals.
Well-appointed hotel on Bath Road hotel strip. On-site restaurant, bar, fitness center. Hotel Hoppa bus (5 GBP) connects to all terminals every 15-20 minutes.
Capsule Hotels
YOTELAIR London Heathrow
Airside in Terminal 4, past security
Japanese-inspired premium cabins (Yotel pods) available airside in Terminal 4. Perfect for layovers - book by the hour or overnight. Includes monsoon shower, smart TV, and adjustable bed.
Food & Dining
Caffe Nero
Italian Cafe
Terminal 2 (The Queen's Terminal) (Landside)
Reliable Italian-style coffee chain with excellent espresso, pastries, panini, and cakes. Multiple locations throughout the terminal.
4:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Comptoir Libanais
Lebanese/Middle Eastern
Terminal 2 (The Queen's Terminal) (Airside)
Colorful Lebanese street food restaurant with wraps, mezze platters, falafel, and fresh juices. Good halal-friendly option with generous portions.
5:30 AM - 9:30 PM
The Perfectionists Cafe by Heston Blumenthal
British/Modern
Terminal 2 (The Queen's Terminal) (Airside)
Heston Blumenthal concept cafe serving inventive takes on British classics. Known for the meat fruit appetizer and excellent burgers.
5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Wagamama
Japanese/Asian
Terminal 3 (Airside)
Popular UK-based chain serving Japanese-inspired ramen, katsu curry, gyoza, and rice bowls. Quick service and reliably good food.
5:00 AM - 10:00 PM
The Grain Store
Vegetarian/Modern British
Terminal 3 (Airside)
Bruno Loubet vegetable-forward restaurant where vegetables take center stage. Creative seasonal dishes with excellent cocktails.
6:00 AM - 9:30 PM
Heston Blumenthal - The Crown Rivers
British Fine Dining
Terminal 3 (Airside)
Heston signature restaurant in Terminal 3 offering a refined dining experience. Historical British recipes reimagined with modern techniques.
5:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Car Rental
Hertz
Car Rental Village, accessible via shuttle from all terminals
Avis
Car Rental Village, accessible via shuttle from all terminals
Europcar
Car Rental Village, accessible via shuttle from all terminals
Enterprise
Car Rental Village, accessible via shuttle from all terminals
Sixt
Car Rental Village, accessible via shuttle from all terminals
National
Car Rental Village, accessible via shuttle from all terminals
What to Do During a Layover
Inside the Airport
Heathrow Airport Spa Treatments
Several spas available airside including Be Relax in T2 and T5, offering massages, facials, and relaxation treatments. No need to leave the secure area.
Terminal 5 Shopping Experience
Terminal 5 has one of the best airport shopping selections in Europe. World Duty Free, Harrods, Tiffany & Co., Burberry, and many more luxury brands.
Heathrow Boutique Hotel Day Room
Book a YOTELAIR cabin in Terminal 4 for a few hours of rest. Smart cabin with premium mattress, monsoon shower, and entertainment system. Bookable by the hour.
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
Aviation Enthusiast Spotting
Head to Myrtle Avenue or the Renaissance Hotel car park for world-class plane spotting. Heathrow is one of the busiest airports in the world with flights from nearly every major airline.
Visit Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is just 20 minutes by taxi from Heathrow. The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, home to British monarchs for over 1,000 years. See the State Apartments and St Georges Chapel.
Kew Gardens
The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew are a short trip from Heathrow via the Piccadilly line to Kew Gardens station. UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning glasshouses and 300 acres of gardens.
British Museum Quick Visit
Free admission to one of the world greatest museums. Take the Piccadilly line to Holborn or Russell Square. See the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and Parthenon sculptures in a focused 2-hour visit.
Explore Central London
Take the Heathrow Express to Paddington (15 min) and explore London. Visit Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the Tower of London, or take a walk along the South Bank. Allow 6+ hours total.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (Unlimited)
- Speed Rating: ●●●●○
- Power Outlets: Type G (UK), USB at some gates
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: £10-15 per item for up to 24 hours
- Showers: £15-25 (free in lounges)
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
Money & Currency
- Currency: GBP (British Pound Sterling)
- Exchange: Travelex, Moneycorp, and ICE counters in all terminals.
- Hours: 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM in most terminals, some 24-hour ATMs
- Tipping: Tipping 10-15% at restaurants is standard. Not expected for counter service. Taxi drivers usually get 10% rounded up.
Avoid airport exchange counters — rates are poor. Use ATMs with a no-fee debit card for best rates, or exchange in central London.
Smoking Areas
No smoking areas inside terminals. Smoking allowed outside terminal buildings only before security.
Lost & Found
- Phone: +44-844-824-3115
Report lost items online at heathrow.com or via the Heathrow app. Items held for 3 months.
Entry Requirements
Visa Information
Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, and EU countries can enter visa-free for up to 6 months. Others may need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
Valid passport required. UK has left the EU, so EU citizens now need a passport (not just ID card). ETA rolling out for visa-free nationals.
When to Fly
Best time: May to September for warm weather. Shoulder seasons (April, October) for cheaper fares.
Peak seasons: July-August (summer holidays), December (Christmas), Easter week
Insider Tips
The Heathrow Express is fastest but expensive — Elizabeth line is nearly as fast and much cheaper. Book parking online in advance to save over 50%. Terminal transfers can take 20+ minutes, so allow plenty of time. T5 has the best dining and shopping options. Contactless payment works on all London transport — no need to buy an Oyster card.
Facilities & Contact
Airport Facilities
Free unlimited Wi-Fi. Prayer rooms and multi-faith chapels in all terminals. Children's play areas. Pharmacies and medical centers. Left luggage facilities by Excess Baggage Company. Shower facilities in several lounges. Extensive retail and dining in all terminals.
Traveler Reviews
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Travel Articles About LHR
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