London Heathrow
Airport (LHR)
One of the world's busiest hubs — and one of the most rewarding places to have a long layover. Here's how to make every minute count.
What to Know Before You Land
Heathrow is a complex, sprawling airport — but knowing the basics makes it a breeze to navigate.
IATA Code & Location
LHR sits 14 miles west of central London, near Hounslow in West London.
Transit Rules
Airside transit is available for most nationalities. Check UK transit visa requirements before travel.
Minimum Connection
Allow 90 minutes for same-terminal connections; 2–3 hours for cross-terminal transfers.
Wi-Fi
Free unlimited Wi-Fi across all terminals — connect to "Heathrow Wi-Fi" and register once.
Currency
British Pound (GBP). ATMs and Travelex desks in every terminal; card payments widely accepted.
Long Layover?
Yotelair T4 offers cabin rooms by the hour — perfect for a rest without leaving the airport.
Navigating Heathrow's Five Terminals
Each terminal serves specific airlines. Confirm yours before your layover.
Terminal 2 — "The Queen's Terminal"
Home to Star Alliance carriers including United, Lufthansa, Air Canada, and Singapore Airlines. Features excellent dining and lounge options, including the United Polaris Lounge.
Terminal 3 — Oneworld & SkyTeam Mix
Serves American Airlines, Delta, Virgin Atlantic, and Emirates. Home to the British Airways First lounge and a vibrant mix of international carriers.
Terminal 4 — Oneworld & KLM
Hosts KLM, Malaysia Airlines, and some SkyTeam partners. Features the Yotelair sleep pod hotel and quieter, less crowded shopping.
Terminal 5 — British Airways HQ
Exclusively British Airways and Iberia. The most modern terminal with premium shopping, the legendary Concorde Room, and swift security lanes for BA Golds.
⚠️ Terminal 1 is permanently closed. T2 and T3 are connected by a short walk; T4 and T5 require the free Heathrow Express or shuttle bus.
Best Lounges at Heathrow
From ultra-exclusive clubs to accessible pay-per-entry options — Heathrow has some of the finest airport lounges on earth.
Concorde Room (T5)
British Airways' legendary invite-only sanctuary for First Class passengers. Private cabanas, butler service, and a full à la carte restaurant. The gold standard in airport lounges.
BA Galleries First (T5)
Available to BA Club World passengers and Oneworld Emerald members. Excellent food, spa treatments, and a calm atmosphere perfect for long layovers.
Plaza Premium (T2 & T3)
One of Heathrow's best accessible lounges. Hot food, cocktail bar, shower suites, and a comfortable setting. Bookable in advance online. Read our full review →
United Polaris Lounge (T2)
One of United's flagship international lounges. Outfitted with Saks Fifth Avenue bedding in rest areas, a full dining room, and curated cocktail selection.
Lufthansa Senator Lounge (T2)
Elegant and understated. Signature Bavarian snacks alongside international cuisine. Excellent for Lufthansa Group travelers on long connections.
Amex Centurion (T3)
American Express's stylish flagship lounge at Heathrow. Refined décor, chef-driven menu, signature cocktails, and a hushed atmosphere. Open to Centurion cardholders.
Can You Actually Visit London?
Yes — if your layover is 4+ hours and you hold the right travel documents. London is one of the most accessible layover cities in the world.
14 miles from LHR
Multiple fast transport options
Elizabeth Line (Tube)
The fastest, most affordable route. Direct from all terminals to Paddington, Bond Street, and Liverpool Street. Runs every few minutes.
Heathrow Express
Premium express train to Paddington. Fastest option with guaranteed seat and luggage space. Ideal if you're short on time.
National Express Coach
Budget-friendly bus service to Victoria Coach Station. Good if you have more time and want to save money.
Heathrow Layover Tips
- Pre-book your lounge: Plaza Premium and No1 Lounges offer lower rates when booked in advance online vs. walk-in.
- T5 has the best retail: Terminal 5 hosts flagship stores for Harrods, Fortnum & Mason, and Mulberry — ideal for UK souvenirs without leaving the airport.
- Long layover in T4? Yotelair lets you rent a "cabin" by the hour for a proper sleep — worth it on overnight layovers.
- Allow extra time for T4/T5: These terminals require taking the free shuttle or Heathrow Express (free airside) — add 30–40 minutes for cross-terminal transfers.
- Visit London with 4+ hours: Clear customs, hop the Elizabeth Line, spend 90 minutes in the city, and return well ahead of boarding.
- Power up in T2: The Samsung Lounge offers free device charging and a relaxed seating area — open to all passengers.
Eat, Drink & Shop at Heathrow
From Michelin-pedigreed chefs to beloved British brands — Heathrow's retail and dining scene rivals many city centres.
Gordon Ramsay Plane Food
The celebrity chef's airport restaurant in T5. Modern British cuisine with a relaxed bistro feel.
Fortnum & Mason
Iconic British tea house with exclusive airport editions of their world-famous teas and hampers.
Harrods of London
The legendary department store has a T5 boutique stocked with signature bear plushies, confections, and gifts.
The Gorgeous Kitchen (T2)
Vibrant cafe and bar run by four female chefs — superb for brunch, cocktails, and people-watching.
Make Your Layover an Experience
Explore our full guides to other world-class airports or discover which VIP lounges you can access on your next trip.