London Heathrow Airport

Heathrow’s terminals each function as separate passenger buildings with their own check‑in, security and arrivals facilities. Terminals 2 and 3 are relatively close to each other, while Terminals 4 and 5 lie on other parts of the site; common passenger services (lounges, shops and eateries) are available in every terminal. Airlines are grouped by terminal but assignments can change, so check your ticket or the airport website before travel.

Heathrow is linked to central London by rail, underground, coach, taxis and private transfers; travel time to central London ranges from about 15 minutes by non-stop train to 60+ minutes by road depending on traffic.

• Rail/Elizabeth Line & Heathrow Express: Heathrow Express runs non‑stop to London Paddington in about 15-20 minutes (faster, higher fare). The Elizabeth line provides a cheaper rail option to central London in roughly 30 minutes and accepts Oyster/contactless payments.
• Underground (Piccadilly Line): Direct tube service to central London; journey time is typically 45-60 minutes and fares are lower than express options.
• Buses/Coaches: National and local coach services run to various London terminals and other towns; journey times vary by service and traffic.
• Taxis/Ride‑share: Metered taxis and ride‑share services operate to central London; road times are highly variable (often 45-90 minutes), and fares depend on distance, time of day and congestion charges.
• Driving: The airport is about 15-25 miles from central London; journey times depend on traffic and route chosen.

Heathrow offers extensive passenger facilities across all terminals: many airline and pay‑in lounges (including large carrier lounges), a wide range of shops and food outlets both landside and airside, and dedicated business services. Free Wi‑Fi is available with sign‑in and commonly with a time limit. Charging points are widespread in gate areas. Luggage storage and left‑luggage services are available at some terminals, and full accessibility services are provided on request.

• Sofitel London Heathrow - close to Terminal 5 and linked by a short walkway/shuttle; see accor.com
• Hilton London Heathrow Airport - near Terminal 4 with shuttle connections; see hilton.com

For short overnight stays or very early departures look for hotels with direct airport shuttle or covered walkways to minimise transfer time.