If you ever feel lost at Heathrow airport, you’re not alone! As the Europe’s biggest and busiest airport with over 80 million international passengers per year, it’s easy to see why so many travellers have stressful experiences.
So, what is the key to finding your way around Heathrow? And what can you do to kill time at each of the Heathrow terminals on your departure day?
Our ultimate guide to the Heathrow terminals will help you plan an efficient, hassle-free journey.
Heathrow Terminals by Airline
Although Terminal 1 closed in 2015, there are still four hectic Heathrow terminals to navigate. The first thing you need to know before you go, is which of these terminals your flight is departing from. Have a look at the Heathrow terminals by airline guide below to start planning your trip. As several airlines operate across more than one terminal, make sure you’ve always got your flight number handy, so you know which of the Heathrow terminals you need!
Airlines Flying from Heathrow Airport Terminals
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Heathrow Airport Lounges
Why not start your holiday early and treat yourself to one of the Heathrow airport lounges?
Waiting for a flight can be tiring, tedious and lets’ face it – boring! By booking into one of the relaxing Heathrow airport lounges, you can escape the crowds and find a quiet space to have some down time or get on with your work in peace.
If space, tranquillity and comfort isn’t enough to sway you, you’ll also benefit from complimentary drinks – including alcoholic beverages – snacks, WiFi, newspapers and magazines.
Heathrow terminals 2,3,4 and 5 have a variety of desirable facilities to give you that extra bit of luxury for your journey. From relaxation rooms, showers, a la carte dining, runway views, wellness centres and even en-suite bedrooms, you’ll be spoilt for choice!
Take a look at how you can benefit from the Heathrow airport lounges.
Shops at Heathrow Airport
With over 70 stores, Heathrow could easily
be mistaken for a shopping mall. So, if you’d like to splash some cash before
jetting off on holiday or you’ve got some time to kill before catching your next
flight, you can factor in some extra airport time to scope them all out.
You can find everything from high-end designer
outlets like Gucci and Chanel, to WHSmith, Dixons and Boots for those
last-minute panic buys – and there’s even a Harry Potter store!
The majority of stores have locations in each of the Heathrow terminals, so whatever you’re in the market for, the vast collection of shops at Heathrow Airport are guaranteed to help you out. Find a full list of them here.
Shops at Heathrow Airport
With over 70 stores, Heathrow could easily be mistaken for a shopping mall. So, if you’d like to splash some cash before jetting off on holiday or you’ve got some time to kill before catching your next flight, you can factor in some extra airport time to scope them all out.
You can find everything from high-end designer outlets like Gucci and Chanel, to WHSmith, Dixons and Boots for those last-minute panic buys – and there’s even a Harry Potter store!
The majority of stores have locations in each of the Heathrow terminals, so whatever you’re in the market for, the vast collection of shops at Heathrow Airport are guaranteed to help you out. Find a full list of them here.
Where to eat at Heathrow Terminals
Finding somewhere to grab a bite to eat at an airport can often feel like mission impossible. More often than not, there’s only one or two eateries to choose from that have never-ending queues – and they’re almost always too busy to find a seat.
But if you’re looking where to eat at Heathrow, you’ll be overwhelmed with choice. Fancy a quick coffee? Try Ca’ppuccino, Café Nero, Starbucks, Costa or Pret. Feel like taking on a full English breakfast before flying? You’ve got Weatherspoons, a selection of classic British pubs and gourmet breakfast joint, Huxleys. For lunch and dinner, there’s an even wider variety including Carluccio’s, Wagamama, Heston’s Café and a Gordon Ramsay ‘plane food’ spot.
There’s also no need to stock up on pre-plane snacks if you’re vegan, vegetarian or require a gluten-free menu – the Heathrow terminals have catered for all preferences, dietary needs and taste buds.
Find out more about the all the restaurants at Heathrow and which ones are located at the terminal you’re flying from below.
Where to eat at Heathrow terminal 2
Where to eat at Heathrow terminal 3
Where to eat at Heathrow terminal 4
Where to eat at Heathrow terminal 5
Transport between Heathrow Terminals
Perhaps the most frustrating part of travelling from the UK’s busiest airport is figuring out how to get yourself to each of the Heathrow terminals, and working out how to get home again when you land.
Although it’s nestled on the outskirts of London, driving to Heathrow airport doesn’t have to be complicated. If you map out your route and allow for traffic changes, it’s still the most convenient and comfortable way to travel for most people. You don’t need to worry about unreliable trains or buses, you’ve got all your luggage stowed away in the boot and you can ferry the whole family to the airport in one car.
But what are the directions to your terminal?
For Terminals 2 and 3, exit the M4 (junction 4) or M25 (junction 15) and follow signs for Heathrow Terminals 2 and 3.
Post code for Terminal 2: TW6 1EW
Post code for Terminal 3: TW6 1QG
Terminal 4 has a separate entrance. To find it, exit the M25 at junction 14 and follow signs for Heathrow Terminal 4. If you’re coming from the M4, leave at junction 4b and follow the M25 south to junction 14.
Postcode Terminal 4: TW6 3XA
Terminal 5 is on the Western Perimeter Road and has its own separate access and entrance. If you’re coming from the M4, exit at junction 4b and follow the M25 south to junction 14.
Postcode for Terminal 5: TW6 2GA
We understand that driving comes with the added responsibility of parking, which is why we’ve made it our mission to ensure your parking needs are met in the most hassle-free way possible.
With APH, you can rest assured that your car is safe, secure and ready waiting for you when you come back. Find out more about our award-winning Heathrow parking options.
How do I get to Heathrow by train?
For a super-quick link to Heathrow, you can jump on the Heathrow Express or the TfL Rail (Transport for London train).
The Heathrow Express is a non-stop service, offering a speedy 15 minute journey from London Paddington straight to each of the Heathrow terminals.
The Transport for London train departs every 30 minutes from London Paddington and takes an average of 45 minutes.
Buy your tickets online, with your Oyster card or at any ticket machine.
If you’re looking for transport between Heathrow terminals, there are free shuttles at the airport, or you can use the underground service.
Finding a bus to Heathrow is easy, with a number of operators including National Express and Megabus running services to and from Heathrow to more than 500 destinations around the UK.
If you’re staying overnight in a Heathrow airport hotel, you can catch the Hotel Hoppa bus – the most convenient way to travel between your hotel and the Heathrow Terminals.
The Hoppa bus operates from 4am to midnight and tickets can be purchased directly from the driver, a single costs £5 and return is £9.
You could also grab a taxi or jump on the underground. With tube stations at each of the Heathrow terminals and the Piccadilly line operating overnight, it’s an easy – and cheap – option to make your way into the city.
Need to hire a car from Heathrow airport, or at the other end? Get a quote online here.
At APH, we’re passionate about making travel easy. If you’re looking for stress-free Heathrow parking or a homely hotel to rest your head before a flight, we can help. Find out more about Heathrow airport and a useful map of Heathrow here.