United Kingdom
London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
London Heathrow Airport (LHR) is the United Kingdom’s busiest international airport and one of the world’s major aviation hubs. This complete Heathrow Airport guide provides essential information about flights, terminals, transport options, parking, hotels, facilities, and passenger services to help travelers plan their journey with confidence.
Quick Nvigation
Quickly find everything you need to know about London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
Emergency Contacts
Important emergency and assistance contacts at London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
Airport Helpline
For general airport information, passenger assistance, flight information, and airport services.
0344 335 1801
Medical Emergency
For urgent medical assistance and emergencies at the airport
for serious emergencies.
999
Police / Security
For police assistance and urgent security concerns.
999
Airlines at London Heathrow Aiport
London Heathrow Airport connects passengers with destinations across the UK, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, North America, and other parts of the world through a wide range of international airlines.
Terminals & Airport Map
Explore London Heathrow Airport terminals and find your way around the airport with useful terminal information and an easy-to-understand airport map.
Terminal 2 — The Queen's Terminal
London Heathrow Terminal 2, also known as The Queen's Terminal, serves a wide range of international airlines. It offers modern check-in areas, security facilities, shops, restaurants, lounges, and passenger services.
Best for: International flights and connecting passengers.
Terminal 3
Heathrow Terminal 3 handles many international and long-haul flights. Passengers can find airline check-in facilities, restaurants, shops, lounges, and other services throughout the terminal.
Best for: International and long-haul travel.
Terminal 4
London Heathrow Terminal 4 serves several international airlines and offers convenient passenger facilities, dining, shopping, lounges, and transport connections.
Best for: International flights and selected long-haul routes.
Terminal 5 — British Airways Hub
Heathrow Terminal 5 is primarily associated with British Airways and is one of the airport's main passenger terminals. It provides spacious check-in areas, lounges, shops, restaurants, and modern passenger facilities.
Best for: British Airways and selected partner airline services.
Heathrow Airport Map
Use the Heathrow Airport map to locate passenger terminals, roads, transport connections, parking areas, and other important facilities before arriving at the airport.
Passport Control & Immigration at Heathrow
After landing at London Heathrow Airport (LHR), international passengers normally pass through UK border control before continuing to baggage reclaim. Keep your passport and required travel documents ready and follow the signs for UK Border / Passport Control.
Passport Control at Heathrow
1. Follow the Signs
After leaving the aircraft, follow the airport signs for UK Border / Passport Control and proceed to the appropriate area.
2. Prepare Your Passport
Keep your passport and any required travel documents ready. Heathrow advises passengers to remove the passport from its cover and open it at the photo page before reaching passport control.
3. Choose the Correct Lane
Follow the signs and join the lane appropriate for your nationality and circumstances.
4. Use an ePassport Gate if Eligible
Eligible passengers with biometric passports may be able to use an ePassport gate (eGate) instead of seeing a Border Force officer. Eligibility depends on your passport, immigration status, nationality, age and other requirements.
5. Passport Check
If you are directed to a Border Force officer, present your passport and any documents requested. You may be asked questions about your visit, such as why you are coming to the UK.
6. Continue to Arrivals
Once border control is complete, follow the signs towards Baggage Reclaim and the arrivals area.
Immigration Process at Heathrow
1. Have Your Entry Documents Ready
Depending on your nationality and reason for travel, you may need a valid passport, visa, ETA or digital immigration status before travelling to the UK.
2. Complete Border Checks
Your passport and immigration permission may be checked at the border. If you are required to see an officer, answer questions clearly and honestly.
3. Biometric / eVisa Checks
If applicable, your identity may be checked using an ePassport gate or against your digital immigration record. eVisa holders should travel with the passport linked to their UKVI account.
4. Answer Questions About Your Visit
A Border Force officer may ask about the purpose and length of your stay and other details relevant to your entry into the UK.
5. Entry Decision
The Border Force officer determines whether you can enter the UK. If you are allowed to enter, continue towards baggage reclaim and customs.
6. Collect Your Baggage
After completing immigration, follow the signs to the appropriate Baggage Reclaim area for your flight.
Baggage Claim Area at Heathrow
After completing passport control at London Heathrow Airport (LHR), follow the signs to the Baggage Reclaim area in Arrivals. Check the airport information screens for your flight number and the baggage belt assigned to your flight.
1. Follow the Baggage Reclaim Signs
After passport control, follow the signs marked “Baggage Reclaim” or “Arrivals.” The baggage reclaim area is located beyond border control.
2. Check Your Baggage Belt
Look at the information screens in the baggage hall and find your flight number. The screen will show the baggage belt where your checked luggage will arrive.
Tip: Don't rely only on the airline name. Check the flight number to make sure you're waiting at the correct carousel.
3. Collect Your Luggage
Go to the assigned baggage belt and wait for your luggage to arrive. Check the baggage tag attached to your suitcase before leaving the carousel area to make sure you have collected the correct bag.
4. Use a Baggage Trolley
Free baggage trolleys are available throughout Heathrow's baggage reclaim halls, making it easier to move larger or multiple pieces of luggage through the terminal.
5. Lost, Delayed or Damaged Baggage
If your luggage does not arrive, is damaged, or appears to be missing, contact your airline or its baggage service representative in the baggage reclaim area as soon as possible. Heathrow states that airlines manage checked baggage from check-in through arrival.
Keep your baggage tag, flight details and missing-bag report because these details can help the airline locate and track your luggage.
6. Check Customs Requirements
After collecting your baggage, you may need to pass through UK customs before entering the Arrivals area.
If you have nothing to declare and meet the relevant requirements, you can use the green channel. If you have goods that need to be declared, use the red channel or red-point phone where available.
7. Continue to Arrivals
Once you have collected your luggage and completed any required customs checks, follow the signs towards the Arrivals Hall. From there, you can continue to transport, pickup, parking, hotel or other airport services.
Transport Options at Heathrow
London Heathrow Airport offers several convenient transport options for reaching Central London, nearby areas, and other destinations. Compare taxis, trains, buses and hotel shuttles to choose the best option for your journey.
Private Cabs & Taxis
London Black Cabs
- Service: Licensed London Black Cabs
- Contact: No advance booking required
- Website: Heathrow Taxi Information
- Pick Up Location: Taxi ranks outside each terminals
Tranzitt
- Service: Private Airport Transfer
- Contact: +44 7903 139301
- Website: Tranzitt.co.uk
- Pick Up Location: Arrivals halls at Heathrow terminals
World Airport Transfer
- Service: Private Airport Transfer
- Contact: +44 20 3319 9611
- Website: Worldairporttransfer.co.uk
- Pick Up Location: Arrivals halls at Heathrow terminals
Trains from Heathrow
Heathrow Express
- Schedule: Every 15 minutes
- Journey: Around 15 minutes to Paddington
- Station: Heathrow Central / Terminal 5
Elizabeth Line
- Schedule: Check current TfL timetable
- Journey: Direct services towards Central London
- Station: Heathrow Terminals 2 ,3, 4 & 5
London Underground Line
- Schedule: Check current TfL service
- Journey: Heathrow → Central London and beyond
- Station: Heathrow Underground stations
Buses & Shuttles
National Express
- Service: Long-distance coach services
- Schedule: Check current timetable
- Location: Heathrow Central Bus Station and selected terminal stops
Local Buses
- Service: Local bus network
- Schedule: Varies by route
- Location: Terminal bus stops / Heathrow Central Bus Station
Heathrow Hotel Hoppa
- Service: Hotel shuttle
- Schedule: Generally operates between 04:00 and 00:00
- Location: Bus stop Terminal 2, Terminal 3 and Terminal 5
Hotels Near Heathrow Airport
Finding a hotel near London Heathrow Airport (LHR) can make early departures, late arrivals and long layovers much easier. Heathrow has hotels connected directly to terminals as well as nearby properties with convenient transport links.
Holiday Inn Express London
-
Key Features: 1: 5-minute walk from Heathrow Terminal
2: 4 All-day dining and on-site restaurants
3: Comfortable rooms with noise-reducing features - Website: holidayinnexpress.com
- Contact: +44 20 3971 4433
Hilton London Heathrow
-
Key Features: 1: Connected to Terminal 4 by a covered walkway
2: On-site restaurants and room service
3: Fitness centre and business facilities - Website: hiltonlondonheathrowairport.com
- Contact: +44 20 8759 7755
Sheraton Heathrow Hotel
-
Key Features: 1: Approximately 1.4 miles from Heathrow Airport
2: Modern rooms and suites
3: Airport shuttle options available - Website: sheratonheathrowhotel.com
- Contact: +44 20 8759 2424
Food & Restaurants at Heathrow Airport
London Heathrow Airport (LHR) offers a wide range of restaurants, cafés, bars and quick-service food outlets across its terminals. Whether you need a quick coffee before your flight, a family meal, a light snack or a sit-down dining experience, Heathrow provides plenty of options for different tastes and budgets.
Popular Restaurants at Heathrow Airport
The Perfectionists’ Café
- About: The Perfectionists’ Café is a stylish dining option at Heathrow Terminal 2, offering British-inspired dishes, freshly prepared food, coffee and pastries.
- Location: Terminal 2 — Departures
- Best For: British food, coffee, breakfast and casual dining
Gordon Ramsay Plane Food
- About: Gordon Ramsay Plane Food at Heathrow Terminal 5 offers passengers the opportunity to enjoy dishes inspired by British and international cuisine before their flight.
- Location: Terminal 5 — Departures
- Best For: Sit-down dining and British-inspired cuisine
Pret A Manger
- About: Pret A Manger is a popular choice for passengers who want something quick and convenient. Travellers can find sandwiches, salads, snacks, coffee and other ready-to-go options at Heathrow.
- Location: Available across Heathrow locations
- Best For: Quick meals, sandwiches, coffee and snacks
Food Choices at Heathrow
British Cuisine
- Enjoy British-inspired meals, traditional favourites and casual dining options.
Italian Cuisine
- Choose from pizza, pasta and other Italian-style dishes when available.
Asian Cuisine
- Passengers can find Asian-inspired noodles, rice dishes, curries and other meals.
Healthy Options
- Salads, lighter meals, fresh food and other options are available at selected airport restaurants.
Cafés & Coffee
- Coffee shops are useful for travellers looking for breakfast, coffee, pastries or a quick refreshment before boarding.
Quick Bites
- Sandwiches, snacks and takeaway meals are convenient when you have limited time before your flight.
Bakery & Desserts
- Cakes, pastries, desserts and sweet treats are available at selected cafés and food outlets.
Bars & Lounges
- Selected Heathrow dining locations also provide drinks and relaxed seating areas for passengers.
Airport Facilities & Services at Heathrow
London Heathrow Airport (LHR) provides a wide range of passenger facilities and services designed to make your journey easier and more comfortable. From free Wi-Fi and charging points to accessibility assistance, information desks, family facilities and luggage services, travellers can find essential amenities across the airport terminals.
Free Wi-Fi
- Stay connected while travelling with free Wi-Fi at Heathrow Airport. Passengers can connect their phones, tablets and laptops to the airport's Wi-Fi service while waiting for their flight.
Charging Stations
- Charging facilities at Heathrow help passengers keep their phones, tablets and other devices powered during their journey. Look for charging points in passenger areas throughout the terminals.
Prayer & Quiet Rooms
- Heathrow provides multi-faith prayer and quiet spaces for passengers who want somewhere peaceful to reflect, pray or take a break from the busy airport environment.
Currency Exchange
- Passengers can exchange foreign currency at currency exchange facilities at Heathrow Airport. Travellers should compare available exchange rates and fees before completing a transaction.
ATMs
- ATMs are available at Heathrow Airport for passengers who need to withdraw cash during their journey. Availability and supported banking services can vary by terminal and location.
Information Desks
- Heathrow's information services can help passengers find directions, terminal facilities and other airport information. Information points are useful if you need assistance navigating the airport.
Accessibility Services
- Heathrow Airport accessibility services are available for passengers who need additional assistance during their journey. Passengers requiring special assistance should arrange support with their airline before travelling whenever possible.
Kids' Play Areas
- Families travelling with children can find family-friendly facilities at Heathrow, including designated areas where younger passengers can relax and play.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heathrow Airport
how early should I arrive at Heathrow Airport?
For most international flights, Heathrow recommends arriving around three hours before departure. For domestic and European flights, around two hours before departure is generally recommended. Allow extra time if you need to check baggage, travel during a busy period, or require special assistance.
How can I find out which terminal my flight uses at Heathrow?
Your airline and flight number determine which Heathrow terminal you should use. You can check Heathrow’s official terminal finder before travelling and confirm the terminal shown for your flight.
How can I check my Heathrow flight status?
You can check live arrival and departure information through Heathrow’s official flight information service. Flight details can change, so it is a good idea to check your flight status before leaving for the airport and again while travelling through the terminal.
Is Wi-Fi free at Heathrow Airport?
Yes. Free Heathrow Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminals. Connect to the Heathrow Wi-Fi network and follow the on-screen instructions to register and get online.
How do I get from Heathrow Airport to Central London?
Passengers can travel between Heathrow and Central London using several transport options, including the Heathrow Express, Elizabeth line, London Underground and taxis. The best choice depends on your destination, budget and travel time.
Where do I collect my baggage at Heathrow?
After passport control, follow the signs for Baggage Reclaim and check the airport information screens for your flight number and assigned baggage belt. If your luggage is missing or damaged, contact your airline’s baggage service team as soon as possible.
Are there hotels inside or near Heathrow Airport?
Yes. Heathrow has hotels located inside the airport or close to its terminals. For example, Heathrow’s official hotel information lists Aerotel for Terminals 2 and 3, Hilton for Terminal 4 and Sofitel for Terminal 5. Nearby hotels are also available.
Does Heathrow Airport have restaurants and cafés?
Yes. Heathrow has a wide selection of restaurants, cafés, bars and grab-and-go food outlets across its terminals. Passengers can choose from quick snacks and coffee to sit-down dining options.
What facilities are available at Heathrow Airport?
Heathrow provides a range of passenger facilities, including free Wi-Fi, charging points, ATMs, currency exchange, information services, baggage services and accessibility assistance. Facilities can vary by terminal and location.
What should I do if I need assistance at Heathrow Airport?
Passengers who need additional assistance should contact their airline, tour operator or travel agent before travelling and arrange the required support. Heathrow provides assistance services throughout the airport for passengers who need additional help.
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