The insider's guide, from travelers who've actually been through.
Heathrow has four active terminals, each serving distinct alliances. T2 covers Star Alliance, T3 handles OneWorld and some SkyTeam, T4 serves Gulf carriers and some Asian airlines, and T5 is British Airways’ hub. T1 closed in 2020. Knowing your terminal matters because transfers between T5 and T2/T3 require the inter-terminal bus (15 to 20 minutes), while T4 is connected by a dedicated Heathrow Pods people mover to the main terminal area and the Heathrow Express stop.
Before your layover here
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The Elizabeth Line (from T2/T3 and T4) runs to Paddington in about 40 minutes and costs GBP 13.50 off-peak (Oyster/contactless, Zone 1-6, as of early 2026). Heathrow Express takes 15 minutes to Paddington but costs from GBP 25. The Piccadilly Line is the cheapest option at around GBP 5.50 (Oyster off-peak), but takes 45 to 50 minutes and can be uncomfortable with luggage during rush hour. Taxis from T5 to central London run GBP 50 to 90 depending on traffic and time of day.
| Terminal | Lounge | Access | Showers | Good for | Price (paid) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| T5 | Galleries First (BA) | BA First / OW Emerald | Yes (Elemis spa) | Premium dining, spa | Top tier only |
| T5 | Galleries Club | BA Business / OW Sapphire | Yes | Full buffet, Concorde bar | OW Sapphire or card |
| T2 | Club Aspire | Priority Pass / Dragon / Paid | Yes | Solid option for non-T5 pax | About GBP 35-55 at desk; confirm |
| T3 | Aspire Lounge | Priority Pass / Dragon / Paid | Yes | Adequate food, reliable wi-fi | About GBP 35-55 at desk; confirm |
| T3 | Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse | VS Upper Class / Gold | Yes (spa) | One of the best in T3 | Status / class only |
| T4 | No1 Lounge | Priority Pass / Dragon / Paid | Yes | Good for Gulf carrier layovers | About GBP 35-50 at desk; confirm |
Non-EEA passport holders can face very long immigration queues, particularly at T5 and T2 during morning arrivals. Two hours is not an unreasonable budget for immigration at T5 on busy days. Free WiFi is available throughout. Showers are accessible through lounges and at paid facilities near departure gates. Prayer rooms are located in T1 area (now used as a transit area), T2, T3, and T5. When returning to Heathrow, build in 3 hours minimum before international departure. UK entry requirements: verify current electronic travel authorisation (ETA) and visa rules for your nationality before travel, as rules changed in 2024-2025.
For more on what to do during your layover, see the London layover guide.
