Welcome to the maze that is London's Heathrow, a global junction teeming with wanderers, business moguls, and restless souls alike. Amid the echoing announcements and swarming boarding gates lies a realm of calm: the airport lounges.
In this guide, we'll walk you through a behind-the-scenes tour of Heathrow's lounges, giving you the insider scoop on how to find a quiet corner, or a glass of champagne before your flight from Heathrow.
Heathrow Airport Overview
Crowned "Best Airport in Western Europe" for five consecutive years and "Best Airport for Shopping" for a full decade, Heathrow is an airport that sets the gold standard for amenities. As you wander its terminals, over 100 cafes, restaurants, and bars await your culinary exploration. A quick 15-minute dining dash before a British Airways Heathrow flight and family-friendly spots where kids eat free are both covered by the airport's food options.
To keep you wired to the world, Heathrow offers free Wi-Fi, mobile and laptop charging stations, and even pay-as-you-go computer desks. Need foreign currency or last-minute essentials? Forex bureaus and pharmacies have you covered from 5:30 am until the last flight ascends into the night sky. Families will appreciate the baby changing facilities and play areas in Terminals 3 and 5. And if you need a helping hand, the airport offers wheelchair-friendly facilities and induction loops.
Heathrow is the main hub for British Airways and the starting point for many BA routes. This means that you’ll find more British Airways reward seat options here than at any other airport. Below is a comprehensive list of airline lounges where you can relax before catching British Airways Heathrow flights as well as flights from other airlines.
Terminal 5
British Airways Galleries Club North/South/T5B
With three beautifully furnished spaces — Galleries South seating 830, Galleries North with 440 seats, and Galleries T5B providing room for 370 — you're spoiled for choice.
Step past the reception and be greeted by a comforting range of facilities that remain consistent across all three lounges. From bars pouring everything from a classic gin and tonic to champagne-on-request, to an ever-changing buffet that evolves from a breakfast spread to a hot food feast by lunchtime and delectable sandwiches in the afternoon, you won't go hungry or thirsty here.
While the Elemis Spa facilities have closed their doors, showers remain available at Galleries North and South for that pre-flight refresh. The Galleries South even indulges its youngest travellers with a kids' zone and a cinema that seats 20, perfect for whiling away the hours before your flight. If aviation thrills you, the North Lounge's panoramic views of the north runway are not to be missed.
The recent renovations bring with them the chic Whispering Angel Bar in Terminal 5 at the B gates, offering a sophisticated spot where travellers can unwind with curated wine selections. Plush new furniture and a reimagined layout in Phase One enhance the comfort and aesthetic appeal of the lounge. The anticipation builds as Phase Two of the renovations is now in full swing. While parts of the lounge are temporarily under wraps, travellers can look forward to a brand-new live preparation area for made-to-order dishes, adding a personal touch to the lounge's culinary offerings. A revamped buffet service will offer a variety of hot and cold foods. The surroundings of the Whispering Angel Bar are also getting a facelift.
Access is exclusive to those flying in Club or First Class on their flights from Heathrow, Gold and Silver BA Club members, and select elite passengers from Iberia, Qatar Airways, and Oneworld alliance.
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British Airways Galleries Club First
Find your way to this slice of luxury at the First Wing, located at the southern concourse of T5. With seating for 542 guests, the lounge offers a varied assortment of spaces to suit your mood and needs. Feast your eyes on a delicious buffet featuring a selection that runs the gastronomic gamut. Satisfy your palate with salads or indulge in sloppy joes made from jackfruit accompanied by nachos. Meat lovers can savour BBQ chicken wings or tuck into hearty penne bolognese or sandwiches. A selection of cakes rounds off the buffet. From a wine gallery and champagne bar to an intimate coffee house setting, the lounge also caters to every beverage desire you might have. Moreover, you have the option for table service if you wish to dine in a more personal setting.
Need to focus on work? There's a dedicated working space just for that. If you want some relaxation, venture out onto the spacious, light-filled terrace, which offers spectacular views. For those needing a quick power nap, the Forty Winks nap area stands ready, even offering Restworks audio relaxation content via the lounge's app. The app can also clue you in on the availability of showers, which are located towards the Concorde Room.
Furthermore, the airline has upgraded its wine offerings across various classes, with First Class passengers now able to indulge in Rock Angel, and short-haul flyers having the luxury of pre-ordering their signature rosé. Access is exclusive to those flying in Club or First Class on their flights from Heathrow, Gold and Silver BA Club members, and select elite passengers from Iberia, Qatar Airways, and Oneworld alliance.
British Airways Concorde Room
This lounge is an homage to the supersonic grandeur that was Concorde. As you walk in, the quirky decor instantly sets a tone of sophisticated exclusivity. For the epicurean traveller, an intimate fine-dining area awaits, promising culinary delights that match the ambience. The Concorde Bar serves a curated selection of premium spirits and wines, making it a perfect rendezvous point for pre-flight indulgence.
The Concorde Room serves the business traveller with equal flair. A well-equipped business suite ensures you can stay productive while awaiting your flight. Need personalised assistance? A concierge desk is available for any requests or reservations you might have.
For those desiring the utmost in privacy and comfort, the Concorde Room offers three unique private cabanas. These personal sanctuaries come with a lounging chair, desk, TV, and en-suite facilities — essentially a hotel room within an airport lounge.
As for its location, the Concorde Room is situated past the First Wing entrance, accessible via the First Lounge at the southern concourse of T5. A specially manned door for easier access is also available just beyond the South security checkpoint.
The lounge is reserved exclusively for First Class customers and BA Premier members and seats approximately 156 guests. If you're a BA Gold member with 5,000 tier points a year, you'll get a special Concorde Room card that lets you into this exclusive lounge. Curious about how British Airways Tier Points work? You can find a full breakdown on our dedicated page here.
British Airways Arrivals Lounge Terminal 5
Step into this sanctuary, and you're greeted with a 'Hydrotherapy Zone,' featuring 94 shower rooms that do more than just wash away the in-flight grime; they refresh you to your core.
Your crumpled suit? Hand it over to the valet for a pressing service, as you refuel with a breakfast buffet that's up until 12:30 PM. The one caveat? This cocoon of comfort lacks windows, so there's no gazing at the London skyline. But, hey, you’re so ensconced in self-care that you won't even notice.
Nestled on the first floor of the T5 public area, the lounge is accessible via a tangerine-hued lift or escalator, remaining a comforting constant from 5:00 AM to 2:00 PM. With a limited 156-seat capacity, the lounge is reserved for long-haul passengers arriving in either Club World or First Class or those with a BA Gold card.
Plaza Premium Lounge Terminal 5
Opened in late 2017, this expansive space stretches over 465 square meters and can comfortably seat up to 200 seekers of airport bliss. When you step in, the first thing to capture your attention will be the floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of Heathrow's endless runways and terminals — a perfect backdrop for contemplation or simply people-watching. The space feels less like an airport lounge and more like an urban oasis, complete with a café-bar that serves up anything from a morning espresso to an evening cocktail.
Seeking solitude? Nestle into one of the pod-style seats, a semi-private nook where you can dive into the day's newspapers or magazines, all available at your fingertips. For those in need of a cleanse, the lounge even offers a shower facility for an extra £20.
Located next to Gate A7 on Level 2 departures, the Plaza Premium Lounge keeps its doors open from 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM. Paying guests are welcome, starting at £44, as are DragonPass members and American Express Platinum cardholders. Priority Pass members will have to seek refuge elsewhere, but on the upside, this policy keeps the lounge a bit less crowded than its peer, the Club Aspire T5 Lounge.
Club Aspire Lounge Terminal 5
This is the cosier cousin of Plaza Premium, and it's got an allure all its own. Opened in 2015, this modern hideaway is the result of a collaboration between Swissport and Collinson Group (the folks behind Priority Pass). As you enter, you’ll instantly pick up on its laid-back yet modern vibe. The lounge layout may be on the compact side, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in amenities and ambience.
The floor-to-ceiling windows present a great view of planes taxiing, taking off, and touching down. The bar and buffet are at your service, dishing up an array of comfort foods and beverages to tide you over until boarding time. For those who must stay tethered to the real world, the business zone offers a calm setting for checking off those last-minute work tasks. And if you’re looking to relax, you can escape to the quiet area replete with rest pods. Should you fancy a refreshing start or end to your journey, showers are available for an extra £20.
Tucked away near Gate A18, Club Aspire opens its doors from 5:00 AM until 9:00 PM. Entry is granted to Priority Pass holders, anyone willing to part with at least £40 online, and travellers flying with Qatar Airways.
Regus Express Terminal 5
This is less of a lounge and more of a co-working space for the modern-day nomad, suited to digital wanderers and business high-flyers. Managed by Regus, a brand synonymous with flexible workspaces, this little gem caters to those who want to use every minute productively before jetting off to their next destination.
Step off the red lift and find yourself on the 1st floor, sandwiched between the buzz of the British Airways arrivals lounge and the Heathrow VIP. The lounge offers a range of private workspaces so you can knuckle down and finish that report or Skype/Zoom into a meeting halfway around the globe.
The airport provides free WiFi as well as printing and copying facilities. Enjoy the simple joys of complimentary tea, coffee, and water; they're the small but essential luxuries that make life on-the-go manageable. If you need an even more formal setting, the lounge boasts five meeting rooms you can rent by the hour. It’s the perfect way to make sure that client pitch or team meeting goes off without a hitch before you dash off to your flight.
Access is granted to DragonPass members, though paid entry is a welcome option for the rest.
Terminal 4
Qatar Airways Premium Lounge
In a world that's all too often about getting there faster, this lounge invites you to slow down, breathe, and savour the journey ahead. Once you enter, you'll find yourself wrapped in an interior that whispers calm. Freshly upgraded with a facelift during Terminal 4's closure, the lounge feels like an upscale boutique hotel.
Picture rainforest shower heads and spa-quality amenities that will make you want to miss your flight. Looking for a pre-flight drink? Head over to the well-stocked bar, perfect for both wine lovers and cocktail enthusiasts. At the heart of the lounge, you’ll find an exquisite brasserie and deli counter offering a mouthwatering selection of Arabian and international dishes that go far beyond the typical lounge buffet. Think local flavours from Doha, as well as global favourites to please any taste.
Situated directly opposite gate 6 and covering an expansive 750 square meters, this lounge is exclusively reserved for first and business-class travellers and is open between 05:00 and 20:30.
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Qatar Airways Frequent Flyer Lounge
Qatar's newly minted Frequent Flyer Lounge is a sanctuary that strikes a perfect balance between business and leisure. The lounge exudes a laid-back atmosphere that manages to calm even the most jittery pre-flight nerves. Settle into the plush seating and let the worldly worries melt away, or drift towards the well-stocked buffet where international flavours entice.
Need to fire off some last-minute emails? There's a business area where productivity finds a home. And if the rigours of travel have taken their toll, freshen up in the immaculate shower facilities before your next jaunt. Open from 5 am until 10 pm, it's a sweet spot for the modern wanderer.
Opened in 2022 and located on level 2, just opposite Gate 6, this retreat isn't just for those flashing business or first-class tickets; if you're an Oneworld Emerald or Sapphire elite frequent flyer, you're in for a treat. And yes, feel free to bring a guest to share the experience.
Etihad Lounge
After a hiatus and a makeover, Etihad Lounge re-opened in June 2022, shedding its former identity as 'The House.’ Located conveniently near Gate 10, the 600m² space offers refined luxury amid the airport hustle. With its inviting bar, adorned with top-shelf libations and intricate cocktails, this lounge curates experiences.
If you’re travelling with younglings, divert your steps towards the kid's zone, a slice of paradise that gives the young — and the young at heart — a place to stretch their imagination. But the real highlight is the dining. Beyond a standard buffet, the lounge offers an à la carte dining area that takes your pre-flight meal to the next level. For the digital nomads among us, computer stations provide a mix of work and play, while the prayer room offers a refuge for spiritual solitude. And let's not forget the shower facilities, a nod to the sublime comfort that Etihad is known for.
Open from 06:00 to 21:30, this lounge is available to first and business-class passengers as well as Etihad Guest Platinum and Gold members.
Gulf Air Falcon Lounge
Dressed in a calming palette of blues and neutrals, the 600m² lounge flaunts an unmistakably Arabic flair. With 120 seats, it's spacious enough to give each traveller their little slice of peace, whether they're sipping a cocktail at the bar or catching up on emails in the business centre.
Step into the shower to refresh before your flight, or indulge in the lounge's buffet and dining area. From savoury bites to runway views, the Falcon Lounge ensures that Gulf Air's Premium and Elite passengers are treated to nothing but the best.
Plaza Premium Lounge Terminal 4
Perched above Gate 1, this 790m² sanctuary packs a stylish punch with its plush seating, fully tended bar, and abundant reading material. The lounge caters to all your needs, offering not just free WiFi but also dedicated productivity pods where you can catch up on work or simply disconnect from the world outside for travellers interested in work as well as leisure. From delectable bites at the food station to refreshing showers, every detail is thoughtfully curated.
The lounge is accessible to DragonPass members, American Express Platinum cardholders, or those willing to invest in a little pre-flight luxury (£40 for 2 hours). Note that showers might come with an additional charge for DragonPass customers. Open from the wee hours of 05:30 until 22:00 daily.
Blush Lounge
Reimagined and redesigned, this 340m² space exudes sophistication from its spacious lobby to its runway-facing bar. Once known as the EL AL King David Lounge and then the Art & Lounge, it was reborn in November 2022 as the Blush Lounge, a haven for up to 105 guests. The bar features a kosher buffet that gives you a taste of specialised cuisine while you enjoy the views of the runway.
The Blush Lounge serves EL AL premium passengers, American Express Platinum cardholders and DragonPass members. For those without membership perks, paid access is available for a reasonable £27. The lounge operates from 15:00 to 19:00 from Saturday to Thursday and remains closed on Fridays.
Terminal 3
British Airways Galleries Club and Galleries First Lounges
Step into the expansive 3,000m² realm of British Airways' Galleries lounges at Lounge F, designed for both pleasure and business. The Galleries Club, with seating for 300, and the more serene Galleries First, seating 250, offer a wide selection of amenities, from varied bars and buffets to newspapers and business stations.
Although the Elemis Spa has shut its doors, the First Lounge compensates with its quiet ambience and stylish flair. It's a shared space for passengers of American Airlines, Japan Airlines, Royal Jordanian, Sri Lankan Airlines, and Oneworld elites. Operating hours are from 05:00 – 22:30.
American Express Centurion Lounge T3
This 650m² space combines elegance with functionality, bringing the best of Middle-Eastern cuisine in a premium buffet alongside a well-stocked bar. Situated on the second floor after security, the Centurion Lounge can host up to 110 guests and offers shower facilities and workstations for those in transit.
As of February 2023, guest fees for U.S. Platinum cardholders are $50 per guest, $30 per child. Open daily from 05:30 – 21:00.
American Airlines Admirals Club Lounge
Located in Lounge H of Terminal 3, the Admirals Lounge caters to up to 230 guests. Offering food from London's rhubarb restaurant and a variety of amenities — including seven shower rooms, a business centre, and free WiFi — this is a retreat for those wanting a break from the travel hustle. Open from 05:30 – 19:00.
Cathay Pacific Business and First Lounge
Following its 2016 renovation, this 1,200m² lounge delights travellers with its signature Noodle Bar and diverse buffet choices. With eight showers and workstations, it's a blend of utility and comfort. Open from 05:30 – 17:30, the lounge is a refuge for premium Cathay, Finnair, and Oneworld passengers.
Emirates Lounge
Emirates' 1,025m² lounge near Gate 7 is the epitome of luxury. Beyond the large restaurant and workstations, it offers prayer rooms and shower facilities. Entry prices for economy travellers are steep, yet the luxury is undeniable. Boarding is convenient, directly from the lounge. Open from 05:30 – 22:30.
Qantas Lounge
Qantas’ split-level lounge managed by Accor is a sanctuary offering both buffet and a la carte dining options. Open from 07:30-21:30, it can host up to 230 passengers and offers shower suites, business sections, and a children's zone for little travellers.
Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse Lounge
Virgin's 2,500m² Clubhouse, open from 06:30 – 22:30, is an icon of style and comfort. Features range from funky seating areas to complimentary spa treatments and a champagne bar, solidifying its reputation as one of the world's best business-class airline lounges.
American Airlines Arrivals Lounge
American's revitalised arrivals lounge at T3 offers many amenities including 29 shower rooms, valet pressing, workspaces, and a diverse food menu. Open from 06:30 – 15:30, it's the perfect place to refresh and recharge before stepping out into the city.
Virgin Atlantic Revivals Lounge
Open from 06:00 – 12:30, this luxurious space is a sanctuary for travellers seeking to refresh and rejuvenate after a long flight. With 18 well-equipped shower rooms, a breakfast bar stocked with scrumptious options, and the decadent Clubhouse Spa, it's the perfect place to hit the reset button before stepping out into the city. Added touches like valet cleaning and free WiFi make this a standout choice.
Access is granted to passengers travelling in Virgin Atlantic Upper Class, Flying Club Gold members, passengers travelling in Delta One, and Delta SkyMiles Diamond Medallion and Platinum Medallion cardholders. The lounge is also open to Virgin Australia Velocity Club Platinum and The Club cardholders.
No1 Lounge Heathrow
The No1 Lounge at Heathrow clocks in at a spacious 970m². The lounge boasts a bistro menu, a full-service bar, a games room, and even a quiet zone for those in search of tranquillity. WiFi, a business centre, and family rooms round out the offerings. For a bit more luxury, opt for the travel spa and Airside Bedrooms, available at an additional charge.
Located upstairs near Lounge F, gates 13-22, this versatile space welcomes everyone — from Priority Pass and DragonPass members to premium passengers of various airlines like Air France, KLM, and Delta. It’s also open to paying guests at a cost starting from £36 for a three-hour stay.
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Club Aspire Lounge Terminal 3
Nestled in the Lounge D area next to gate 9, the Club Aspire Lounge is a sleek and stylish oasis that replaced the old Servisair lounge. With seating for up to 120 guests, this lounge offers a mix of comfort and utility, featuring a self-service buffet, a business zone, and free WiFi. For those looking to unwind further, rest areas and shower facilities, as well as Bliss Spa services, are available.
The lounge is open to paying guests at prices starting from around £34 for a three-hour stay, as well as Air France-KLM premium passengers and Priority Pass holders.
Terminal 2
Aer Lingus Gold Circle Lounge
Tucked away at Lounge A2 of T2A, the Aer Lingus Gold Circle Lounge is an intimate space for up to 130 guests. Lined with slate wall tiles and outfitted with plush armchairs, the space offers a subtle touch of Irish luxury. Enjoy light snacks and drinks while soaking up apron views, or stay connected with the complimentary WiFi. There's even a single shower suite for those looking to freshen up.
The lounge is accessible for US-bound Aer Lingus business class travellers, AerClub members at various elite tiers, and select Bank of Ireland Mastercard holders. Others can snag a spot for a reasonable £30 pre-pay fee.
Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge
Stationed at Lounge B3 in Terminal 2B, opposite the Singapore Airlines lounge, the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge is a 700m² split-level marvel. The lounge pairs modern aesthetics with functional spaces like a bar, bistro, quiet zone, and work area. Three shower suites round out the amenities.
Business Class flyers, Air Canada Altitude elites, Star Alliance Gold members, and select Maple Leaf Club members can unwind here before their next flight.
Lufthansa Business & Senator Lounge
A sprawling 1,600m² sanctuary located at Lounge A1 in T2A, Lufthansa’s dual lounge offers different zones for work and relaxation. The Business lounge accommodates 230 people, while the more exclusive Senator section seats 120. Expect bistro-style food and a proper drinks bar, which covers most of what you'll want before a flight.
Access varies depending on your flight class and loyalty status, but a pay-in option is available for those flying economy.
Singapore Airlines SilverKris Business & First Lounge
Occupying a prime spot at Lounge B2 in the T2B satellite, the SilverKris lounge is a temple of luxury. With areas designated for business and first-class passengers, the lounge offers a fine buffet-bar spread, comfortable seating, and coveted apron views. First-class guests can enjoy a la carte dining options in a more private setting. Located conveniently across from the Air Canada lounge, this lounge is accessible to premium Singapore Airlines and Star Alliance passengers.
British Airways
United Club Lounge
At Lounge B1 in the T2B satellite, United Club Lounge is an airy space defined by its floor-to-ceiling windows. Inside, guests will find a long bar, a buffet area, eight shower suites, and plenty of comfortable seating. Those who aren't elite flyers or travelling in premium classes can still gain access for $59.
Regus Express Business Lounge T2
More like a boutique office than a traditional airport lounge, this 195m² space sits landside on the ground floor at T2 arrivals. Here, you'll find workspaces and comfy seats along with complimentary beverages. While it doesn't offer showers, it does have nine meeting rooms for hire, adding a layer of practicality for the business traveller.
Plaza Premium Lounge Terminal 2
Located at level 4 in T2A, Plaza Premium Lounge rolls out a sumptuous buffet and bar in a windowless but chic setting. The lounge also offers a wellness spa and day rooms for an extra charge. Accessible to Priority Pass and DragonPass members as well as American Express Platinum cardholders, the lounge has an entry fee starting at £44 for two hours. Additional charges apply for shower usage.
