Welcome to the second installment of our UK airport travel guides, focusing on one of the world’s busiest international hubs: London Heathrow Airport. Serving as a central hub for approximately 90 airlines, Heathrow facilitates flights to over 180 destinations spanning 90 countries.
Heathrow currently operates with four terminals. Let’s explore each one:
* **Terminal 1:** Terminal 1 is no longer in operation. It was closed in 2015 to make way for the expansion of Terminal 2.
* **Terminal 2:** This terminal manages flights to both European and select long-haul destinations, offering a diverse range of travel options.
* **Terminal 3:** Primarily serving long-haul flights, Terminal 3 also accommodates some European routes, catering to a mix of international travelers.
* **Terminal 4:** Largely utilized by British Airways and KLM, this terminal provides dedicated services for these major airlines.
* **Terminal 5:** This terminal is dedicated to British Airways and its partner airlines. It offers a wide range of facilities and services.
**Getting To Heathrow**
Despite its name, Heathrow Airport is located approximately 20 miles outside of central London. Consider this when planning your journey to the airport.
Reaching Heathrow is convenient via various transport methods:
* **London Underground (Tube):** The Piccadilly line offers direct service to Heathrow, with a journey time of about an hour and an approximate cost of £5.
* **Heathrow Express:** This dedicated rail link from London Paddington provides a swift 15-minute journey. Trains depart every 15 minutes, with single tickets around £14 and returns at £26.
* **RailAir:** Coach services connect Heathrow to key areas like Reading, Woking, and Watford.
* **Car:** Allow ample travel time due to potential traffic on the M4 and M25 motorways. Pre-booking parking is recommended for convenience and potential cost savings. Ample car parking is available at all terminals.
* **Hotel Hoppa:** A dedicated bus service connects major hotels surrounding the airport, costing £3 each way and running every 15 minutes during peak hours.
London Heathrow stands as a truly international airport, hosting millions of passengers annually from every corner of the globe. Planning your journey ahead of time is highly recommended.