Heathrow Airport is London’s most important international gateway, and it serves as a crucial hub for millions of travelers each year. If you are an international student coming to London for the first time, Heathrow may be the very first airport you visit in the UK. There are a variety of public transport options Heathrow can offer, including Heathrow Express, Tube, coach, bus, and taxi. In this blog, we are going to guide you through the public transportation networks at Heathrow, so that you won’t feel confused upon landing in an unfamiliar city.
Public Transport Options at Heathrow Airport
The Heathrow Express
Where are the stops and destination of the Heathrow Express?
Taking the Heathrow Express is the fastest, and also the most expensive way to reach the heart of London. It takes just 15 minutes to reach the Paddington station. However, it should be noted that the Heathrow Express can only reach Paddington, and you will have to change from Paddington if you want to go anywhere else.
The Heathrow Express has two stops, one at Terminals 2 and 3, the other is at Terminal 5. The train runs at 15-minute intervals. For passengers arriving at Terminal 4, there is a free transfer to the stop at Terminals 2 and 3.
How do I buy the ticket of the Heathrow Express?
Travelers can buy tickets online, via the Heathrow Express app, or at ticket machines located throughout the airport. For convenience and potential savings, it is recommended to buy Heathrow Express tickets before your travel day.
What are the operating hours of the Heathrow Express?
The Heathrow Express runs from around 5:00 to around 23:30. You can check the Heathrow Express timetable at the official website for exact times.
Are there any discounts for students taking the Heathrow Express?
- Duo Saver: You can get a 25% discount for two standard class tickets, using the promotion code DUOSAVER. Perfect for pairs traveling together.
- Group Saver: It allows you to save 1/3 of fares per person when 3 or more adults travel together. And the promotion code is 3RDOFF. Ideal for families or groups of friends to explore together.
- Railcards: For solo travelers with a valid Railcard, it’s easy to save a considerable sum. If you are aged 16-25, you can get a 1/3 off the fares. Apart from this class, Railcards also include the age category of 26-30, Senior, Two Togerther, Family & Friends, and others.
The London Underground
The Elizabeth Line and the Piccadilly Line of the Tube are the two direct lines linking Heathrow Airport and cental London. Taking the Tube is also the most popular method of public transport at Heathrow. It offers a speedy yet cost-effective option for travelers. It would be a good idea to get an Oyster card or contactless payment card in advance, for saving traveling costs.
If you are interested in more tips on how to take Tube in London, see here: London Underground Guide: How to Take Tube in London?
The Elizabeth Line
Passengers can take the Elizabeth Line at Heathrow Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5. The line connects to key destinations like Farrington, Paddington, Liverpool Street, and Canary Wharf. The journey time is usually less than 1 hour, and the average fares are around £10-£12 with an Oyster card or contactless payment.
The Piccadilly Line
Passengers can easily access the Piccadilly Line at Heathrow Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5. The lines connects major stations like Hyde Park Corner, Green Park, and Leicester Square. The journey to central London typically takes about 50 minutes. The average cost is around £3-£6 when using an Oyster card or contactless payment, which are the most economical options for this route.
The Piccadilly Line usually operates from around 5:00 AM to 23:30 PM. The Night Tube service on the Piccadilly Line runs on Friday and Saturday nights, but it should be noted that the Night Tube doesn’t serve Heathrow Terminal 4.
Coaches
Where are the stops and destinations of the coach?
Except for the train and the underground, Heathrow Airport offers other methods of public transportation, such as coach services. The couch service is extensive, connecting passengers to the heart of London. Key destinations include central London, Reading, Watford, and Woking, among others.
How can I take the coach at Heathrow Airport?
To take the coach, head to the Central Bus Station between Terminals 2 and 3, or specific stops at Terminals 4 and 5.
For the coach tickets, you can buy them online in advance or from the Cental Bus Station at the airport. Don’t forget to look for clear sign and information screens for schedules and boarding points.
Local Buses
Where can local buses get to from Heathrow Airport?
While coaches are designed specifically for passengers arriving at the airport, the local bus is a good alternative if you are traveling between Heathrow Airport and central London. Major destinations and stops include Greenford Station, Ruislip, Kingston, Hatton Cross Station, among others.
How can I take the local bus at Heathrow Airport?
You can take the local bus from Central Bus Station between Terminals 2 and 3 as well. And there are other bus stops at Terminals 4 and 5.
The average cost can vary depending on the specific route, and is usually around £10-£15. You can check the Transport for London (TfL) website for the current pricing information in advance. However, you must have an Oyster card or contactless payment card, because the local bus in London don’t accept cash for tickets.
Taxis or Minicabs
For those who are not on a tight budget, taking a taxi or cab can be a comfortable option of public transport. Designated taxi ranks are located outside each terminal, where licensed black cabs are waiting.
If you’d like to take a cab and save costs at the same time, using rideshare apps like Uber would be a good choice. You can arrange pickup on Uber from designated areas. Additionally, if you arrive with a lot of luggage, the Addison Lee App offers cab-hiring services of good quality.
What's the best way to get from Heathrow to London?
Generally speaking, the best public transport method is the Heathrow Express. It stands out for its speed, convenience, and comfort. The train connects Heathrow Airport with Paddington Station in central London in just 15 minutes from Terminals 2 and 3, and a few minutes more from Terminal 5. It allows travelers to avoid the London’s heavy traffic while enjoying features such as free Wi-Fi, spacious seats, and ample luggage space.
For those prioritizing cost over speed, the London Underground’s Piccadilly Line offers a more economical option. Direct services from all Heathrow terminals to multiple central London locations operate with a travel time of approximately 50 minutes to an hour. It’s a budget-friendly choice that provides a real insight into London life, with the added advantage of dropping passengers off at various points in the city center.
At the end of the day, the best option depends on your priorities. If time and comfort are paramount, the Heathrow Express is unmatched. However, for budget-conscious travelers keen on experiencing London as the locals do, the Piccadilly Line is an excellent choice.
What is the fastest way to get from Heathrow to London?
The fastest way to travel from Heathrow Airport to London is the Heathrow Express. The train offers a direct service to Paddington Station in central London, and takes about 15-20 minutes from Heathrow Airport to central London. With the running intervals of 15 minutes, the Heathrow Express provides a quick and efficient option for those looking to minimize travel time.
What is the cheapest way to get from Heathrow to London?
The cheapest way to travel from Heathrow Airport to London is by taking the London Underground, specifically the Piccadilly Line. It connects the airport with numerous stops across London, such as Hyde Park Corner, Green Park, Leicester Square, and others. Although the journey can take approximately 50 minutes to an hour, it provides significant savings compared to other transport options. The average cost is around £3-£6 when using an Oyster card or contactless payment.
For more information on UK airports, you can check the following blogs:
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FAQs about Public Transport at Heathrow
Is the Elizabeth line cheaper than the Heathrow Express?
Yes, the Elizabeth Line is generally cheaper than the Heathrow Express. Its average fares are around £10-£12 with an Oyster card or contactless payment, while the fares for the Heathrow Express range from £25-£35, depending on your booking method and the class. In conclusion, the Elizabeth Line is more affordable while still providing a fast and efficient service from Heathrow to central London.
Are Heathrow buses still free?
The buses at Heathrow Airport are no longer free from 12 June 2021. And the cost of the journey from London to Heathrow is around £10-£15. It is advisable to check the official website of Heathrow Airport for the exact price.
How much is taxi from Heathrow Airport to central London?
The average cost of taking a taxi or cab from Heathrow to central London ranges from £45 to £70, depending on the exact destination and time of day. You can use rideshare apps like Uber to save costs.
