LayoverLHR layover guide
London Heathrow. City centre is roughly 15 minutes away each way.
What to do by layover length
Under 4 hours: stay in the airport
- Terminal 5 and Terminal 3 have large shopping and dining areas airside.
- Moving between terminals uses free transfer buses or trains; allow extra time.
4 to 8 hours
A short city visit can work if your passport allows entry. Allow about 30 minutes round trip, plus immigration both ways and at least 2 hours before departure to get back through security.
8 hours or more: leave the airport
Heathrow Express to London Paddington, about 15 minutes; the Elizabeth line and Piccadilly line are cheaper but slower.
Transit and visa basics
Whether you need a visa or an ETA to enter or transit the UK depends on your passport. Official source. Also check your airline's connection rules and the official London Heathrow website.
Lounges
Lounge access depends on your airline, ticket class, or a membership. Search Priority Pass lounges at LHR, or check lounge listings on the airport's website.
Get Priority Pass lounge accessAffiliate linkStore your bags
Heading into London for a few hours? Drop your bags at a luggage storage spot.
Find luggage storage with Radical StorageAffiliate linkAirport transfer
Short on time? A pre-booked ride takes the guesswork out of getting to the city and back.
Book a transfer with KiwitaxiWelcome PickupsGetTransferAffiliate linkTours near London
Long layover? Short tours that fit your time:
GetYourGuide tours in LondonViator tours in LondonAffiliate linkAirport hotels
Sofitel London Heathrow is connected to Terminal 5 by a walkway. For an overnight or a day room:
Hotels near LHR on Booking.comAffiliate linkDelayed or missed your connection?
Under EU and UK rules (EU261/UK261), delayed or cancelled flights can qualify for compensation.
Check your claim with AirHelpCompensairAffiliate linkStay connected
Airport Wi-Fi can be slow or time-limited. An eSIM gives you data the moment you land.
Get an eSIM from AiraloAffiliate linkLast checked: October 16, 2026. Times are typical and can change with traffic, construction and timetables. Confirm before you leave the airport. Some links are affiliate links; see our disclosure.