Knowledge Hub

London Heathrow (LHR) is one of the world’s busiest airports, a bustling hub connecting millions of travellers to destinations across the globe. While its size can seem daunting, with a little preparation and these handy tips, you can make your experience at Heathrow efficient, enjoyable, and stress-free.

Before You Go: Preparation is Key

• Check-in Online: Most airlines offer online check-in 24-48 hours before your flight. This can significantly reduce your time spent in queues at the airport.
• Security Savvy: Liquids should be in containers 100ml or less and fit into a clear, resealable plastic bag (no larger than 20cm x 20cm). Larger electronics (laptops, tablets) usually need to be removed from your bag. Book Fast Track security if time is of the essence – it offers dedicated lanes for a quicker journey.  For busy production schedules or tight game-day arrivals, expedited security is often a non-negotiable. Our team can help arrange these crucial details for your crew or team members.
• Download the Heathrow App: The official Heathrow Airport app provides real-time flight updates, terminal maps, gate numbers, and even allows you to pre-order food from some restaurants.

Getting Around Heathrow: Terminal Transfers Made Easy

Heathrow’s terminals are well-connected, but knowing the best way to get between them is crucial:

• Terminals 2 and 3: These two terminals are connected by an underground pedestrian walkway, making it a straightforward 10-minute walk. They also share a central train station.
• Terminals 4 and 5: These terminals are further apart and require a train or bus transfer.
• Free Train Services: You can use the Heathrow Express or Elizabeth Line for free inter-terminal transfers. These trains are generally the quickest method, taking around 30 minutes. Payment can be made by obtaining a free Inter-terminal transfer ticket from the ticket machines in the station, or using contactless payment methods, though you will not be charged.
• London Underground (Piccadilly Line): The Tube also offers free inter-terminal travel between Heathrow stations from Heathrow Terminal 4 to Heathrow Terminal 5 (change at Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3). You will need an Oyster Card or simply use contactless payment. No charge applied if you only travel between terminals.
• Free Flight Connections Buses: If you’re connecting between flights and staying airside, follow the purple “Flight Connections” signs for dedicated shuttle buses that run frequently between all terminals. For complex itineraries involving multiple connections, especially for large groups or those carrying specialised equipment, understanding and planning these transfers is key.

What to Do While You Wait: Make the Most of Your Time

Heathrow isn’t just a place to catch a flight; it offers a range of amenities to enhance your travel experience:

Dining Delights

From quick bites to fine dining, Heathrow boasts a vast selection of restaurants, cafes, and bars. Some even allow you to pre-order food via the app to save time.

Heathrow has many fantastic breakfast, lunch & dinner options like*: Giraffe, Leon, YO! Sushi, Fortnum & Mason, The Globe (Pub & Kitchen), Caviar House & Prunier Seafood bar, Big Smoke Taphouse & Kitchen and even more!

Retail Therapy

Indulge in some duty-free shopping! From high-end fashion and jewellery to electronics, books, and travel essentials.

Heathrow’s shopping experience includes: Boss, Accessorize, Cartier, Chanel, Burberry, Dior, Gucci, Harrods Hamleys, Sunglasses Hut and so many more! Plenty of places for a holiday treat for yourself, gifts for friends and families and flight snacks and essentials!

Relax in a Lounge

These lounges provide a more comfortable and quieter environment with complimentary food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and often shower facilities. You can often book these online in advance or pay for walk-in access (subject to availability). For talent or executives needing a moment of calm before a major event or production, lounge access can be invaluable.

• Terminal 2:
  • Plaza Premium Lounge from £40 pp
  • No.1 Lounges from £44 pp
• Terminal 3:
  • Club Aspire from £34.99 pp
  • No.1 Lounge from £34 pp
  • Clubrooms (from No.1 Lounges) from £48 pp
• Terminal 4:
  • Plaza Premium Lounge from £41.85pp
• Terminal 5:
  • Club Aspire from £39.99 pp
  • Plaza Premium Lounge from £35 pp

Stay Connected

Heathrow offers free unlimited Wi-Fi throughout all terminals. You’ll also find numerous free charging points for your devices, so you can keep your phone and laptop topped up.

Multi-Faith Prayer Rooms

All terminals offer quiet, multi-faith prayer rooms for meditation or reflection.

Please note: All stated restaurants, shops & lounges are up-to-date as of July 1^st 2025, these things may change or adjust so please find out at heathrow.com

Why Access Bookings?

Whether you’re coordinating talent for a high-pressure shoot, moving a full sports team across terminals, or supporting media execs on tight schedules, Access Bookings ensures every detail is handled with precision.

From security fast-tracking and lounge access to inter-terminal transfers and hotel arrangements, our team is trusted by industry professionals to take the stress out of travel. Leave the logistics to us, so you can focus on performance, production, or the big picture.