London Heathrow Airport - LHR Transportation

Car Rental

Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Europcar, Guy Salmon, Hertz, and National all have counters within the airport and offer discounted rates to Heathrow passengers. Renting a car can be a nice way for foreigners to travel, but it is also important to remember that cars in England are set up with the driver sitting on the right side of the car and cars drive on the opposite lane than Americans and many other countries residents are used to. It can be somewhat disconcerting to drive on the other side of the road, so drivers must be very cautious.

Public/Ground Transfer

The easiest way to reach London is by taking the train system into Paddington Station. Heathrow Express takes approximately 15 minutes and costs $29 one-way or $56 round trip. Heathrow Express departs London Heathrow Airport every fifteen minutes making it easy for passengers to avoid long waiting times.

Heathrow Connect is newer and makes several stops along the way in Ealing Broadway, West Ealing, Hanwell, Southall, and Hayes/Harlington before heading into London's Paddington Station. Heathrow Connect leaves the airport every half hour, so longer waiting times between trains are necessary. Fares range from $10 to $14 one way.

RailAir runs buses from Heathrow's Central Bus Station located between Terminals 1, 2, and 3. The buses run throughout the day heading to Feltham, Reading, Watford Junction, or Woking Stations. Fares range from $10 to $23 for one way travel.

London's Piccadilly subway lines run directly from all terminals at Heathrow into the heart of London. The subways run ever 10 minutes and take approximately an hour to reach London. A number of stops are made along the way. Travelers under the age of 11 travel for free, while adults pay $8 or less.

Airport Shuttles

There are airport shuttles to take passengers to the parking areas. Additionally, there are shuttle buses that will take passengers to their hotel. Shuttles to the garages are free. The hotel shuttles may charge a fee depending on the hotel involved.

Limousine Services

Limousine transportation is available through a number of private companies. Passengers should look online for the best rates. The limousine companies need to know arrival and/or departure times so that they can plan accordingly. Most limousine companies offer Mercedes as their smallest car (three passengers) for a rate of $130 per trip. Larger limousines can hold up to six people and cost $190 per trip. This is an expensive, yet glamorous, way to travel.

Taxi Services

Passengers should be cautious of taxi drivers who approach them in the airport. All of Heathrow's taxi drivers must be licensed by the city of London. Some unscrupulous, unlicensed drivers do try to persuade passengers to ride with them. They will charge far more than is legal. Licensed drivers are parked outside each terminal. A trip into London will cost around $100 to $120 and takes approximately one hour's time. Passengers should agree on a fare in advance to get the best rate. Licensed drivers will secure payment up front to keep from getting stiffed. Tipping is handled after the ride ends.