London Heathrow Review

London’s Heathrow International Airport (LHR) is the top airport in the United Kingdom and a major international travel hub. Located in west London’s Hillingdon borough, this major airport is the third busiest in the world.

Heathrow Airport is a hub for both BMI and British Airways and, in all, there are over 80 airlines flying to 170 destinations. As a major international hub, Heathrow is well equipped to handle a large number of travellers, some of whom often catch flights just a few hours after booking. The airport functions well as a hub and things happen quickly and efficiently, giving the airport a high rating in customer satisfaction.

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For those flying in to visit the city of London, the airport is very well connected to public transport via the rail system and getting around upon arriving in town is quite easy, though may take some time as the airport is located a way out of the city. Keep in mind when flying into London that the city has a few different major airports serving the city and you will want to make certain you are flying into the correct one. They are not located in close proximity to each other and getting from one airport to another between flight times can be a stressful proposition. Luckily, if you plan ahead and figure out the easy-to-use rail system to get where you are trying to go, you should be just fine.

flickr image by garybembridge

London is a city that is a massive destination itself and many travellers coming into the city come in right here at London’s Heathrow Airport. This is a city that has such a rich history and so many important sights that travellers come from around the world to explore. Transportation here is abundant and there are a wide variety of options available to get you where you are looking to go.

If you are a budget-conscious traveller, keep in mind that things here can be rather expensive. There are some huge bonuses to planning your layover here as well, as this is an airport that is very well prepared to deal with budget travellers who may be only spending the night here. With large stalled bathrooms and public showers available, it is not a bad place to be caught between delays or connecting flights. Small sleeping rooms are also available at the airport for about 30% of the price of an hotel room. This is a great option for those looking to save on their travel costs, but not have to sleep in an airport lobby while waiting for their next flight.

If there is one downside to London’s Heathrow Airport, it would be the fact that it can be pretty busy and chaotic when you are outside of the security clearance areas. There is not enough seating to accommodate the large number of travellers who arrive at the airport too early and cannot yet pass security and check-in their baggage. There are, however, many bars and cafés to kill some time in, but, again, bear in mind that it can be rather expensive and the offerings here may not be culinary masterpieces.

This is a great airport to get to a huge variety of different locations around the world. Travellers looking for the cheapest flights in the region and internationally should look at catching a low cost flight into London Heathrow and then finding a great rate on an international flight. Even though this is an airport that services flights to a huge number of international destinations, the customs and immigration queues seem to move quickly. However, in the high tourist season, things can get a bit backed up and planning enough time between flights is a good idea.

Overall, London’s Heathrow Airport fails to disappoint in almost every category. While it can be a bit uncomfortable if you arrive too soon here, everything else in the airport is run rather efficiently and your experience here will likely be a good one. Plan accordingly for travel into the city and make your reservations ahead of time and your next trip into London will be a memorable experience for all the right reasons.