Best Heathrow Airport Transfers Options in 2023
As an experienced London traveler and Heathrow Airport aficionado, I've researched every possible ground transportation option for getting to and from LHR.
Whether you prioritize affordable fares, convenience, speed, luggage capacity, or something else, I've got you covered with insider knowledge on all the best Heathrow airport transfers.
This definitive guide compares taxis, Uber, trains, coaches, and more to help you choose the perfect option for your needs.
Overview of Transportation Options From Heathrow
Heathrow Airport offers abundant ground transportation choices into London and beyond. Here's a quick overview of the main options available:
- London Underground (Tube) -
- Direct underground metro access on the Piccadilly Line from Heathrow Terminal 2, 3, 4 and 5. Trains to central London are available.
- Elizabeth Line -
- New purple line train service connecting Heathrow's terminals to central London stops like Paddington, Tottenham Court Rd, and Liverpool Street.
- Heathrow Express -
- Quick, direct train from Heathrow to Paddington Station in just 15 minutes.
- Taxi/Minicab -
- Metered black cabs or pre-booked minicabs offering door-to-door Heathrow Airport taxi service.
- Uber/Rideshare -
- On-demand car service is ordered through the mobile app with pricing based on demand.
- Coach -
- National Express and other buses go between Heathrow and London's Victoria Coach Station.
- Private Transfer -
- Pre-arranged luxury car or minibus service for ultimate comfort and convenience.
With so many transportation choices, it can be tricky to decide what's best for your particular situation. This comprehensive guide examines the key factors travelers should consider when booking Heathrow transfers:
- Fares & cost comparison
- Travel time to central London
- Frequency & availability
- Luggage accommodation
- Crowding & privacy
Read on for details on each Heathrow Airport transfer option along with my tips and recommendations for every type of traveler.
London Underground (Tube) from Heathrow
London's extensive Underground metro system known as "the Tube" provides direct public transit access from Heathrow Airport into central London.
The Piccadilly Line serves Heathrow Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5 with regular trains running to key London City stations like Green Park, Hyde Park Corner, Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square, and more.
Here's an overview of key details for using the London Underground train from Heathrow:
Cost:
- £5.60-£7 for a single journey using an Oyster card or contactless payment
- £6.70+ for paper tickets purchased at a kiosk or ticket machine
Travel Time to Central London:
- Approximately 50 minutes to Piccadilly Circus from Terminal 5
- 60 minutes to King's Cross St Pancras from Terminal 5
Frequency:
- Trains every 2-15 minutes depending on the time of day
- Service from 5 a.m. to after midnight daily
Key Stops & Connections:
- Direct connections to Jubilee, Victoria Lines, and Elizabeth Line
- Hammersmith, Earl's Court, Gloucester Road, South Kensington, Green Park, Hyde Park Corner, Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square
Luggage Allowance:
- No luggage size or weight restrictions but limited space
- Stairs to access platforms - can be difficult with large bags
Boarding Procedure:
- Purchase an Oyster card or paper ticket at the station
- Tap-in at Oyster card reader at entry gates
- Follow signs for the correct platform to board the Tube train
Key Tips & Advice:
- Avoid during morning and evening rush hour if possible
- Take the Airport line from Heathrow terminals for direct service
- Keep bags close on crowded trains
The London Underground offers an affordable way to reach central London and other areas across the city. However, it can be challenging to navigate stairs and crowded trains with lots of luggage.
I recommend the Tube from Heathrow for budget travelers without much baggage traveling outside of peak commuting times.
This Stansted Airport transportation article has budget London airport transportation options.
Elizabeth Line from Heathrow
The new Elizabeth Line opened in 2022 provides direct train service from Heathrow Airport into central London.
Purple Elizabeth line trains run from Heathrow Terminals 2,3,4 and 5 to stops like Paddington, Tottenham Court Road, Farringdon, and Liverpool Street.
Here are the key details travelers should know about taking the Elizabeth Line from Heathrow:
Cost:
- £12.80 for Heathrow to Zone 1 using Oyster card or contactless
- £14.30+ for the paper ticket purchased at the station machine
Travel Time to Central London:
- 35 minutes from Terminal 5 to Paddington
- 45 minutes from Terminals 2&3 to Liverpool Street
Frequency:
- Trains every 5-15 minutes depending on the time
- Service from 5 a.m. to nearly midnight daily
Key Stops & Connections:
- Paddington - Bakerloo Line, Circle Line, District Line, Elizabeth line
- Tottenham Court Road - Central line, Northern line
- Farringdon - Circle line, Elizabeth line, Metropolitan line
Luggage Allowance:
- Dedicated luggage areas available on trains
- No luggage size or weight restrictions
Boarding Procedure:
- Purchase an Oyster or paper ticket at the terminal station
- Tap in on the Oyster reader at the platform entry gates
- Board Elizabeth line train on the correct platform
Key Tips & Advice:
- Avoid during peak commuting times if possible
- Spacious, new trains with WiFi & charging ports
- Connect at Paddington for quick access to the West End
The Elizabeth Line offers a fast, direct connection into central London from Heathrow Airport. Trains are new and spacious with designated luggage areas available.
I suggest the Elizabeth line for travelers who want quick, easy Heathrow transfers without the hassle of transfers. It strikes a nice balance of affordability and efficiency.
Heathrow Express Train
Heathrow Express provides direct train service from Heathrow Airport to Paddington Station in central London. It's the quickest Heathrow transfer option.
Special Heathrow Express trains connect Terminals 2, 3, and 5 to Paddington in just 15 or 20 minutes depending on the terminal.
Here's an overview of key details about the Heathrow Express train:
Cost:
- £25 standard one-way fare
- £37 open return valid within 1 month
Travel Time to Central London:
- 15 minutes from Terminal 5
- 20 minutes from Terminals 2 & 3
Frequency:
- Trains every 15 minutes
- Service from 5am to 11:45pm daily
Key Stops:
- Direct trains to Paddington Station only
- Connect to Bakerloo, Circle, District, and Elizabeth lines
Luggage Allowance:
- Overhead luggage racks
- Dedicated luggage storage areas
Boarding Procedure:
- Purchase tickets at self-service kiosks
- Present ticket at entry gates
- Board Heathrow Express platform
Key Tips & Advice:
- First departures before 6am weekdays
- Avoid peak commuting times when possible
- Pre-book tickets online for the lowest fares
With its speed and reliability, Heathrow Express is the best option for travelers who want to maximize efficiency. However, standard fares are more expensive than other rail options from Heathrow to London.
I suggest Heathrow Express for business travelers or other passengers needing the absolute quickest transfer time.
Taxi and minicab from Heathrow
Black cab taxis can be hired from designated ranks located outside each Heathrow Airport terminal. Pre-booking a licensed minicab in advance also provides a private airport transfer service.
Taxis and minicabs offer door-to-door transportation with assistance available for loading luggage. Here are key details on booking Heathrow taxis and minicab transfers:
Cost:
- Black cab: Heathrow to London from £52-£100+ based on metered fare
- Minicab: Around £70-£100+ for Heathrow to London pre-booked transfer
Travel Time to Central London:
- Approximately 50-75 minutes depending on the traffic
- Allow extra time during rush hours
Availability:
- Black cabs available on-demand 24/7 at taxi ranks
- Minicabs by pre-booking only, book at least 6 hours ahead
Luggage Assistance:
- Licensed taxi and minicab drivers assist with luggage
- Medium to large vehicles can accommodate substantial baggage
Booking Procedure:
- Black cabs: Proceed to the designated taxi rank and queue
- Minicabs: Book online or by phone app at least 6 hours before the required pickup time
Key Tips & Advice:
- Negotiate fare for a black cab before getting in if no meter
- Pre-book minicab to guarantee vehicle availability
- Confirm vehicle plate number and driver name/photo during the booking
Taxis and minicabs provide private, flexible Heathrow transfers with luggage assistance. However, standard fares are expensive compared to trains and coaches.
I suggest booking black cabs or minicabs from Heathrow if you have lots of luggage and want to maximize convenience.
Uber & Rideshare from Heathrow
On-demand mobile rideshare apps like Uber offer another airport transfer option from Heathrow.
After reserving a car through the Uber app, drivers will pick up passengers on arrival outside each terminal for door-to-door service.
Here are important details for Uber and rideshares from Heathrow Airport:
Cost:
- £55-£70+ for UberX depending on demand
- Surge pricing results in higher fares during peak times
- Fare estimate provided in the app beforehand
Travel Time to Central London:
- Approximately 50-75 minutes variable depending on traffic
- Allow extra time during high-traffic
Availability:
- Cars are available on-demand 24/7 after booking through the app
- Wait times variable depending on driver supply
Luggage Assistance:
- Drivers assist with loading luggage in vehicles
- Cars accommodate luggage based on vehicle size
Booking Procedure:
- Download the Uber app and set up an account
- Input Heathrow pickup & London dropoff locations
- Select vehicle type and book a ride
Key Tips & Advice:
- Avoid booking during surge pricing periods when rates spike
- Check driver rating and details before confirming the Uber
- Message the driver with any special pickup info or details
Uber offers the convenience of pre-arranged rides with pricing dependent on demand. But fares often exceed train and coach options for Heathrow transfers.
I suggest Uber for travelers who want private, timely airport transfers and aren't as price-sensitive.
Coach from Heathrow Airport
Public buses and coaches like National Express provide a very affordable option for getting to and from Heathrow, although journey times are longer.
Coaches connect Heathrow Central Bus Station to London's primary Victoria Coach Station where passengers can access the London Underground to continue journeys.
Important details for taking coaches to and from Heathrow Airport:
Cost:
- National Express: £6-£15 per person
- Megabus: £8+ per person
Travel Time to Central London:
- Approximately 60-90 minutes depending on the traffic
Frequency:
- Buses every 30-60 minutes generally
- Reduced schedules overnight
Key Stops:
- Heathrow Central Bus Station
- Victoria Coach Station
- Some stops in West London if pre-booked
Luggage Allowance:
- Luggage compartment available for large bags
- Restrictions may apply for oversize items
Boarding Procedure:
- Purchase tickets online or at the terminal
- Arrive at the bus terminal 20 minutes before departure
- Check luggage and present ticket before boarding
Key Tips & Advice:
- Buy tickets in advance online for the lowest fares
- Allow plenty of connection time after arriving at Victoria
- Keep valuables with you - avoid checking bags if possible
Coaches like National Express provide very affordable Heathrow transfers, but the tradeoff is journey times 60% or longer than trains.
I suggest coaches for budget travelers who don't mind indirect routes and extended transit times to save money.
Private Car or Minibus Airport Transfer
For ultimate luxury and convenience, private car services and minibusses are available for bespoke Heathrow transfers.
Chauffeured vehicles ranging from standard saloons to Mercedes S-Class and VIP minibusses can be booked for airport pickups and dropoffs.
Here are the key advantages of booking private Heathrow airport transfers:
Cost:
- £100+ for a saloon car
- £250+ for luxury vehicles and minibuses
Travel Time to Central London:
- 45-60 minutes typically depending on traffic
Availability:
- Pre-booking required 24-48 hours in advance
- Arrange meet & greet service for arrivals
Luggage Assistance:
- Driver and separate luggage compartment
Booking Procedure:
- Compare companies and vehicles online
- Book the chosen vehicle for the required date/time
- Confirm transfer details and payment
Key Benefits:
- Door-to-door exclusive private transfer
- Expert local drivers provide guided service
- Ideal for large groups requiring extra room
For those seeking first-class travel, private car, and minibus airport transfers offer unmatched levels of service, comfort, and convenience.
I recommend private transfers from Heathrow for large parties or executives requiring luxury transportation and luggage assistance.
Check out this Gatwick Airport transfer guide for transportation information from another major London airport.
Recommendations By Traveler Type
With abundant transportation options, choosing Heathrow transfers depends on your priority factors and travel circumstances. Here are my recommendations for common traveler profiles:
Families with Lots of Luggage
Best Bet: Pre-booked minibus
When you've got piles of luggage plus strollers and kids in tow, booking a private minibus from Heathrow makes airport transfers much less stressful. Door-to-door service means no long walks or stairs, and separate luggage compartments and kid-friendly seating are available. Companies like AirportTransferUK provide family minibusses with up to 30% discounts online.
Business travelers Need Privacy
Suggested Options: Uber or pre-booked minicab
Executives wanting privacy and workspace en route to meetings will appreciate having their own car and driver. Airport transfers by Uber or private minicab allow you to work or relax without disturbances. Pre-arrange rides to avoid waiting in taxi queues on arrival.
Solo Travellers on a Budget
Top Choices: National Express coach or Tube
For budget-conscious travelers who don't require much space, Coaches and the Underground offer the most affordable Heathrow transfers. Avoiding pricey taxis and private cars saves substantially if you're flexible on time. Bring a book or headphones to entertain yourself during longer coach journeys.
Travelers with Early/Late Flights
Best Bet: Uber or pre-booked minicab
When you need to get to Heathrow for pre-dawn flights or arrive late at night when transit shuts down, your best option is booking airport transfers by Uber or minicab. Unlike trains and buses, on-demand rideshares and minicabs provide reliable service 24 hours a day, allowing you to rest assured you'll get to the airport in time.
How to Save Money on Heathrow Transfers
Heathrow transfers don't have to blow your vacation budget. Here are my top tips for getting deals:
- Advance booking - Book trains like Heathrow Express at least a week ahead for lowest fares
- Off-peak travel - Avoid peak commuting times when demand is lower to save on Ubers
- Public transit passes - Get an Oyster card or Travelcard to save on the Tube and Elizabeth line
- Group transfers - Split costs by sharing minicabs and rideshares (up to 4 passengers)
- Public coaches - Opt for National Express or Megabus for bargain fares under £15
- Pre-arranged taxis - Save up to 30% pre-booking Heathrow transfers online
Many travelers can save substantially on London airport transfers through advance planning and some schedule flexibility. Taking a bit more time also nets savings on coaches and public transit.
Read this Luton Airport transfer guide for transportation tips from Heathrow's closest London airport competitor.
Best Way to Book Heathrow Transfers
To save time researching options and get the lowest guaranteed prices on Heathrow airport transfers, I highly recommend using AirportTransfer-UK.co.uk.
This award-winning transport booking service provides instant access to cost comparisons and reservations for licensed London taxis, minibusses, executive cars, and minicab operators near Heathrow.
Here's how AirportTransferUK makes booking affordable Heathrow transfers easy:
- Cost savings - Get up to 30% discounts on pre-booked airport taxis
- Instant quotes - Enter route for real-time fixed fare estimates
- Licensed operators - Large network of reviewed taxi/minicab companies
- 24/7 service - Book any time; customer support available round the clock
- Payment options - Securely pay online or with a driver
- Flight tracking - Monitor arrival delays and re-arrange pickups
AirportTransferUK works with only licensed operators and comes highly recommended by satisfied past travelers.
Booking ahead online locks in exclusive discounted pricing not available on arrival at Heathrow. You can instantly compare fares across vehicle types ranging from standard cars to 8-passenger minibusses.
To find the best Heathrow transfer options for your party and get guaranteed lowest prices, visit AirportTransferUK.co.uk. The easy booking process takes just minutes to complete. They are also offering:
- Gatwick airport taxi
- Luton airport transfer
- Heathrow Airport taxi transfer
- Manchester airport taxi
- London Stansted airport
- London airport transfer
- London City Airport taxi
- Stansted airport transfer
- Southend airport transfer
The Right Heathrow Taxi Transfer For You
With so many transportation choices for getting to and from Heathrow, it can seem overwhelming trying to decide what's best. By understanding the key factors around cost, travel time, luggage needs, and convenience for each option, you can easily select your optimal transfer
FAQs
What are the Heathrow parking options if I'm leaving my car at the airport?
Heathrow Airport offers several long-term and short-term parking lots. You can also find offsite parking from private companies, many of which offer shuttle transfers to the terminals.
How long does it take to get from Heathrow Airport to London Gatwick Airport?
The transit time is around 60-90 minutes between Heathrow and Gatwick airports depending on traffic conditions. You can take trains, buses, minicabs, or rideshares between the two airports.
Where can I find affordable airport parking at Heathrow?
The most budget-friendly Heathrow parking is the Long Stay option located near the M4/M25 interchange. This lot has free shuttle buses to the terminals operating 24 hours.
What public transport options are there from Heathrow Airport to Central London?
The Tube on the Piccadilly Line, Elizabeth Line trains, Heathrow Express, and National Express coaches all provide public transit from Heathrow Airport into Central London.
How do I get from Heathrow Airport to East Midlands Airport?
While there's no direct public transit between Heathrow and East Midlands airports, you can take National Express coaches or book an airport transfer by minicab, Uber, or private car.