How to Get to Heathrow Airport from London: Best Transfer Options and Prices

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Planning a trip to or from London and need to figure out the best way to get to Heathrow Airport? Whether you’re heading off on holiday, catching a long-haul flight, or connecting to a flight from Heathrow to Madrid, your airport transfer shouldn’t be a source of stress.

Heathrow might only be 16 miles west of central London, but with London’s busy streets, packed Tube lines, and multiple transport options, choosing the right transfer can be confusing. Should you take the Tube for the cheapest ride? Hop on the Heathrow Express to save time? Or book a private taxi for door-to-door comfort?

In this guide, I’ll break down all the best ways to get to Heathrow from London (including prices, travel times, pros and cons) so you can pick the option that suits you best. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a family with kids and luggage, or flying on a tight schedule, you’ll find practical tips and real-world advice to help you plan the perfect transfer from London to Heathrow Airport.

Let’s get started.

Getting from London to Heathrow: What Are Your Options?

So, you’re heading to Heathrow Airport and wondering how to get there from central London without stress, without spending a fortune and ideally without wrestling your suitcase through a maze of escalators? Good news: you’ve got plenty of options! From fast trains to budget buses, taxis, and even the Tube, there’s a transfer method for every type of traveler.

Let’s set the scene. Heathrow is the busiest airport in the UK, and one of the world’s biggest international hubs. Located just 16 miles (around 25 kilometers) west of central London, it’s surprisingly well connected. Whether you’re catching an early flight, arriving late, or somewhere in between, you’ve got solid choices for getting there..

Just booked a flight to Madrid or another destination from Heathrow? Then this guide is exactly what you need to figure out how to get to the airport on time, without stress and without breaking the bank.

Here’s a quick overview of your options:

• The London Underground (Piccadilly Line) – the cheapest way to get there, ideal if you’re on a tight budget and travelling light.
• The Elizabeth Line – a newer, faster, and comfier train alternative.
• Heathrow Express – the fastest of all options (only 15 minutes to Paddington) but also the priciest.
• Coaches and buses (like National Express or Megabus) – great value, especially with large luggage, but travel time can vary with traffic.
• Black cabs and pre-booked taxis – door-to-door convenience, perfect with heavy bags or in a rush, but definitely not the cheapest.
• Uber and other ride-hailing apps – flexible and on-demand, but watch out for price surges.
• Hotel shuttles and local bus-train combos – good for nearby stays or if you’re feeling adventurous.

In the next sections, we’ll break down each option with real prices, travel times, and insider tips so you can make the best choice based on your time, budget, and travel style.

Let’s kick things off with the most budget-friendly choice London airport transfer option : the London Underground.

1. Tube (London Underground): Cheapest Option to get to Heathrow Airport from London

If you’re looking for the most affordable way to get from London to Heathrow Airport, the Piccadilly Line of the London Underground is your best bet. It’s part of the city’s iconic Tube network and takes you directly to all Heathrow terminals without the need to change trains.

Where does it run?

The Piccadilly Line is the dark blue line on the Tube map. It connects Heathrow with central London stops like:

• Hammersmith
• Gloucester Road
• South Kensington
• Hyde Park Corner
• Green Park
• Piccadilly Circus
• Leicester Square
• Covent Garden
• Holborn
• King’s Cross St. Pancras

So if you’re staying somewhere central, chances are the Tube will get you quite close to your accommodation.

Schedule & Travel Time

• Operating hours: From around 5:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. daily.
• On Friday and Saturday nights, the Tube runs overnight from Terminals 2, 3, and 5.
• Travel time:
  • From Terminal 5 to Piccadilly Circus: ~50 minutes
  • To King’s Cross St. Pancras: around one hour

Keep in mind that rush hours (especially in the morning and late afternoon) can mean crowded trains and not much space for luggage.

How much does it cost?

• Contactless/Oyster card fare to Zone 1 (e.g. Piccadilly Circus, King’s Cross):
  £5.60 per person
• Paper ticket at the station: Around £6.70
• If you’re travelling outside Zone 1 (for example to Hammersmith – Zone 2): £3.40 (off-peak) or £2.10 (peak times)

Kids under 11 years old travel for free with a fare-paying adult. Great for families!

How to pay

You’ve got several easy options:

• Contactless payment card (just tap in and out)
• Oyster card (prepaid transport card for London, available at the station for £7)
• Paper tickets (buy at machines or kiosks at any station)

⚠️ Don’t forget to tap in and out at the start and end of your journey — even if there are no barriers. If you forget, the system will charge you for the maximum fare.

✅ Pros

• Super cheap compared to other options
• Frequent departures : trains every few minutes
• Direct access to all terminals (2, 3, 4, 5)
• Great for travellers staying near a Tube station

❌ Cons

• Long journey time if you’re heading to East London or beyond
• Not much space for luggage, especially during peak hours
• Can feel overwhelming for first-time visitors to London

Good to know

You can plan your route using the TfL Journey Planner online or download the TfL Go app for real-time updates. Also, since Heathrow is the first stop on the line, you’re likely to get a seat. Enjoy it while it lasts!

2. Elizabeth Line: Fast, Comfortable & Good Value to transfer to Heathrow Airport

Looking for something faster than the Tube, but not quite as expensive as the Heathrow Express? The Elizabeth Line might be your perfect match. This is one of the newest additions to London’s public transport network, and it offers a great balance between speed, comfort and price.

What is the Elizabeth Line?

The Elizabeth Line opened in 2022 and connects Heathrow Airport directly to central and east London. Think of it as a modern cross between a commuter train and the Tube: it’s fully integrated into the Transport for London (TfL) system, but the trains are roomier, air-conditioned, and have Wi-Fi on board.

Where does it go?

The line runs between Heathrow Terminals 2, 3, 4 and 5 and key central London stations like:

• Paddington
• Bond Street
• Tottenham Court Road
• Farringdon
• Liverpool Street
• Canary Wharf
• Abbey Wood (in southeast London)

Heads-up: There are no direct services between Terminal 5 and Canary Wharf. You’ll need to change at Paddington or Terminal 4 for those connections.

Schedule & Travel Time

Trains run roughly every 15 minutes, but timings can vary by terminal and day of the week.

• First trains: Between 5:15 and 6:05 a.m.
• Last trains: Between 11:46 p.m. and 12:13 a.m.

Travel time examples:

• Terminal 5 to Paddington: around 35 minutes
• Terminals 2 and 3 to Liverpool Street: around 45 minutes

Check TfL’s website or app for live schedules and terminal-specific departures.

How much does it cost?

The price depends on your destination and how you pay:

• Contactless or Oyster fares:
  • Terminal 5 to Paddington: £12.20
  • Terminals 2 and 3 to Liverpool Street: £13.30
    
• Paper ticket (bought at the station): slightly more expensive. For example, a recent off-peak ticket from Liverpool Street to Heathrow cost £14.30.

As usual, children under 11 can travel free with a fare-paying adult.

✅ Pros

• Faster than the Tube but cheaper than the Heathrow Express
• Direct trains to central London, including business hubs like Canary Wharf
• Comfortable, modern carriages with Wi-Fi and air-conditioning
• Fully integrated into the TfL system, so you can use your Oyster or contactless card

❌ Cons

• Slightly more expensive than the Tube
• No direct connection from Terminal 5 to Canary Wharf during most hours
• Not quite as fast as the Heathrow Express

Good to know

The Elizabeth Line is a great choice if you’re staying in east or central London, or if you want a more relaxed ride into the city. It’s especially handy for business travelers heading to Liverpool Street or Canary Wharf.

And if you’re coming from central London to catch a flight at Heathrow, the Elizabeth Line is a reliable way to avoid traffic delays and still arrive on time.

3. Heathrow Express: Fastest Option to Paddington Station

If you’re in a hurry or just want the smoothest, fastest ride from London to Heathrow, the Heathrow Express is hard to beat. It’s a non-stop train that gets you from the airport to Paddington Station in just 15 minutes.

Yes, it’s the most expensive option, but sometimes time is more valuable than money — especially if your flight is early, you’re travelling for business, or you just want a stress-free start.

What is the Heathrow Express?

The Heathrow Express is a dedicated high-speed train service that runs between Heathrow Terminals 2, 3 and 5 and London Paddington. If you arrive at Terminal 4, there’s a free shuttle train that connects you to the main Heathrow Central station (Terminals 2 and 3), where the Express departs.

Trains are modern, with comfortable seating, power outlets, luggage racks and even Business First carriages if you want a little extra space.

Schedule & Travel Time

• Frequency: Every 15 minutes
• Operating hours: Around 5:00 a.m. to midnight
• Journey time:
  • From Terminals 2 and 3 to Paddington: 15 minutes
  • From Terminal 5 to Paddington: 20 minutes

This is the fastest way to reach central London from Heathrow — no stops, no traffic, no stress.

How much does it cost?

The Heathrow Express is fast, but not cheap. Here’s what you can expect:

• Standard adult fare:
  • One-way: £25.00 if bought on the day
  • Advance booking: from £16.50 with a National Railcard or early purchase
• Return ticket: From £37.00 if bought online
• Business First ticket: From £32.00 (comes with wider seats and fast-track airport security)
• Kids under 15: Travel free with a fare-paying adult

You can find occasional promo codes or vouchers online, so it’s worth checking before you book.

✅ Pros

• Fastest option from Heathrow to central London
• Runs every 15 minutes, super reliable
• Comfortable trains with plenty of space for luggage
• Direct to Paddington — perfect for onward travel via other rail lines or the Elizabeth Line

❌ Cons

• Most expensive public transport option to Heathrow
• Only goes to Paddington, so you’ll need a second ride if your hotel is elsewhere
• Business First extras might not be worth it for a 15-minute ride

Good to know

If you’re travelling with lots of luggage, this is a great way to avoid the stairs, crowds and hassle of the Tube. And if you’re heading to destinations in west or northwest London, Paddington is a handy hub.

Planning a return trip within a month? A flexible return ticket might save you money compared to two singles. And for frequent flyers, Heathrow Express carnets (like 6 tickets for £109.80) offer better value.

4. Coach to Heathrow Airport: Budget-Friendly for Longer Trips

If you’ve got time to spare and want to save money, travelling by coach to Heathrow Airport can be a great option, especially if you’re coming from Victoria Station or other key hubs. It’s not the fastest route, but it’s one of the most budget-friendly, especially for travellers with heavy luggage or those heading to Heathrow from other cities in the UK.

Which companies run to Heathrow?

The two main coach operators offering direct airport services are:

• National Express
• Megabus

Both companies serve multiple Heathrow terminals and connect with London Victoria Coach Station, one of the biggest transport hubs in the city.

Coaches depart from:

• Heathrow Central Bus Station (between Terminals 2 and 3)
• Terminal 5 (Arrivals level, stops 13, 14, and 15)
• If you’re at Terminal 4, you’ll need to take the free shuttle to the central station

Schedule & Travel Time

• National Express: Coaches run throughout the day with a break between 1:00 and 3:45 a.m.
• Megabus: Runs less frequently but usually operates during the daytime

Travel time depends a lot on traffic and time of day:

• From Terminals 2 or 3 to Victoria Coach Station:
  • National Express: 55 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Megabus: 45 to 55 minutes
• From Terminal 5: Travel time can be 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 35 minutes

Always allow extra time during rush hour.

How much does it cost?

• National Express: One-way tickets start from £6.00
• Megabus: Single journeys from around £8.00

Prices vary depending on how early you book and whether it’s peak or off-peak.

What about luggage?

Coaches are great for travellers with big suitcases or multiple bags. They have under-carriage storage and more generous baggage policies than most city transport. Just make sure to check each company’s exact limits.

For reference:

• National Express luggage policy: Up to 2 medium suitcases (20kg each) + 1 small item of hand luggage
• Megabus: 1 suitcase (20kg) + 1 piece of hand luggage

✅ Pros

• Very affordable, especially for solo travellers or students
• Plenty of space for large luggage
• Direct to the airport with no changes
• Good option for off-peak or early/late travel

❌ Cons

• Slower than trains or the Tube, especially during rush hour
• Less frequent than public transport, so you’ll need to plan ahead
• Traffic conditions can delay your arrival

Good to know

Coaches are also the only scheduled public transport option that runs directly between Heathrow and Gatwick airports. So if you’re transferring between flights, this is your best bet.

Also, if your flight is very early and the Tube or trains haven’t started yet, coaches can be a reliable alternative, especially since some services begin as early as 4:50 a.m.

5. Taxi and Private Transfers: Comfort & Convenience

If your priority is door-to-door comfort, taking a taxi or private transfer from London to Heathrow is one of the easiest options. No connections, no navigating platforms, no dragging your suitcase up Tube station stairs. Just get in, sit back, and let someone else handle the driving.

That said, this convenience comes at a price. It’s one of the most expensive ways to get to the airport but depending on your situation, it might be worth it.

What types of taxis are available?

You’ve got several choices:

• Black cabs : London’s iconic taxis, available at designated ranks at each terminal
• Pre-booked private transfers : companies like Addison Lee or WeKnow
• Hotel or chauffeur services : often arranged in advance with fixed pricing

For black cabs, you simply head to the official taxi rank outside the terminal. For private transfers, drivers usually meet you with a name sign in the arrivals area or give you a clear pickup point.

How long does the journey take?

Taxi travel times depend entirely on traffic and your starting point, but here are some averages:

• From central London to Heathrow: around 50 to 60 minutes
• From Paddington to Terminal 5: approximately 50 minutes, though it can be longer during peak hours

Always leave yourself extra time, especially if you’re travelling during the morning or evening rush.

How much does it cost?

Here’s a general idea of what to expect for one-way fares:

• Black cab:
  • Prices range from £52 to £97, depending on distance and traffic
  • The meter starts running when the journey begins
  • You can pay by card or cash
    
• WeKnow private car:
  • Fixed rates from around £70 to £94
  • Add a meet-and-greet service for £9.99 if needed
    
• Addison Lee:
  • Prices typically range from £94 to £122, depending on the vehicle and extras
  • Includes meet-and-greet and flight tracking

Most of these services offer online booking, price calculators, and options for larger vehicles if you’re travelling in a group or with lots of luggage.

✅ Pros

• Completely hassle-free: no need to carry luggage on and off public transport
• Direct from your hotel or home to the right terminal
• Great if you’re travelling with kids, elderly relatives or lots of bags
• 24/7 availability, even during off-hours or train strikes

❌ Cons

• One of the most expensive options
• Travel time can be unpredictable due to traffic
• Not ideal for solo travellers on a tight budget

Good to know

If you’re using a private service, make sure to provide your flight number during booking. Drivers can then adjust pickup times based on real-time flight data. A huge relief if your flight gets delayed.

Also, never accept offers from unofficial taxi drivers inside the terminal. Stick to licensed providers only, either via booking apps or the official taxi rank.

6. Uber and Ride-Hailing Apps: On-Demand Flexibility to transfer to Heathrow from London

If you prefer booking a ride with your phone and avoiding the hassle of public transport or waiting in a taxi queue, Uber and other ride-hailing apps offer a flexible and easy way to transfer from London to Heathrow Airport.

It might not be the cheapest or fastest option, but it’s definitely one of the most convenient especially if you’re travelling during hours when public transport is limited.

Where do Ubers pick up at Heathrow?

Each Heathrow terminal has its own designated pickup point for ride-hailing services. When you book your ride in the app, it will show you the exact location. But here’s a general guide:

• Terminal 2: Level 1, Short Stay Car Park, Row Q
• Terminal 3: Level 3, Short Stay Car Park, Row A
• Terminal 4: Level 2, Short Stay Parking, Central Isle
• Terminal 5: Level 1, Short Stay Car Park, Row A or F

Make sure you follow the app instructions carefully — Heathrow is big, and finding the right level or row is key.

How long does it take?

Travel time depends entirely on where you’re starting from and the current traffic. On a good day:

• From central London (like Piccadilly Circus or Paddington): around 50 to 60 minutes
• But during rush hour, it could easily stretch to 1 hour 30 minutes or more

Apps like Uber show live ETAs and pricing, which helps with planning — but don’t cut it too close if you have a flight to catch.

How much does it cost?

Fares vary based on demand, time of day, and vehicle type. Here are some sample prices for a standard UberX ride:

• Terminal 5 to Paddington: around £59
• Terminal 5 to Piccadilly Circus: around £63
• Larger vehicles or premium options (Uber Comfort or Uber Lux): more expensive

Also keep in mind:

• Prices can surge during peak times, weekends, or bad weather
• Tips are optional but not included
• If you’re travelling with more than 3 passengers and luggage, you may need to book UberXL or split into two cars

✅ Pros

• Easy to book via app. No phone calls or guessing prices
• Pick-up and drop-off anywhere you like
• Great for early morning or late-night transfers
• No cash needed, everything is handled in the app

❌ Cons

• Prices can fluctuate wildly, especially at busy times
• Travel time is not reliable if traffic is heavy
• May require walking to a specific pick-up point at the airport
• Larger vehicles can cost significantly more

Good to know

Uber isn’t the only app available. Bolt, Gett, and Free Now also operate in London and sometimes offer cheaper fares or discounts. If you’re already using these apps at home, check them out as alternatives.

One last tip: if you’re travelling during major events, strikes or holidays, prices may spike or availability may drop. In that case, it’s smart to pre-book a ride the day before or consider switching to the Elizabeth Line or Heathrow Express.

7. Other Ways to Reach Heathrow from London

Not a fan of the main transport options? No problem. There are a few alternative ways to reach Heathrow Airport that might work better depending on where you’re staying, your flight time, or how adventurous you’re feeling.

These routes can be the cheapest, but they do require a bit more time and flexibility.

Local bus + train combo: the budget traveller’s hack

If you’re travelling light and want to save every pound, you can combine a London bus and a suburban train to get to Heathrow. It’s not the fastest route, but it can cost less than £10 total.

Here’s one example:

1. Take bus 285 from Heathrow Central Bus Station to Feltham train station
   • The bus ride takes around 30 to 40 minutes
   • Bus fare: £1.75 (with Oyster or contactless)
2. From Feltham, hop on a train to Waterloo station, via Clapham Junction
   • Train takes about 30 to 45 minutes
   • Ticket prices start from £8.60, depending on time and availability

This route is definitely longer and less direct, but it’s often less crowded and might be ideal if you’re already staying near Feltham or southwest London.

N9 Night Bus: for late-night flyers

Catching a very early or very late flight and can’t find a train or Tube? The N9 night bus is your friend.

• Runs from Trafalgar Square to Heathrow Airport
• Operates between 11:45 p.m. and 4:45 a.m.
• Buses every 30 minutes
• Travel time: up to 85 minutes, depending on traffic
• Standard fare: £1.75, with unlimited transfers within one hour if using Oyster or contactless

It’s a bit slow and not the comfiest ride, but it gets the job done — especially if your hotel is in central London and you’re travelling during Tube downtime.

Hotel shuttles (Hotel Hoppa)

If you’re staying near Heathrow, many airport hotels offer a shuttle bus service to the terminals. The most well-known is the Hotel Hoppa.

• Runs between major Heathrow hotels and terminals
• One-way fare: around £6.80
• Can be booked at hotel reception or in advance online
• Good for early flights if you’re already staying near the airport

It’s not suitable for getting from central London to Heathrow, but it’s perfect if you’re staying nearby and don’t want to mess with a taxi.

Which Transfer Option from Heathrow Airport to London is Best for You?

Now that you’ve seen all the ways to get from London to Heathrow, you might be wondering: which option is actually the best for you?

Well, that depends on a few things : your budget, how much time you’ve got, how many bags you’re carrying, and what kind of travel experience you’re after.

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide.

Summary Table: London to Heathrow Transfer Options

Tip: Always check for traffic and service updates on the TfL website or app before you travel — especially if you’re relying on public transport.

Recommendations by Travel Type

Here’s how to match the best Heathrow transfer with your travel style:

For budget travellers and backpackers

• Take the Tube or combine a bus + train.
• Avoid rush hours if you have luggage.
• Night bus (N9) is a lifesaver for red-eye flights.

For families with kids or lots of luggage

• Go for a private taxi or pre-booked car.
• You’ll avoid stairs, transfers, and last-minute stress.

For business travellers and short stays

• Time is money? The Heathrow Express is the fastest.
• Or pick the Elizabeth Line for a balance of speed and value.

For comfort and zero stress

• Book a private transfer that picks you up at your door.
• Perfect if you’re new to London or just want everything sorted.

For travellers staying in East London

• The Elizabeth Line is your friend — direct to Canary Wharf, Liverpool Street, and beyond.

Final Tips for a Smooth Transfer to Heathrow from London City

No matter which option you choose, a little preparation can save you time, money, and stress on the way to Heathrow Airport. Here are some essential tips to make your journey as smooth as possible.

Use Contactless or Oyster Cards

In London, contactless payment is king. Whether you use a debit or credit card, a smartphone wallet (like Apple Pay or Google Pay), or an Oyster card, you’ll often get cheaper fares compared to buying paper tickets.

For example:

• A Tube ride from Heathrow to central London costs £5.60 with contactless or Oyster, compared to £6.70 with a paper ticket.
• You can also set a daily cap, so after a certain number of trips, you travel for free the rest of the day.

Tip: If you’re visiting London for a few days, consider a Visitor Oyster Card or Travelcard, which you can order online before your trip.

Allow Extra Time

Heathrow is one of the busiest airports in the world. Security lines, check-in queues, and potential delays on your transfer can easily eat into your schedule.

• For international flights, aim to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure.
• If you’re travelling during rush hour (7:00–9:00 a.m. or 5:00–7:00 p.m.), add at least 30 extra minutes to your journey time.
• Trains like the Heathrow Express are punctual, but buses and taxis can be delayed due to traffic.

Travel Light If Possible

Carrying heavy luggage on the Tube or Elizabeth Line during peak times is not fun. If you have multiple suitcases, consider:

• Booking a taxi or Uber for a door-to-door ride.
• Using the Heathrow Express, which has dedicated luggage racks.

Check Live Updates

Before you set off, check:

• TfL’s website or TfL Go app for Tube and Elizabeth Line status.
• National Express or Megabus apps for coach schedules.
• Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time journey planning.

This will help you avoid unexpected closures or delays, which are not uncommon in London.

Avoid Rush Hour When You Can

London traffic can be brutal. A journey from Paddington to Heathrow in a taxi can take 50 minutes in light traffic, but over 90 minutes during peak times. If possible, travel outside these hours or choose the Tube or Heathrow Express to skip traffic altogether.

Pre-Book When It Makes Sense

For taxis, private transfers, or coaches, booking in advance can:

• Guarantee a seat or vehicle.
• Save you money (early-bird coach fares are often cheaper).
• Give you peace of mind, especially if you’re travelling with family or at odd hours.