How to get from Heathrow Airport into London

Arriving in London with children can be both exciting and daunting. As your family’s adventure begins at Heathrow Airport, one of the world’s busiest international hubs, you’ll want to start your trip on the right foot. Getting from Heathrow to central London doesn’t have to be stressful, even with little ones in tow and luggage to manage. Whether you’re looking for speed, comfort, or budget-friendly options, London offers various transportation choices to suit your family’s needs. This guide will help you navigate the journey from airport to city, ensuring your family’s London experience starts smoothly, setting the stage for the magical memories you’re about to create in one of the world’s most family-friendly capitals.

How far is Heathrow Airport from London?

Heathrow Airport is located approximately 15 miles (24 kilometers) west of central London. The exact distance can vary depending on which part of London you’re traveling to, as the city covers a large area.

What are the different options for getting from Heathrow Airport into London?

There are several options for traveling between Heathrow Airport and London. Each option varies in terms of cost, travel time, and convenience. The best choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and final destination in London. Below we explore the key features of each option.

Heathrow Express: A fast train service running directly from Heathrow to Paddington Station.

The Heathrow Express is a train that runs directly from Heathrow Airport to London Paddington station. Paddington is a major transport hub in central London, offering connections to the Underground, other rail services, and buses.

The journey time from Heathrow Airport to Paddington station is: 

• 15 minutes from Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3 to Paddington
• 21 minutes from Terminal 5 to Paddington
• 23 minutes from Terminal 4 to Paddington (via a free transfer train)

Trains run every 15 minutes for most of the day. The first train from Heathrow Airport is around 5am and the last is around midnight. However, check the timetable for the day you travel.

As at August 2024, Adult single tickets cost £25 with returns being £38.50. Children aged 15 years and under travel for free. Cheaper tickets may be available online in advance, check website for details.

You can either buy a ticket online in advance, buy a ticket from a machine at the station or tap in using Contactless or Oyster (you will be charged for a single journey at the Express Class Standard fare).

The advantages of the Heathrow Express are:

1. Speed: It’s the fastest way to reach central London from Heathrow.
2. Comfort: Trains are modern, spacious, and designed for travellers with luggage.
3. Reliability: Less affected by road traffic compared to taxis or buses.
4. Wi-Fi: Free onboard for all passengers.
5. Convenience: Stations are located within the airport terminals.

The disadvantages of the Heathrow Express are:

1. Cost: It’s one of the more expensive options for airport transfers.
2. Limited destination: It only serves Paddington station directly.
3. Additional travel may be needed: Depending on your final destination in London, you might need to transfer to other transport at Paddington.
4. Operating hours: First and last train times may not suit very early or late flights.

Elizabeth Line: Formerly known as Crossrail, a new high-capacity railway line that connects Heathrow Airport to central London and beyond.

The Elizabeth Line runs from Heathrow through central London to destinations in the east. It serves key central London stations including Paddington, Bond Street, Tottenham Court Road, and Liverpool Street, at these stations passengers at switch to various Tube lines.

The journey time from Heathrow Airport is:

• Approximately 30 minutes to Paddington
• About 40 minutes to Tottenham Court Road
• Around 45 minutes to Liverpool Street

Trains run every 15 minutes during peak hours. The earliest train depends on the day and airport terminal, but will be around between 5-6am and the latest train is between around 11.30pm-12am. Check the timetable for exact train times on the day you travel.

As at August 2024, the cost of travelling from Heathrow Airport to central London is £13.30 per person. Up to four children under 11 travel free with a fare-paying adult. When travelling on the Elizabeth Line, the easiest way to pay is either using an Oyster card or contactless payment card.

The advantages of the Elizabeth Line are:

1. Cost: Cheaper than the Heathrow Express
2. Extended reach: Serves multiple central London stations and continues to east London
3. Integration: Uses the same fares as other TfL services, including daily caps with Oyster or contactless payment
4. Capacity: Trains are spacious and designed to accommodate luggage
5. Accessibility: Step-free access at all stations

Disadvantages:

1. Speed: Slower than the Heathrow Express to Paddington
2. Frequency: Less frequent than the Piccadilly Line during off-peak hours
3. Complexity: The line splits into different branches, which could be confusing for first-time users
4. Operating hours: May not serve very early or late flights

London Underground: aka the Tube, connects Heathrow Airport to central London via the Piccadilly Line.

The Piccadilly Line runs from Heathrow through west London and into the city centre, serving popular areas such as South Kensington, Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square, and King’s Cross St. Pancras. From the Piccadilly Line you can then switch to any of the other Tube lines once in London.

The London Underground is ideal for budget-conscious travellers and those whose destinations are directly on the Piccadilly Line. It’s also good for those who value flexibility, as it offers easy connections to other Tube lines and frequent service. This option is particularly suitable for those with light luggage. Families with young children or lots of baggage might find other options more comfortable.

The journey time from Heathrow Airport is:

• Approximately 50-60 minutes to central London stations
• Times vary depending on your specific destination

Trains run every 5-10 minutes during peak hours. Trains are less frequent outside of peak hours. The earliest train is around 5.20am and the last train is around 11.40pm. Check the timetable for precise times.

As of August 2024, a single fare from Heathrow to central London costs £5.60 when using an Oyster card or contactless payment card (the easiest ways to pay for travel).

Advantages:

1. Cost: The cheapest rail option from Heathrow to central London
2. Extensive network: Connects to the entire London Underground system
3. Frequency: More frequent service than other rail options
4. Familiarity: Easy to use and well-known to most visitors
5. Coverage: Stops at many popular tourist destinations directly

Disadvantages:

1. Speed: Slower than the Heathrow Express or Elizabeth Line
2. Comfort: Can be crowded, especially during peak hours
3. Luggage space: Limited room for large suitcases
4. Stairs/Escalators: Some stations lack step-free access
5. Maintenance: Occasional weekend closures for engineering works

Bus: several bus and coach services connect Heathrow Airport to various destinations in London.

Buses from Heathrow serve multiple locations across London, including Victoria Coach Station, Hammersmith, and other areas not directly covered by rail options. Bus services are ideal for budget-conscious travellers, those heading to areas not directly served by rail, or anyone traveling at odd hours when other services are limited. They’re also good for groups or families who can benefit from group discounts on some services. However, if speed and predictability are your priorities, rail options might be more suitable.

The journey time from Heathrow Airport into London will vary significantly depending on traffic and destination, but will typically be 45-90 minutes to central London locations.

Frequency varies by route and operator. Some services run 24/7, while others have limited schedules.

The main operator, National Express, offers direct services to Victoria Coach Station and Earl’s Court with up to 79 services per day. The first coach leaves from Heathrow Central Bus Station at 1am and the last coach leaves from Heathrow Central Bus Station at 12am. A one-way journey from Heathrow to London costs from £8.40.

Advantages:

1. Cost: Often cheaper than rail options, especially for advance bookings
2. Direct routes: Some services offer direct connections to areas not served by trains
3. Luggage space: Coaches usually have ample space for baggage
4. Comfort: Seats are generally more spacious than on the Tube
5. Scenic route: Opportunity to see parts of London during the journey
6. 24/7 availability: Some services run throughout the night

Disadvantages:

1. Travel time: Usually slower than rail options, especially during peak traffic hours
2. Unpredictability: Journey times can vary greatly due to traffic conditions
3. Less frequent: Services may run less often than train options
4. Complexity: Multiple operators and pickup points can be confusing for first-time visitors
5. Limited stops: Most express services only stop at major destinations

Taxi

Taxis offer a direct, door-to-door service from Heathrow Airport to any destination in London. Taxis are ideal for travellers prioritising convenience and comfort, those with lots of luggage or small children, or anyone arriving at unsociable hours when public transport is limited. They’re also good for those unfamiliar with London or travelling to areas not well-served by public transport. However, budget-conscious travellers or those heading to central London during peak hours might find public transport options more economical and potentially faster.

Types of Taxis:

1. London Black Cabs: Iconic, licensed taxis available at ranks outside each terminal
2. Minicabs: Pre-booked private hire vehicles
3. Ride-hailing services: Apps like Uber operate at Heathrow

Taxis will take you directly to any address in London.

The journey time from Heathrow Airport by taxi is:

• Typically 30-60 minutes to central London (depending on time of journey, final destination and traffic)
• Can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions and specific destination

Taxis provide a 24/7 service.

The cost of a taxi from Heathrow Airport into London will vary. London Black Cabs charge on the basis of a meter and so the fare will depend on the final destination. Fares from Heathrow Airport to London can typically be expected to be between around £61 – £114 but may be higher if there are delays or heavy traffic. Pre-booked minicabs will usually charge a fixed price which will likely be between £100-£150. Ride hailing services such as Uber will vary depending on the time of the ride.

Advantages:

1. Convenience: Door-to-door service with no need to navigate public transport
2. Comfort: Private travel with space for luggage
3. Flexibility: No fixed routes or schedules
4. Accessibility: Good option for those with mobility issues or heavy luggage
5. Local knowledge: Drivers often provide useful information about the city
6. Direct route: No stops or changes required

Disadvantages:

1. Cost: Generally the most expensive option, especially for long journeys
2. Traffic uncertainty: Journey times can be unpredictable due to London’s traffic
3. Limited passenger capacity: Standard taxis typically seat up to 5 passengers
4. Potential for overcharging: Some unlicensed drivers may attempt to overcharge tourists
5. Environmental impact: Less eco-friendly than public transport options

What is the quickest way to get from Heathrow Airport to London?

The quickest way to get from London to Heathrow Airport is typically the Heathrow Express train service, which takes between 15-23 minutes from London Paddington station.

While the Heathrow Express is generally the fastest option, its effectiveness can depend on your starting point in London. If you’re far from Paddington Station, the total journey time may be longer.

For those closer to other Underground stations, either the Elizabeth Line (alone or in combination with the Tube) or the Tube might be quicker overall, though the train journey itself is longer (around 50-60 minutes to Central London).

What is the cheapest way to get from Heathrow Airport to London?

The cheapest way to get from Heathrow Airport into London is typically the London Underground (Tube), see above for more details.

While the Tube is usually the cheapest option, it’s worth noting that the Elizabeth Line offers a slightly faster service at a marginally higher price, which might be worth considering for some travellers.

What is the easiest way to get from Heathrow Airport to London with children?

If you’re travelling from Heathrow Airport to central London with older children who can easily get themselves on and off public transport and who might be able to help with luggage, then any of the options for travelling into London will be workable for you.

But what if you are travelling with a lot of luggage and/or small children?

If you have a lot of luggage and/or are travelling with younger children then the easiest way to get from Heathrow Airport to London is often a pre-booked private transfer or taxi service. This avoids the hassle of having to navigate public transport with luggage and potentially tired children. While this option is more expensive than public transport, many families find the convenience worth the cost, especially after a long flight.

If you don’t want to take a taxi then the best alternative is probably the Heathrow Express, which offers a balance between speed, affordability and convenience. The Heathrow Express can be an excellent choice for families traveling with children and substantial luggage because it terminates at Paddington Station. As Paddington is the final stop, there’s no rush to disembark. Families have ample time to gather their belongings and help children without feeling pressured. This is in contrast with the Tube or Elizabeth Line which only pauses at each station briefly to allow passengers to get on and off.

The Heathrow Express platform at Paddington aligns with the train doors, making it easier to wheel luggage or push strollers on and off without lifting. Paddington also offers easy connections to taxis, the Underground, and other rail services if needed, all within the same station.

The 15-minute journey is quick enough to keep children from getting restless, and the trains are modern and comfortable. With its dedicated track, the Heathrow Express is less likely to face delays, reducing stress for parents. Trains run every 15 minutes, meaning families won’t have to wait long if they miss one service.

The Heathrow Express trains are also designed with air travellers in mind, offering spacious luggage areas near the doors and overhead racks for smaller items.

While slightly more expensive than some options, the Heathrow Express offers a balance of speed, comfort, and convenience that can be particularly valuable for families with children and luggage, especially given the ease of arrival at Paddington Station.

Ultimately, the best choice for your family depends on your budget, final destination in London, and children’s ages.

Do you have any tips for travelling with children from Heathrow Airport into London? Let others know in the comments.