If you are collecting someone from Heathrow Airport in 2025, knowing where you can stop, what it will cost, and how to avoid surprise charges is essential. Many visitors mistakenly try to pick up passengers outside the terminals, only to face fines and enforcement.
This guide breaks down Heathrow’s official pick-up charges, where to wait for free, the hidden costs you should be aware of, and the best alternatives. We’ll also show you how a pre-booked transfer with WeKnow London saves time, stress, and money.
Where Can You Pick Up Passengers at Heathrow?
Unlike drop-offs, you cannot collect passengers from the forecourt outside the terminals. Stopping in these zones is prohibited and results in penalties.
The only official collection point is in the Short Stay car parks located next to each terminal. These are clearly signposted as you approach the airport.
Inside the Short Stay, drivers can park and walk into the arrivals hall to meet passengers. This makes it convenient, but it comes with a cost.
What Are the Heathrow Pick-Up Charges in 2025?
Pick-up charges apply in the Short Stay car parks at each terminal.
| Terminal | First 30 minutes | 1 hour | Notes |
|---|
| T2 | £7.50 | £12.50 | Closest to arrivals hall |
| T3 | £7.50 | £12.50 | Lift access directly into arrivals |
| T4 | £7.50 | £12.50 | Recently upgraded facilities |
| T5 | £7.50 | £12.50 | Largest and busiest terminal |
Charges increase sharply after one hour, with stays over two hours often exceeding £16.50. For long waits, Short Stay quickly becomes costly.
Is There a Free Pick-Up Option at Heathrow?
Yes. Heathrow offers 30 minutes of free waiting in Long Stay car parks at every terminal.
Drivers can park free of charge for half an hour.
Free shuttle buses run every 10–15 minutes to the terminal arrivals halls.
If your passenger is delayed, charges apply after the free period.
This is the best option for budget-conscious travellers who don’t mind a short transfer by shuttle bus.
Hidden Costs You Should Know About
Heathrow pick-up rules come with several hidden or overlooked charges:
Forecourt fines: Stopping outside terminals is not permitted. Fines can exceed £80.
Overstaying in Short Stay: Even a 15-minute delay can double your costs.
Congestion and ULEZ charges: If you continue into central London, extra charges may apply.
Flight delays: A late-arriving flight can turn a cheap pick-up into an expensive parking bill.
These small charges add up quickly and can catch visitors off guard.
Which Pick-Up Option is Best for You?
Families with luggage: Short Stay is closest and most practical.
Travellers on a budget: Long Stay car parks with the free 30-minute option.
Business travellers: Meet & greet parking services, though more expensive.
Best overall value: Pre-booked transfer with WeKnow London.
Why Choose a Pre-Booked Transfer Instead of Paying Pick-Up Charges?
With WeKnow London Heathrow Transfers, you don’t need to worry about where to stop, how long to wait, or what it will cost.
Fixed-rate pricing with no hidden parking charges.
Driver meets you inside the arrivals hall.
Flight tracking ensures your driver adjusts for delays.
Licensed Heathrow onsite provider with the largest electric fleet.
Book Your Heathrow Transfer Today
FAQs
Can I pick someone up at the Heathrow terminal forecourt?
No. Forecourts are strictly no-stopping zones and monitored by cameras.
Is there a free pick-up option at Heathrow?
Yes. Long Stay car parks allow 30 minutes of free waiting with shuttle service.
Do taxis and ride-hailing apps pay pick-up charges?
Yes. Taxis and Ubers using Short Stay car parks must pay the same charges. With a WKG transfer, parking fees are included in your rate.
Which terminal is the cheapest for pick-up?
All terminals have the same charges in 2025: £7.50 for 30 minutes, £12.50 for an hour.
Conclusion
Picking up passengers at Heathrow can be stressful if you don’t know the rules. The official pick-up points are in the Short Stay car parks, with charges starting from £7.50. For a free option, use the Long Stay car parks and shuttle service.
For the simplest solution, book a WKG Heathrow Transfer. With fixed rates, meet-and-greet service, and no hidden charges, it is the easiest way to collect passengers stress-free.