With over 80 million passengers a year, Heathrow is one of the world’s busiest airports. It has four active terminals — T2, T3, T4, and T5 — each serving different airlines, destinations, and passenger needs.
If you are arriving in London in 2025, the first question is: Which terminal am I landing in? The second: What’s the best way to get from that terminal into the city?
This guide explains each Heathrow terminal in detail and compares the best transport options — from trains and shuttles to private Heathrow transfers.
Which Terminals Are Open at Heathrow in 2025?
- Terminal 2 (The Queen’s Terminal): Star Alliance hub, including Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, and United.
- Terminal 3: Major long-haul carriers like Virgin Atlantic, Emirates, Delta.
- Terminal 4: Reopened in 2022, serving Middle Eastern and Asian airlines such as Qatar Airways, Etihad, and Korean Air.
- Terminal 5: Exclusive to British Airways and Iberia.
Terminal 1 closed permanently in 2015.
Terminal 2 – The Queen’s Terminal
Airlines: Star Alliance members plus selected others (Lufthansa, Air Canada, Singapore Airlines).
Best Transport Options:
- Heathrow Express: Non-stop to Paddington in 15 minutes.
- Elizabeth Line: Direct trains to central London (Bond Street, Tottenham Court Road) in ~30 minutes.
- Piccadilly Line (Underground): Cheapest option, ~50 minutes to central London.
- Private Transfer: Door-to-door, no luggage stress.
?? Tip: T2 is closest to Heathrow Central station, making it the most convenient for train services.
Terminal 3
Airlines: Virgin Atlantic, Emirates, Delta, American Airlines, Qantas.
Best Transport Options:
- Heathrow Express / Elizabeth Line: Accessed via Heathrow Central station (5–10 min walk).
- Underground (Piccadilly Line): Budget-friendly into central London.
- Hotel eShuttle: Ideal for group transfers directly to your hotel.
- Private Heathrow Transfer: Best for long-haul arrivals with multiple bags.
?? Tip: T3 arrivals can be busy at peak times — pre-booking a transfer avoids long taxi queues.
Terminal 4
Airlines: Qatar Airways, Etihad, Turkish Airlines, Air India, China Eastern.
Best Transport Options:
- Elizabeth Line: Direct services connect T4 to central London in under 40 minutes.
- Underground (Piccadilly Line): Slower but cheaper than trains.
- National Express Coaches: Direct connections to other UK cities.
- Private Transfer: Recommended for business travellers and late-night arrivals.
?? Tip: T4 is slightly more isolated — transfers can be quicker than waiting for connecting train services.
Terminal 5
Airlines: British Airways (all long-haul and European flights) and Iberia.
Best Transport Options:
- Heathrow Express: Non-stop from T5 to Paddington in 15 minutes.
- Elizabeth Line: Direct services to the West End, City, and beyond.
- Underground (Piccadilly Line): Cheapest route to central London.
- Private Transfer: Smooth option for families, groups, or executives.
?? Tip: T5 is Heathrow’s busiest terminal — booking a fixed-rate transfer avoids long waits and surge pricing.
Heathrow Transport Comparison Table
Transport Option | Time to Central London | Cost (One Way) | Best For |
Heathrow Express | 15 minutes | From £25 | Fastest option |
Elizabeth Line | 30–40 minutes | £12.80 | Balance of speed & cost |
Piccadilly Line (Tube) | 50–60 minutes | £5.60 | Budget travellers |
National Express Coach | 60–90 minutes | From £7 | Direct to other UK cities |
Private Transfer | 45–60 minutes | From £89 | Families, groups, stress-free arrivals |
Hidden Costs Travellers Often Overlook
- Train tickets are cheaper if pre-booked — but can still add up for groups.
- Taxis and ride-hailing apps may add luggage surcharges and late-night fees.
- Parking charges apply if you’re meeting someone by car — see our Heathrow Parking Guide 2025.
Why a Private Transfer is Often the Best Option
Whether you land in T2, T3, T4, or T5, a WKG Heathrow Transfer offers:
- Fixed pricing with no hidden extras.
- Meet & greet inside arrivals.
- Flight tracking for delays.
- The largest electric fleet at Heathrow.
?? Book Your Heathrow Transfer Today
FAQs
Which Heathrow terminal does British Airways use?
British Airways flights operate exclusively from Terminal 5.
Which terminal is Virgin Atlantic at Heathrow?
Virgin Atlantic flights depart and arrive at Terminal 3.
What is the fastest way from Heathrow to central London?
The Heathrow Express from Terminals 2, 3, and 5 takes just 15 minutes to reach Paddington.
Is there a free transport option between terminals?
Yes. The Heathrow Express and Elizabeth Line trains are free between Terminals 2, 3, and 5. Shuttle buses serve Terminal 4.
Conclusion
Heathrow’s four terminals serve different airlines, but all connect easily into central London via train, Underground, coach, or private car.
For the fastest journey, the Heathrow Express is unbeatable. For the lowest cost, the Underground works well. But for the smoothest arrival, especially with luggage or family, a WKG private Heathrow transfer is the easiest option.