Anyone who has ever flown from Heathrow Airport knows that the trip can involve a lot of time in the airport.
Heathrow is one of the biggest airports in the world and it is recommended to arrive early instead of running the risk of having to rush about like crazy to get checked in and then make your way to your departure gate, some of which are a long way from security.
Thankfully, there are lots of things to do to keep you entertained while you are here so if you get to Heathrow early, don’t worry, here are some of the best things to do.
1. Get Some Shopping Done
There is a wide selection of shops in Heathrow Airport, including some you might expect to come across and some you might not.
It is easy to find magazines, books and travel accessories, phones, headphones, gadgets, accessories, shoes, jewellery, toys and so much more.
There is definitely enough on offer in Heathrow’s shop to help you kill an hour or two even if you aren’t normally all that much of a fan of going shopping. There is also duty-free shopping available.
2. Relax in a lounge
Heathrow has lots of highly rated airport lounges, which are even accessible for economy class travellers.
Some lounges are included for certain types of travellers e.g. members, business or first class travellers, but economy class travellers can also pay a nominal fee to also airport lounges.
Heathrow lounges are generally quieter, comfortable, and have a variety of food and drinks available.
3. Have a Tasty Meal
There is an also an impressively wide range of restaurants in the airport. If you fear being left to choose between a soggy sandwich and a greasy burger then you are in for a pleasant surprise.
Stone baked pizzas, quality seafood, oriental noodles and classy pastries are all waiting for you in Heathrow if you arrive feeling peckish and want a snack or prefer to enjoy a big meal before you fly.
Restaurants vary depending on the terminal, but these are some of the best places to eat: Wagamama, Fortnum & Mason Bar, Caviar House & Prunier Seafood Bar, Leon, Shan Shui, Wondertree, YO! Sushi and Giraffe.
4. Get a Drink
One thing you won’t be short of options for is coffee or alcohol.
Some of the biggest and most popular coffee house chains in the country are present here like Pret a Manger, Starbucks and Caffe Nero, as well as some smaller, independent offerings.
If you feel like getting ready for the flight with something a bit stronger then you can get hold of this easily in Heathrow as well.
5. Freshen Up
Heathrow is super modern with first class facilities including places to shower like in the Terminal 3 lounges. This is perfect if you have a connection, or a long flight ahead and want to get yourself clean and fresh.
6. Treat Yourself
You can also have a spa session, and get staff to help with massages, manicures, pedicures, have a facial or simple enjoy some pampering. Reflexology is also available.
7. Check out art
If you head to Terminal 5, you can wander the T5 Art Gallery which is a permanent exhibit of art and sculptures. You’ll forget you’re actually in Heathrow.
8. Do Some Research on Your Destination
If you don’t want to eat, drink or shop you can still keep yourself busy while you are in Heathrow Airport. You could connect to the airport’s free Wi-Fi and do some research on your destination before you head off, although you could also go for the old fashioned approach and settle down in a comfortable seat with a travel guide book.
9. Go into London
If you have a long layover why not catch the tube and head into Central London? Especially if you have never been to the city before, there are lots of places to go and things to do. From shopping, eating out, parks, museums, galleries and so much more. You can be in Central London in around an hour on the Central Line tube line.
10. Sleep
If you have a long layover you probably won’t want to sleep in the public waiting areas but with the number of good quality hotels nearby you won’t have to.
If you have an early flight it can be a huge relief to have a bed to sleep in for a few hours. There are some great, affordable options around here and staying one of these Heathrow hotels could set you up perfectly for the trip. Don’t forget that you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast before strolling over to check in, which is a real luxury before any flight.
By going online to do a search you will find that the likes of Park Inn Heathrow will give you a great place to stay before your flight without costing you a lot of money.
