Terminal layout & organization
London Heathrow Airport (LHR) is arranged around four active passenger terminals: Terminal 2 (The Queen’s Terminal), Terminal 3, Terminal 4, and Terminal 5. Terminal 1 is no longer in operation, but it may still appear on older directions or booking references—always confirm your departure terminal on your airline confirmation or Heathrow’s flight status tools before you travel.
In broad terms, Terminal 2 hosts many Star Alliance and European/international carriers, with a central departures shopping area and both A and B gates. Terminal 3 is a major long-haul base with a large mix of global airlines and several premium lounges. Terminal 4 sits on the southern side of the airport and handles a smaller set of international services. Terminal 5 is the primary hub for British Airways (plus Iberia) and includes a main building with additional concourses.
Navigation between terminals
Heathrow is well signed, but distances are real—plan your transfer. The easiest on-foot connection is the Terminal 2 ↔ Terminal 3 pedestrian route, typically about 10 minutes depending on pace and crowding. For longer hops, use free airside/landside connections via the airport’s rail and shuttle network: Heathrow Central (serving Terminals 2/3) connects you onward by free rail transfer toward Terminal 5 and by free shuttle bus to Terminal 4.
- Follow the purple “Flight Connections” signs if you’re transferring, and the Underground/Trains icons if you’re changing terminals landside.
- Build in time for security re-screening when changing terminals (common on connections).
- If you’re meeting someone, agree on a terminal-specific landmark (e.g., “Arrivals, Terminal 3”).
Traveler-specific tips
- Families: All terminals (Terminal 2, Terminal 3, Terminal 4, Terminal 5) are stroller-friendly with elevators and step-free routes. Aim to arrive early so you can locate baby-changing/nursing facilities after security; staff at help points can direct you quickly.
- Business travelers: Terminal 3 and Terminal 5 are strongest for lounge variety and premium facilities; Terminal 2 also has alliance-linked lounges. If your ticket offers it, use Fast Track security where available to protect working time.
- Accessibility: Heathrow offers Passenger Assistance—request it in advance via your airline, then look for airport assistance points on arrival. Step-free routes, accessible toilets, and lifts are available across terminals.
- Budget: Bring a refillable bottle—ask staff to point you to the nearest water fountains. Keep an eye out for seating clusters with charging points, especially in central departures areas (notably in Terminal 2 and Terminal 3).
Practical information
Free Wi-Fi is available across Heathrow terminals and is generally reliable, but speeds can dip at peak times—download boarding passes and key documents before you enter the busiest gate areas. Power outlets are most commonly found around gate seating and main departures lounges; if you need to work, head toward larger seating zones rather than small gate pods.
For help fast, look for information desks/help points in the main departures and arrivals halls of Terminal 2, Terminal 3, Terminal 4, and Terminal 5; they can confirm the quickest inter-terminal route and current transfer options. Heathrow frequently updates terminal operations and may run localized works—so if signage indicates a detour or a temporary closure, follow posted reroutes and allow extra time, especially for early-morning departures at Terminal 5.