Originally Posted by
dmsdfw
Given how ridiculously expensive the Heathrow Express is
Relative to what? Certainly not a taxi into the vicinity of Paddington, unless three people ride. The tube, sure, if one is willing (and able) to carry one's luggage up the steps at the destination station.
Granted, Heathrow Connect is less expensive, but it runs half as often and takes longer. Murphy's law says one needs 29+25=54 minutes to reach Paddington on HC but only 14+15=29 minutes on HE.