Thanks for the info. I am probably leaning against the option. Too bad that LHR is such a disaster.

I don't mind paying for the stupid bus.... my concern is the poor reliability. The targeted flight is 06:45 to the continent, although I could wait until after 10 am. Back to the US it's 07:55. So I don't have time to fart around.....

My reading tells me that the Hilton is bad for T3. I would Priceline anyway so don't have control over the hotel, although Renaissance looks common according to biddingfortravel.com.

I read elsewhere that LHR black cabs can jump to the head of the line after a short ride. Can I call a legit cab at the hotel or do I have to deal with some bandit who wants to charge me 20 pounds to drive 2 miles to the airport.