Originally Posted by
Often1
Don't forget that in addition, you must wait in line at BA check-in at LHR and meet the bag check deadline,
The 4.5 hours is a better option. The only thing that trip insurance will get you is a hotel room if you misconnect and are stuck overnight.
While it adds a connection, have you looked at flying via LHR by connecting in the US, via any of the East Coast gateways with such service? While multiple connections are a nuisance, I would far rather have a US domestic connection than the hassle of a LGW-LHR ground transfer.
I tried ... and am still trying. For the date I wish to leave or even the day before, unfortunately, I have not seen any decent option that even has me arriving at the airport at 3 pm. For two days later, there is - but that kills my entire weekend that I was planning to bookend the trip with (even if I had to leave on an extra earlier day).