Originally Posted by
Misco60
The CCR is only an airport lounge, and arriving several hours before departure to "maximise the experience" suggests unrealistic expectations that will almost certainly lead to disappointment.
A lounge is a place to kill time and not really a destination in its own right.
I generally agree but there are some very nice lounges with great views, or even outdoor areas, and also very good food, and also transport to the gates.
Connecting at LHR from the US to other points it's not unusual to have a 2-4 hour layover, over even a bit longer, so if you are flying F an elevated experience is welcome by many. My CCR experiences have been fine for the most part, although I've had slow service, seen dirty dishes pile up and so forth.
The airlines also do in many cases promote their lounges as part of the premium experience so for the person who has saved up miles to access the Garden of Edens they are pushed as with spas and celebrity chefs, it's really not the fault of the customer if he/she is disappointed.
Here's how BA describes CCR
The Concorde Room
The Concorde Rooms are the epitome of elegance and available at Heathrow Terminal 5 and New York JFK. Our lounges are welcoming and inviting spaces with luxurious furniture, beautiful chandeliers and amazing artwork.
Enjoy pre-flight dining in our private dining booths with full waiter service and a la carte menu from Executive Head Chefs Frank Coughlin and Errol Figueroa. Our hosts will be happy to pair your meal with the finest champagnes and wines from around the world.
For your relaxation, private cabanas with a comfortable day bed and en suite give you the privacy you wish for. If you choose to dine or would simply like a refreshing cup of tea our hosts are on call with room service or a wake up call.*
If you would like to catch up on news or use our computers, the state of the art business suite is available for your use. For your convenience mobile chargers are also available**.
The Concorde Room at Terminal 5 London Heathrow has recently been refreshed, taking inspiration from the very best of British design, craftsmanship and heritage. Enjoy elegant lighting from Porta Romana, beautifully woven Osborne and Little fabrics and contemporary tables from Boss Design
https://www.britishairways.com/en-us.../first-lounges