Originally Posted by
KyRoamer
Thanks, Tennen.
I'm leaning towards the Sofitel. The question is how easy is it for two exhausted 81-year-olds to get to from T3 and how do we get back to T5 from the Sofitel?
While I've never been to T5 (not a BA flyer), I believe getting from the Sofitel to T5 is the easiest part. AFAIK, it's a straightforward walk to the departures/check-in level.
Edited to add The _Banking_Scot's quote.
Originally Posted by
The _Banking_Scot
From the Sofitel, there is a passageway ( at the edge of the carpark) to an elevator to the ground floor ( arrivals) then another elevators to departures level so it is easy to walk
You will pass through immigration at T3 ( you may be able to use the egates ) then baggage reclaim/then customs then follow signs to Heathrow Express/ trains and take the train to t5 ( journey time 5 mins or so ) then head to T5 arrivals level and follow signs for the Sofitel
Here are some resources that may be helpful.
Heathrow's
Getting between terminals page.
Their
PDF map of the free transfer options.
A
blogger's review of the Sofitel, including partial directions.
A
different blog's guide to terminal transfers.
The harder part is getting from T3 to T5 when you're exhausted, older, and probably less mobile. You can walk to the Terminal 2 & 3
Train/Rail Station for the Heathrow Express (and maybe Elizabeth Line, too?) or the Terminal 2 & 3
Underground Station for the Piccadilly Line. Both are free to use and there are loads of signs to direct you. The
Train Station is a shorter walk from T3 but has fewer frequencies (maybe?). For you, I'd suggest going to the Train Station to cut down on walking and for the transfer ticket option (no need to use a Contactless CC or Oyster). You might wait longer for a train, but that's probably preferable to walking. IIRC, the platforms are quite deep, so there are a few sets of escalators or a possibly long wait for an elevator.
If you're overwhelmed after clearing passport control and customs, go to the
AA Arrivals Lounge. Even if you don't eat or shower, you can catch your breath and relax for a bit. If you need any help, the agents there can guide you.