I recently flew LHR to SNN on Aer Lingus. I'm a QF Gold but tried to get into the BA lounge in T1 and the "dragons" refused me entry, saying that I had to have Business Class Aer Lingus (does it exist?!!) to get access. I tried to explain about my oneworld status etc etc but unless you have a copy of the T&Cs I think its a losing battle.

So I walked over to the Aer Lingus lounge, which was opposite my gate. I thought it was pretty nice - quiet, with some light snacks, lots of beer etc. No toilets strangely, but overall, not as bad as I had expected. Good place to spend a couple of hours waiting for my flight.

One other thing - the EI lounge has these funny seats that you sink into up to your armpits. funny stuff, especially watching other people trying to extract themselves from them!

Anyway, good luck convincing the BA dragons to let you in, and if not, the EI lounge isnt too bad

Cheers

James