Lounge Choice(s) at LHR
Aug 14, 2015, 11:03 am
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Aug 2014
Location: New York
Programs: SPG Lifetime Gold
Posts: 24
Lounge Choice(s) at LHR
Hey all,
I'm on a JFK-HYD trip next week which has multi-hour stopovers at LHR. I'm trying to decide which lounge to use in each direction (AA EXP/OW Emerald level access). Outbound I have a 5-hour stopover and have to go from T3 to T5. Inbound I have a 4-hour stopover and have to go from T4 to T3. Should I use Admirals Club, Galleries, or Qatar lounges? I would like to use a shower going outbound at least. Visited Galleries last year, it was pretty good, haven't been to the others. Thanks for the help.
I'm on a JFK-HYD trip next week which has multi-hour stopovers at LHR. I'm trying to decide which lounge to use in each direction (AA EXP/OW Emerald level access). Outbound I have a 5-hour stopover and have to go from T3 to T5. Inbound I have a 4-hour stopover and have to go from T4 to T3. Should I use Admirals Club, Galleries, or Qatar lounges? I would like to use a shower going outbound at least. Visited Galleries last year, it was pretty good, haven't been to the others. Thanks for the help.
Aug 14, 2015, 11:45 am
#2
Moderator: American AAdvantage, Signatures
Join Date: Jan 2008
Location: London, England
Programs: UA 1K, Hilton Diamond, IHG Diamond Ambassador, National Exec, AA EXP Emeritus
Posts: 9,765
Outbound, your first class/emerald lounge in T5 is going to be BA Galleries First located in the T5A South Lounges complex. Since you're departing from T5, you won't have access to lounges in other terminals. When you get to T5, follow the signs for South Lounges, when you go up the first set of escalators, turn left. If you're looking for a quiet corner, turn right after reception and then turn right again (you'll see signs for washrooms). There's a Champagne Bar back there, and it's usually very nice and quiet. If you like the buzz and sounds of the airport, turn left after reception and walk all the way down to the end: there's an "outdoor" terrace (it's not outdoors, it's just outside the lounge area and exposed to the terminal below).
On the return, you'll have more choices as T3 has three first class lounges to choose from. If you want a shower, the best are in the AA lounge. You can also get your AA "security" sticker at the AA lounge, so if a shower's in the cards I'd go there first, get your sticker, get cleaned up, then get out of dodge–there are no other reasons that a self-respecting EXP would be in the Flagship Lounge. Seriously. The other two options are BA Galleries First and Cathay Pacific's First Class lounge. BA's lounge has better booze than CX, but it's gotten worse over the past couple of years. Even still, there should be pour-it-yourself JW Blue (how about a Blue & Coke? just because you can), and of course self serve Champagne of questionable awesomeness. Food is going to be passable, but present. On the other hand, you've got CX: if you like Asian food, the Cathay Pacific Noodle Bar is a must-visit. Head over, they'll show you to the first class side of the lounge, and an attendant will take your order. Don't be shy: if two look good, order two. If you finish your shrimp wontons and realise you need more wontons, order another round. This is seriously good lounge food. They also have Perrier-Jouët, which I actually think is better than the stuff BA have had at their Champagne bar of late. The big upside of the Cathay Pacific First lounge though is that, unless you're within 60-90 minutes or so of a CX departure, you can often be the only person there. Personal, attentive service, a quiet seat with a fantastic view, this lounge for me is the best of the LHR T3 first class options.
Enjoy your travels!
On the return, you'll have more choices as T3 has three first class lounges to choose from. If you want a shower, the best are in the AA lounge. You can also get your AA "security" sticker at the AA lounge, so if a shower's in the cards I'd go there first, get your sticker, get cleaned up, then get out of dodge–there are no other reasons that a self-respecting EXP would be in the Flagship Lounge. Seriously. The other two options are BA Galleries First and Cathay Pacific's First Class lounge. BA's lounge has better booze than CX, but it's gotten worse over the past couple of years. Even still, there should be pour-it-yourself JW Blue (how about a Blue & Coke? just because you can), and of course self serve Champagne of questionable awesomeness. Food is going to be passable, but present. On the other hand, you've got CX: if you like Asian food, the Cathay Pacific Noodle Bar is a must-visit. Head over, they'll show you to the first class side of the lounge, and an attendant will take your order. Don't be shy: if two look good, order two. If you finish your shrimp wontons and realise you need more wontons, order another round. This is seriously good lounge food. They also have Perrier-Jouët, which I actually think is better than the stuff BA have had at their Champagne bar of late. The big upside of the Cathay Pacific First lounge though is that, unless you're within 60-90 minutes or so of a CX departure, you can often be the only person there. Personal, attentive service, a quiet seat with a fantastic view, this lounge for me is the best of the LHR T3 first class options.
Enjoy your travels!
Aug 14, 2015, 12:29 pm
#3
Join Date: Oct 2014
Posts: 299
As long as you have right of entry to the UK then the AA arrivals lounge in T3 is best for a shower - there are numerous moans on the BA board about the availability and quality of showers airside at T5.
It does mean travelling from T3 to T5 landside but this is free on the Heathrow Express or can be done on the tube for free with a contactless payment card
It does mean travelling from T3 to T5 landside but this is free on the Heathrow Express or can be done on the tube for free with a contactless payment card
Aug 14, 2015, 1:54 pm
#4
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: NYC, BOS, ORD
Programs: AA EXP, DL PM
Posts: 843
One does not require a boarding pass to transit terminals. For example, on your return rather than taking the transit bus from T4-T3, you can enter T4 at the transit checkpoint (though note you will need to clear security again when you transfer to T3). I happen to love the Qatar lounge - full sit-down restaurant, great hors d'ouvres selection, amazing showers (multi-shower heads, heated floors, terrycloth robes) and a nice, quiet living room area. Tough call since the F options in T3 (BA and CX) are good as well, not to mention they will be more convenient for you.
Aug 14, 2015, 1:55 pm
#5
Join Date: Dec 2001
Location: Washington, DC, USA
Programs: UA-1Kmm, AA-EX Plt mm-, Hilton Diamond,
Posts: 1,093
If you plan to enter the UK be well prepared to answer the immigration questions and have proof of your onward journey handy. UK Immigration has gotten MUCH more aggressive lately to passports of all nationalities. This is also making the lines for immigration clearance much slower at busy times.
Aug 14, 2015, 4:37 pm
#6
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: DFW
Programs: AA EP 3MM, UA Silver, Bonvoy LT TIT, Hyatt Explorist, HH Silver, Caesars PLT
Posts: 7,259
Unless you have enough time to leave the airport, I'd skip the landside arrivals lounge. To me, it's just not worth clearing immigration -- and the queue wait can be unpredictable as well.
And if re-entering T4 on your return requires clearing transit security twice (I'm assuming you'll have to do that at T4 and T3), then I'd say the same thing...just go to T3 as the BA and CX lounges are just fine.
And if re-entering T4 on your return requires clearing transit security twice (I'm assuming you'll have to do that at T4 and T3), then I'd say the same thing...just go to T3 as the BA and CX lounges are just fine.
Aug 15, 2015, 12:17 am
#7
Moderator: American AAdvantage, Signatures
Join Date: Jan 2008
Location: London, England
Programs: UA 1K, Hilton Diamond, IHG Diamond Ambassador, National Exec, AA EXP Emeritus
Posts: 9,765
One does not require a boarding pass to transit terminals. For example, on your return rather than taking the transit bus from T4-T3, you can enter T4 at the transit checkpoint (though note you will need to clear security again when you transfer to T3). I happen to love the Qatar lounge - full sit-down restaurant, great hors d'ouvres selection, amazing showers (multi-shower heads, heated floors, terrycloth robes) and a nice, quiet living room area. Tough call since the F options in T3 (BA and CX) are good as well, not to mention they will be more convenient for you.
Unless you have enough time to leave the airport, I'd skip the landside arrivals lounge. To me, it's just not worth clearing immigration -- and the queue wait can be unpredictable as well.
And if re-entering T4 on your return requires clearing transit security twice (I'm assuming you'll have to do that at T4 and T3), then I'd say the same thing...just go to T3 as the BA and CX lounges are just fine.
And if re-entering T4 on your return requires clearing transit security twice (I'm assuming you'll have to do that at T4 and T3), then I'd say the same thing...just go to T3 as the BA and CX lounges are just fine.
Aug 15, 2015, 9:40 am
#8
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: New York
Programs: AA EXP 1.0mm, not sure where I am with hotels these days
Posts: 2,795
Outbound, your first class/emerald lounge in T5 is going to be BA Galleries First located in the T5A South Lounges complex. Since you're departing from T5, you won't have access to lounges in other terminals. When you get to T5, follow the signs for South Lounges, when you go up the first set of escalators, turn left. If you're looking for a quiet corner, turn right after reception and then turn right again (you'll see signs for washrooms). There's a Champagne Bar back there, and it's usually very nice and quiet. If you like the buzz and sounds of the airport, turn left after reception and walk all the way down to the end: there's an "outdoor" terrace (it's not outdoors, it's just outside the lounge area and exposed to the terminal below).
On the return, you'll have more choices as T3 has three first class lounges to choose from. If you want a shower, the best are in the AA lounge. You can also get your AA "security" sticker at the AA lounge, so if a shower's in the cards I'd go there first, get your sticker, get cleaned up, then get out of dodge–there are no other reasons that a self-respecting EXP would be in the Flagship Lounge. Seriously. The other two options are BA Galleries First and Cathay Pacific's First Class lounge. BA's lounge has better booze than CX, but it's gotten worse over the past couple of years. Even still, there should be pour-it-yourself JW Blue (how about a Blue & Coke? just because you can), and of course self serve Champagne of questionable awesomeness. Food is going to be passable, but present. On the other hand, you've got CX: if you like Asian food, the Cathay Pacific Noodle Bar is a must-visit. Head over, they'll show you to the first class side of the lounge, and an attendant will take your order. Don't be shy: if two look good, order two. If you finish your shrimp wontons and realise you need more wontons, order another round. This is seriously good lounge food. They also have Perrier-Jouët, which I actually think is better than the stuff BA have had at their Champagne bar of late. The big upside of the Cathay Pacific First lounge though is that, unless you're within 60-90 minutes or so of a CX departure, you can often be the only person there. Personal, attentive service, a quiet seat with a fantastic view, this lounge for me is the best of the LHR T3 first class options.
Enjoy your travels!
On the return, you'll have more choices as T3 has three first class lounges to choose from. If you want a shower, the best are in the AA lounge. You can also get your AA "security" sticker at the AA lounge, so if a shower's in the cards I'd go there first, get your sticker, get cleaned up, then get out of dodge–there are no other reasons that a self-respecting EXP would be in the Flagship Lounge. Seriously. The other two options are BA Galleries First and Cathay Pacific's First Class lounge. BA's lounge has better booze than CX, but it's gotten worse over the past couple of years. Even still, there should be pour-it-yourself JW Blue (how about a Blue & Coke? just because you can), and of course self serve Champagne of questionable awesomeness. Food is going to be passable, but present. On the other hand, you've got CX: if you like Asian food, the Cathay Pacific Noodle Bar is a must-visit. Head over, they'll show you to the first class side of the lounge, and an attendant will take your order. Don't be shy: if two look good, order two. If you finish your shrimp wontons and realise you need more wontons, order another round. This is seriously good lounge food. They also have Perrier-Jouët, which I actually think is better than the stuff BA have had at their Champagne bar of late. The big upside of the Cathay Pacific First lounge though is that, unless you're within 60-90 minutes or so of a CX departure, you can often be the only person there. Personal, attentive service, a quiet seat with a fantastic view, this lounge for me is the best of the LHR T3 first class options.
Enjoy your travels!
Aug 17, 2015, 7:09 am
#10
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: NYC, BOS, ORD
Programs: AA EXP, DL PM
Posts: 843
The Qatar Airways Premium Lounge at T4 is specifically excluded from oneworld lounge access rules, and has stated rules that the lounge is available only to business and first passengers—whether that includes business and first passengers on partners I don't know, but they're not obligated by rules to allow access. I'd also avoid ending up airside in the wrong terminal; it's not plainly clear how to get from T4 airside to another terminal.
Aug 17, 2015, 11:51 am
#11
Join Date: May 2006
Posts: 1,913
Is it possible to use the QR lounge if arriving from a T3 flight then? I was under the impression from other threads regarding this issue this was not allowed because a T4 BP was required. I understand it may take some time though? How long will a T3-T4 transfer take? Would the train or bus be faster?
Aug 17, 2015, 2:00 pm
#12
Original Poster
Join Date: Aug 2014
Location: New York
Programs: SPG Lifetime Gold
Posts: 24
Thanks everyone for your recommendations! Looks like I'll stick to T5 Galleries First on the outbound (no disappointment there). I'll go to T3 on the inbound unless I get really lucky with Qatar and T4, will try all three lounges if I have time (I've been to CX lounges at HKG, very impressive).
Aug 17, 2015, 2:46 pm
#13
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: May 2012
Location: MCO
Programs: AA, B6, DL, EK, EY, QR, SQ, UA, Amex Plat, Marriott Tit, HHonors Gold
Posts: 12,809
Thanks everyone for your recommendations! Looks like I'll stick to T5 Galleries First on the outbound (no disappointment there). I'll go to T3 on the inbound unless I get really lucky with Qatar and T4, will try all three lounges if I have time (I've been to CX lounges at HKG, very impressive).
Aug 18, 2015, 1:19 am
#14
Join Date: May 2007
Location: ORD, DEL
Programs: AA (Plt Pro; 1.5 MM)
Posts: 6,185
Thanks everyone for your recommendations! Looks like I'll stick to T5 Galleries First on the outbound (no disappointment there). I'll go to T3 on the inbound unless I get really lucky with Qatar and T4, will try all three lounges if I have time (I've been to CX lounges at HKG, very impressive).
Return: If you have the time and just want to test QR, please post your experience with it. Otherwise stay with T3. Shower at AA and then compare BA v CX. The CX is not like lounges HKG, but most of the time it can be a charming abode of peace (exceptions being before CX departures).
Aug 18, 2015, 7:44 am
#15
Join Date: Aug 2004
Programs: AA Explat, UA 1K
Posts: 389
Outbound, your first class/emerald lounge in T5 is going to be BA Galleries First located in the T5A South Lounges complex. Since you're departing from T5, you won't have access to lounges in other terminals. When you get to T5, follow the signs for South Lounges, when you go up the first set of escalators, turn left. If you're looking for a quiet corner, turn right after reception and then turn right again (you'll see signs for washrooms). There's a Champagne Bar back there, and it's usually very nice and quiet. If you like the buzz and sounds of the airport, turn left after reception and walk all the way down to the end: there's an "outdoor" terrace (it's not outdoors, it's just outside the lounge area and exposed to the terminal below).
On the return, you'll have more choices as T3 has three first class lounges to choose from. If you want a shower, the best are in the AA lounge. You can also get your AA "security" sticker at the AA lounge, so if a shower's in the cards I'd go there first, get your sticker, get cleaned up, then get out of dodge–there are no other reasons that a self-respecting EXP would be in the Flagship Lounge. Seriously. The other two options are BA Galleries First and Cathay Pacific's First Class lounge. BA's lounge has better booze than CX, but it's gotten worse over the past couple of years. Even still, there should be pour-it-yourself JW Blue (how about a Blue & Coke? just because you can), and of course self serve Champagne of questionable awesomeness. Food is going to be passable, but present. On the other hand, you've got CX: if you like Asian food, the Cathay Pacific Noodle Bar is a must-visit. Head over, they'll show you to the first class side of the lounge, and an attendant will take your order. Don't be shy: if two look good, order two. If you finish your shrimp wontons and realise you need more wontons, order another round. This is seriously good lounge food. They also have Perrier-Jouët, which I actually think is better than the stuff BA have had at their Champagne bar of late. The big upside of the Cathay Pacific First lounge though is that, unless you're within 60-90 minutes or so of a CX departure, you can often be the only person there. Personal, attentive service, a quiet seat with a fantastic view, this lounge for me is the best of the LHR T3 first class options.
Enjoy your travels!
On the return, you'll have more choices as T3 has three first class lounges to choose from. If you want a shower, the best are in the AA lounge. You can also get your AA "security" sticker at the AA lounge, so if a shower's in the cards I'd go there first, get your sticker, get cleaned up, then get out of dodge–there are no other reasons that a self-respecting EXP would be in the Flagship Lounge. Seriously. The other two options are BA Galleries First and Cathay Pacific's First Class lounge. BA's lounge has better booze than CX, but it's gotten worse over the past couple of years. Even still, there should be pour-it-yourself JW Blue (how about a Blue & Coke? just because you can), and of course self serve Champagne of questionable awesomeness. Food is going to be passable, but present. On the other hand, you've got CX: if you like Asian food, the Cathay Pacific Noodle Bar is a must-visit. Head over, they'll show you to the first class side of the lounge, and an attendant will take your order. Don't be shy: if two look good, order two. If you finish your shrimp wontons and realise you need more wontons, order another round. This is seriously good lounge food. They also have Perrier-Jouët, which I actually think is better than the stuff BA have had at their Champagne bar of late. The big upside of the Cathay Pacific First lounge though is that, unless you're within 60-90 minutes or so of a CX departure, you can often be the only person there. Personal, attentive service, a quiet seat with a fantastic view, this lounge for me is the best of the LHR T3 first class options.
Enjoy your travels!