Layover in London (LHR)
London Heathrow Airport (LHR). Here's how much of a layover you can really use, and what fits in it.
About London
Vibrant and truly multicultural, London is a megalopolis of people, ideas and frenetic energy. The capital and largest city of the United Kingdom sits on the River Thames in South-East England. Greater London has a population of a little over 9 million. Considered one of the world's leading "global cities", London remains an international capital of culture, music, education, fashion, politics, finance and trade.
From Wikivoyage, CC BY-SA.
How much time can you use?
After getting off the plane, immigration for international arrivals, the trip into town and back, and security.
| Layover | Domestic arrival | International arrival |
|---|---|---|
| 4 hours | About 1h 55m in the city | Head straight to your gate |
| 6 hours | About 3h 55m in the city | About 2h 20m in the city |
| 8 hours | About 5h 55m in the city | About 4h 20m in the city |
| 12 hours | About 9h 55m in the city | About 8h 20m in the city |
Getting into London
About 15m each way by train, bus or taxi to the center. This is an estimate based on distance; the planner checks real transit times for your exact flight.
Questions
Can I leave the airport on a layover in London?
On a domestic connection, you need roughly 4 hours or more to get into London and back with time to enjoy it. If you're arriving internationally and must clear immigration, plan on about 6 hours or more.
How do I get from LHR to central London?
Allow about 15m each way by train, bus or taxi to the center.
How early should I head back to LHR?
Be back through security about 1h 20m before a domestic departure and 2h 10m before an international one, plus the ride back.
Build a plan for your exact flight
Guide data from OurAirports, © OpenStreetMap contributors and Wikivoyage (CC BY-SA). Times are estimates for planning; check transit schedules and airline rules before you leave the airport.