Getting to Heathrow Airport

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Heathrow Express: A direct route between London and Heathrow

The Heathrow Express offers fast, affordable, and stress-free direct transfers between Heathrow and Paddington Station in Central London.

With a direct journey time of just 15 minutes, you'll step off at Paddington feeling relaxed and ready to explore. No traffic, no stops - just a quick, effortless transfer.

Compared to other routes, it’s by far the most efficient way to travel. The Elizabeth line takes twice as long, the Picadilly line takes almost four times as long, and while a taxi may sound convenient, city traffic and high fares make it the least efficient option.

With tickets starting at just £10 and kids aged 15 and under travelling for free, the Heathrow Express delivers convenience at an affordable price. So don't waste time on slower routes, book your airport transfer with Heathrow Express to spend less time travelling and more time exploring London.

How does Heathrow Express stack up against the following routes

Heathrow Express vs The Elizabeth Line

The Heathrow Express is faster than the Elizabeth Line and cheaper if you take advantage of our 30-day Advanced Discount Single tickets. Find our how smooth your journey to Heathrow can be with Heathrow Express here.

Heathrow Express vs The Piccadilly Line

While the tube may feel like the obvious choice for travelling around London it's not the quickest way to get to the UKs biggest and busiest airport. Instead of being pushed up against the side of a carriage you can enjoy a speedy and stress free journey on the Heathrow Express. Find out more about how we stack up against the Piccadilly Line here.

Heathrow Express vs National Express

Don't get stuck in traffic on your way to Heathrow when travelling from Central London. Hop aboard the Heathrow Express and cruise in to Heathrow in as little as 15-minutes. Compare the journeys here.

Understanding the distance from Heathrow to London by Train

Jump on the Heathrow Express at Heathrow Central station and you’ll travel the 16 miles (25km) to London Paddington in just 15 minutes. The journey time from Terminal 5 station is slightly longer at 21 minutes. Trains depart Heathrow every 15 minutes, meaning minimal time waiting on the platform. And on your return journey, you’ll enjoy the same quick and efficient trip from Paddington.

If you’re arriving into Terminal 2 or Terminal 3, Heathrow Central is a short walk away via the inter-terminal walkway.
For Terminal 4 arrivals, take the inter-terminal shuttle transfer, which adds an extra five to 10 minutes on your journey time. Simply follow the signs in the terminal.
If you land at Terminal 5, you can take the Heathrow Express from Terminal 5 station.

Book your Heathrow Express tickets online in advance for great savings. We also accept contactless payments, credit cards and Oyster cards on the day you travel.

Once on the train simply sit back and relax in your comfy seat, log-on to the free WiFi and plug into your power socket. There are tables at each seat, plenty of luggage storage and accessible toilets throughout the carriages.

Check the live information to understand potential train times for both legs of your journey between Heathrow and London.

Paddington Station: The gateway to London

Paddington Station is the perfect place to start your London adventure. It's one of the capital's biggest transport hubs, with direct connections via the Bakerloo, Circle, District, Hammersmith & City, and Elizabeth London Underground lines, as well as extensive National Rail and bus services.

Whether you're heading to Westminster, the West End or Canary Wharf, Paddington offers fast and seamless travel to every corner of London and destinations beyond.

It's also a great starting point for sightseeing. Westminster, Buckingham Palace, and many of London's top museums and art galleries are just 10–15 minutes away by Tube. Alternatively, why not kick off your trip with a walking tour from Paddington to get your bearings and soak up the city's atmosphere?

And then when it's time to head back to the airport? Finding the Heathrow Express platform at Paddington Station is easy. We usually leave from platforms six and seven, and you’ll find clear signage throughout the station guiding you directly to our trains. Staff are always on hand too, if you need help.

It's the fastest and most convenient way of getting from Heathrow to London. With direct trains running every 15 minutes and plenty of onboard amenities, you’ll enjoy a smooth and comfortable start to your trip.

What time does the Heathrow Express run

Whilst Heathrow Express isn’t 24 hours, our trains run from early in the morning until late at night for a convenient option to get to your airport in plenty of time for your flight.

The Heathrow Express runs every 15 minutes from London Paddington to Heathrow, every day of the week. The first train leaves Paddington at 5.10am and the last train to Heathrow departs at 11.25pm.