Heathrow Airport to Central London

Which option suits you

Express train

The dedicated express runs non-stop between the airport and Paddington station in the west of central London. It is the fastest option by a wide margin and has proper luggage space.

• Terminals 2 and 3 share a station. Terminal 5 has its own. Terminal 4 passengers connect via a free transfer.
• Advance purchase is cheaper than buying at the platform.
• From Paddington you will usually need onward transport, so factor that into your total journey time.

Elizabeth line

The Elizabeth line is the best all-round option for most travellers. It costs a fraction of the express fare, still uses modern trains with luggage space, and runs directly through central London to Tottenham Court Road, Farringdon, Liverpool Street and beyond.

Tap in and out with the same contactless card or device. Do not use two different cards for the same journey, and do not tap a card that is also linked to a travelcard.

Underground

The Piccadilly line runs from all Heathrow terminals into central London. It is the cheapest rail route and serves useful stations including South Kensington, Piccadilly Circus and King's Cross, but it is slow and the trains have no luggage racks.

• Avoid it during the morning and evening rush if you have large bags.
• Some stations have long stair climbs and no lifts.
• A limited night service runs on certain nights of the week.

Coaches and buses

Coaches connect Heathrow with Victoria coach station and directly with other UK cities, which makes them useful if London is not your final stop. Local buses also serve the airport and surrounding towns, and journeys within the immediate area are inexpensive.

Taxis and private hire

Licensed black cabs queue at every terminal and are metered. Private hire cars must be pre-booked and cannot legally be hailed at the kerb. Both are comfortable and expensive relative to the trains.

• Expect 45 to 90 minutes to central London depending on traffic.
• Black cabs are wheelchair accessible as standard.
• Only use the official rank or a booking made through an app or licensed operator.

Late night arrivals

Rail services stop for a few hours overnight, apart from limited night Tube operations on certain nights. Night buses serve the airport, and taxis are always available. If you land after midnight, plan on a cab or a hotel near the airport.

Families and accessibility

• All Heathrow rail stations are step-free from platform to terminal.
• The Elizabeth line offers level boarding at many central stations, which helps with pushchairs.
• Children under a certain age travel free on Transport for London services with a fare-paying adult.
• Black cabs carry ramps and can take a wheelchair without transfer.

Frequently asked questions

Should I use Heathrow Express or the Elizabeth line?

Use the express if speed matters most and you are heading near Paddington. The Elizabeth line is better value and reaches more of central London directly.

Can I use a contactless card from Heathrow?

Yes, on the Elizabeth line and the Underground. Tap the same card in and out and the correct fare is charged automatically.

How much is a taxi from Heathrow to central London?

Metered black cab fares vary with traffic and destination. It is significantly more than any rail option, so it mostly makes sense for groups or late arrivals.

Is there transport from Heathrow at night?

Night buses and taxis run around the clock, and there is a limited night Tube service on some nights.