8 Best London Heathrow Hotels for your Stay [Terminals 3, 4 + 5]

Staying at a Heathrow airport hotel is one of those decisions that can quietly make or break the start of a long-haul flight.

For many travellers, especially those flying out of London early in the morning or late at night, an airport hotel isn’t about convenience – it’s about removing stress from the final hours of the trip. Instead of navigating luggage, alarms, and transport across London at an awkward hour, you can wake up close to your terminal, rested and ready to fly.

If you’re arriving late or travelling long-haul, these tips for handling jet lag and planning your first night can really help.

Heathrow is well connected during the day, but overnight transport is far more limited. Standard Tube services to Heathrow usually run from around 05:00 to 23:30.

On Friday and Saturday nights, the Night Tube operates on the Piccadilly line, but it does not serve Terminal 4. If you are travelling very early or very late, this often means relying on a pre-booked transfer or taxi, which is why staying near the airport the night before is often the simplest and least stressful option.

There’s a wide range of Heathrow hotels to choose from, from practical overnight stays to full-service hotels with restaurants, lounges, and even direct terminal access. Some are ideal for a quick sleep before an early flight, while others suit travellers who want a more comfortable final night before heading home.

In this guide, you’ll find the best London Heathrow hotels, organised by terminal and travel style, to help you choose the right option for your departure time and flight plans.

How to choose the right Heathrow hotel

The best Heathrow hotel for you depends on two things: which terminal you’re flying from and what time your flight departs or arrives.

If you have an early morning departure or late-night arrival, staying close to your terminal can remove a lot of last-minute stress. Hotels with direct walkways or very short shuttle transfers are usually the easiest option.

If you’re flying later in the day, or arriving during standard transport hours, you may have more flexibility. In that case, hotels served by regular shuttles or public transport can offer better value while still being convenient.

If you’re deciding between an airport hotel and staying in London, start with our guide to where to stay in London.

To make planning easier, the hotels below are grouped:

• first by terminal, and
• then by travel style, so you can quickly narrow down the best option for your flight.

Which Heathrow hotel is right for you?

Flying very early in the morning or late at night?

• Choose a hotel with a direct terminal walkway or the shortest possible transfer.
• Good examples include the Sofitel London Heathrow (Terminal 5) or the Crowne Plaza Heathrow Terminal 4, both of which are connected directly to the terminal.

Flying from Terminal 5?

• Look for hotels that specifically serve Terminal 5 to avoid unnecessary shuttles or transfers.
• Good options include the Sofitel London Heathrow, Thistle Heathrow Terminal 5 and Hilton Heathrow Terminal 5.

Travelling with family or lots of luggage?

• Prioritise hotels with simple shuttle routes, lifts, and on-site dining so everything is easy and close by.
• Good examples include the Hilton Garden Inn Heathrow and the Leonardo London Heathrow Airport.

Want the easiest possible morning before a long-haul flight?

• Staying at a hotel connected directly to the terminal can be worth the extra cost.
• The Sofitel London Heathrow and Crowne Plaza Heathrow Terminal 4 are ideal for this.

Flying later in the day?

• Hotels served by regular airport shuttles can offer better value without sacrificing convenience.
• Good examples include the Radisson RED London Heathrow and the Renaissance London Heathrow.

Best London Heathrow Hotels – Quick Picks

In a hurry? These are the easiest, most popular options by terminal and travel style.

Name of Hotel	Terminal	Best for	Why choose it	Check availability
Thistle Heathrow Terminal 5	5	Early or late Terminal 5 flights	Walkway • Luxury • Terminal-connected	Book here
Radisson RED London Heathrow	All terminals (shuttle)	Later flights, modern style at a good price	Shuttle • Modern • Value	Book here
Hilton Garden Inn Heathrow	All terminals (shuttle)	Families, travellers with lots of luggage	Shuttle • Family-friendly • On-site dining	Book here
Crowne Plaza Heathrow T4	4	Terminal 4 departures, stress-free early mornings	Walkway • Terminal-connected	Book here
Renaissance Hotel Heathrow	All terminals (shuttle)	Aviation fans, comfortable overnight stays	Shuttle • Plane views • Spacious rooms	Book here
Leonardo London Heathrow Airport	All terminals (shuttle)	Best-value overnight stays near Heathrow	Shuttle • Best value • Reliable choice	Book here

8 of the best London Heathrow hotels

The best terminal 5 Heathrow hotels

Thistle Heathrow Terminal 5 – 3 star

Thistle London Heathrow Terminal 5 is a solid, comfortable three-star option for travellers flying from or arriving into Terminal 5 who want a simple overnight stay without paying premium airport hotel prices.

The hotel is not directly connected to the terminal, but a paid shuttle service operates from right outside the hotel and takes around five minutes to reach Terminal 5. Guests can also use the Heathrow Pod (Ultra Pods) system, which provides a fast, car-free transfer option.

Rooms are modern, sound-proofed, and designed for short stays, with air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and work desks. The hotel has a 24-hour reception, making it suitable for very early departures or late arrivals.

One standout feature is the Runway View Restaurant, which overlooks the airport and is popular with aviation fans of all ages. There is also a 24-hour lounge bar serving drinks and light snacks, useful if you arrive late or leave early.

Best for: Terminal 5 flights, short overnight stays, good value near Heathrow
Access: Shuttle or Heathrow Pod (not walkable)
Good to know: Transfers are quick but not free

Hilton Heathrow Terminal 5 – 4 star

Hilton London Heathrow Terminal 5 is a large four-star hotel offering a more resort-style stay close to the airport, ideal if you want comfort, facilities, and space rather than a basic overnight stop.

Set on 13 acres of landscaped grounds, the hotel feels more relaxed than many Heathrow airport hotels. It is not directly connected to Terminal 5, but transfers are straightforward via shuttle or taxi, making it a popular choice for travellers who prefer amenities over proximity.

Rooms are spacious and well sound-proofed, with triple-glazed windows, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, LCD TVs, and work desks. The hotel has a full spa, gym, and indoor pool, making it a good option if you want to unwind before or after a long flight.

Dining is a standout here. Mr Todiwala’s Kitchen is a nationally recognised restaurant serving refined Indian cuisine, while the Gallery Restaurant focuses on seasonal British dishes. There are also two bars on site, and guests staying in executive rooms or suites have access to the executive lounge.

• Best for: Comfort-focused stays, dining, longer stopovers
• Access: Shuttle or taxi to Terminal 5 (not walkable)
• Good to know: Larger hotel with more facilities, but slightly further from the terminal than some options

Radisson RED London Heathrow – 4 star

Radisson RED London Heathrow is a modern, stylish four-star hotel that’s a great choice if you want something a little more fun and contemporary for an overnight stay near the airport.

One of its most eye-catching features is the row of classic red telephone boxes in the lobby, which makes a fun first or last UK photo opportunity. If you’re not heading into central London until the following morning, it’s a nice way to ease into the trip.

The hotel operates a paid airport shuttle service, making transfers to and from Heathrow straightforward. A real bonus here is the leisure facilities, including a swimming pool and sauna, which are especially welcome before or after a long-haul flight.

Rooms are modern and comfortable, and the hotel has a 24-hour front desk, lounge bar, restaurant, and full room service menu. Overall, Radisson RED offers a good balance of style, comfort, and value for travellers who want more than just a place to sleep.

• Best for: Later flights, modern style, good value
• Access: Airport shuttle
• Good to know: Not terminal-connected, but facilities make it a popular overnight option

Sofitel London Heathrow – 5 star

Sofitel London Heathrow offers one of the most luxurious stays at the airport and is ideal for travellers who want the smoothest possible start or finish to their trip. This five-star hotel delivers a noticeably higher level of comfort compared to more budget-focused Heathrow options.

Facilities include a 24-hour gym, two restaurants, a spa, and two bars. The standout feature, however, is the covered walkway connecting the hotel directly to Terminal 5, allowing you to walk straight from your room to departures without relying on shuttles or transfers. Its position also means many rooms enjoy excellent runway views.

Dining options include the Sphere Bar with Sky Sports, the French fusion–style La Belle Époque restaurant, a Tea Salon for afternoon tea, coffee, or cake, and the Vivre Restaurant serving a wide range of international dishes.

Rooms are spacious and well appointed, with air conditioning, cable TV, free WiFi, and en-suite bathrooms featuring both a bathtub and a shower.

• Best for: Early or late flights from Terminal 5, luxury stays, zero-stress departures
• Access: Direct terminal walkway
• Good to know: Pricier than other Heathrow hotels, but unbeatable for convenience

The best terminal 2, 3 & 4 Heathrow hotels

Hilton Garden Inn Heathrow – 4 star

Hilton Garden Inn London Heathrow is a modern, four-star hotel with a strong focus on comfort and sustainability. Contemporary in style, it’s a good option for travellers who want reliable facilities, space, and straightforward transport to all Heathrow terminals.

Rooms are air-conditioned and well equipped, with flat-screen TVs, work desks, and private bathrooms stocked with deluxe toiletries. Dining options include a Costa Coffee, a restaurant serving international dishes, and a hotel bar offering light meals and snacks throughout the day.

The hotel is served by the Hotel Hoppa bus, making it easy to reach every terminal. The H56 route operates to Terminals 4 and 5, while the H9 runs to Terminals 2 and 3 during peak periods, offering flexibility for travellers with different departure points.

• Best for: Families, travellers with lots of luggage, flexible terminal access
• Access: Hotel Hoppa shuttle to all terminals
• Good to know: Not walkable to terminals, but transport links are simple and reliable

Crowne Plaza Heathrow T4 – 4 star

Crowne Plaza London Heathrow Terminal 4 is one of the easiest hotels for early departures or late arrivals from Terminal 4, thanks to its covered walkway directly linking the hotel to the terminal. This removes the need for shuttles or taxis entirely. For travellers flying from other terminals, paid shuttle services and public bus routes are also available.

Rooms are designed for a good night’s sleep, with triple glazing and blackout curtains to reduce aircraft noise, along with LED Smart TVs, bathrobes, and luxury toiletries. The overall feel is comfortable and polished, making it a reliable choice for a stress-free overnight stay.

On site facilities include a gym, the Destinations Bar, and the Urban Brasserie, which serves freshly prepared, award-winning cuisine. There’s also a good range of breakfast options, ideal for early morning departures.

• Best for: Terminal 4 departures, early flights, stress-free mornings
• Access: Covered walkway to Terminal 4
• Good to know: One of the few Heathrow hotels with direct terminal access

Renaissance Hotel Heathrow – 4 star

Renaissance London Heathrow Hotel is a large, four-star property located on Bath Road, well placed for travellers flying from Terminals 2 and 3. A paid 24-hour shuttle service runs frequently and takes around five minutes to reach the terminals, making this a dependable option for early departures or late arrivals.

With over 700 rooms, this is one of the larger Heathrow hotels. Rooms are well soundproofed and equipped with air-conditioning, LED TV, fridge, WiFi, work desk, and tea and coffee making facilities. Many areas of the hotel have been refreshed in recent years, giving the accommodation a more modern feel.

Facilities include a coffee shop, cocktail bar, health club, currency exchange service, and gift shop. A highlight for many guests is the Market Garden Restaurant, which offers runway views alongside a menu focused on fresh, seasonal produce.

• Best for: Terminals 2 and 3, aviation fans, comfortable overnight stays
• Access: Paid 24-hour shuttle service
• Good to know: One of the best Heathrow hotels for runway views

Leonardo London Heathrow Airport – 4 star

Leonardo London Heathrow Airport is a four-star, travel-sustainable hotel offering good value for travellers looking for a reliable overnight stay close to the airport. A paid shuttle service runs between the hotel and the terminals, with journey times as short as five minutes depending on traffic.

Rooms are modern, well soundproofed, and designed with comfort in mind. Each includes air conditioning, WiFi, a work desk, and on-demand movie channels, making it a practical choice for both short stays and overnight stopovers.

Hotel facilities include a fitness centre, a restaurant serving international cuisine with an impressive wine list, and a bar offering drinks and light meals. Breakfast is available daily, and accommodation options include spacious family rooms as well as rooms with disabled access.Best for: Best-value overnight stays near Heathrow, families

• Access: Paid airport shuttle service
• Good to know: A solid, dependable choice with good soundproofing for a restful night’s sleep

Top tips for choosing Heathrow hotels

Getting to the hotel

If you’re staying at a Heathrow hotel the night before a flight, it’s worth thinking about how you’ll actually get there. Most airport hotels are reached via shuttle buses or covered walkways from the terminals. To reach Heathrow itself, you can use the London Underground or the Heathrow Express from Paddington, depending on your budget and timing.

If you’re using public transport, it helps to know how contactless and Oyster payments work in London, especially if this is your first trip.

For late arrivals or if you’re travelling with lots of luggage, a pre-booked private transfer can be the easiest option, especially if you want to avoid multiple changes or long walks.

At the hotel

Once you arrive, your priority may simply be sleep, but hotel facilities can make a big difference to how relaxed you feel before or after a flight. Many Heathrow hotels have on-site restaurants and bars, and some offer runway or terminal views which can be a fun bonus.

A couple of the Hilton hotels featured here also have gardens, which are particularly useful for families travelling with children. One of the Terminal 5 hotels is also home to a well-known Indian restaurant, making it a great choice if you want a proper sit-down meal without leaving the hotel.

Some properties go further, with extras such as swimming pools, saunas, or distinctive features like the row of red telephone boxes at Radisson RED, which can be surprisingly entertaining if you have time to spare.

Getting to the airport terminal

Always plan how you’ll reach the terminal in advance, even if it’s just a quick check with the hotel reception. Shuttle buses run on schedules, and you don’t want to be waiting around outside in the early hours, especially if it’s cold, wet, or windy, which is not uncommon in the UK.

If you want the least stressful option, staying at a hotel with a direct covered walkway to the terminal can be well worth the extra cost, particularly for early morning departures.

London Heathrow hotels – FAQs

Can I stay overnight at Heathrow Airport?

Yes, and for many travellers it’s a very sensible choice. An overnight stay near Heathrow is far more restful than travelling across London at an awkward hour, especially before a long-haul flight. It also takes the pressure off delays, alarms, and early starts.

Dining at a hotel restaurant with runway views can also be a fun way to start or end a trip, particularly for keen plane-spotters.

Does Heathrow have a hotel in the airport?

Most Heathrow hotels are located near the terminals rather than inside them. Some are directly connected to terminals, while others rely on short shuttle transfers or public transport.

There are good options serving all terminals, so it’s simply a matter of matching the hotel to your flight.

Which hotels can you walk to Heathrow Airport from?

Hotels with a direct covered walkway to the airport include the Crowne Plaza which is linked to terminal 4 and the Sofitel which is connected to terminal 5.

These walkways mean guests can access the airport terminals directly instead of waiting and paying for a shuttle service. 

How many hotel rooms are there at Heathrow?

There are around 50 hotels near Heathrow and in total, they supply one of the world’s busiest airports with about 13,000 bedrooms for those taking flight to stay in before departure or after arrival.

Approximately half of these hotels are four star properties, and around a quarter offer only limited services. Some are also used for conferences and events or attract diners who come to sample the acclaimed restaurants. 

Which Heathrow hotel will you stay at? 

As one of the world’s busiest airports, Heathrow offers a wide range of hotel options to suit different budgets, terminals, and travel styles.

Whether you’re looking for a five-star hotel with direct terminal access or a comfortable, good-value overnight stay, there’s an option to match your plans.