After a fulfilling stay in London, it was time to head to my next destination: Lisbon. Following a fantastic breakfast at Booking Office 1869, right next to St. Pancras Station, I checked out of my hotel feeling content and ready for the journey.
I booked an Uber for Heathrow Airport, intending to soak in the London streets one last time. However, a mishap occurred upon arrival at the airport.
With a dull snap, the handle of my beloved Rimowa suitcase broke off. While my luggage was heavy from London shopping, the driver’s rough handling was the final straw. “It’s an easy fix, don’t worry!” he said with a smile before driving off, leaving me stunned. I still had three more flights to take, including the one to Lisbon.
Check-in Anxiety and the Automated Bag Drop
Dragging my damaged suitcase, I headed to the check-in counters at Terminal 5. I wanted to request a “FRAGILE” tag at a manned counter, but the lines were incredibly long. Given the time constraints, I couldn’t afford to wait.
Although I usually prefer manned counters for peace of mind, I had to use the Self Bag Drop machines. I had already checked in online, but anxiety gnawed at me. Would the broken handle get caught on the conveyor belt? I asked a British Airways staff member to handle it with care, but ultimately, the machines and baggage handlers behind the scenes would decide its fate. I watched my suitcase disappear with fingers crossed.
Entering the British Airways Galleries Club Lounge North
Having dropped off my bags, I cleared security with a lingering sense of unease. To reset my mood, I decided to visit the “Galleries Club Lounge North,” located immediately after security.
The entrance looked sophisticated, promising a relaxing experience. I presented my boarding pass and status card at the reception and stepped inside.
Spacious Design vs. Crowded Reality
Upon entering, the first thing you notice is the openness. The high ceilings with modern lighting and the deep layout reflect the premium design expected of a British Airways flagship lounge.
However, as I walked further in, reality set in. The lounge was overwhelmingly crowded. It was peak time for morning departures, and the space was packed with travelers.
The floor-to-ceiling windows offered plenty of natural light and views of the runway—a perfect setting for a glass of champagne. Unfortunately, finding a seat was a challenge in itself.
Potential as a Workspace
There are counter seats by the window equipped with power outlets, ideal for working on a laptop while watching planes.
I thought, “Work would progress nicely here,” but these spots were fully occupied. I eventually found a sofa near the entrance. Navigating to the food area or bar would have required weaving through crowds, so I gave up on a proper meal.
Checking the Shower Facilities
The lounge also features shower rooms. The “Showers Reception” area looked clean and well-stocked with towels.
While great for long layovers, the crowds suggested a likely wait time. With limited time before my flight, I decided to skip it.
Discovering the South Lounge
I left the crowded North Lounge early to head to my gate. Walking through the concourse, I noticed overhead signage.
It pointed to “British Airways South lounges.” I later learned that besides the North Lounge, Terminal 5 houses the larger and often more comfortable South Lounge. Since the North Lounge is closest to security, it tends to get the busiest. If you have time, aiming for the South Lounge is a smart move.
Additionally, there is a “Galleries Club Lounge B” near the B gates in the satellite terminal. I used this on my return trip and will report on it in a future article.
Off to Lisbon
I arrived at Gate A20. The screen displayed “Lisbon.” Despite the suitcase trouble and the crowded lounge, the excitement of travel remained. It was time to board and head for Portugal.
Heathrow Airport Lounge Guide
Here are some insights from CityNomix regarding common queries about accessing lounges at Heathrow Airport.
Heathrow Airport Lounge Credit Card
Premium credit cards like the American Express Platinum Card can be powerful tools at Heathrow. They often grant access to the Centurion Lounge (Terminal 3) or Plaza Premium Lounges. However, for British Airways’ own Galleries Club lounges, credit card perks alone usually aren’t enough unless you hold airline status. Always check your card’s specific lounge network app before traveling.
Heathrow Airport Lounge Priority Pass
While Priority Pass is great globally, its utility is specific at Heathrow Terminal 5. You cannot access British Airways lounges with it. Instead, you can use the “Club Aspire Lounge” in T5. Be aware that it can reach capacity during peak hours, so pre-booking is often recommended if you want guaranteed access.
Heathrow Airport Lounge Economy Class
Can you enter a lounge with an Economy Class ticket? Yes, but there are conditions. If you hold OneWorld Sapphire status or higher, you can access the British Airways Galleries Club lounges even when flying Economy. Without status, you can rely on Priority Pass or pay for access to third-party lounges to make your wait more comfortable.
Heathrow Airport Lounge Paid Access
If you lack status or memberships, paid entry is an option. Lounges like Plaza Premium or Club Aspire in Terminal 5 accept walk-ins for a fee. While not cheap, when you factor in the cost of food, drinks, and Wi-Fi at airport restaurants, the lounge fee can sometimes offer better value for money.
Heathrow Airport Lounge JAL
Japan Airlines (JAL) primarily operates out of Terminal 3. As a OneWorld member, eligible JAL passengers can use British Airways or Cathay Pacific lounges in T3. Note that Terminal 5, covered in this article, is the main hub for British Airways. If you are flying JAL directly, you will likely be in a different terminal unless connecting.
Heathrow Airport Lounge 24 Hours
Most Heathrow lounges are not open 24 hours. They typically operate from early morning (around 5 AM) until the last flight (around 10-11 PM). For overnight stays, sleeping in the lounge isn’t an option. I recommend booking an airport hotel like the Sofitel or a capsule hotel like YOTELAIR for a proper rest.
Heathrow Airport Lounge Star Alliance
Star Alliance carriers (like United, Lufthansa, ANA) operate mainly from Terminal 2, the Queen’s Terminal. T2 boasts excellent lounges from airlines like Singapore Airlines and Air Canada. Terminal 5 is a OneWorld hub, so you won’t find Star Alliance lounges here. Knowing which terminal your alliance uses is key at Heathrow.
Heathrow Airport Lounge Terminal 5
Terminal 5 is the home of British Airways. The lounges are spread across three main areas: Galleries Club North (visited this time), Galleries Club South (larger and recommended), and Galleries Club Lounge B (satellite). For First Class passengers and Emerald members, the Galleries First Lounge and the exclusive Concorde Room are also located in the South area. Choosing the right lounge based on your gate and status is essential for navigating this massive terminal.
