Navigating London Heathrow Amid This Weekend’s Piccadilly Line Closure

Jordan Hartwell

ago 1 hour

Travelers heading to London Heathrow Airport this weekend should prepare for the closure of the Piccadilly Line. From midnight on Friday, January 16, until Sunday evening, January 18, the entire line will be out of service. Those relying on this route will need to explore alternative transportation options to ensure timely arrivals at the airport.

Navigating London Heathrow Amid This Weekend’s Piccadilly Line Closure

The closure of a key transit line can be challenging for travelers. However, there are several reliable options available to reach Heathrow Airport during this disruption. Here’s a breakdown of alternative transport methods:

1. Heathrow Express

Departs from London Paddington every 15 minutes.
Travel time to Terminals 2 and 3: approximately 15 minutes.
Travel time to Terminal 5: around 20 minutes.
Tickets start at £10. Free travel is available for children under 15.
If traveling to Terminal 4, transfer to a shuttle bus or the Elizabeth line for free at Heathrow Central.

2. Elizabeth Line

Journey from Paddington takes about 28 minutes.
Stops include Bond Street, Tottenham Court Road, Farringdon, Liverpool Street, and Canary Wharf.
On Saturday, services include six trains per hour to Terminals 2 and 3, four trains to Terminal 4, and two trains to Terminal 5.
On Sunday, expect a reduced service with two trains per hour to Terminal 4 and four trains to Terminals 2 and 3.
Cost from Zone 1 to Heathrow: £13.90.

3. Coach Services

National Express operates from London Victoria Coach Station for £9.30 one-way, with a travel time of about 35 minutes.
FirstBus provides service from Charing Cross or Leicester Square, taking roughly one hour.

4. Local Bus Routes

A variety of local bus services operate to Heathrow, including:

105, 111, 278, 285, 350, 423, 482, 490
A10, U3, H21, H30, SL7, SL9
Night buses: N9, N30, N40, and N140 operating between 11:40 PM and 5:35 AM.

5. Taxi Services

Taxis are available but tend to be the costliest option, with fares ranging from £45 to £120. An additional £6 charge applies for drop-offs at the terminal.

6. Driving to the Airport

For those preferring to drive, consider these options:

Park and Ride facilities offer both short and long stays, beginning at £46.80 for the first day and £37.90 for subsequent days.
Terminal Parking costs start at £98 per 24 hours.
Drop-off points incur an £8 fee, but the Park and Ride allows free drop-offs for the first 29 minutes.

As public transport may experience additional disruptions, it’s advisable to leave early. By preparing ahead, travelers can ensure a smooth journey to London Heathrow Airport despite the Piccadilly Line closure.