Spectators

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Spectators

Mother and child watching aircraft

When you're looking forward to your flight, nothing beats settling down to watch the action on the airfield.

Here are some of the top spots where passengers can watch the take-offs and landings over a meal or drink.

The Tin Goose, Caffè Nero and Est Presso! in Terminal 1 (international).
The Costa coffee bar, near Gate 8 in Terminal 1 (UK and Ireland).
The AMT and Costa coffee bars in Terminal 4.
The KLM Holideck lounge in Terminal 4.
Many of the gate seating areas in Terminal 4.
Almost everywhere in Terminal 5 – Gordon Ramsay Plane Food and Wagamama offer particularly good vantage points.

Some airline lounges also have runway views – your airline will be able to advise.

Heathrow Academy

None of the terminals has a spectators' viewing area for non-passengers. However, an alternative is provided by the Heathrow Academy (formerly the visitor centre), close to the Bath Road on the northern side of the airport.

Renaissance Hotel

You could also try the Renaissance Hotel. For £20, you can enjoy unique elevated runway views from the comfort of their Club Lounge. Designed with the plane enthusiast in mind, this day package includes parking, unlimited coffee, tea and soft drinks in the Club Lounge and internet access. Call +44 (0)20 8897 6363 for inquiries or go to the hotel’s Reception for your Day Pass.

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