Heathrow Airport, one of the busiest international airports in the world, has designated pick-up points to make passenger collection smooth and convenient.
Each terminal at Heathrow has its own dedicated pick-up zone located in the short-stay car park, just a short walk from the arrivals area. Understanding these locations, along with the parking charges and guidelines, ensures a hassle-free experience when collecting passengers.
Looking for the nearest pick-up and drop-off point at Heathrow Airport?
London Heathrow Airport (LHR) is one of the busiest airports in the UK and also the most popular with international travellers. It handles the highest number of international passengers arriving in the UK.
Where is Heathrow Airport Pick-up and drop-off?
No pick-ups are allowed at the terminal forecourts. These are strictly for drop-offs only. Instead, all passenger pick-ups must take place from the Short Stay car parks, located right next to each terminal.
Drop-Off at Heathrow Airport
You can drop passengers off directly outside each terminal in the designated forecourt area. Alternatively, you can drop-off for free at the Heathrow Park and Ride (Long Stay car parks) and passengers can take a free shuttle bus to their terminal.
Dropping off and Picking up at Heathrow
At Heathrow Airport, drop-offs can be made directly at the terminal forecourts, though a £5 charge applies each time and must be paid online or by phone.
For picking up passengers, the Short Stay car parks are the closest option, located just a few minutes’ walk from each terminal. Parking here costs £7.50 for up to 29 minutes, with higher charges for longer stays.
If you’d like a free option, you can use Heathrow’s Long Stay car parks, which allow up to 30 minutes free, though they are mainly designed for drop-offs rather than pick-ups.
A free shuttle bus takes you from the Long Stay to your terminal in around 5–10 minutes. For longer or more convenient stays, Short Stay parking is also available at higher rates, starting from £12.70 for 30–59 minutes.
For those who prefer premium convenience, Heathrow also offers Meet & Greet and Valet parking. With these services, you hand your car over at a reception area or the terminal forecourt, and staff park it for you.
On your return, your car is brought back to the terminal, though this option is more costly, usually starting at around £50 per day.
Where is the pick-up point at Heathrow Airport?
At Heathrow Airport, there isn’t a free designated “pick-up point” directly outside the terminals. Instead, passengers arriving need to be collected from the Short Stay car parks, which are located next to each terminal.
- Terminal 2: pick-up from Short Stay Car Park 2 (Level 4 is usually closest for arrivals).
- Terminal 3: pick-up from Short Stay Car Park 3.
- Terminal 4: pick-up from Short Stay Car Park 4 (signposted from arrivals).
- Terminal 5: pick-up from Short Stay Car Park 5, located opposite if you park e terminal.
What are Heathrow Airport pick-up prices?
Generally, pick-up pricing at Heathrow Airport depends on how long you stay and which terminal you use. This is because each terminal has different rates, which can also vary during peak times or seasons. If you park your car at Heathrow’s Long Stay car park, the first 30 minutes are free.
Where can I find more details about Heathrow Airport prices and pick-up zones?
For the most accurate information about Heathrow Airport pricing and pick-up zones, it’s suggested to check out its official website. The official website also gives you updated information.
What are the types of paid pick-up options near Heathrow Airport?
Short Stay Car Parks
Closest to terminals (just a few minutes’ walk) and you pay drive-up rates based on how long you stay.
Park and Ride (formerly Long Stay)
Cheaper for longer stays and it’s suitable if you don’t mind using a shuttle bus. First ~30 minutes are free for pick-ups. After that, rates kick in.
Meet and Greet Parking
This is a more premium service. You drive to a dedicated reception area, hand over the car, and the staff park it for you. On your return, it’s delivered back at the terminal’s short-stay. More convenient, less walking or shuttle involved.
Valet Parking
Similar to Meet and Greet but you might drop the car right at the terminal forecourt (depending on terminal). Someone else parks for you. You drive up to the departure forecourt of your terminal and hand over your car to the valet staff.
POD Parking (Terminal 5 Unique Option)
There is a “POD Parking” service at Terminal 5 Heathrow. It uses driverless or on-demand vehicle shuttles to move between parking and terminal, offering a mix of convenience and novelty.
Heathrow Airport – pick-up Information, Prices, Details
Pick-ups are not allowed from the terminal forecourts (i.e. directly outside the arrival halls). These zones are for drop-offs only. You just drive in, take a ticket, and then pay at pay-on-foot machines. Height restrictions in some car parks apply (especially in over-height zones in Short Stay).
Heathrow Airport – Drop-off Information, Prices, Details
Heathrow Airport Drop-off Zone
Drop-off zones at Heathrow are limited but located directly outside the terminals. Use postcode TW6 1EW for quick access. If you need more than 2 hours, use Heathrow’s Long Stay Parking where you can take your time.
Heathrow Airport Long-Stay Parking
Heathrow’s Long-Stay Parking is designed for travelers who need to leave their car at the airport for several days or longer. It’s also a useful option if you’re dropping off or collecting passengers and want more time than the Short Stay car parks allow.
Taxi to Heathrow Airport
You can request the Heathrow Airport Taxi and Transfer service if you prefer to travel to and from the airport.
