If you’re flying through London and want a place to relax before your flight, the Qantas Lounge Heathrow Terminal 3 is worth exploring. Conveniently located after security in Lounge B, it’s the first lounge you’ll encounter after passing the shops and gates. The Qantas Lounge LHR is open daily and caters to both business and first-class travellers, as well as eligible frequent flyers. But does it live up to its reputation? Let’s dive in a take a look.
Qantas Lounge LHR – Terminal 3: When Did It Open?
The Qantas Lounge Heathrow Terminal 3 opened in November 2017. It was built as part of Qantas’ investment to enhance its services for passengers flying to London, including the new Perth-London route that started in March 2018. The lounge spans two levels and offers comfortable seating for over 230 passengers. Key features in the Qantas Lounge LHR include a marble cocktail bar, a gin bar, a range of food options like à la carte meals and a buffet, and six shower suites. It’s a great spot for both business and first-class travelers, with a focus on comfort and convenience before long flights.
Qantas Lounge LHR – Location & Eligibility
Reaching the Qantas Heathrow Terminal 3 Lounge is straightforward. After clearing security, follow the signs for Lounge B. As you walk through the bustling terminal, it’s impossible to miss. It is the first lounge you will encounter as you walk pass the shops and through the gate.
Eligibility to access the lounge depends on several factors:
- Qantas Business Class and Qantas First Class passengers.
- Passengers flying first or business class on any Oneworld alliance airline.
- Oneworld Emerald or Sapphire status holders.
- Emirates first and business class passengers.
- For other travelers, access can be purchased for £55 for two hours or £110 for the day. Purchasing lounge passes for friends and family make them one of the best gifts for someone who travels.
I am a fan of Emirates and often do an amex points transfer to emirates to redeem reward tickets. Their lounges are exceptional so i mainly stay in the Emirates Lounge. If you have time up your sleeve and would like a change of atmosphere head on over to the Qantas Lounge. Even if its just for comparison or to have a gin!
Qantas Lounge Terminal 3 Heathrow – Lounge Design & Layout
Spanning two levels, the Qantas Lounge T3 Heathrow is designed to accommodate both business and first-class travelers. While the layout is spacious, its aesthetics might feel a bit outdated and uninspired. Thankfully, the standout feature – the marble cocktail bar which overlooks the tarmac – is a refreshing highlight.
The lower level hosts an a la carte dining area and a unique gin bar, offering rare and exotic gins. This is where you’ll find some of the lounge’s signature dishes, like the well-loved salt and pepper squid.
Upstairs, you’ll find a buffet section, ample seating options, and cozy spaces for relaxation. For families and those travelling with kids, there’s a small play area for children. There is also a small business center and 6 individual showers. The lack of natural light due to its few windows might be a downside for some, but the comfortable seating arrangements, including sofas, armchairs, and booth-style spaces, make up for it.
Transitioning between the two levels is easy with stairs and an elevator available for convenience.
Qantas Lounge LHR – Dining Experience
Dining at the Qantas Lounge Terminal 3 Heathrow is split between the buffet area and the a la carte dining space on the lower level. The food offerings change throughout the day, catering to a variety of tastes.
- Morning: Expect a decent selection of breakfast items which include eggs, and bacon, baked beans, bircher, yogurts, fruits, pastries and tea/coffee.
- Brunch: Around 11:00 AM, a brunch buffet is served, offering lighter options.
- Dinner Service: Starting at 5:00 PM and running until 8:00 PM, the dining area serves a dinner menu.
These times align with Qantas flights, such as QF10 to Melbourne via Perth at 11:50 AM and the Qantas A380 QF2 Sydney-bound flight via Singapore at 8:10 PM.
The highlight of the dining experience is the lower-level gin bar, which pairs perfectly with your meal or a light snack.
Qantas Lounge LHR – Amenities
The Qantas Lounge T3 Heathrow provides a range of facilities for travellers to enjoy:
Shower Suites
Six individual showers are available, complete with towels, toiletries, and essentials. The water pressure is excellent, and the temperature remains consistent, but the hairdryer might feel underpowered for some.
Marble Cocktail Bar
As the lounge’s focal point and overlooking the tarmac, the marble bar offers a variety of cocktails, with bartenders ready to serve your favourite drink. Coffee lovers can head here for a barista-made coffee.
Buffet Area
The buffet on the upper level provides hot soups, salads, hot meals, desserts, and beverages, including infused water, teas, and coffee.
Seating Options
From cozy armchairs to booth-style seating with coffee tables, there’s plenty of space to relax or work. The lounge also has a quieter back area for those who prefer privacy.
Kids’ Play Area
Families traveling with children can take advantage of the small but functional play area, ensuring everyone in the family has a comfortable experience.
When to Visit the Qantas Lounge LHR
Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience at the Qantas Business Lounge Heathrow Terminal 3. The best times to visit are a few hours before a Qantas flight, during the dinner service. This is when the most extensive dining options are available, ensuring you enjoy a fulfilling pre-flight meal.
Final Thoughts
The Qantas Lounge Terminal 3 Heathrow offers a functional and convenient space for eligible travellers to relax before their flights. With its spacious layout, showers, cocktail bar, and decent dining options, and even VIP rooms, it serves its purpose well. However, it might not be the most memorable lounge experience in Terminal 3, especially with stronger competitors like the Cathay Pacific lounge nearby.
I have been travelling business and first class for free on some of the best airlines in the world and have had lounge access to all of them. There are some great options out there that need exploring before settling for the Qantas Lounge.
Chances are that if you are eligible to the Qantas Lounge LHR, you would probably be eligible to get into a number of lounges at Heathrow including the Cathay Lounge. Perhaps explore your dining options there first and head on over for a gin once you’re done.
If you value convenience, the lounge’s proximity to the gates and its ample seating make it a practical choice. But if you’re looking for a more premium experience, exploring alternative lounges in Terminal 3 could be a better option.
Whether you’re indulging in a refreshing gin cocktail, traditional scones and tea or savouring their signature salt and pepper squid, the Qantas Heathrow Terminal 3 Lounge still provides a decent starting point for your journey.
Happy travels and if you need help with your packing feel free to download this ultimate travel packing list for helpful tips you might not have thought of!
