Travelers heading to Heathrow Airport this weekend should prepare for significant changes due to the complete closure of the Piccadilly Line. From midnight on January 16 until January 18, 2026, the line will not operate, affecting many passengers who typically rely on it for direct access from central London. While this may cause some inconvenience, there are several alternative routes to ensure timely arrivals at the airport.
Alternative Transportation Options
Despite the disruption, there are efficient transport services available. The quickest option remains the Heathrow Express, which departs from London Paddington every 15 minutes. This service reaches Terminals 2 and 3 in just 15 minutes, while Terminal 5 is accessible in slightly over 20 minutes. Tickets for the Heathrow Express start at £10, and children up to 15 years old can travel free of charge. For those needing access to Terminal 4, a free shuttle bus or the Elizabeth Line can be utilized from Heathrow Central.
The Elizabeth Line also offers a reliable alternative, taking approximately 28 minutes from Paddington to the airport. Passengers can board trains from various stations, including Bond Street, Tottenham Court Road, and Liverpool Street. On Saturday, six trains per hour will service Terminals 2 and 3, with four to Terminal 4 and two to Terminal 5. However, travelers should note that a reduced schedule is expected on Sunday, with fewer services available.
Coaches and Local Buses
For those preferring coach services, National Express and FirstBus provide direct routes to Heathrow. National Express departs from London Victoria Coach Station, with one-way fares beginning at £9.30 and a typical journey time of around 35 minutes. FirstBus operates from Charing Cross and Leicester Square, taking about an hour to reach the airport.
Additionally, various local bus routes serve Heathrow, including the 105, 111, 278, and 490, among others. These routes can be an economical choice for travelers.
Taxi and Driving Options
Taxis are available but can be expensive, with fares ranging from £45 to £120, depending on the pickup location and demand. An additional £6 will be charged for dropping off passengers at terminal zones due to the Terminal Drop-Off Charge.
Those considering driving can utilize the Park and Ride facilities, which offer a cost-effective option for long or short stays. Prices begin at £46.80 for the first day, dropping to £37.90 for subsequent days. Alternatively, Terminal Parking options start at £98 for every 24 hours. Friends or family dropping off passengers will incur an £8 charge at designated points, while the Park and Ride lot is free for the first 29 minutes.
With these alternatives in place, travelers can still reach Heathrow Airport efficiently despite the Piccadilly Line closure. Planning ahead and allowing extra time will ensure a smooth journey to catch winter flights.
