Quick recommendation
For most travellers, the Elizabeth line is the right choice — fast, comfortable, step-free, and a fraction of the Heathrow Express price.
Option 1 — Elizabeth line (best overall)
- Time: ~30 min from Tottenham Court Road, ~25 min from Paddington.
- Price: roughly £12 off-peak with contactless / Oyster.
- Best for: anyone with luggage who doesn't want to pay Heathrow Express prices.
Option 2 — Heathrow Express (fastest)
- Time: 15 min Paddington ⇄ Heathrow T2/T3.
- Price: £25+ (cheaper if booked online in advance).
- Best for: travellers already at or near Paddington who need maximum speed.
Option 3 — Piccadilly line (cheapest)
- Time: ~50–60 min from central London.
- Price: ~£5–6 off-peak.
- Best for: light luggage, tight budget, no rush. Steep stairs at many central stations — not step-free end-to-end.
Option 4 — National Express coach
- Time: 60–90 min depending on traffic.
- Price: ~£10.
- Best for: direct trips from Victoria Coach Station with heavy luggage.
Option 5 — Black cab / Uber
- Time: 45–90 min depending on traffic.
- Price: £65–110 depending on time and zone.
- Best for: late-night arrivals when public transport is reduced, groups of three or four sharing.
Don't forget the terminals
Heathrow has four terminals (T2, T3, T4, T5). Elizabeth line and Heathrow Express both serve T2/T3 and T5; Piccadilly line serves all four. Check your terminal before boarding.