Sightseeing close to LHR

[Ev1dent]

As part of a DONE, my wife and I are flying JFKL-LHR in early July and connecting LHR-JNB. Originally, we were scheduled to take the first leg overnight giving us nearly 12 hours at LHR before our second flight (BA055) at 19:05. However, we have decided that rather than spend a day in the BA lounge at LHR (we both have QC), we would fly LHR the day before, stay at a hotel near LHR so that we get a proper sleep and then do some sightseeing the next morning.

We are looking for suggestions on tourist attractions near LHR, since we don't want to get caught in traffic and miss our flight. We have only spent limited time in London previously, but Google maps shows Windsor Castle as not that far from LHR. Any other suggestions for a half day not far from LHR would be appreciated, as would advice on places we should stay away from to avoid possible traffic hastles?

 

[Dave Noble]

Windsor Castle is indeed not too from Heathrow and could be worth a visit

If you haven't been to London itself, then that is easy to visit. From Heathrow, the train or tube will take you into centre of London pretty quickly and easily. If you wished to do this , then the Hilton at Paddington would be ideal place to stay. After arrival at T5, hop on Heathrow Express and in 20 mins you can be at Paddington station; the hotel is above the station; the entrance is in the station concourse

The next day you can pootle around and then when ready to head off, pick up bags from hotel and another 20 min express journey and you'll be back at the airport. Going to Paddington from T5 could well be quicker than getting to airport hotels, most of which seem to be situated in the Terminals 1,2,3 area

Dave

 

[NM]

Its not necessary to stay near LHR to get good rates and quick access. I have a 22 hour stay in London next month and have booked the Paddington Hilton hotel for GBP119. I expect I can get there on one of the train options faster than most of the local airport hotels, and then be pretty much down-town London.

I have also stayed at the Heathrow Hilton many times when I have had short overnight connections. I can be quite expensive and is convenient for T4 use, but less convenient for other terminals.

 

[Happy Dude]

You could check out Staines.

Or what Dave Noble said.

Paddington is a fine base. Lords, Maida Vale, V&A, Natural History Museum, Hyde Park, Regents Park, etc all not that far from Paddo.... depends on what you're into. Just wandering the streets is sightseeing around those parts.....enjoy!

 

[Commuter]

Public transport into London! I popped into V&A Museum when I had about 4-5 hours to hang around at LHR. I think admission was free, and well worth a visit (and had a nice cafe).

Victoria and Albert Museum