summary
- United Airlines celebrates 10 years of operation at Heathrow’s Terminal 2, serving 16.5 million passengers.
- There are multiple ways to gain access to United Club.
- The lounge offers an upscale atmosphere, buffet service, beverages and a quiet business center.
This month, United Airlines celebrated 10 years of operating out of London Heathrow’s Terminal 2. Flight UA958 became the first flight to operate out of the Queens terminal on June 4, 2014. Since the move, the Chicago-based airline has carried 16.5 million passengers out of Heathrow.
Many of these passengers pass through the United Club at T2 before their transatlantic voyage, and with this in mind, Simple Flying had the opportunity to visit the lounge as a guest of United on a recent long-haul trip.
how to access
The United Club at Heathrow Airport is located on the second floor of Satellite Terminal 2B. It’s a bit of a walk to this side of the terminal, but the location is on your way to your plane as United’s gate is located here.
Flying on a first or business class ticket with United Airlines or another Star Alliance airline is one of the most common ways to get into this lounge, but you can also get there in the following ways:
- United Club membership or pass.
- Admission is payable at the door ($59).
- Star Alliance Gold membership with a Star Alliance ticket.
- Virgin Australia Velocity Gold, Platinum and VIP memberships are available to those with United Airlines tickets.
- Active duty US military personnel.
- Air Canada Maple Leaf Club members holding a Star Alliance ticket.
6 ways to access the United Club Lounge
Passengers have multiple ways to access United Airlines lounges in the U.S. and around the world.
Plenty of space
Having experienced other United Clubs, such as the one at Washington Dulles, I can safely say that this one feels more upscale than the others – it feels closer to a Polaris Lounge than your standard United Club in the US.
Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying
This new approach is visible right from the entrance: Once inside, guests will feel instantly at home in the open-plan configuration that United has adopted here, which feels more like a reception hall than a traditional lounge.
Directly to the buffet
My wife and I had a long transatlantic journey ahead of us and wanted to get something to eat before we left, so we put on our jackets and headed to the dining area.
Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying
The United Club offers buffet service and a variety of snacks.
The vegan dish, tajine, is packed with spicy yet balanced North African flavours, and a selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian salads, sandwiches, wraps and cold cuts are also available.
Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying
The meatballs were a popular choice and came with a light, creamy cumin-based sauce, which paired perfectly with the fluffy rice.
The buffet menu changes depending on the time of day – for example, if my flight was in the morning, a full English breakfast was available.
As for drinks, soft drinks are available from the fridge, but there are also hot drinks and juice stations on-site.
They have a great selection of Twinings teas, especially for us British travellers.
Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying
Guests can order complimentary alcoholic drinks in the luxurious main bar, located in front of panoramic windows offering spectacular views of the airport grounds.
Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying
There is a wide range of spirits on offer, but we opted for a cider and white wine to sip while watching the planes take off.
The Grand Tour
With our bellies full, it was time to wander around and admire the sights, including the classical paintings on the walls. There’s something for everyone, from the hungry leisure traveler to the busy entrepreneur.
Those looking to unwind with their phone can relax in the lounge chairs near the bar, while those looking to work with a drink can sit on the elevated platform with charging ports, while the round tables are perfect for families to dine together.
Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying
There is a quiet business centre offering serenity for those who wish to work, and at the back there is also a secluded section with a TV broadcasting the news and a range of magazines – a pleasant spot to relax and read a book in seclusion.
At certain times, passengers can also freshen up in the shower rooms, and all laundry facilities on-site are kept sparkling clean.
![United Airlines Club Card Custom Thumbnail](https://static1.simpleflyingimages.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/artboard-2-3_2-4-7.jpg)
What benefits does the United Club Infinite Card offer?
This card offers many benefits and can be availed through an annual subscription.
The right balance
United Club exudes a premium atmosphere without the risky vibe of other premium lounges, and those looking for extra privacy can simply sit in the designated quiet areas, while those looking to socialize are free to mingle in the main area.
Overall, the United Club at T2 is a great place to start your transatlantic journey, offering a quiet retreat before heading to your gate despite the hustle and bustle of Heathrow.
What do you think about the United Club at London Heathrow? Let us know in the comments section.