Summary
- United Airlines celebrates 10 years at Heathrow T2, serving 16.5 million passengers.
- Access to the United Club can be gained through multiple methods.
- The lounge offers a premium atmosphere, buffet service, drinks, and a quiet business center.
Just this month, United Airlines celebrated 10 years of service at London Heathrow Terminal 2. It was June 4th, 2014, when UA958 became the first flight to be operated at The Queen’s Terminal. Since the move, the Chicago-based carrier has flown 16.5 million customers from Heathrow.
Many of these passengers have passed through the United Club at T2 ahead of their voyages across the Atlantic Ocean. With this in mind, Simple Flying took the opportunity to visit the lounge as a guest of United on a recent long-haul trip.
How to gain access
The United Club at Heathrow is in the 2B satellite terminal, on the second level. It’s a bit of a walk to this side of the terminal, but with United’s gates located here, the site is en route to the aircraft.
While flying with United or another Star Alliance on a first or business class ticket is one of the more common methods of entering this lounge, it can also be accessed by the following:
- A United Club membership or pass.
- Paid entry at the door ($59).
- Star Alliance Gold membership with a Star Alliance ticket.
- Virgin Australia Velocity Gold, Platinum, and VIP membership with a United ticket.
- Active US military service.
- Air Canada Maple Leaf Club membership with a Star Alliance ticket.
Related
6 Ways To Access The United Club Lounge
Passengers have several ways to access United’s lounges in the US and globally.
Plenty of room
Having enjoyed a taste of other United Clubs, such as Washington Dulles’ offering, I can vouch that this spot has a more premium feel than several of its counterparts. It’s a little more on the Polaris lounge side than a standard domestic United Club in the US.
Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying
This alternative approach is witnessed right from the entrance. When walking in, guests will instantly feel the freedom to be had amid the open-plan configuration that United has gone for here. It is more of a reception hall than a traditional lounge.
Straight to the buffet
My wife and I had a long transatlantic trip ahead of us, so we were keen to get some food before the flight. As such, we propped our jackets down and headed to the dining area.
Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying
The United Club here provides a buffet service complemented by a range of snacks.
As one of the vegan options, the tagine was rich and packed with spicy but balanced flavors from North Africa. There is also a choice of vegetarian and non-vegetarian salads, sandwiches, wraps, and cold cuts.
Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying
The meatballs were a popular choice, accompanied by a light but creamy cumin-based sauce. They went well with a side of fluffy rice.
The buffet menu changes depending on the time of the day. For instance, if my flight were in the morning, I would have been treated to a full English breakfast.
When it comes to beverages, soft drinks can be taken from the fridges while hot drinks and juice stations are on site.
Notably, there is a fine selection of Twinings teas for us British travelers!
Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying
Complimentary alcohol can be ordered from the lavish main bar in front of the panoramic windows that display spectacular views of the airport grounds.
Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying
There is a wide range of spirits available. Still, we opted for cider and white wine to sip while watching the aircraft taxi.
The grand tour
With our stomachs full, it was time to walk around and admire the scenes, including the classic imagery on the wall. From hungry leisure travelers to busy entrepreneurs, there is a spot for everyone.
Those looking to sit back on their phones may wish to bask in one of the lounge chairs near the bar. Others looking to get some work done while having a drink may prefer to sit on one of the high risers fitted with charging ports. Meanwhile, the round tables are perfect for families to dine together.
Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying
There is a quiet business center that gives peace and quiet for those looking to get work done. There is even an isolated section at the back equipped with a TV broadcasting the news and range of magazines. This is a comfortable place to relax out of sight while getting some reading done.
At certain times, passengers can also refresh themselves in the shower room. All the washing facilities are squeaky clean within the facility.
Related
What Perks Come With The United Club Infinite Card?
The card has many benefits, which can be unlocked with an annual subscription.
The right balance
The United Club has a premium touch without making you feel like you have to tread on thin ice like at several other premium lounges. Those looking for that extra peace can simply sit in designated quiet zones, while others planning to socialize can do so freely in the main area.
All in all, the United Club at T2 is the perfect way to start a transatlantic hop. Despite the hustle and bustle of Heathrow, it provides a tranquil hideaway before heading to your gate.
What are your thoughts about the United Club at London Heathrow? Let us know what you think in the comment section.