Singapore Airlines Opens Refurbished London Heathrow SilverKris Lounge

On February 8th, Singapore Airlines temporarily closed its SilverKris Lounge at London Heathrow Airport to begin a £3.5 million ($4.5 million) refurbishment process. Today, the area has reopened for passengers to visit ahead of their flights across the skies.

A close look at First Class

Ahead of the highly anticipated reopening, Simple Flying had the chance to witness what guests can expect on their travels at Terminal 2B. Singapore Airlines GM of the UK and Ireland, Mohamed Rafi Mar, and his team at London Heathrow gave us a tour of the facilities this week.

Work has been completed on both the First Class and Business Class wings of the SilverKris Lounge. It was the former where our journey began.

Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying

The design of the lounge clearly draws inspiration from the recently refurbished Singapore Changi Airport. After all, the airline bills the facility as providing “a sense of home.”

Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying

The soft furnishings resemble what travelers would see throughout the interiors of profound Singaporean buildings.

I especially loved the floral accents that could be found on the tables and seating.

The SilverKris Lounge can now accommodate up to 242 passengers. This is a 16% increase in capacity.

Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying

Key features include:

• Sleek wingback chairs.
• Private productivity pods.
• Roomy long table seats.
• Numerous charging ports.
• 75-inch widescreen screens.

Tastes from the East

We were given the opportunity to sample offerings from the First Class menu. Each dish had an authentic Southeast Asian taste while being distinct in its own right. Notably, this is an à la carte service, ensuring that all items are served fresh to order. Yet, passengers can also choose options from the buffet if they wish.

The first dish we tried was Singapore Laksa. It was served with poached king prawns, boiled egg, fish cake, and fried tofu. The flavors combined well to provide a vibrant experience.

Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying

One of my favorite dishes is Pad Thai. The serving at this lounge stands out as one of the best I’ve tasted, with the eggs and pak choi perfectly balanced with the rice noodles and peanuts.

Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying

The Beef Rendang with jasmine rice was also one to remember. It tasted similar to one of the ones I tried in Malaysia and would hold up well in any high-end restaurant, thanks to the perfect balance of coconut milk and spices.

Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying

Hainanese Chicken Rice is a staple for many across East and Southeast Asia. This simple dish is a go-to for those wanting something homely and simple ahead of a flight.

Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying

It was the first time I tried Chai Tow Kway (known as carrot cake in the West despite not consisting of carrots or cake). This version, made with turnips, took me back to simpler times and reminded me of something that my grandmother from India used to make.

Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying

Plenty of room in Business Class

With our bellies full, it was time to head to the Business Class lounge. I had the pleasure of coming to this lounge before the refurbishment so I could instantly notice some of the developments.

The most obvious change is the size of the bar. The centerpiece bar now stretches to seat 10 people. Guests can chat in elegance while their glass of champagne is being poured or their cocktail is being mixed.

Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying

Staff on the scene emphasized that, unlike several lounges where the passengers are more focused on the alcohol service, Singapore Airlines’ guests prioritize enjoying the cuisine. However, the drinks offering is certainly not sacrificed in this lounge!

I tried out the signature Singapore Sling, which was extremely refreshing as it wasn’t too bitter or sweet like others I’ve tried over the years.

Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying

It also helped that the drink was complemented by spectacular views of the aircraft taxiing along the airport grounds.

Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying

A plate from the Business Class buffet would also go down a treat while taking in the scenes of the ground. The whole area has been designed to give the passengers significant room for movement. The expansive views out of the windows add to this notion.

Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying

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A fresh approach

Overall, from the pod seating to the showers, everything in the SilverKris Lounge looks and feels particularly crisp. The refurbishments are a natural evolution as Singapore Airlines continues to grow in this post-pandemic era.

As GM Mohamed Rafi Mar had put it:

“Singapore Airlines’ all-new SilverKris Lounge at London Heathrow offers customers a refreshed, spacious, and welcoming environment. From new furnishings to extra seating options, there are thoughtful touches throughout.

“Our lounge has been optimised to create a well-balanced space, whether you are working, relaxing, or spending time with your family, loved ones or colleagues ahead of flying. This is part of our continued commitment to offering an unrivalled travel experience, and we look forward to welcoming customers through our doors.”

Those with Business/First tickets on Singapore Airlines and other Star Alliance carriers can visit one of the two lounges depending as part of their fare. Also, those with Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Elite Gold, PPS Club, or Star Alliance Gold membership may enter.

Using the space’s Batik wall as a metaphor, there is a clear presence of Singapore in the refurbished SilverKris Lounge. The 10,689-square-foot space is open every day between 05:30 and 22:00.

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