London Heathrow’s Terminal 5 is the bustling heart of British Airways. For many travelers, the journey begins long before boarding a flight.
Navigating the various BA Lounge Heathrow Terminal 5 options, however, can be a confusing experience.
This post provides a clear and comprehensive guide to all the British Airways Lounges in Terminal 5, from the exclusive First Wing to the quieter satellite lounges.
How to Find the Lounges
Finding your way to the right BA Lounge at Heathrow T5 is the first step. Here are detailed instructions for accessing each lounge area after passing through security.
Option 1: Accessing the Galleries First Lounge or the Concorde Room (T5A)
The Galleries First Lounge and the Concorde Room are conveniently located together in the main T5A building and are best accessed via the dedicated First Wing.
- Step 1: Use the BA First Wing for Check-in and Security. Head to the South end of the check-in area to find the entrance to the BA First Wing in T5.
This exclusive area provides a completely separated space for check-in, luggage drop-off, and security screening.
After checking in, you will immediately enter a dedicated security area. - Step 2: Enter the Lounge Complex. After clearing the dedicated security, a hallway leads you directly to the entrance of the lounge complex.
The Concorde Room is located adjacent to the Galleries First Lounge, making it easy for eligible passengers to proceed to the more exclusive space.
Option 2: Accessing the Galleries Club North or South Lounges (T5A)
The two main Galleries Club Lounges are located airside in the primary terminal building, T5A, after the general security checkpoints.
- Step 1: Pass Through General Security Screening. After check-in, proceed through the standard security procedures for Terminal 5.
- Step 2: Locate the Galleries Club South Lounge. Once through security, head down to the departures shopping area.
Walk toward the gates and go up two sets of escalators. The first floor is home to the Concorde and First Lounges, while the Galleries Club South Lounge is located on the second floor. - Step 3: Locate the Galleries Club North Lounge.
Alternatively, you can make your way to the Galleries Club North Lounge, which is also located in the main part of the terminal.
Option 3: Accessing the Galleries Club B Gates Lounge (T5B Satellite)
For a quieter experience, the Galleries Club B Gates Lounge is highly recommended by frequent flyers, especially if your flight departs from the B or C gates.
- Step 1: Start from the Main Terminal (T5A). After you clear security in the main terminal, you will need to travel airside to the B Gates.
- Step 2: Choose Your Transportation Method. You can take the airside train to the B gates. The trains arrive every few minutes, and the journey takes about two minutes.
Alternatively, you can walk, but be prepared for an approximately 20-minute journey. - Step 3: Locate the B Gates Lounge. Once you arrive at the B Gates terminal (T5B), it is a short walk to the lounge. The Galleries Club B Gates Lounge is located near Gate B36.
NOTE: If your flight departs from the A Gates after visiting the T5B lounge, you must walk back.
Do not take the train from B to A, as this will force you to exit into the arrivals area and go through security again. If your flight is from the C Gates, taking the train from B to C is fine.
Option 4: Accessing the Arrivals Lounge (T5 Landside)
The Arrivals Lounge is designed for passengers who have just landed from a long-haul flight and need a space to freshen up before heading into London.
- Step 1: Exit the Secure Area. This lounge is located landside, meaning you must exit the secure section of the airport. This involves going through immigration, baggage reclaim, and customs.
- Step 2: Find the Lifts. After entering the arrivals concourse, look for the orange bank of lifts located in the middle of the terminal.
- Step 3: Go Up to the Lounge Entrance. Take the lift or escalators up one floor, where the lounge entrance will be clearly visible.
NOTE: The Arrivals Lounge has limited hours and is only open daily from 5 am until 2 pm.
The First Wing: An Exclusive Start
The British Airways-Heathrow Terminal 5 First Wing offers an unparalleled start to your journey.
It is more than just a check-in desk; it’s a dedicated check-in and security screening area designed for maximum efficiency and convenience.
The key benefit is the seamless transition it provides, allowing eligible passengers to go from curbside to the Galleries First Lounge entrance in potentially just a few minutes.
Access is typically reserved for First Class passengers and high-tier frequent flyers.
The Concorde Room: The Pinnacle of Luxury
The British Airways Concorde Room at Terminal 5 represents the absolute peak of the BA lounge experience.
It is the most prestigious and exclusive lounge, with strict access requirements limited to passengers flying in First Class or those holding a special Concorde Room card.
Inside, you’ll discover an atmosphere of privacy and opulence. Key features include:
- Concorde Dining: An elegant, private dining room offering a full à la carte menu for breakfast and lunch.
- The Terrace: An expansive outdoor terrace with impressive views over the airfield, perfect for plane-spotting.
- The Bar: A world-class bar serving an extensive selection of premium champagne, wines, and spirits.
Galleries First Lounge: A Step Above
The Galleries First Lounge serves as the primary lounge for most First Class passengers and Oneworld Emerald members.
While not as exclusive as the Concorde Room, it offers a significant step up from the Club lounges.
It features a more refined food and drink selection, including a dedicated First Lounge Terrace for outdoor relaxation.
A highlight is the recently updated New Bar, which boasts a modern design and a premium menu. The atmosphere strikes a balance between the quiet luxury of the Concorde Room and the bustling energy of the Galleries Club lounges.
Galleries Club Lounges: The Business Class Hub
There are three British Airways T5 Club Lounge locations, serving as the main hub for travelers in Club Europe/Club World and Oneworld Sapphire membership tiers.
- Galleries Club South, located above the First Lounge in T5A, is often considered the main Club Lounge and can be slightly less chaotic than its northern counterpart.
- Galleries Club North: Also in T5A, this is known for being the busiest and most crowded of the three, especially during peak travel times.
- Galleries Club B Gates (T5B): Often referred to as the “hidden gem,” this satellite lounge is ideal for passengers departing from the B or C gates. It is typically quiet, tranquil, and often feels deserted, offering a peaceful escape from the crowds of the main terminal.
Arrivals Lounge: Freshen Up After Your Flight
The Arrivals Lounge serves a practical purpose: providing a space for long-haul passengers to refresh after landing.
As it is located landside, you must clear immigration and customs first. Key amenities include dozens of showers, a clothes-pressing service, and a full breakfast offering, allowing you to prepare for your day in London.
Choose Your Perfect Pre-Flight Experience
Understanding the different Terminal 5 Lounges can transform your travel day. For ultimate luxury, the Concorde Room is unmatched.
For a premium but accessible experience, the Galleries First Lounge delivers. Business travelers seeking a place to work will find the Galleries Club Lounges suitable, with the T5B lounge offering the most peace and quiet.
Finally, the Arrivals Lounge is an invaluable resource for long-haul flyers.
By choosing the right BA Lounge Heathrow option, you can ensure your journey starts or ends on a high note.
