How Long Does It Take to Get from Heathrow to Central London?

When you land at Heathrow Airport — one of the busiest airports in the world — the first question on your mind is likely: how long will it take to get to Central London?

The answer varies based on the transport option you select. From speedy trains to affordable underground routes or the comfort of a private taxi, each option comes with its timing, price, and level of convenience. In this guide, we’ll break down the most popular ways to travel from Heathrow to Central London — and how long you can expect each journey to take.

What Counts as “Central London”?

Generally, when we say Central London, we mean areas around:

• Westminster
  
• Soho
  
• Covent Garden
  
• Oxford Circus
  
• Paddington
  
• Kensington
  
• Waterloo
  
• Mayfair

These key tourist and business hubs are located within Zones 1 and 2 on London’s transport map.

1. Heathrow Express Train — Fastest Public Option

Time: 15-20 minutes to Paddington Station
Frequency: Every 15 minutes
Cost: £25-£37 (one way, depending on time of booking)

The Heathrow Express is the fastest way to get into Central London. Non-stop, air-conditioned, and with ample luggage space, it takes you from Terminals 2, 3, and 5 (and Terminal 4 via a complimentary transfer) to London Paddington in just 15-20 minutes.

From Paddington, you can take the Tube, taxi, or Uber to your hotel or final destination.

2. London Underground (Tube) — Cheapest Option

Time: 45-60 minutes to most Central London locations
Frequency: Every few minutes
Cost: From £5.60 (with Oyster card or contactless)

The Piccadilly Line of the London Underground connects all Heathrow terminals directly to Central London. It’s the most affordable option for solo travelers or those on a budget.

Typical times:

• Leicester Square: ~50 mins
  
• Piccadilly Circus: ~52 mins
  
• Covent Garden: ~48 mins
  
• South Kensington: ~40 mins

3. Taxi or Private Car (Door-to-Door Convenience)

Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour (can be longer during rush hours)
Cost: From £55-£100 depending on traffic, time of day, and exact location

Booking a Heathrow to London City taxi provides door-to-door convenience, which is particularly beneficial if you’re traveling with family, have a lot of luggage, or are arriving late at night.

Traffic can add time, especially during morning and evening peak periods (7:30-9:30 a.m. and 4:30-7:00 p.m.).

4. Elizabeth Line (New Crossrail)

Journey time: 30 to 35 minutes to Tottenham Court Road, Farringdon, and Liverpool Street.
Frequency: Every 15 minutes
Cost: ~£12-£15

The new Elizabeth Line (Crossrail) connects Heathrow with multiple Central London stations and is one of the best value-for-time options in 2025. It’s faster than the Tube, cheaper than Heathrow Express, and stops at several key stations — ideal if your destination is near Soho, the West End, or the City.

5. Coach or Shuttle Bus

Time: 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on traffic
Cost: From £10-£15

National Express and other shuttle services operate between Heathrow and various London coach stations (Victoria, Hammersmith, etc.)—a slower but budget-friendly choice, especially if you’re not in a rush.

Summary: Heathrow to Central London Travel Times

Transport Option	Estimated Time
Heathrow Express	15-20 mins
Elizabeth Line	30-35 mins
Taxi / Private Transfer	45-60 mins
London Underground (Tube)	45-60 mins
Coach / Shuttle	60-90 mins

Final Tips

• Book taxis or Airport transfers Heathrow in advance — especially during busy seasons.
  
• Skip the Tube during peak commuter hours to avoid the crowds.
  
• Elizabeth Line is a great all-rounder for speed, comfort, and cost.
  
• Travel time can vary — always allow extra time if you have a business meeting or theatre reservation in London.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the fastest way to get from Heathrow to Central London?
A: The Heathrow Express is the quickest public transport option, taking only 15-20 minutes to London Paddington. For door-to-door service, a pre-booked Heathrow to London City taxi can be particularly convenient, especially if you have a lot of luggage.

Q2: What is the cost of a taxi from Heathrow to Central London?
A: Taxi fares typically range from £55 to £100, depending on the time of day, traffic conditions, and your exact destination. If you’re looking for a cheap taxi in London, UK, it’s best to book in advance through reputable online platforms for competitive rates.

Q3: Does the Elizabeth Line take less time than the Tube from Heathrow?
A: Yes — the Elizabeth Line is faster and more modern than the Piccadilly Line Tube. It reaches key Central London stations in about 30-35 minutes, offering a comfortable alternative at a mid-range price.

Q4: Do I need to pre-book my Heathrow airport transfer?
A: While public transport (Tube, Elizabeth Line, Heathrow Express) doesn’t require booking, it is highly recommended to pre-book a Heathrow to London city taxi or private car service — especially during peak tourist seasons or late-night arrivals.

Q5: What is the cheapest way to travel from Heathrow to Central London?
A: The London Underground (Piccadilly Line) is the most affordable option, with fares starting at £5.60. It takes around 45-60 minutes to reach Central London and runs frequently throughout the day.