Which lounge should I choose when I travel with Star Alliance from London Heathrow’s new Terminal 2?

Indulge in complimentary champagne, signature cocktails at Heathrow’s longest bar, iconic London design touches, and rejuvenating spa services. London Heathrow’s Terminal 2, the Star Alliance home, offers a curated selection of premium lounges for discerning travelers. We’ve explored every lounge to help you select the perfect haven for your journey. 

Terminal 2 is comprised of two distinct buildings: T2A, which serves as the primary terminal with check-in and a spacious central concourse, and T2B, the satellite terminal where most long-haul flights depart. A dedicated underground walkway connects the two, allowing travelers to move between them without clearing security again. However, the walk between T2A and T2B is substantial—plan for at least 15 minutes, especially moving from T2B to T2A, as this route does not feature escalators or moving walkways.

Generally, T2A accommodates most European routes, while T2B is reserved for intercontinental departures, though some exceptions do occur.

United’s flagship lounges are situated in T2B, with the United Club (for business class and Star Alliance Gold) to the left of reception and the Global First Lounge (for First Class) directly across.

United Club Lounge, London Heathrow Terminal 2

The United Club is expansive, hosting up to 280 guests, and features an airy, contemporary design with abundant natural light, glass accents, and lush greenery. This marks a dramatic upgrade from United’s former Terminal 3 space, offering a sophisticated retreat for today’s premium traveler.

United Club Lounge, London Heathrow Terminal 2

The highlight here is the beverage program—a sleek, full-service bar stretches across the lounge, recognized as the longest at Heathrow, serving expertly crafted cocktails and complimentary champagne. The bar menu is extensive, and bartenders are well-versed in both classics and bespoke creations. Adjacent, a generous buffet presents a rotating selection of hot entrees, gourmet sandwiches, fresh fruit, and indulgent desserts.

United Club Lounge, London Heathrow Terminal 2

First Class and Global Services guests may access the exclusive Global First Lounge, which offers an à la carte dining menu with thoughtfully prepared hot dishes, a cold buffet, and an elegant bar pouring premium spirits and wines.

Note: United’s morning departures can make the lounge quite lively, especially during transatlantic rush hours.

Located in T2B, the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge embodies contemporary Canadian style, with panoramic airfield views, natural wood finishes, and a bright, welcoming palette.

Spanning 700 square meters, the lounge is thoughtfully zoned: a tranquil quiet area, a business suite with a boardroom-style table for meetings, and convenient shower suites for long-haul travelers. Restrooms and private workspaces are also available.

Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge, London Heathrow Terminal 2

The culinary offering is a standout, anchored by a lively dining space. The staffed bar features a rotating selection of Canadian craft beers, international wines, and premium spirits, with a specialty coffee station nearby. Along the wall, a well-stocked buffet offers fresh cold plates, light hot dishes, salads, and pastries. Throughout our visit, attentive staff ensured every guest was well cared for, maintaining a polished and welcoming environment.

Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge, London Heathrow Terminal 2

Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge, London Heathrow Terminal 2

For those seeking a pay-per-entry escape, the Plaza Premium Lounge in T2A offers a refined, design-forward environment. Tucked discreetly beside the transfer desks, entry can be purchased (current walk-in rates are £50), with select credit cards and lounge programs often accepted.

The lounge’s aesthetic fuses interactive design concepts with modern British elements, featuring locally sourced materials and art. Inspiration is drawn from Plaza Premium’s acclaimed Asian lounges, blending international flair with London sophistication.

Plaza Premium Lounge, London Heathrow Terminal 2

Beyond the reception, a striking corridor leads to the lounge’s centerpiece: a chic bar and open lounge anchored by a statement sofa. The bar serves a variety of house wines, beers, and cocktails—premium selections may incur an extra charge. Guests flying on partner airlines in premium cabins typically receive two complimentary drinks, validated via a receipt stamp.

Plaza Premium Lounge, London Heathrow Terminal 2

Multiple seating zones cater to relaxation or work, while the corner tapas bar features a generous self-serve buffet. Expect rotating hot dishes (such as Asian-inspired curries and British comfort fare), fresh sandwiches, cheeses, desserts, and light snacks.

Plaza Premium Lounge, London Heathrow Terminal 2

Wellness is also prioritized: a tranquil spa is available for pre-booked treatments. A 15-minute massage is currently priced at £30, providing a convenient refresh before your onward journey.

Immediately left of customs in the arrivals hall, you’ll find the Star Alliance Arrivals Lounge. This facility caters primarily to United, Air Canada, and South African Airways passengers arriving on long-haul routes.

Star Alliance Arrivals Lounge, London Heathrow Terminal 2

During our visit, we noted the lounge offers showers, private restrooms, and a continental breakfast buffet, as well as dedicated workstations for business travelers. It’s a practical, understated space ideal for freshening up before heading into London.

Lufthansa’s state-of-the-art lounge on the T2A balcony, just after security and adjacent to the Aer Lingus Gold Circle Lounge, now serves as a flagship space for Star Alliance passengers. Designed for both business and leisure travelers, the lounge features panoramic airfield views, gourmet food stations, and a modern bar with premium German beers and wines.

Singapore Airlines has established its SilverKris Lounge in T2B, directly opposite the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge. The elegantly appointed space blends Singaporean hospitality with British design cues, offering private suites, an à la carte dining menu, and a curated beverage list. The lounge is now fully operational and has become a favorite among frequent flyers on the London–Singapore route.

Located next to the Star Alliance Arrivals Lounge, the Plaza Premium Arrivals Lounge is open to all travelers for a fee. Guests can enjoy hot showers, a breakfast buffet, and quiet workspaces—ideal for those seeking to recharge or prepare for meetings in the city after a long-haul flight.