Top Attractions and Activities to Explore Around Heathrow Airport

London’s Heathrow Airport is one of the busiest aviation hubs in the world! If you’re looking to while away a few hours or even longer during a Heathrow layover, you must know that there are several fascinating places within easy reach of the airport that you can explore for a memorable experience! Read on to learn more and plan your day well!

Visit a Village Along River Thames

You’ll be surprised to know that several picturesque villages are worth exploring, located within a short distance of Heathrow Airport! Take a minicab and explore these villages to take in the sub-urban feel as you stretch your legs, grab heart-warming food to eat and take some gorgeous snapshots to remember your exploration.

The village Datchet, known for its immersive boat tours and game centres perfect for kids, is located at a 15-minute distance from Heathrow. If you are looking for sumptuous dining & bar in London, villages Marlow and Bay are located approximately 30 minutes away from the airport and are home to a great selection of restaurants!

Explore Southall

If you are a fan of Indian culture and want to witness London’s diversity, then this place is for you! Make the most of your time around Heathrow Airport with a visit to Southall, only a few minutes away to enjoy food, curries, the South Asian vibe and more. Head in for a completely different experience and enjoy the vibrant Indian culture’s sights and sounds as you shop for Indian wear at the shopping arcades or sample flavourful, authentic Indian food or a hot plate buffet for a wholesome experience at some great hotels and eateries nearby.

Wander around Windsor and Eton

Take the opportunity to explore Windsor Castle, a royal home and fortress with a history of over 900 years. It is the largest occupied castle in the world and a working palace, that you can conveniently explore around Heathrow. Founded in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, it has since been the home of 40 monarchs! The best part is that the castle is open to visitors throughout the year, so make sure to explore the Grand Reception Room with intricate gold work, and gaze at the incredible triple portrait of King Charles I by Van Dyck and other mythical paintings. If you’re travelling with kids, there’s a ‘chillout zone’ for toddlers and several fun trails for older kids to enjoy!

Visit Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace is a visitor’s favourite destination in the UK. There’s so much to see here from the charming Tudor red brick architecture, rich tapestries, formal gardens, a maze, and beautiful bright stained glass! To get here, you can easily take the bus or a cab from Heathrow or even enjoy a riverboat experience to reach the palace if you’re in central London. Walk in the footsteps of royalty as you admire the palace’s Great Hall, Tudor kitchens, and the magnificent gardens, spanning across 60 acres!

Remember, if you’re planning to indulge in sightseeing near Heathrow Airport, make sure your layover is at least four hours long. If you have sufficient layover time, of six hours and above, explore the exhibition venues in Hounslow and take the Heathrow Express train to get to Paddington Station in 15 minutes for some central London exploration!