For many travellers, an airport lounge has symbolised a touch of luxury before a flight—a serene haven to wait with a complimentary drink. However, a major new investigation has shattered this illusion, revealing that the majority of airport lounges in the UK are now overpriced and underwhelming.
Disappointing Findings Across the Board
The consumer champion Which? conducted anonymous visits to 28 lounges across the country. Inspectors rated each one based on facilities, food and drink quality, and additional features like runway views or quiet spaces. The results were damning: hardly any lounges impressed the reviewers, and only a third managed to score three stars or above.
At the very bottom of the rankings was the Club Aspire lounge in Terminal 5 at Heathrow Airport, which received a paltry one-star rating. The undercover inspector reported stained and dirty plates, with floors covered in crumbs despite an early morning visit. The breakfast selection was described as 'very poor on the whole,' featuring 'congealed' scrambled eggs and a lack of basic items like mushrooms or tomatoes.
This subpar experience comes with a steep price tag of £42. For context, passengers in the same terminal could enjoy a luxury Fortnum and Mason afternoon tea for £35 or a large breakfast at The Crown Rivers Wetherspoons for just £14.50.
Paying More Does Not Mean a Better Experience
The investigation found that a higher cost does not guarantee quality. The most expensive lounge in the survey was the Suite by Aspire at Newcastle Airport, costing a hefty £68. Despite promises of 'top-tier hospitality' and 'fine dining,' it only scored two-and-a-half stars. Researchers never received a promised welcome drink or table service, and the section with 'opulent seating' and airfield views was closed during their visit.
As an alternative, the report highlighted that Bar 11 in Newcastle airport offers a full English breakfast for £16.99 alongside what were called 'spectacular' runway views.
The research also highlighted a dramatic price surge. When Which? first began reviewing lounges in 2017, the average access cost was £25 and often included spas and showers. Now, those perks are largely gone, and the average price has skyrocketed to £42—a 68% increase in just eight years.
A Few Bright Spots and Key Advice for Travellers
Amid the widespread disappointment, a couple of lounges stood out. London Gatwick South's Clubrooms made the best impression with three-and-a-half stars, offering table service, 'delicious' food, included prosecco, and a free bottle of water upon departure for £44-£50. The only other lounge to achieve a similar rating was the Clubrooms at Birmingham Airport, which inspectors described as feeling 'genuinely luxurious' for £48.
Rory Boland, Editor of Which? Travel, issued a stark warning: 'There was once a time when an airport lounge was a special treat, but our latest results say quite the opposite. Instead of paying over £40 for a lukewarm buffet breakfast on a dirty plate, you can get a lot more for your money by visiting a bar or restaurant inside the airport.'
The key takeaway for consumers is to avoid paying full price. The report found that lounge websites are never the cheapest option. Travellers are urged to look for deals through package holiday providers, their bank, or credit card benefits to gain entry for free or at a significantly reduced cost.
