Heathrow Express vs Elizabeth Line: Which is better?

Decision guide

How to choose

The Heathrow Express is heavily marketed as the fastest way to London, taking exactly 15 minutes to reach London Paddington from Terminals 2 & 3. However, it is also the most expensive option, often costing £25 for a single walk-up ticket. If your hotel or final destination is not near Paddington station, you will have to navigate through the station, buy another ticket, and board the London Underground or a taxi. For many travellers, the '15 minute' time saving is completely wiped out by the onward journey across London. The Elizabeth Line is the newer, modern alternative. While it takes longer (around 30 to 45 minutes), it travels directly through the heart of central London. If you are staying near Bond Street, Tottenham Court Road, Farringdon, Liverpool Street, or Canary Wharf, the Elizabeth Line is vastly superior. It costs roughly £13.30 (via contactless) and requires zero train changes. For travellers with heavy suitcases, avoiding the maze of the London Underground and staying on one direct Elizabeth Line train is the safest and easiest option. When travelling as a family or a group of three or more, you must do the math on rail tickets versus a private taxi. Four walk-up tickets on the Heathrow Express cost £100. For that price, you can easily book a private, door-to-door transfer that meets you at arrivals and drops you exactly at your hotel. If you book Heathrow Express tickets 90 days in advance, they can drop to £15 each, but these tickets are non-refundable and lock you into a specific day.