Richmond to Heathrow by minicab
Heathrow is the closest major airport to Richmond, which is why it is the route we are asked about most. A Richmond to Heathrow taxi is pre-booked, the price is fixed when you book, and the car comes to your door at the time you choose. No carrying cases up and down station steps, and no change of trains at Hounslow or Hammersmith.
On a clear road the drive is short. At busy times it can take much longer, especially around the A316 at Twickenham, the Chiswick Roundabout and the approach roads to the airport. As a rule, plan for 25–40 minutes, and allow more on Friday afternoons, bank holiday weekends and during school holiday getaway days.
Which route will the driver take?
Drivers choose the route on the day based on traffic. The most common options are:
- West along the A316 through Twickenham, then across to the A30 and into the airport from the south. This suits Terminal 4 and is often used for Terminal 5.
- North to the M4 via Kew Bridge and the Chiswick Roundabout, then the M4 spur into the central terminal area for Terminals 2 and 3.
- Through Hounslow on local roads when the motorway is slow.
Your fare is fixed when you book, so a detour around traffic does not change the price. Changing the route yourself, adding a stop, or extra waiting can change it.
Heathrow terminals
Heathrow has four passenger terminals in use: 2, 3, 4 and 5. Terminal 1 is closed.
- Terminals 2 and 3 share the central area of the airport.
- Terminal 4 is on the southern side and has its own road access.
- Terminal 5 is on the western edge of the airport.
Check your booking with the airline before you travel, as airlines occasionally move terminals. If you are not sure, tell us the airline and flight number and the operator will plan for the right drop-off.
Drop-offs at Heathrow
Heathrow charges a fee for vehicles that stop at the terminal forecourts to drop off passengers. Check your quote to see whether it is included. For the latest charge and rules, see the official Heathrow website.
Pick-ups and meet and greet
For arrivals, you can request meet and greet. The driver will park and meet you inside the terminal, so you do not have to look for the car outside. Parking time at Heathrow is charged by the airport, so meet and greet pick-ups usually cost a little more than a kerbside collection. The quote shows what is included.
When you book an airport pick-up:
- Enter your flight number and the scheduled landing time.
- Tell us how many cases you have, including pushchairs, golf bags or skis.
- Give a mobile number that will work when you land.
- Switch your phone on once you clear passport control, so the driver can contact you.
Allow time for passport checks and baggage reclaim. On busy mornings this can take an hour or more.
Choosing a vehicle
| Group | Suggested vehicle |
|---|---|
| 1–3 people, normal luggage | Saloon |
| Up to 4 people, lots of luggage | MPV |
| Business travel | Executive |
| 5–6 people, or families with pushchairs | 6 seater MPV |
| 7–8 people | Minibus |
If you are travelling with seven, see our page on 7 seater taxis.
Leaving Richmond for an early flight
Many Heathrow flights leave between 6am and 8am. For a long-haul flight you will usually be asked to check in two to three hours before departure, so a pick-up around 3am or 4am is not unusual. Booking ahead makes sure a car is arranged, as fewer vehicles are on the road at that hour.
Staying at a hotel in Richmond the night before? A hotel transfer taxi to Heathrow works the same way: give the hotel name and we will arrange the pick-up from the entrance.
Coming home to Richmond
The trip back from Heathrow to Richmond, East Sheen, Kew or Twickenham is just as easy to book. Give your full home address and any access notes, such as a gate code or the best place to stop on a narrow street. If you live in Isleworth or Twickenham, the journey is often even shorter.
Flying from somewhere else next time? See our guides to Gatwick and London City.
