Hello! I've searched the threads and can't seem to find an answer to this. We're staying in a hotel near Trafalgar Square for New Year's Eve. We need to get to Heathrow on New Year's Day leaving our hotel around 7 AM or 8 AM. Will we be able to take the Underground to the airport that morning or will service be affected that early on New Year's Day? Would a taxi be a more reliable option to ensure we make it to the airport on time?
Posted by
UK (London - Chelsea Harbour)
461 posts
AI sez: On January 1, 2026, the London Underground (TfL) will run a holiday service, which is similar to a Saturday service, with some minor planned works also expected. It's important to check the TfL status updates closer to the date as there may be some station closures or disruptions, though most of the network is expected to be running.
I’d Uber. :-)
Posted by
Lake District, England
10827 posts
The Elizabeth line is running all night across Central London, to Reading not Heathrow.
It may possibly be the first time it has run 24 hours a day.
So the first Elizabeth Line to Heathrow that morning from Tottenham Court Road station is at 0423, then 0453 and every 10 minutes. So even if there is no Piccadilly line there is the Elizabeth Line.
Posted by
West Virginia
210 posts
I would book a ride in advance just to be safe. I used London Black Cab Transfers to get from my hotel to Paddington to catch the Heathrow Express. They were very reliable and I would use them again.
Here's their number: +44 7931 335151
Posted by
San Francisco area
2001 posts
A few years ago I arrived on New Year’s Day and had booked a hotel across from Trafalgar Square. The New Year’s Day parade resulted in some street closures. Probably will not be an issue for you as you depart early. If you decide to book a car definitely have a look at the expected parade route.
Posted by
London
886 posts
Normally things are running as normal again by that time on New Year's Day. However, over the holiday season there are a lot of tube closures generally. They'll post more info here closer to the time: https://tfl.gov.uk/status-updates/major-works-and-events/christmas-and-new-year-travel
Looks like Heathrow Express will be running normally if that's an option for you: https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/travel-information/bank-holiday-information-heathrow-express/