We will be returning our rental to Heathrow after a few days in the Midlands. Besides the Tube (since we'll be lugging suitcases), what is the best way to get from the car rental office to the flat we rented in London? Just hire a car? If so, which company do you recommend? Heathrow Express and a taxi? Thanks!
You haven't said where your flat is.
Which is more important to you - money or time?
Physical impairment?
How many suitcases?
The Heathrow Express is not stupidly expensive if there are two of you and you will be returning to Heathrow to fly out. A Duo ticket is at round-trip ticket for two for £50, so €12.50 per person per journey. Not bad for the comfort and convenience. However, if your flat is not anywhere near Paddington, then you could have an expensive cab ride from there.
There are 3 of us each with a suitcase. No impairments. Our flat is in east London - Tower Hamlets. I prefer convenience, but at the same time, I don't want to overspend. I really don't want to have to wrestle with my baggage unless the Tube is the best way to go. Will there be cabs at the rental place or will we need to go back to a terminal? How about hiring a car and have the price beforehand? I am used to spending ~$180 one-way here in the US to get to the airport in NY. Is that comparable to what I'd need to spend in London?
By the way, can any one suggest a website to buy Tube tickets (and maybe Heathrow Express tix) before I go?
Lynn: I have used london-transfers.com for LHR to London, Southampton and Hemel Hempstead. Get a quote from Ray Skinner and with 3 of you it shoud be a bargain.
Tower Hamlets is still a pretty big place, none of which is particularly easy by Tube from LHR. I don't see any advantage of going part way by Heathrow Express.
If there are 3 of you and 3 people's luggages the idea of a private hire - either book before you arrive, but can you be sure of your timing?, or call for one when you arrive at the car place - looks best to me. I doubt that there is a taxi rank at car hire lot. Taxi would be more expensive anyway.