We have a long layover in London next week. We will fly out at 6:30 in the morning. We are looking at staying at Jurys Inn Heathrow. I have a couple of questions: 1. How early should we get to the airport in order to catch an international flight? I know the general rule seems to be two hours. But we were flying out of Paris on an early flight last November and two hours was way too much time. We won't have to check luggage or anything. It seems that the tube starts running at about 5:30. Would getting on the first train give us enough time? 2. If not, what are our options? Bus, taxi? What should we expect to pay for a taxi from Jurys Inn to Heathrow? Thanks!
Don't think the 5:30 tube would give you enough time...and you would have to walk to it from the hotel. You should be able to get the Hoppa bus at the front door which takes you to the terminal entrance. That is what I did in the fall. Allow an hour at least (at a minimum). I had more time on my flight, but it was later in the day, the shops were open, and lots of people to watch. The gate will not be posted until shortly before the flight anyway.
The first Piccadilly Line train leaves Hatton Cross at 05:06 and arrives at Heathrow 1-2-3 at 05:10. You can ride free on bus #285 from Hatton Cross to the Heathrow central bus station. Leave at 04:44, 05:03, or 05:14. The ride takes 10-12 minutes.