Airport lounges accessible via Priority Pass are often hit-or-miss. The Plaza Premium Lounge at Heathrow Terminal 2 is definitively a "hit." In fact, it has repeatedly won Skytrax awards for the "World's Best Independent Airport Lounge."
Located in the modern Terminal 2 (The Queen's Terminal), this lounge aims to bring a touch of luxury to travelers regardless of their airline class. Does it succeed? Let's find out.
The Quick Verdict
Pros: Stunning dark-wood design, excellent hot food buffet, showers included, and a proper bar.
Cons: No natural light (interior location), can get very crowded, access waits for Priority Pass are common.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) - Fantastic for an independent lounge.
Location & Access Rules
The lounge is tucked away on Level 4 of the main terminal (T2A), near the transfer area. You have to take an escalator down from the main departure level to find the "Lounge Corridor."
Who Gets In?
- Priority Pass / LoungeKey: Accepted (subject to capacity).
- Amex Platinum Card: Accepted (via the Global Lounge Collection).
- DragonPass: Accepted.
- Paid Entry: You can buy a pass online or at the door.
- Select Airlines: Some airlines (e.g., Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways) use this as their contract lounge for Business Class passengers.
Design & Atmosphere
Plaza Premium has a signature style: dark woods, warm lighting, and geometric patterns. It feels cozy and upscale, more like a hotel lobby than a cafeteria.
The layout is clever, using honeycomb-style partitions to create private nooks for solo travelers. There are also communal tables for working and larger lounge chairs for relaxing.
The Downside: It is fully interior, meaning there are no windows and no views of the tarmac. If you love plane spotting, this isn't the lounge for you.
Dining & Drinks
The food offering here is consistently strong.
- Breakfast: Full English breakfast items (eggs, sausages, beans), pastries, cereals, and juices.
- Lunch/Dinner: Hot dishes like chicken tikka masala (a London staple), pasta, vegetable curries, and a fresh salad bar.
The Bar: There is a tended bar offering complimentary house wines, beers, and spirits. Premium drinks and cocktails are available for an extra charge.
Amenities: Showers & Spa
One of the biggest perks of this lounge is the Shower Suites. They are clean, modern, and come with towels and amenities. Access is usually complimentary, but you should book a slot at the reception desk as soon as you arrive.
There is also a small "Wellness Spa" offering massages, though this is a paid service and often requires booking in advance.
Final Verdict
The Plaza Premium Lounge at LHR Terminal 2 earns its awards. It offers a reliable, high-quality experience with good food and comfortable seating.
Its biggest enemy is its own popularity. If you are traveling during peak hours (mornings or early evenings), be prepared for a queue to get in. But once inside, it is a sanctuary from the busy terminal.