Review: The New No1 Lounge at LHR Terminal 2 – Worth the Hype?

London Heathrow’s Terminal 2 now has a No1 Lounge, and as someone who spends a fair amount of time in airport lounges, I had to check it out. With so many Priority Pass and pay-per-use travelers in T2, this lounge has a lot of demand—so does it deliver? Here’s my take.

Location & Access: A Hidden Spot Worth Finding

The No1 Lounge is located near Gate A18 in Terminal 2. To reach it, you’ll need to take the lifts down to the ground level—it’s not immediately obvious, so keep an eye out for signs. The tucked-away location gives it a more secluded feel, which is a plus if you’re looking for a quieter space. However, it being in the ground level means there are no windows once you’re inside.

You can access the lounge in several ways:

• Priority Pass, LoungeKey, and DragonPass memberships

• Pre-paid direct booking via No1 Lounges (pricing varies, usually around £40 for up to 3 hours)

• Paid walk-in access, though space is very limited and reservations are strongly recommended

First Impressions: A Stunning Space

I arrived early in the morning, around 6 AM, and the lounge was only about 10% full—a rare and peaceful experience at LHR. With hardly anyone there, I had time to really take in the thoughtfully designed space.

The lounge features modern furnishings, warm lighting, and stylish decor, giving it an upscale yet comfortable feel. Truthfully, it’s one of the better-looking Priority Pass lounges I’ve been to, with a layout that makes great use of the available space. There are cozy seating areas, dining tables, and workspaces, all blending together in a way that feels inviting rather than cramped.

While there were plenty of seating options at this hour, I can see it getting crowded later in the day as flights pick up—especially given the demand for Priority Pass lounges at Heathrow.

Food & Drink: A Step Up from the Basics

Pay-per-use lounges can be hit or miss when it comes to food, but No1 Lounge does better than average. There’s a mix of self-serve snacks (croissants, fruit, cereals) and and warm items placed out on burners. I went for a warm ham and cheese croissant and some muesli, which was quite tasty! The portions weren’t huge, but the quality was solid—better than your standard buffet spread.

The bar is fully stocked, with complimentary wines, spirits, and cocktails included in the entry. If you want premium drinks, they’re available for an extra charge, but the standard selection is more than enough for most travelers.

Amenities & Atmosphere: A Comfortable Retreat (for Now)

The lounge offers a mix of comfortable seating options and workspace areas, making it easy to find a spot whether you want to relax or get some work done. Power outlets are available but not everywhere, so if you need to charge up, grab a good seat early.

The Wi-Fi was fast, and showers are available for an additional fee—great for long-haul travelers needing a refresh.

At 6 AM, the lounge was peaceful and quiet, but I can imagine it getting significantly busier as the morning rush begins. If you’re visiting later in the day, don’t expect the same level of tranquility.

For Standby Travelers: Yes, You Can Access Without a Seat Assignment!

One major plus for standby travelers—I was able to enter with Priority Pass despite not having a seat assignment yet. Many lounges now require a confirmed seat for entry, but the No1 Lounge at T2 did not check for a seat assignment. I provided my virtual Priority Pass card via the Priority Pass app and my standby digital boarding pass, and I was in.

This is great news for standby travelers who want a comfortable place to wait out the seat availability game. Just keep in mind that access is not guaranteed if the lounge reaches capacity, so visiting during off-peak hours (like early morning) is your best bet.

The Verdict: Worth It?

For anyone without lounge membership, the No1 Lounge at T2 is one of the better Priority Pass/pay-per-use options at Heathrow. The design is beautiful, the food is above average, and the bar is well-stocked. The early morning experience was fantastic, but I can see it feeling a bit less premium during peak hours.

Would I visit again? Absolutely—especially if I can get in during quieter times.

Have you tried the No1 Lounge at LHR T2 yet? Let me know your thoughts!