American Express The Centurion Lounge

The Centurion Lounge by American Express – London Heathrow (LHR)

Opened in October 2021, the Centurion Lounge by American Express at London Heathrow airport is the financial institution’s second Centurion-branded lounge outside the US. Like its domestic siblings, the Centurion Lounge London welcomes American Express Platinum and Centurion Card members along with two guests, regardless of destination or class of service. Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card holders may also visit the lounge when flying Delta.

The Centurion Lounge London Heathrow is located in Terminal 3, in the “Lounge A” area post-security. Unlike other lounges at Terminal 3, it’s a bit further from the gates. The club is only accessible to passengers departing from Terminal 3. Airlines serving Terminal 3 include Delta, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, Finnair, Virgin Atlantic, and JAL.

American Express The Centurion Lounge LHR design

Real estate at London Heathrow airport is at a premium, and American Express had to settle for a relatively small footprint. At 6,700 square feet (650 square meters), the Centurion Lounge London Heathrow accommodates just 110 guests—a pretty low figure for a major international hub.

The Centurion Lounge by American Express – London Heathrow (LHR)

The London outpost is also the only American Express Centurion Lounge to lack windows, and thus daylight. To mitigate the issue, Amex came up with a bespoke décor for this location. The space is dim but feels extremely premium. Crown molding, locally-inspired wallpaper, occasional pillows, and furniture by UK-designers Konk, Naughtone, and Deadgood give the club a uniquely British flair.

Beyond the signature lobby with a living wall is a seating area featuring an extensive art collection and American express memorabilia—a familiar sight on display at Centurion Lounges worldwide. Guests can rest in a plush sofa, grab a seat at the gorgeous natural wood communal table, or pull up a chair to join friends or coworkers. The London Heathrow location is uniquely suited for solo travelers. There’s a bounty of cozy nooks with booth seating, a handful of inviting high-backed chairs, as well as couple private phone/office rooms.

Charging and USB ports are available virtually at every seat. Some tables also feature wireless chargers.

The design of the dramatic bar and dining area also marks a departure from the typical Centurion Lounge. With deep dark and golden hues, vintage light fixtures, and locally-inspired floor tiles, American Express brings the British pub experience to Heathrow airport.

American Express The Centurion Lounge LHR amenities

The American Express Centurion Lounge at London Heathrow Terminal 3 boasts a full range of amenities catering to international travelers.

The Centurion Lounge by American Express – London Heathrow (LHR)

Chef Assaf Granit, who specializes in Middle Eastern fusion fare, is in charge of the culinary experience. Guests will enjoy a hot breakfast starting at 6 am, followed by a generous buffet lunch and dinner from 11:30 onwards. The menu includes delicacies such as Freekeh Halloumi, Jerusalem Artichoke soup, fennel Moroccan salad, and shikshukit (beef and lamb minced meat) as well as sweet treats such as a dark chocolate cremeux accompanied with tonka & cacao crumble, and a cocoa nib tuile.

The Centurion Lounge bar boasts a range of locally-inspired cocktails designed by mixologist Jim Meehan. Highlights include the “Breakfast Marteani” (Hine H cognac, lemon juice, Rare Tea Co. English breakfast tea, orange marmalade, and Regan’s orange bitters) and “Wayne’s Collins” (Hepple Gin, Lillet Blanc, Suze, lemon juice, and club soda.) A broad selection of wines is also available. All drinks are complimentary.

In the afternoon, American Express rolls out an elegant traditional tea trolley, in typical English fashion.

Patrons will also find well-appointed shower suites with bath amenities by London-based Soapsmith, and a new parent’s room with a changing area.

American Express The Centurion Lounge LHR bottom line

The Centurion Lounge by American Express – London Heathrow (LHR)

The Centurion Lounge by American Express at London Heathrow Terminal 3 is an elegant and exquisitely-designed club with a British flair a luxurious touches, but it’s small and windowless. Centurion Lounges have a reputation for being crowded, and the London lounge is unlikely to be any different.

The Centurion Lounge’s well-rounded line-up of amenities will meet virtually every need. Unlike in the US, where Centurion Lounges are a huge step above the competition, the Centurion Lounge London is mostly on par with other airline clubs and facilities, though the bar is definitely best in class.

The Centurion Lounge is an excellent alternative to the run-of-the-mill British Airways Lounge, Club Aspire lounge, and No. 1 Lounge. It’s a fantastic option for Delta passengers who are also Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card holders. But the serene Cathay Pacific Lounge, with its bespoke décor and furniture and expansive runway views, and the ever-vibrant Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse still stand in a class of their own.