Long layover in London, time to visit Olympics?

Long layover in London, time to visit Olympics? - Young woman with dark long wavy hair sleeping peacefully on belly on comfortable bed under white blanket near bedside table with alarm clock and smartphone

I have a ~10 hour layover in LHR on July 26th (the day prior to the opening ceremonies of 2012 Olympics). I'm flying British Airways from JNB-LHR-MAD.

  • What's the most reliable (and hopefully inexpensive) transportation to get me to and from the city?
  • Is there anything Olympic-related that I can see?
  • Will I have any issues with security leaving and re-entering? (No checked baggage)

How busy is London right now, would I expect a jam at the airport that makes this trip risky for missing my next flight?



Best Answer

The relay and opening ceremonies will be something you can see. I also highly recommend checking out the nearby parks. As for transportation, I recommend cabs if you aren't used to the tube or bus. It will be way more expensive, but you won't have to worry about getting lost or stuck in the wrong area (and possibly missing your flight!). Also, there will be monitors available in Marble Arch, near Hyde Park, on which you can see the ceremonies.




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Long layover in London, time to visit Olympics? - Queen Elizabeth Tower, London
Long layover in London, time to visit Olympics? - Close Up Photo of Big Ben under Gloomy Sky
Long layover in London, time to visit Olympics? - Elizabeth Tower, London



Can I leave the airport in London during a layover?

Yes, you can leave the airport during a layover, provided your passport allows you visa-free entry to the country you're in and you have enough time between flights.

What can I do with a 4 hour layover in London?

The Four-Hour Layover: London
  • Transportation Tips.
  • Relax in Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.
  • Walk from Westminster to the Millennium Bridge.
  • The British Museum to the Streets of Soho.


How long do you need for a layover in London?

If you're asking yourself the question, 'how long of a layover do I need to see London,' the answer is at least six hours. Here are our recommendations on what to focus on, depending on how much time you have. Be sure to keep in mind that it takes a minimum of one hour each way to get to and from Heathrow airport.

Is an hour layover enough time in London?

It should be enough time I think the international limit is 50 minutes. If your incoming flight is late and you miss the connection British airways will put you on the first available light and if you need to stay the night they will put you up in a hotel and give you vouchers for dinner.



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Images: Miriam Alonso, Andrea Piacquadio, Dominika Gregušová, Pixabay