Heathrow Plane Spotting (Myrtle Avenue)

Heathrow plane spotting is a great day out at Myrtle Avenue. Whether you’re a seasoned aviation geek or a beginner, here’s a complete guide.

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How To Get To Myrtle Avenue

Myrtle Avenue is a street in the London Borough of Hounslow, that backs onto a small field, located close to Heathrow Airport’s Southern runway, 27L.

By Car:

The easiest way to reach Myrtle Avenue is via car, following google maps to postcode TW14 9QU, and finding yourself some nearby street parking.

Lots of plane spotters have this same idea though, so it’s best to get there early.

There are a few free parking spots directly on Myrtle Avenue, and in the next road along – Wellington Road.

However, these are never guaranteed, so if you want to book ahead, we recommend using JustPark or Parkopedia.

By Underground:

The other common option is to catch the underground to Hatton Cross Station, via the Piccadilly line.

It’s then just an 8 minute walk from Hatton Cross Station to Myrtle Avenue.

If you’re looking for more things to do in London, other than plane spotting at Heathrow, there are some awesome tours on Get Your Guide available to book in advance.

Also, for all tourists visiting London, I recommend purchasing a Go City London Pass.

These are a great way of saving money when visiting multiple tourist attractions during your stay in London.

Myrtle Avenue Entrance Fee

There is no cost to enter Myrtle Avenue as it’s a public field.

Myrtle Avenue Opening Times

Myrtle Avenue is always accessible, 24/7.

However, flights won’t be running at all times so be sure to check the schedules on FlightRadar24 beforehand.

Heathrow Plane Spotting At Heathrow Myrtle Avenue Plane Spotting Myrtle Avenue — Ready to go Heathrow plane spotting.

Best Time To Visit + Tips

The most important thing to understand is that Myrtle Avenue only gives you access to Heathrow’s Southern runway, 27L.

Typically planes tend to land on the Southern runway 27L, and take off from the Northern runway 27R until 3pm. Then they switch.

However, the direction in which the planes land or take off all depends on the wind that day.

They also try to alternate between runways to limit the impact on local communities.

So it’s crucial to take the following tips into account before planning your day plane spotting at Heathrow.

Check The Runway Alternations

Firstly, you will need to confirm whether they are using the Southern runway on the day you plan on visiting. Remember you need 27L!

You can find that out via Heathrow’s Twitter feed, where they post regular daily updates.

You can also download the PDF document from the Heathrow website which should have the up to date runway alternations.

They change frequently so it’s best to check the day before, or the morning that you go.

Don’t make the mistake of arriving at Myrtle Avenue to find the planes are not landing on Heathrow’s Southern runway, 27L.

Check The Weather

As it’s an outdoor activity, it’s best to keep your eye on the weather before you visit.

Heathrow plane spotting is not so much fun on a drizzly day.

It’s best to wait for a clear day, so the planes are completely visible.

Download FlightRadar24

Make sure you have a fully-charged phone (and even a power bank) in order to check FlightRadar24.

You can download the app or check online. This gives a live feed of what’s in the air as well as the estimations of the next arrivals.

Flight Radar is an essential app for plane spotting at Heathrow!

Food & Toilets

We recommend packing a picnic for Heathrow plane spotting.

Time flies whilst you’re there, so having supplies is a good idea.

There is a toilet in the BP garage opposite Hatton Cross station (8 minute walk from Myrtle Avenue), which also has a Subway and snacks if you don’t fancy taking your own food (or need more).

What To Pack:

Reusable Water Bottle

Sunscreen

Lightweight Rain Jacket

The History Of Myrtle Avenue

The reason for the the runway alternations is because, back in the 1950s as Heathrow began to grow, surrounding villagers were already being affected by noise.

To protect them from the sound of low-flying aircrafts, an agreement was made whereby the northern runway would not be used for departures during easterly operations.

After years of planning and controversy, a new runway is set to open in 2026, North west of the existing two.

The number of flights using Heathrow Airport annually is set to increase from the current 476,000 to 756,000 by 2050 – an increase of 59 per cent in take-offs and landings.

What To Expect When Heathrow Plane Spotting

Myrtle Avenue near London Heathrow is one of the most popular places for plane spotting.

Heathrow is one of the busiest airports in Europe, so every few minutes you have the pleasure of the roaring engines flying over you getting ready to set down on the Southern runway.

At the end of Myrtle Avenue, there is a large patch of grass where plane spotters sit and observe.

It’s a brilliant location for watching the aircrafts touch down and a great Fun Date Idea In London.

Whether you’re a seasoned aviation geek or a beginner who doesn’t know a 777 from a 747, this Heathrow plane spotting location is a great day out and a very exciting one too.

We paid a visit on a quiet day, armed with a picnic blanket, sandwiches and all the snacks you can think of.

We sat and waited for the planes to come in every couple of minutes, jaws dropping each time.

Every day, dozens of spotters from all over the world head to Myrtle Avenue to log and photograph the aircrafts.

You’ll likely find the professional plane spotters set back amongst the rows of bushes, with their fold out chairs and huge camera lenses.

On special occasions, such as the arrival of a new type of aircraft, there may be hundreds of spectators lined up.

Overall we loved it, and it made for a perfect date to celebrate Lauren’s 26th birthday.

An awesome day in London, without even having to enter the city!

Where To Stay In London

Luxury – The London EDITION

The London EDITION is located in central London’s Fitzrovia district, with Oxford Street, Theatreland and Piccadilly Circus all within a 10-minute walk.

Inside, there is a Michelin star restaurant, 2 cocktail bars, a 24-hour front desk, free WiFi and free use of the on-site fitness centre for all guests.

With a view of the vibrant city, each en suite room come with a flat-screen TV and air-conditioning. An iPod docking station, bathrobes and a mini-bar are also provided.

Each evening, the restaurant offers a contemporary British menu using fresh, British produce.

Mid-Budget – Corus Hotel Hyde Park

Set within a 20-minute walk from Royal Albert Hall and boasting a stylish, spacious piano lounge, Corus Hotel Hyde Park features modern rooms with free WiFi.

The hotel is just a 10-minute walk from Paddington Station, offering a direct train link to Heathrow Airport.

The cosy, air-conditioned bedrooms at Corus Hotel have private en-suite bathrooms and satellite TVs with on-demand movies.

Rooms also feature work desks, tea/coffee facilities, iron and ironing boards.

The conservatory brasserie serves a modern European menu using seasonal produce. Olio Bar offers light snacks and beverages, and overlooks Hyde Park.