First Look: Qantas Opens Gorgeous London Heathrow VIP Lounge…

At one airport terminal, travelers really can have it all. London Heathrow’s Terminal 3 now offers more world class VIP lounges than any other terminal on earth. Sure, there’s already the Cathay Pacific, American Airlines, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Emirates Lounges- but Qantas just moved in, and they’re not messing around.

Spaces

There’s no question that this lounge is designed to reflect it’s London location, and the tradition of the Kangaroo route. Guests will find wood panelling, stone and brass, similar to partner Cathay Pacific’s lounge touches, but the space instantly offers a brighter, more open plan feel. With a minimum flight time of 19 hours on the upcoming direct London to Perth flight, every ounce of space will be appreciated.

Designed by Woods Bagot, copious helpings of marble meld with leather furniture, a clear sign you’re in a Qantas lounge, with clever nods to the airlines flagship Los Angeles, Melbourne and Sydney locations throughout. The space is open 8:00AM to 8:30PM, available to all OneWorld Sapphire and Emerald Members, as well as Qantas Business and First Class customers. With 230 seats and stiff intra terminal competition, crowding should not prove to be an issue.

Bar & Drinks

Qantas is not messing around with their beverage program. Offering celebrated gins, and a dedicated gin bar, guests will immediately saunter into a distinctly British feel. We personally love seeing Portobello Road, The Botanist and Opihr, three fabulously original gins make the roster. Not bad for a top bar, let alone an airport lounge.

But it’s the second floor centerpiece bar which will be the hot ticket for many. Set amidst the relaxation and dining spaces, the marble bar will feature a wide range of champagnes, spirits and bespoke cocktails – not just gin cocktails either. It looks spectacular, wouldn’t you say?

Dining + Food

Qantas has a famous, standing partnership with Neil Perry and the Rockpool Grill. Thankfully, they’ve kept that pairing alive for this new location. Neil Perry and his staff fly out regularly to each location, sourcing fresh ingredients and constantly rotating menus. Samples of the launch menu offer British Classics, such as Shepherds Pie. Don’t worry, the iconic “salt and pepper” squid will still proudly be present on all menu, regardless of season. It’s a winner.

But keeping with all things British, Qantas has launched an “afternoon tea” offering. Lounge guests will find bespoke tea cups and crockery from Miranda Kerr for Royal Albert. It’s safe to say there will be plenty of scones, clotted cream and jam to go around. Just perhaps go easy on the tea before the flight- you’ll want to sleep.

Everything Else

The lounge will feature updated wifi, a business center and six shower suites. The shower suites look very promising. With the bi level, open nature of the lounge, it’s safe to assume there will be space for every one, and every mood. We can’t wait to see it in full swing. It’s open now, by the way…