Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse Heathrow Review – A Stylish Pre-Flight Escape
- Helena
- 33 minutes ago
- 5 min read
Back in February of 1993, two momentous occasions occurred. Firstly, I was born, on the 27th of the month, which is obviously the most important moment from February 1993. But what also happened five days earlier, and really you will see how it pales in comparison, is that Virgin Atlantic opened its Clubhouse at Heathrow Airport. And while that might sound impressive, I think we can all agree it pales in comparison to my arrival!

Since the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse at Heathrow Terminal 3 and I are basically twins, and I was flying Upper Class to New York, it only felt right to pay my (almost) birthday twin a visit. Welcome to my Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse Heathrow Review.
Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse Heathrow Review - Finding the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse at Heathrow
I’m still getting to grips with Heathrow Terminal 3. While Terminal 5 feels like an old friend, Terminal 3 and I are still in the awkward early days of our relationship. Thankfully, the signage in T3 is excellent, and finding the Virgin Atlantic lounge was refreshingly straightforward.
After clearing security, I meandered through Duty Free and strolled past the big-name boutiques, Fendi, Dior, and then Chanel. The signage clearly indicates that you go just beyond Chanel but naturally I was tempted by actually going into Chanel before realising I am on a clothes buying ban (self imposed) and because their prices are so wildly inaccessible that was never going to happen! A girl can dream! The entrance to the Clubhouse is just beyond the shop, with a choice of stairs or a lift complete with leather seats, a rather lovely touch.

At the top, you're greeted by the iconic red-uniformed mannequins, a nod to Virgin Atlantic’s signature style, with examples from each of the iterations. The current, of course, designed by the legend that was Vivienne Westwood, and a truly fabulous regeneration of an iconic uniform.
Gaining Access to the Clubhouse
There was a bit of a queue at the reception desk, understandable, as people often get muddled about who qualifies for entry.

To be fair to them, these lounges don't always make it terribly clear online, however, in defence of Virgin Atlantic I must say their online legibility is very clear. Let's go through it:
Who Can Access the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse at Heathrow?
Eligible Cabins:
Virgin Atlantic Upper Class (+ one guest flying Virgin Atlantic or Delta)
Delta One (Delta Air Lines)
Clase Premier (Aeroméxico)
Eligible Frequent Flyers:
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club Gold (+ one guest flying Virgin Atlantic, Delta or Aeroméxico)
Delta SkyMiles Diamond and Platinum Medallions (+ guest flying in Virgin Atlantic or Delta premium cabins)
Flying Blue Platinum Members (+ guest flying Virgin Atlantic or Delta premium cabins)
As I was flying Upper Class with Virgin Atlantic, I had full access. My Silver Flying Club status alone wouldn’t have got me in, so make sure you’re covered.
Also worth noting: you can only access the Clubhouse up to 3 hours before your scheduled departure, unless you’re connecting through Heathrow, in which case that rule is waived.
First Impressions & Lounge Layout
The initial challenge? Finding a seat. I arrived at 2:20pm, and it took me about 10 minutes and 500 steps to finally settle at a marble-topped desk by the window at the back.

The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse Heathrow offers a wide array of seating-booths, leather armchairs, stylish tub chairs, dining tables, bar stools, and sofas. There’s even an upstairs area and a proper restaurant section.
My desk setup was practical:
Two standard UK sockets
One universal socket
Two USB ports
A wireless charging stand (worked perfectly)
Pull-down compartments of mystery
Salt, pepper, and sugar station for hot drinks
Dining at the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse
Every table is equipped with a QR code for table service food and drink ordering. There's also a buffet, but I was keen to test out the digital ordering system.
First, connect to the free, fast WiFi. The password is handed to you at check-in and also printed on the table sign, simple and seamless.

The Clubhouse menu is extensive, offering:
Soft drinks
Coffees and teas
Alcoholic beverages
Main meals
Light bites
Desserts
Here are a few of their menu examples:
I kicked things off with soda water and a glass of my beloved Hambledon Classic Cuvée, a delightful English Sparkling Wine from a Hampshire vineyard just 15 minutes from home. Hats off to Virgin Atlantic for championing local wine and serving something genuinely special. Hambledon is a win for British wine lovers, well played, Sir Richard!

If you are lucky enough to travel through the Clubhouse between 23rd and 27th June you will be treated to a Hambledon Pop-Up to celebrate British Wine Week. Please do go and discover this fantastic product and support a truly great British product. Just to confirm this is not sponsored in any way. I just think it's really important to champion local and British produce where possible and I just love this vineyard a lot.
Whilst in the lounge I also ordered a duck bao bun, flavourful, generously filled, though not piping hot. Service was impressively swift:
Ordered at 14:25
Drinks at 14:29
Food at 14:34

I noticed the staff were excellent at topping up Champagne, although they did assume everyone was drinking it without checking. I was very well-behaved and stuck to just one glass, no hangovers here, thank you!
Lounge Amenities & Extras
There’s more to this space than great wine and comfy chairs. Here’s what else you’ll find at the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse Heathrow:
Immaculate toilets with REN skincare products
Private shower suites near “The Retreat” (didn’t use them, but if the loos are anything to go by, they’ll be spotless)
Yoga and a gym area if you're feeling virtuous... I wasn't!
An outdoor terrace offering great views of the runway
Range of complimentary newspapers for you to read on-site or take on board
Flight announcements: This isn’t a silent lounge, which some people prefer. I quite like it, as it saves you from anxiously checking the departure screens every five minutes.
Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse Opening Hours
The lounge is open from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM or last departure.
Whether you're visiting in the morning or evening, the Clubhouse at Heathrow promises a premium experience every time.

Final Thoughts: Is the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse at Heathrow Worth It?
Absolutely. Whether you’re sipping Hambledon with your duck bao bun or finding a quiet corner to relax before your flight, the Virgin Atlantic Heathrow Clubhouse remains a truly class product. Thoughtfully designed, well-staffed, and full of British charm, it’s the perfect start to your journey.
Helena
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