Virgin Atlantic Just Overhauled the Heathrow Clubhouse: Here's What's New

The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse at Heathrow has had a facelift. The first phase of a redesign is now complete, and it brings some interesting additions to what was already one of the better airline lounges at the airport.

We've covered the Clubhouse in detail in our full review, but here's what's new.

The Gallery

Virgin has expanded the seating in The Gallery, with the redesign leaning into a London-inspired aesthetic. This includes artwork commissioned from UK-based artists, integrated planting and brass tailfin accents throughout. It feels more considered than before, and the built-in power and baggage storage should make it more practical.

One nice touch: one of the art pieces was made from the retired Vera inflight magazine, and another was sourced through Artbox London, a charity supporting artists with autism and learning disabilities.

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The Cinema

The Cinema refresh makes it more members club than airport lounge. The new seating also comes with integrated charging, individual TV access and Bluetooth headphones, which is a welcome upgrade for solo travellers who previously had to put up with whatever was on the big screen.

The Royal Box

This is the headline addition. The Royal Box is an invitation-only VIP space drenched in Virgin's signature red; red velvet seating, red carpet, red lighting, red everything. It's theatrical and deliberately over the top, which feels very on-brand.

There's a "Cabinet of Curiosities" table at the centre with rotating treats and champagne, and the space has direct runway views. Who gets invited and how remains to be seen, but it's clearly aimed at Virgin's highest-value customers and the occasional celebrity.

Work pods

Two glass-fronted work pods have been added, named The Townhouse and The Manor after Virgin Records' original London studios. They're kitted out with desks, power, studio-inspired artwork and vinyl records on the walls, plus "On Air" signs that light up when occupied. They're small, but they look like a decent option for anyone who needs a proper private workspace rather than trying to take a call from a sofa.

Wellness: Somadomes and Secret Spa

Virgin is trialling two wellness pop-ups to gauge customer interest. Three Somadomes — pod-like meditation domes that use light therapy, sound healing and guided meditation — are available for complimentary 20-minute sessions until 31 May 2026.

This is definitely more of a Helena thing than me. You'll find me by the bar!

There's also a Secret Spa partnership running until 30 April, offering express massages, facials and manicures. The spa is using OSKIA skincare and OPI products, with some K-beauty brands thrown in to tie in with Virgin's new Seoul route. Unlike the Somadomes, the spa treatments aren't complimentary and you'll need to book with the Secret Spa team in the lounge.

Our take

This is a solid refresh rather than a complete overhaul, and that's probably the right call. The Clubhouse was never broken, it just needed updating. The Gallery improvements and Cinema upgrade are the changes most guests will actually notice day to day, while the Royal Box adds a layer of exclusivity that Virgin can use to reward its best customers.

The wellness pop-ups are clearly a test. If the feedback is positive, expect something more permanent down the line. For now, they're a nice bonus if you've got time to spare before boarding.

This is only phase one. We'll update when we know more about what's coming next.

Sam

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