The best Heathrow hotels

At Sofitel Heathrow you'll have direct access to Terminal 5 via a covered walkway, which means no last-minute rush to catch your flight. And, if you have time, the facilities are great too, with a modern health spa, a 24-hour gym, two bars and two restaurants.

Where is it? Terminal 5, just a ten-minute walk from both the Underground and the terminal itself.

Which room? The Superior Room is £30/n more than the Classic, but for your money you get unlimited free wifi, a king-size bed and exterior views.

Time Out tip: Unwind with a spot of Sky Sports on the large TV screen in the Sphere Bar, or enjoy tea and cakes in the Tea Salon.

Just like other hotels in the world-class Hilton chain, Hilton London Heathrow is lovely to look at, fronted by a huge wall of glass. Access terminal building quickly on foot or pay a small charge for the Hoppa service. The rooms are comfy and simple, all you really need for night or two.

Where is it? A ten-minute walk from Terminal 4 via a covered walkway, or 15-minute bus to the rest of the airport.

Which room? Travelling with the whole brood? The One-Bed Suite has enough space to sleep four. Don't worry, there is a door between rooms.

Time Out tip: Catching a morning flight? Food is served from 5am, so you can fuel up before you board.

A contemporary and relaxing oasis, this Marriott spot will feel a world away from Heathrow. Unwind in the health club or enjoy a leisurely meal at Carluccio’s. There are also convenient transport links connecting you to London. Watch the steady flow of planes taking off and descending from the pretty alfresco dining area.

Where is it? Bath Rd in Hounslow, about 15 minutes from Terminals 2 & 3 by bus.

Which room? Like to spread out? The Superior King rooms have extra-large beds and, bonus, they're all on high floors.

Time Out tip: Get a proper refresher with a quick dip in the 15-metre heated indoor swimming pool.

Based on the outskirts of the airport, Renaissance is complete with a cocktail bar, health club and soundproofed windows. The hotel underwent a big refurbishment last year, including updates to all 710 rooms and bathrooms. Other perks include a gift shop, restaurant, cafe serving Starbucks coffee, and currency exchange.

Where is it? It's so close to Terminals 2 & 3 that you can see the runways from the hotel, but it'll still take you a 15-minute bus ride to navigate the busy roads.

Which room? Is your inner plane-spotter dying to break out? Book one of the Runway View rooms.

Time Out tip: Feeling tense after a long-haul flight? Book in for a massage treatment at their health club.

This four-star Novotel is only a few minutes drive from Heathrow and is complete with a gym, soundproof windows and a bar and restaurant. You'll also find an extremely handy shuttle that'll ferry you from the airport to the hotel and back. Take a dip in their heated indoor swimming pool should you need to wind down post-flight.

Where is it? Less than a mile to Terminals 2 & 3 (which are ten minutes by bus) and close to the long-stay car park.

Which room? Forget the pool and have a soak in the jacuzzi tub that comes in all Executive rooms, which have enough room to sleep two adults and two children (or three adults).

Time Out tip: Got little ’uns in tow? Ask reception about the children's library, video game area and available board games.