Which? Exposes Poor Value in UK Independent Airport Lounges

Which? magazine's recent survey uncovered significant issues with independent UK airport lounges, particularly for customers paying cash for entry. The core problem identified is the stark disparity between the low revenue lounges receive from Priority Pass visits (£15-20) and the much higher prices charged to walk-in guests (up to £50, and even £68 in one instance), despite both groups receiving the same often-subpar experience. This creates a poor value proposition for those paying full price, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.

The report highlighted a decline in lounge quality post-pandemic. Pre-Covid, lounge deals were as low as £15-£25, and facilities were better, often including spas and complimentary magazines. Now, spas have been removed, magazines are gone, and showers often incur extra charges. Reviewers frequently encountered unappealing food, described as “lukewarm buffet breakfast” or “canteen style,” and poor coffee. Cleanliness was also a concern, with one Heathrow lounge noted for crumbs and unwashed food stains.

Specific examples illustrate these issues. At Heathrow, Club Aspire Terminal 5 received a dismal 1-star rating for its unappealing food and poor cleanliness, with Which? concluding none of the ten Heathrow lounges visited could be recommended. My Lounge T3 scored 2.5 stars, criticised for its food and unused ‘reserved' seating. Regional airports fared similarly poorly; Manchester's Aspire T1 was deemed “ridiculously pricey” at £47 for a 3-star experience, and Newcastle's Aspire Suites scored 2/5 at £68, failing to deliver promised services like table service or made-to-order food.

Out of 29 independent UK airport lounges reviewed, only two, Clubrooms at Birmingham and Gatwick South, achieved the highest score of 3.5 stars, praised for better food and table service. Notably, no lounge scored 4 stars or above. While Priority Pass users might overlook these shortcomings due to lower costs, Which? emphasizes that action is needed to ensure cash-paying customers receive fair value for their significant expenditure.

(Source: https://www.headforpoints.com/2025/11/03/which-slams-uk-independent-airport-lounges/)