Airport Lounges UK — Day Pass Comparison

Why Departo for lounges

LoungeBuddy shut down in January 2025. We filled the gap.

LoungeBuddy was the go-to site for comparing airport lounge day passes. When it closed, there was nowhere left that compared every lounge at every UK airport in one place. That's exactly what Departo does — No1 Lounges, Escape Lounge, Plaza Premium, Aspire and more, all compared together.

✓Every lounge at every UK airport

✓Day passes — no membership needed

✓Compare prices and facilities together

✓Book direct with the lounge provider

✓No hidden fees from us — free to compare

What is an airport lounge day pass?

A day pass gives any passenger — regardless of ticket class or credit card — access to an airport lounge for a set period before their flight. You pay a flat fee (typically £28–50), walk into the lounge, and enjoy food, drinks, comfortable seating, Wi-Fi and a far calmer pre-flight experience than the main terminal.

You do not need a business class ticket. You do not need a premium credit card. You just need to book a day pass.

The main UK airport lounge operators

These are the providers whose day passes appear across Departo's results.

No1 Lounges

Available at Gatwick, Heathrow, Luton, Birmingham and Edinburgh. Known for generous food and drink offerings and a premium feel. Day passes typically £30–45. Often the highest-rated lounge at whichever airport they operate in.

Escape Lounge

Present at Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, East Midlands, Stansted and more. Good food, full bar, comfortable seating. Strong value for money — usually a few pounds cheaper than No1 for a similar experience.

Plaza Premium

Operates primarily at Heathrow, Manchester and Gatwick. International brand with a strong reputation. Offers spa treatments at some locations as an add-on. Premium pricing but premium facilities.

Aspire Lounge

Found at Edinburgh, Bristol, Leeds Bradford, Newcastle and others. Part of the Airport Dimensions group. Solid, reliable lounge experience. Good for regional airports where options are more limited.

Club Aspire

Available at Heathrow Terminal 5 and Gatwick. Positioned as a premium tier above standard Aspire. Better food, more space, quieter.

Holiday Extras Lounges

Holiday Extras operate lounges at several airports and partner with existing operators. Often available as part of a hotel + lounge bundle.

Lounge day pass tips

Make the most of your lounge visit.

✓ Is an airport lounge worth it with children?

Many parents are surprised — airport lounges can be the sanest part of flying with young children. A quiet room, unlimited snacks and drinks, comfortable seating, and space away from the chaos of the main terminal. Most No1 Lounges and Escape Lounges admit children. Always check the age policy and whether children are charged separately.

✓ Book in advance

Popular lounges sell out — especially at busy airports on peak travel days. Book your day pass at the same time as your parking or hotel.

✓ Check entry time

Most day passes allow 3 hours of access. If your flight is delayed, some lounges allow extended stays for a small fee.

✓ Bring ID

You'll need to show your boarding pass and day pass confirmation at the lounge entrance. Digital passes on your phone are fine.

✓ Check children's policy

Some lounges admit children, others don't. Ages and policies vary by operator and location — always check before booking.

✓ Alcohol is usually included

Most UK airport lounges include unlimited alcoholic and soft drinks in the day pass price. Some premium lounges include cocktails.

✓ Wi-Fi is always included

All UK airport lounges include free Wi-Fi. Speeds vary but are generally much better than the main terminal free Wi-Fi.

Airport lounges.No airline card required.

LoungeBuddy shut down in January 2025. We filled the gap.

What is an airport lounge day pass?

The main UK airport lounge operators

Lounge day pass tips

Lounges at every UK airport

Airport lounges.
No airline card required.