Heathrow (LHR): the best way to central London for four people

Tap in and out with a contactless card or Oyster. Heathrow to Paddington is 14.60 pounds, and most other central stations such as Bond Street and Tottenham Court Road are 15.50. There is no off-peak discount on this route. First train from T2 and T3 is 05:21 and the last is 00:12 on weekdays, with Sunday starting around 05:50. Terminal 4 has fewer trains, so check the board if you land there. Trains are wide with space for suitcases and no stairs at the airport end.

The Tube costs 5.90 pounds to central London with contactless or Oyster, charged at the same rate all day. It takes around 50 minutes to Piccadilly Circus. The Piccadilly line does not stop at Paddington, so for that station you change at Hammersmith or Earl's Court, which makes the journey nearer 75 minutes. Trains are often crowded in the morning peak and there are stairs at several changes. First train is about 05:12 and the last about 23:45. Heathrow's site says a Night Tube runs on Fridays and Saturdays from Terminals 2, 3 and 5.

The train takes 15 minutes from T2 and T3 and about 20 from T5. The on-the-day Standard single is 26 pounds. Advance fares start at 10 pounds if you book 30 days or more ahead, and under-16s travel free with a paying adult. From Terminal 4 you change at T2 and T3 onto a free shuttle train. Heathrow Express is not covered by Oyster caps. First train from Heathrow is around 05:17 and the last about 00:04.

Fares start from 11.20 pounds one way, booked online, and change by date and time. The fastest coaches take around 40 minutes to Victoria, but traffic on the M4 can double that. There is a 1.50 pound booking fee unless you are logged in. Allow one large suitcase and one hand bag. It suits anyone going to Victoria or Earl's Court who has no wish to change trains.

Cabs are metered and TfL sets the tariff. Expect 70 to 120 pounds to central London depending on traffic, time of day and the final address, plus a Heathrow terminal charge. Take the cab from the official rank only. Most cabs carry five passengers but four with luggage is more realistic. You can pay by card in the cab. Allow 45 to 60 minutes.

A standard saloon for up to three passengers starts from 54 pounds, and a larger car for five starts from about 65 pounds on the platform we checked. The price is fixed when you book, so traffic does not change it. Your driver tracks the flight and waits if it lands late. Book at least a day ahead. Anything beyond three people or three large bags needs the bigger car.