Best Spotting Locations at LHR - Tips and Tricks?

Hey fellow spotters! I'm planning a trip to London Heathrow (LHR) soon, and I'm super excited to do some serious plane spotting there. I've heard it's one of the busiest airports in the world, and I can't wait to capture some amazing shots.

For those of you who've been spotting at LHR before, what are your favorite spots? I've heard about Myrtle Avenue being a classic choice, but are there any other hidden gems or lesser-known locations you would recommend?

Also, any tips on the best time of day for lighting and traffic would be greatly appreciated. I'm particularly interested in catching some long-haul giants like the A380 and 747, especially from airlines like British Airways, Emirates, and Qatar Airways.

Lastly, if anyone has suggestions on what gear to bring, I'd love to hear that too. I'm currently using a Canon EOS 90D with a 100-400mm lens. Is that sufficient, or should I consider renting something else? Looking forward to your insights and maybe even meeting some of you there!

Myrtle Avenue is indeed a fantastic spot, especially for capturing arrivals on Runway 27L. However, if you're looking for alternative locations, try the Heathrow Academy viewing area. It offers a good view of aircraft taxiing and taking off, though access can be limited. Another option is the mound at Terminal 5's short-stay car park, which gives a great vantage point for departures.

For lighting, mornings are great at Myrtle Avenue, while afternoons work well at the Terminal 5 mound. As for your gear, your Canon EOS 90D with a 100-400mm lens is a solid choice. It should provide excellent reach given the distances at Heathrow. If you're interested in more detailed shots, consider renting a lens with a longer focal length, but your current setup should serve you well. Have a great time spotting!

If you're looking to capture some long-haul giants, I'd recommend trying the Green Man pub area. It's a bit lesser-known but offers great views of aircraft on approach, and it's perfect for catching widebodies like the A380 and 747, especially when they're landing on 27R. As for timing, early morning or late afternoon generally provides the best lighting, given Heathrow's layout. Your Canon EOS 90D with a 100-400mm lens should be more than adequate for most shots, though a tripod might be useful for stability during longer sessions. If you have the chance, try to spot around Terminal 5-you'll likely see a lot of British Airways' fleet, including the A350-1000s. Happy spotting!