First up: the prices. For a quick nip-in, say 15 minutes, you’re looking at around £5.30. That’s a bit steep for just dropping someone off, isn’t it? But hey, that’s the price of convenience—and avoiding a frantic loop around the roundabout.
If you’re staying a whole hour, you’ll shell out about £12.40. For two hours, it jumps to £24.80. Yikes. That’s almost the cost of a fancy airport sandwich (which, let’s be honest, is already a rip-off). The prices climb like a nervous flyer on a bumpy descent—steady and a bit scary.
Here’s the kicker: after four hours, it’s a flat rate of £45.60 for the day. So, if you’re picking up a delayed flight or waiting for a friend who’s “just grabbing one more souvenir,” that’s your number. Just don’t be tempted to park and run off to Windsor Castle—they’ll fine you faster than you can say “overstay.”
Why So Pricey? And Is It Worth It?
Why does Short Stay cost a small fortune? Because it’s literally right outside the terminal doors. You can practically roll your suitcase from the car seat to the check-in desk. For that kind of convenience, the airport charges a premium—like paying extra for a window seat, but with more exhaust fumes.
Is it worth it? Only in certain situations. If you’re just picking up a granny with a giant suitcase, yes. If you’re meeting a friend who’s arriving on a mystery flight from Timbuktu, maybe. But for a long-haul trip? Absolutely not. Your wallet will cry louder than a toddler denied a inflight snack.
Pro tip: Pre-book online to save a few quid. It’s not a massive discount—maybe 10–15%—but that’s enough to buy a coffee and a sad-looking pastry at Pret. Every little helps, right?
