Check in is on the ground level, and the departures area is the level above.

For those travelling Upper Class or Gold Card Holders, you can now use the "Upper Class Wing". Drive-Thru customers are taken up a ramp to the left of the terminal, into a private check in reception area leading onto a dedicated security channel. For those making their own way to the terminal, a lift to the right of the Upper Class check in takes you to the back of the Drive Thru check in (via a security door where you must scan your boarding pass to gain access), and then through the dedicated security channel. The new Upper Class Wing really does speed the time from kerb to Clubhouse.

In the main departure lounge there is plenty of shopping and eating areas, although it might be worth checking the duty free prices onboard, since cigarettes, for instance, are cheaper.

The Clubhouse is located at Gate 12D, which you'll find by going through the departure lounge and turning right. At the junction of the corridors leading up to gates 14-22, you'll find a receptionist who'll check your boarding card. You'll then have to walk through the corridor and up the stairs to the Clubhouse itself.

Virgin tend to use the gates on the right hand side of the terminal, 23-40, although it does depend on which gates the BAA allocate to them - and that can be anything (including remote stands).

When flying into LHR, after you've cleared customs you'll find the Upper Class Revivals Lounge one stop up in the lift and across the bridge in Car Park 3.

See also: London Gatwick