Access to this Clubhouse is limited to Virgin Atlantic’s upper-class ticket holders, partner airline upper-class passengers, and select high-tier loyalty members. The policy aims to preserve exclusivity due to consistent demand for entry.
Virgin Atlantic opened its first Clubhouse at Gatwick Airport in 1990. Today, other Clubhouses operate at Los Angeles International (LAX), New York JFK, Washington Dulles International Airport, O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, and San Francisco International Airport. In locations without dedicated Clubhouses—such as Edinburgh or Manchester in the UK—the airline partners with shared lounges.
The Heathrow Clubhouse offers comprehensive menus throughout the day; breakfast includes traditional British options like eggs Benedict and full English breakfast. Lunch and dinner selections range from small plates such as fish tacos to larger dishes like venison pie or plant burgers. Afternoon tea is served between 3 pm and 5:30 pm with items including scones and macarons.
Industry reviewers generally rate the LHR Clubhouse highly. Faze from Wander Up Front wrote: "The lounge is still a huge standout in Heathrow and credit to Virgin for still maintaining it as such a wonderful space. It is just so Virgin. Stylish and fun. The service was impeccable." The reviewer also highlighted the unique Peloton workout space overlooking the airfield.
The Luxury Traveller called it "one of the very best in the world," noting that its Upper Class Wing check-in facility is "without question the best Business Class check-in facility on the planet." The review praised staff enthusiasm and recommended allowing three hours to experience all amenities.
While not ranked as luxurious as Lufthansa’s First Class Terminal or Singapore’s The Private Room by some reviewers, Alberto Riva of Upgraded Points stated: "On every visit, I have found great food, a lively but uncrowded atmosphere, and friendly staff. Add to that a cool, stylish vibe, and you have a great lounge to either wait for a flight or spend a long layover."
Some criticism exists; One Mile At A Time noted that while standards may have shifted over time: "fun vibe, plenty of seating, excellent food and drinks, friendly service, and some fun amenities like an outdoor terrace and Peloton bikes" continue to set it apart among business class lounges.
At Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Virgin Atlantic recently opened its newest Clubhouse in celebration of 35 years of service there. Corneel Koster, Chief Customer & Operating Officer for Virgin Atlantic said: "We're bringing the Clubhouse experience to the West Coast with new spaces and surprises that are unique to Los Angeles. Everything about the Clubhouse at LAX is intentionally designed and pays homage to both our British roots and local Los Angeles tastes."
Access at LAX mirrors London’s restrictions but includes Delta Air Lines’ eligible travelers through partnership arrangements within SkyTeam Alliance networks. Notably during recent wildfires in California earlier this year—before June 2025—all active-duty LA County firefighters flying with Virgin Atlantic could access this lounge regardless of ticket class when space allowed; this policy has since ended.
Reviewers consistently highlight that exclusivity helps maintain high standards at these lounges despite concerns over potential crowding after joining SkyTeam Alliance networks.
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