LHR reputation undeserved?
Well, after a gap of over 20 years, I finally have revisted LHR -- and I am a bit surprised by the bashing it has received. While I am sure that my one visit is not adequate to state anything with certainty, I found the airport to operate efficiently and the staff to be highly professional.
Now with the full disclosure. I flew out of T-1 in the late morning on the 16th, a Saturday. I do not know whether this is considered to be an off-peak time. But check-in was accomplished within minutes, directions through security were clear, and even though the central waiting area is crowded with shops, they didn't seem to impede anyone's progress. The Star Gold lounge was clean and with good choices for food and drink. I also found everyone I spoke with throughout the entire process to be pleasant and professional.
I would contrast this with the shambles that is IAD T-C/D. Crowded, cramped temporary spaces, few places to get a bit to eat, endless walks to the mobile lounge to clear immigration and customs, inaccurate signage at baggage claim, etc.
So you LHR regulars, don't be so hard on the old girl, I don't think it is that bad.