Heathrow Spotting?

[chrisy08]

I know this probably isn't the right place.. but I'm going to Heathrow in a little bit to pick up some family, I'm arriving a few hours before they land to watch planes go in and out.. I've looked online at plane spotting areas and I'm just wondering what is the best one for free parking but with good views? I won't be taking professional photos so if there's fences in the way etc it doesn't matter....

Thanks

[pax britanica]

depends on the runway direction but if departing on 09 R the Esso petrol staion on southern perimeter road between cargo and T5 is good. Otherwise Northside where the HAL visitor centre is has a spotting area good for landing or take off on 28r

Final area is of the A30 (you have to use Bedfont lane which parallels it and look for Myrtle Ave or Caines |Lane by the recreation ground-good for 28L landers or 9R departures
good luck

[trident3A]

Remember if they're on Westerlies they alternate the North/South runways at 3pm