bilbo, good job you didn't mix up the kid and the bunny!

Well, the child looked a bit sticky

Bilbo- you probably saved that vacation! Yes, my boys are older and could handle the luggage/tube, but after hearing about the tube change and extra walking, I think I'll stick with the car. I'll leave the tube for sightseeing. I agree with trophywife about it being nice not having to watch the meter. On the other hand, if I was alone I'd probably do the H.E. I'm used to long taxi lines when I visit NY (LaGuardia), but they usually move fast and it's about a $50 ride into the city by myself so 43-48GBP doesn't seem too unreasonable. Janisj, you spelled out exactly what I had hoped to avoid. Because, even though my boys are older, I'm trying to avoid unnecessary crankiness! Thanks again all!

Dukey1- a Duke fan??

Do be warned if you use the tube and your luggage has four wheels, it will roll back and forth in spite of your best efforts to keep it still.

As a confirmed believer in using the tube to get to town, in your situation, take a car.

And if your flight happens to be coming into the new Queen's Terminal it may feel like you already walked miles before you even reach the immigration line and baggage claim areas. It would be easier to take a car service with luggage to get to the hotel.

Using "Just Airports" has always been the way to go for my family including when my kids were moving over there to go to graduate school. If it is just one person and one suitcase,then the tube is great but as someone who goes to London for work several times a month and sees families losing bags and kids during peak times I would strongly suggest a hired car!