Airport Lounge Guide: Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA)
Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) has recently undergone a significant transformation with its £100 million terminal redevelopment project, LBA:REGEN.
A key feature of this upgrade is the launch of two brand-new, modern airport lounges: The Six Eight One Lounge and The Avro Lounge. These new spaces replace the former 1432 Runway Club and Yorkshire Lounges, offering travelers upgraded comfort, style, and service.
This guide provides an overview of the new lounge offerings at LBA, including their features, access rules, and specific policies for premium passengers.
The Six Eight One Lounge
Positioned as the airport's most premium offering, the Six Eight One Lounge caters to travelers seeking an exclusive, tranquil environment. It is strictly for guests aged 12 and over, making it a perfect escape from the main terminal's hustle and bustle.
Atmosphere & Features
Exclusive Ambiance: Designed for quiet relaxation with privacy, runway views, and a sophisticated decor.
Premium Buffet Dining: A complimentary, extensive buffet-style dining experience. The menu changes daily but includes a full hot breakfast selection (sausages, bacon, eggs, etc.), and a lunch/evening service with rotating hot dishes (e.g., chicken chasseur, curries, pasta), a fresh salad bar, and a variety of cakes, bakes, and scones.
Complimentary Bar Service: Guests can enjoy up to three complimentary alcoholic drinks from a selection of premium beers, ciders, wines, and spirits. The lounge also features a signature cocktail, the 'Yorkshire Lass', which is included in addition to the three drink allowance. Champagne and other premium selections are available for an additional charge.
Modern Amenities: Fast Wi-Fi, ample device charging points, and a selection of newspapers and magazines.
Key Details
The Avro Lounge
The Avro Lounge offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere suitable for all travelers, including families. It is located in the new terminal extension and provides excellent airfield views, making it a great spot for aviation enthusiasts and families alike.
Atmosphere & Features
Relaxed Environment: Features cozy sofas, dedicated workspaces, and a family-friendly vibe.
Light Snacks & Refreshments: Please note: This lounge does not offer hot meals. Instead, it provides complimentary light snacks. In the morning, this includes fresh pastries, cereals, and fruit. From lunchtime, guests are served a seasonal savoury snack platter (e.g., olives, tortilla chips). Special kids' boxes are also available. Reader feedback received by Head for Points suggests some disappointment with these offerings.
Complimentary Beverages: Guests are entitled to three complimentary alcoholic drinks, including the house beer (Poretti) and a choice of red or white wine. A full range of complimentary soft drinks, barista-style coffees, teas, and flavoured water is also available.
Family Amenities: Fast Wi-Fi and charging ports are available. While there is no dedicated play area, the lounge welcomes families and offers snack boxes for children.
Key Details
How to Access these Lounges
There are several ways to access these new lounges at Leeds Bradford Airport. Here's a summary of your options to help you choose the best one for your trip.
Pay-Per-Use (Pre-Book)
Pre-booking is now available for both the Six Eight One Lounge and The Avro Lounge through the official Leeds Bradford Airport website. This is the only way to guarantee your spot. Pre-booking is often cheaper than paying on the day and is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.
Six Eight One Lounge: Prices are from £41 for 2 hours or £49 for 3 hours.
Avro Lounge: Prices are £33 (2 hours) / £39 (3 hours) for adults (12+) and £12.50 (2 hours) / £15.00 (3 hours) for children (2-11).
Note that group bookings cannot be made. The maximum group size that can be booked online is four adults.
Lounge Memberships
Priority Pass, DragonPass, and Lounge Key officially partner with the Avro Lounge for walk-up access (subject to capacity).
Leeds Bradford Airport also allows Priority Pass and DragonPass members to ‘upgrade’ to the Six Eight One Lounge for £34.00. This arrangement isn't mentioned on the membership providers' own websites, which only list the Avro Lounge.
Credit Cards
A number of premium credit cards offer complimentary access to the Avro Lounge through included partnerships with DragonPass, Priority Pass, or LoungeKey. These include cards like American Express Platinum, Diners Club, World Mastercard, and Capital One.
KLM & SkyTeam Passengers
Eligible passengers flying with KLM from Leeds Bradford will have access to the Avro Lounge. Here is a clear breakdown:
KLM Business Class: Passengers holding a KLM Business Class ticket for a same-day departure are granted complimentary access.
SkyTeam Elite Plus Status: Members with Elite Plus status (e.g., Flying Blue Gold/Platinum) get complimentary access when on any international SkyTeam flight.
Guest Policy: SkyTeam Elite Plus members can bring one guest who is also travelling on a SkyTeam flight.
To gain entry, simply present your valid boarding pass at the lounge reception.
Walk-Up Access
Paying at the door of either lounge on the day of travel is possible but is strictly subject to availability. This option can be more expensive than pre-booking, and you risk being turned away if the lounge is full.
Access Options at a Glance
Here is a quick recap of the access options for the lounges at Leeds Bradford.
| Access Method | Lounge | Best For | Guaranteed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Book (Direct) | Both Lounges | All travellers wanting guaranteed access | Yes |
| Pre-Book (PP/DragonPass) | Six Eight One | Priority Pass/DragonPass members (fee of £34) | Yes |
| Walk-Up (Membership) | Avro | Priority Pass/DragonPass/Lounge Key | No (Capacity-dependent) |
| KLM Business Class | Avro | Business Class passengers | Yes (Same-day flight) |
| SkyTeam Elite Plus | Avro | Elite Plus on international SkyTeam flights | Yes (With eligible flight) |
| Walk-Up (Pay at door) | Both | Last-minute decisions | No (Lowest priority) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best lounge at Leeds Bradford Airport?
The "best" lounge at Leeds Bradford Airport really depends on your travel needs and priorities. The airport offers two distinct experiences:
The Six Eight One Lounge is the airport's premium, adults-only (12+) offering. It's best for solo travellers, couples, or business travellers seeking a tranquil environment with elevated service. Its key feature is an extensive hot and cold buffet and a slightly more generous complimentary bar service.
The Avro Lounge is a relaxed, family-friendly space that welcomes travellers of all ages. It's the ideal choice for families or those who want a comfortable space to wait without the premium price tag. It offers complimentary light snacks, pastries, and drinks. You will be disappointed if you are looking for hot food items.
In short, if a full meal and a quiet, child-free atmosphere are your priority, the Six Eight One Lounge is your best bet. If you need a welcoming space for your family or a more budget-conscious option, the Avro Lounge is the better choice.
How much is the Leeds Bradford lounge?
The price varies depending on which lounge you choose and how you book.
The Six Eight One Lounge: Pre-booking online is the only way to guarantee entry. Prices are £41 for a 2-hour stay or £49 for a 3-hour stay. Walk-up entry may be possible but is subject to availability and likely to be more expensive. Priority Pass or DragonPass can pre-book this lounge for a fee of £34.
The Avro Lounge: Pre-booking is available from £33 for adults (12+) and £12.50 for children (2-11). Access is also complimentary for eligible KLM and SkyTeam passengers. Holders of lounge membership cards like Priority Pass or DragonPass can also gain walk-up access to this lounge at no additional cost, subject to capacity.
What is the Six Eight One Lounge at Leeds Bradford?
The Six Eight One Lounge is Leeds Bradford Airport's most premium lounge, located in the new terminal extension. It is an exclusive space for guests aged 12 and over, designed for travellers who want to relax in style and comfort before their flight.
Key features include an extensive complimentary hot and cold buffet, a fully serviced bar with up to four free alcoholic drinks per guest, comfortable seating with runway views, and fast Wi-Fi.
Access can be pre-booked online including for Priority Pass and DragonPass members, and it is highly recommended to do so to guarantee your space.
Summing Up: A Major Upgrade for LBA
The introduction of the Six Eight One and Avro lounges marks a significant enhancement to the passenger experience at Leeds Bradford Airport. The dual-lounge system provides tailored options, whether you're a solo business traveler seeking tranquility or a family looking for a comfortable space to relax.
With clear access paths for pay-per-use guests, lounge membership holders, and premium airline passengers, LBA's new facilities offer a welcome retreat from the bustle of the main terminal.
