In January 2020, we visited The House while flying from Sydney to London with British Airways Club World (Business Class), and were impressed by the attention to detail and the first-class hospitality experience. The House has several different lounge areas including an à la carte dining room, bar, shower suites and children’s play area.
Location
The House is situated after security in Terminal 1, it is only accessible to passengers travelling on international flights. After passing through security, follow the signs for airport lounges, The House is located on Pier C near Gate 51. It is well sign-posted and easy to find.
Operated by British company No1 Lounges, The House lounge is open to anyone flying any airline and any class, as long as they are willing to pay $80 AUD if they book ahead online or $90 on the door for a three-hour visit. Additionally, this is the lounge offered to British Airways passengers flying in Business or First-Class.
A normal Business Class lounge offers a self-service buffet and drinks, free WiFi, shower and toilet facilities and perhaps some glossy magazines. The House distinguishes itself by offering a genuine First-Class experience with the additional dining options and a well equipped, fully staffed bar.
We arrived three hours before our scheduled departure at 16:30 Sydney time. The lounge was not busy and never felt crowded during our two and a half hour stay. There was always ample seating throughout our visit. We sat near the windows overlooking the airport tarmac. There are plenty of power points to recharge mobile devices and the staff were discreet and ever so attentive. It always seemed that our empty glasses and plates were cleared within seconds of being placed back on the table.
Facilities
The showers and toilets were pristine, a far cry from the public facilities in the terminal. The showers come with L’Occitane products and fluffy white towels for those in need of refreshment before a long flight. The children’s zone allows kids to watch children’s TV shows and play with Tonka trucks, dolls, drawers full of building blocks and other toys. This allows parents to relax outside in the sophisticated lounge on the other side of the glass.
Dining
The self-service buffet has a selection of hot and cold dishes as well as desserts. There is also tea and coffee making facilities. A full barista service is also available at the bar. There is also a refrigerator which offers an extensive range of soft drinks.
The à la carte dining room offers a limited menu and a full table service. The food is of restaurant quality, even thought the selection is limited. It certainly is several steps above the cuisine offered in the public areas of the Sydney terminal.
Summary
Overall, The House at Sydney Airport is an excellent place to start your journey. It has ample seating, great food options, a room to play for the kids and First-Class service. It is probably the only lounge to offer restaurant-style à la carte dining at Sydney Airport. A serene experience and highly recommended. Even if you aren’t flying BA Club World, it is definitely worth the price.