East Midlands Airport (EMA) runs a single lounge brand, the Escape Lounge, operated by Manchester Airports Group. EMA's lounge market is smaller than the bigger airports', but the Escape Lounge offers solid mid-range value and the airport's package pricing makes it competitive for budget-conscious travellers.

Escape Lounge

  • Walk-in price: £36 per person.
  • Package deals: from £21.99 per person when bundled with parking or fast-track.
  • What you get: Buffet (cold plus hot items), unlimited self-serve drinks including alcohol, Wi-Fi, comfortable seating zones, apron views.
  • Best for: Most travellers who want a quieter pre-flight space. The package pricing is genuinely good if you are also booking parking.

How the package pricing works

EMA's package pricing bundles lounge access with another paid product (typically parking or Security FastTrack). When booked together, the lounge price drops to around £21.99 to £28 per person, depending on the bundle and dates.

If you are already going to pay for parking, the package pricing makes the lounge nearly free. Even paying separately for parking and the lounge, the package can come out cheaper than booking each individually.

What to expect on the day

  1. Clear security at EMA. The airport has CT scanners installed; liquids/electronics no longer have to come out of the bag, but the 100ml limit still applies (DfT certification pending).
  2. Walk to the Escape Lounge in the airside concourse.
  3. Present your boarding pass and access code at the desk.
  4. Standard 2 to 3 hours of access from check-in.

Membership card access

Escape Lounge at EMA is generally accepted on DragonPass and LoungeKey. Priority Pass coverage varies; check your card's app on the day. The Manchester Airports Group operates both EMA's and Manchester's Escape Lounges with similar policies.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Escape Lounge worth it for a 2-hour layover?

For £36 walk-in, marginal. With the £21.99 package price, yes , drinks alone cover the lounge cost compared to terminal pricing.

Can I take kids into EMA's Escape Lounge?

Yes, with discounted under-12 rates and free for under-2s.

Are showers available?

Not at EMA's Escape. Showers are at the larger Manchester Escape and Aspire lounges if you need them.

What time does it open?

Opens for the first wave of departures (typically 4am to 5am). Closing aligns with the last evening flight.

Compare EMA parking + lounge package

EMA's £5 ANPR drop-off and competitive Long Stay rates make it one of the cheaper UK airports overall; the Escape Lounge package adds nicely on top. See live East Midlands Airport parking prices.

Prices verified May 2026 against eastmidlandsairport.com and Escape Lounges' published rates. Always check the live booking before travel.