In a nutshell
- London Gatwick is the second largest airport in London and has two terminals.
- There are five ways to get from Gatwick Airport to London city center. We recommend taking the train from Gatwick Airport to London – it’s quick, comfortable, and good value for money.
- If you have an early flight, we recommend staying Bloc Hotel London Gatwick. It’s one of the most affordable options right at the airport and has a modern, stylish design.
London Gatwick Airport: 4 Important Facts
Before we dive into how to get from Gatwick Airport to London, here are a few quick facts about the airport that might come in handy.
- London Gatwick is the second biggest airport in London
- It has two terminals: the South Terminal and the North Terminal
- The airport lies about 47 kilometers south of central London
- Major airlines include British Airways, easyJet, and TUI Airways
Not the right airport? We have more information about London’s other airports in these articles.
How to get from Heathrow Airport to London city center
How to get from Stansted Airport to London
Transfer from Gatwick Airport to London: An Overview
Let’s start with a quick overview of how to get from Gatwick to London. This will help you choose the option that suits you best. You’ll find all the key details below.
| Transfer | Travel Time | From Gatwick to Center | From Center to Gatwick | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gatwick Express | 30 min | 05:20 AM to 01:35 AM | 05:05 AM to 11:31 PM | from £21.50 | book your ticket |
| Gatwick Train Transfer | 35 min | All day | All day | from £14.40 | book your ticket |
| National Express Bus | 120 min | 03:35 AM to 11:30 PM | 02:00 AM to 11:59 PM | £10.50 | book your ticket |
| Taxi | 60 min | All day | All day | from £80 | book your ticket |
| Private Transfer | 70 min | 05:00 AM to 08:00 PM | £85 | book your ticket |
Our Recommendation for the Best Transfer from Gatwick Airport
Don’t feel like comparing all the options and just want to know what we’d do? Easy! We’d go for the Gatwick Train Transfer (#2) – it’s the best mix of speed, cost, and comfort when traveling from London Gatwick to London city center.
Now let’s take a closer look at the different London to Gatwick Airport transfers and see which one fits your plans best.
Gatwick Express: The Fastest Transfer
The Gatwick Express is a direct train running from the South Terminal to Victoria Station in central London. The trip takes just 30 minutes, making it the fastest transfer from London Gatwick to London city center.
Trains depart every 15 minutes. If you’re arriving at the North Terminal, no worries – a free shuttle runs between both terminals.
However, the Gatwick Express is also one of the pricier options. Tickets start at £21.50 on the official Gatwick Express website, and there’s a small fee if you want your ticket emailed to you.
Our tip: Southern also runs trains from Gatwick to Victoria Station. These make a few stops along the way and take about 35 minutes. If you book a few days ahead online, the tickets are much cheaper than the Gatwick Express.
Gatwick Train Transfer: The Best Value for Money
Besides the Gatwick Express and Southern trains, ThamesLink also operates regular services between the South Terminal and stations like London Bridge, London Blackfriars, and St. Pancras. Trains run four times an hour and are a great choice if you’re wondering how to get from Gatwick Airport to London quickly and affordably.
The journey takes around 35 minutes—only slightly longer than the Gatwick Express—but tickets are much cheaper. You can buy e-tickets on the ThamesLink website starting from £14.40.
Alternatively, you can tap in with your Oyster Card and pay just £10.70 during off-peak hours. We recommend getting one for your stay in London anyway. You can buy it online in advance or pick one up from a ticket machine at the station.
Another advantage: ThamesLink trains also run at night (though less frequently), making them ideal if your flight arrives late or you need to get to Gatwick Airport from London for an early departure.
National Express Bus: The Cheapest Transfer
The most budget-friendly way to get from Gatwick to London is the National Express bus. It departs from both terminals and takes you to Victoria Coach Station in central London. The trip takes roughly 2 hours. Buses run approximately every 30 minutes, and in the evenings, about every hour.
It’s best to book online on Get your Guide. This not only saves money but also guarantees you a seat. Book a few days in advance, and tickets start from just £10.50.
Taxi: Convenient But Expensive
The most comfortable option is, of course, a taxi. You’ll find plenty of official black cabs at the airport – just follow the signs to the cab rank.
It’s also one of the priciest options. Depending on your destination, the ride usually takes about an hour and costs between £80 and £100, depending on traffic.
Stick to the official black cabs to avoid overpaying. Using unlicensed drivers can quickly double the cost.
Our tip: Alternatively, you can book a mini cab. These need a reservation in advance but are generally much cheaper. A reliable provider is minicabit.
Private Transfer: For Organized Planners
If you prefer a stress-free start or end to your trip, you can book a private transfer between your hotel and London Gatwick Airport. This is a great option if you want to plan your transfer in advance and book through a reliable provider.
The service costs a fixed £85, which is comparable to a regular taxi. There are a maximum of three stops to pick up passengers along the way.
Book a private transfer to London Gatwick
Where to Stay at London Gatwick Airport
If your flight leaves early in the morning, it’s often more relaxing to stay at a hotel near London Gatwick Airport. We’ve picked out three great hotel options for you:
- Bloc Hotel London Gatwick: one of the most affordable hotels right at the airport. The modern design and stylish interiors make it perfect for a short stay.
- Gatwick Turret Guesthouse: a small guesthouse about a ten-minute drive from the airport. A private shuttle service is available for guests.
- Sofitel London Gatwick: the luxury choice among airport hotels. This 4-star hotel also offers several restaurants and extra amenities.
If you’re still looking for a great hotel in central London for the rest of your stay, you’ll find plenty of recommendations in our articles.
Do you have more tips for getting from Gatwick Airport to London?
These were our top suggestions for getting from London Gatwick Airport to the city. Have you ever landed at Gatwick? Which transfer option did you use? Share your experiences in the comments – we’d love to hear from you!