So you're off to sunny (or not-so-sunny) Gatwick Airport, eh? ✈️
Getting to Gatwick from London can be a breeze, depending on your budget, sense of adventure, and whether you packed light enough to avoid the dreaded airport baggage fees (we've all been there).
This guide will take you through all the different ways to get to Gatwick, from the flash and fancy to the downright frugal.
Choose your Gatwick adventure!
High rollers: Gatwick Express
Want to arrive in style? Look no further than the Gatwick Express. This sleek train whisks you straight from London Victoria station to Gatwick Airport in a mere 30 minutes. Perfect if you're running a bit late (or just important like that ). Think plush seats, free WiFi, and an onboard shop selling everything from travel essentials to overpriced snacks (because, hey, airports). Just remember, this speedy service comes with a bit of a steeper price tag.
Thrifty travellers: Trains
For those on a budget, fear not! Several other trains can take you from London to Gatwick. Southern and Thameslink offer regular services from various London stations, including London Bridge and St Pancras International. The journey time is a bit longer than the Gatwick Express (think 45-60 minutes), but your wallet will thank you. Plus, you might even get a chance to enjoy some accidental sightseeing on the way.
Bus it, don't fuss it
National Express and Megabus offer no-frills coach services from London Victoria Coach Station to Gatwick. This is a great option if you're on a super tight budget and don't mind kicking back for a slightly longer journey (around 1.5-2 hours). Just be prepared to share your ride with fellow adventurers (and maybe the occasional crying baby).
Taxis: The speedy but spendy option
Feeling posh? Or maybe you're running on Gatwick time (you know, that time where you somehow manage to be late for everything)? Flag down a black cab or pre-book a taxi. This is the fastest way to get from London to Gatwick, but it'll definitely cost you the most. Just make sure you factor in potential traffic jams when calculating your travel time.
Bikes and...unicorns?
Alright, alright, so maybe cycling or riding a unicorn to Gatwick isn't the most realistic option (although, kudos to you if you pull it off!). But for the truly adventurous (and ridiculously fit) souls out there, it is technically possible. Just remember to check the distance (it's about 40 km from central London) and pack plenty of snacks (and unicorn food, if applicable). ♀️
FAQ:
How to get the cheapest train tickets to Gatwick?
Book in advance! Many train companies offer discounts for advance purchases. Try Trainline to compare prices and find the best deals.
How to get to Gatwick from London with luggage?
All the options mentioned above can accommodate luggage. For trains, there's usually plenty of space for bags on board or in luggage racks. Buses and coaches will have luggage compartments underneath. Taxis can usually handle a few suitcases in the boot.
How to get to the Gatwick North Terminal from the South Terminal?
There's a free two-minute shuttle service running between the two terminals. Easy peasy!
How much does it cost to get a taxi to Gatwick?
The cost will depend on the distance from your starting point in London and the traffic conditions. As a rough guide, expect to pay around £70-£100 for a central London journey.
Can I take the Tube to Gatwick?
No, there is no direct underground connection to Gatwick Airport. However, you can take the tube to a train station that connects to Gatwick, such as London Victoria or London Bridge.
