You've just landed at Gatwick Airport, tired from your flight, and all you can think about is a comfortable bed. But where exactly is the Courtyard by Marriott Gatwick, and how do you get there quickly and efficiently? This lengthy guide will break down everything you need to know about its proximity to the airport and the various transfer options available, ensuring a smooth transition from plane to pillow.
How Far is Courtyard Marriott Gatwick From the Airport? Your Ultimate Guide
The Courtyard by Marriott London Gatwick Airport is exceptionally close to the airport, particularly the South Terminal. It's often cited as one of the most convenient on-airport hotels due to its accessibility. While it's practically on the airport's doorstep, the exact distance and travel time depend on which terminal you're arriving at and your preferred mode of transport.
Let's dive into the specifics!
Step 1: Pinpointing the Courtyard by Marriott's Location
First things first, let's get our bearings. The Courtyard by Marriott London Gatwick Airport is located at:
London Gatwick Airport, Buckingham Gate, Gatwick, England, RH6 0NT.
Key point: It's situated on the South Terminal side of Gatwick Airport. This is crucial for understanding the ease of access, especially if you're flying into or out of the South Terminal.
Did you know that some hotels claim to be "airport hotels" but are actually a fair distance away? The Courtyard by Marriott Gatwick is genuinely an on-airport hotel, making it a top choice for early flights or late arrivals.
Step 2: Getting There from Gatwick South Terminal (The Easiest Route!)
If you're arriving at Gatwick's South Terminal, consider yourself lucky! The Courtyard by Marriott is incredibly accessible from here.
Sub-heading 2.1: The Direct Walk (The Most Convenient)
The Courtyard by Marriott is a mere 5 to 10-minute walk from Gatwick South Terminal. This is by far the most straightforward and often the quickest option, especially if you don't have excessive luggage.
How to Walk to the Courtyard by Marriott from South Terminal:
Exit the South Terminal: Follow the signs for "Hotels" or "Exit."
Head towards Buckingham Gate: As you exit, you'll generally want to head in the direction of the hotel signage. The path is wide and well-signed, making it easy to navigate even with luggage.
Cross Minor Roads (Carefully!): You might encounter a few minor roads, but they typically have sloped curbs, making it easy to wheel your luggage.
Look for the Hotel: The hotel will be visible as you approach, often within a few minutes.
Pro-Tip: While walking is convenient, remember that the route is completely exposed to the elements. If it's raining or very windy, you might prefer an alternative.
Sub-heading 2.2: Shuttle Bus Service from South Terminal
While walking is highly recommended, a shuttle bus service is also available, particularly useful if the weather is bad or if you have a lot of luggage.
Bus Number: The Courtyard by Marriott typically has its own private shuttle service (sometimes referred to as the G2 bus in older information, though it's generally a private service now).
Frequency: Shuttles usually run every 20 minutes.
Cost: As of recent information, the shuttle costs around £3 per person each way (£6 return for adults, £1.50 single/£3 return for children).
Operating Hours: The shuttle runs from approximately 4:00 AM to midnight.
How to Catch the Shuttle from South Terminal:
Locate Bus Stop: Head outside the South Terminal building and look for the designated hotel shuttle bus stops. Information typically directs you to Bus Stop 9.
Look for "Courtyard by Marriott": The shuttle bus will be clearly marked.
Pay the Fare: You can usually pay the driver directly with contactless debit/credit cards or Apple/Google Pay. Cash or AMEX might not be accepted.
Step 3: Traveling from Gatwick North Terminal (Requires a Little Extra Effort)
If your flight arrives at Gatwick's North Terminal, you'll need to factor in an additional step to reach the Courtyard by Marriott.
Sub-heading 3.1: North Terminal to South Terminal Link
The most common way to get from the North Terminal to the Courtyard by Marriott is to first travel to the South Terminal.
The Inter-Terminal Shuttle: Gatwick Airport operates a free, 24-hour inter-terminal shuttle service that connects the North and South Terminals. This train-like shuttle is very efficient and runs frequently.
Journey Time: The inter-terminal shuttle ride itself takes only a few minutes.
How to Use the Inter-Terminal Shuttle:
Follow Signs for "South Terminal" or "Inter-Terminal Shuttle": From anywhere in the North Terminal, clear signage will direct you to the shuttle.
Board the Shuttle: It's a quick and easy ride.
Arrive at South Terminal: Once you're at the South Terminal, refer back to Step 2 for getting to the Courtyard by Marriott.
Sub-heading 3.2: Direct Shuttle Bus from North Terminal
The Courtyard by Marriott's private shuttle service (or the G2 bus) also runs directly between the North Terminal and the hotel.
Bus Stop: Head outside the North Terminal building to Bus Stop 8 (or possibly Bus Stop 11 as of June 2025, always check current signage at the airport).
Cost and Frequency: The cost and frequency are the same as from the South Terminal (approx. £3 per person each way, running every 20 minutes from 4 AM to midnight).
Choosing between the inter-terminal shuttle and then walking/shuttling from South, or the direct shuttle from North, often comes down to personal preference and how quickly the direct shuttle arrives at the North Terminal stop.
Step 4: Other Transportation Options
While walking and the hotel shuttle are the most common and convenient methods, here are a few other options:
Sub-heading 4.1: Taxi
A taxi is always an option for a direct, door-to-door transfer.
Journey Time: A taxi from either terminal to the Courtyard by Marriott is very short, typically 2-5 minutes.
Cost: Expect to pay around £6-£8 for a taxi ride. This can be a good option if you're traveling with a group and can split the fare, or if you have a lot of luggage and prefer maximum convenience.
Sub-heading 4.2: Ride-Sharing Services
Services like Uber or Bolt also operate at Gatwick and can be an alternative to traditional taxis. The cost will vary based on demand.
Sub-heading 4.3: Driving to the Hotel
If you're arriving by car, the Courtyard by Marriott is also very easy to find.
From M23: Exit the M23 at Junction 9 for Gatwick.
Follow South Terminal Signs: Follow signs for the South Terminal onto Ring Road South.
First Left onto Buckingham Gate: Take the first left onto Buckingham Gate, and you will see the hotel on your right.
The hotel is often described as the easiest hotel at Gatwick to find by car as it's one of the first you see after exiting the motorway.
Step 5: Planning Your Departure from the Courtyard by Marriott
When it's time to head back to the airport, the process is simply the reverse of your arrival!
Walking to South Terminal: Easily walk back in 5-10 minutes.
Shuttle Bus: Catch the hotel shuttle directly to either the South or North Terminal. Confirm timings with the hotel reception upon check-in.
Taxi: The hotel reception can arrange a taxi for you.
Remember to factor in sufficient time for check-out and travel to the airport, especially if you have an early morning flight!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are 10 related FAQ questions to help you further:
How to get to Courtyard Marriott Gatwick from South Terminal by walking?
To walk from Gatwick South Terminal, simply exit the terminal and follow signs for "Hotels" or "Courtyard by Marriott." It's a well-marked, wide pathway and takes about 5-10 minutes.
How to use the Courtyard Marriott Gatwick shuttle bus?
Head to the designated hotel shuttle bus stops at either the South Terminal (Bus Stop 9) or North Terminal (Bus Stop 8/11). The shuttle runs every 20 minutes from 4 AM to midnight and costs approximately £3 per person per journey.
How to go from Gatwick North Terminal to Courtyard Marriott Gatwick?
You can either take the free inter-terminal shuttle train to the South Terminal (a few minutes ride) and then walk or take the hotel shuttle from there, or catch the direct hotel shuttle bus from the North Terminal (Bus Stop 8/11).
How to find the shuttle bus stop for Courtyard Marriott Gatwick?
At the South Terminal, look for Bus Stop 9 outside the main exit. At the North Terminal, look for Bus Stop 8 or 11. Hotel signage will also guide you.
How to pay for the Courtyard Marriott Gatwick shuttle?
You can pay the shuttle bus driver directly using contactless debit/credit cards, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. Cash and AMEX are generally not accepted.
How to get a taxi from Gatwick Airport to Courtyard Marriott Gatwick?
Taxis are readily available outside both the North and South Terminals. Simply join the taxi queue, and it's a very short 2-5 minute ride to the hotel, costing around £6-£8.
How to drive to Courtyard Marriott Gatwick from the M23?
Exit the M23 at Junction 9 for Gatwick Airport. Follow signs for the South Terminal, take the first left onto Ring Road South, and then the first left again onto Buckingham Gate. The hotel will be on your right.
How to get to Courtyard Marriott Gatwick if my flight is very late at night or very early in the morning?
The hotel shuttle runs until midnight and starts at 4 AM. If your arrival falls outside these hours, a taxi would be the most reliable option. The walk from the South Terminal is also feasible 24/7 if you prefer.
How to book airport transfers from Courtyard Marriott Gatwick?
For onward journeys from the hotel, you can use the hotel's shuttle bus, or the reception can assist you in booking a taxi or advising on public transport connections.
How to know if the Courtyard Marriott Gatwick is accessible for guests with mobility issues?
The Courtyard by Marriott Gatwick is generally very accessible. It offers accessible rooms with features like wider doors, roll-in showers, grab bars, and lowered fixtures. It has step-free access to reception and accessible routes throughout the hotel. It's always best to contact the hotel directly or check their accessibility information on their website (e.g., AccessAble) for specific room details and features if you have particular requirements.
