Whether you’re flying off for a weekend city break or heading abroad for a long-haul adventure, London Gatwick Airport (LGW) is a key travel hub for many. As the second busiest airport in the UK, it connects London to hundreds of destinations – and yet it remains far less chaotic than its big brother, Heathrow.
If you’re heading to or from Gatwick soon, this simple, no-fluff guide will walk you through everything you need to know – from terminals and transport options to where to grab a decent bite before your flight.
First Things First: North or South Terminal?
Gatwick Airport operates across two terminals – North and South. Unlike some major airports where terminal transfers can be a bit of a headache, Gatwick makes it easy. A free shuttle train runs 24/7 and takes just a couple of minutes to get you from one terminal to the other.
Here’s a quick breakdown of who flies where:
- North Terminal: Think easyJet (they’re the main player here), Emirates, TUI, JetBlue, and Qatar Airways.
- South Terminal: You’ll find flights from Ryanair, Wizz Air, British Airways (some routes), Aer Lingus, and Norwegian.
Tip: Always double-check your flight info before setting off – your terminal could change, and it’ll save you time and stress.
Getting There: Travel Options to and from Gatwick
Gatwick has some of the best connections in the country, whether you’re travelling to central London, Brighton, or anywhere in between.
🚖 Minicabs and Taxis
If you want a smooth, door-to-door journey without dragging your luggage on and off public transport, pre-booking a minicab is often the most relaxing (and surprisingly affordable) option. Whether you’re arriving at 3am or heading home after a long-haul flight, a timely minicab service means no waiting in taxi queues.
🚆 Trains
- Gatwick Express: A non-stop ride straight to London Victoria in about 30 minutes. It’s quick, comfy, and made for travellers – though it’s a bit pricier.
- Southern Trains: A cheaper but still efficient option. Trains also go to London Victoria, East Croydon, and Brighton.
- Thameslink: Ideal if you’re heading to places like London Bridge, Blackfriars, or even north of London like St Pancras.
🚌 Coaches & Buses
National Express runs long-distance coaches from Gatwick to various UK cities, while local buses link the airport with surrounding towns and villages.
Check-In & Security: Beat the Queues
✈️ When Should You Arrive?
- International flights: Aim to get there 2 to 3 hours before take-off.
- European/domestic flights: 1.5 to 2 hours should do it.
📱 Online Check-In
Save time and stress – most airlines let you check in online up to 24 hours before your flight. You’ll just need to drop off your bag and head to security.
🔒 Security Tips
- Keep liquids under 100ml in a clear plastic bag.
- Laptops, tablets, and large electronics need to go in a separate tray.
- Shoes, belts, and jackets may need to come off – dress accordingly.
Travelling with kids or need assistance? Gatwick offers special lanes and support services to make the process smoother.
Inside the Terminals: Food, Shops & Lounges
Whether you’re early for your flight or stuck on a layover, Gatwick has plenty to keep you entertained.
🛋 Lounges
Want to escape the crowds? Both terminals have pay-as-you-go lounges (like No1 Lounge or My Lounge) with comfy seating, free food and drink, Wi-Fi, and even showers.
Food & Drink
From a quick sandwich to a sit-down meal, there’s a huge choice:
- Chains like Wagamama, Pret, Nando’s, and Starbucks
- Pubs such as The Nicholas Culpeper
- And for something fancier – Caviar House & Prunier
🛍 Shopping
Gatwick’s retail options are solid – World Duty Free, WHSmith, Boots, JD Sports, and even luxury names like Harrods and Jo Malone.
Extras for a Smoother Journey
- Free Wi-Fi across both terminals
- Phone charging points scattered throughout
- Left luggage and baggage services
- Baby facilities and kids’ play zones
- Accessibility support, including pre-bookable assistance and mobility help
Got a Long Layover? Here’s What to Do
Stuck at Gatwick for a few hours? Here are some ideas:
- Relax in a lounge and catch up on work or rest
- Shop for last-minute gifts or treats
- Grab a proper meal
- Check into an airport hotel – there are some connected directly to the terminal, like Bloc Hotel (South Terminal)
Got 6–8 hours or more? You could even:
- Hop on a train to Brighton – a seaside escape just 30 minutes away
- Zip into Central London via Gatwick Express or Thameslink
- Visit the Gatwick Aviation Museum, a short taxi ride away
Whether you’re flying in or out, Gatwick Airport offers a streamlined, stress-free experience – especially when you know what to expect. And with excellent transport links and pre-booked minicabs available 24/7, your journey doesn’t have to stop at the airport doors.
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