Where is London Gatwick Airport?

London Gatwick Airport is one of the busiest airports in Britain, welcoming tens of millions of travelers annually. If you’ve never been to Gatwick before or are planning to visit, you might be wondering, “Where is London Gatwick Airport located, and how can I get there?” Good news! This guide will answer all your questions and make your travel plans simpler.

This article will break down Gatwick Airport’s exact location, how far it is from London, how to get there by different modes of transport, and some tips to make your trip hassle-free.

Where is London Gatwick Airport Located?

London Gatwick Airport is in the southeast of England, near the town of Crawley, West Sussex. Its official address is:

Gatwick Airport, West Sussex, RH6 0NP, United Kingdom

Unlike Heathrow, which is west of central London, Gatwick is south of the city. It is located around 28 miles (45 kilometers) away from the center of London.

If you’re looking at a map, the airport sits between two big towns, Crawley and Horley, and is just on the edge of the beautiful Surrey Hills, a green and scenic area.

A Bit of Geography

London Gatwick Airport has a unique location because it’s not technically “in” London. It’s in the county of West Sussex, but its close connection to London makes it one of five major airports that serve the city (others being Heathrow, Stansted, Luton, and London City Airport).

HOW TO GET TO LONDON GATWICK AIRPORT

Now that we know where Gatwick is, let’s explore how you can actually get there. Gatwick is well connected with plenty of transportation options, so no matter where you’re starting from, you can easily reach the airport.

By Train

One of the fastest and most convenient ways to get to London Gatwick is by train. Gatwick has its own train station, conveniently located in the airport’s South Terminal.

Gatwick Express

The Gatwick Express is a non-stop train service that connects the airport directly to London Victoria Station. The journey takes around 30 minutes, making it an ultra-fast option. Trains run approximately every 15 minutes, so you’ll never have to wait long.

Thameslink and Southern Trains

Other train services like Thameslink and Southern also run to and from the airport, stopping at key destinations such as London Bridge, St Pancras, and Clapham Junction. These trains are slightly slower but often more affordable than the Gatwick Express.

By Car

Driving can be a good option, especially if you’re starting from nearby towns or are bringing a lot of luggage. Gatwick Airport is just off the M23 motorway, which connects to the M25 (London’s ring road) and other major highways.

Just follow signs for “Gatwick” on the motorway, and you’ll find plenty of parking options, including short-stay and long-stay areas in both the North and South Terminals.

Allow extra time for traffic if you’re traveling during peak hours like weekday mornings and evenings.

By Bus or Coach

For budget travelers, buses and coaches are a reliable option. Companies like National Express run regular services from various parts of London, including Heathrow, Victoria Coach Station, and Stratford.

The journey can take anywhere between 1 to 2 hours, depending on where you start. Coaches drop passengers off directly at the airport terminals, which is super convenient.

By Taxi or Rideshare

If convenience and comfort are your main priorities, taking a taxi or using a ridesharing service like Uber could be your best bet. The ride from central London to Gatwick typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.

However, this option tends to be more expensive compared to trains or buses, so it’s better suited for groups or those willing to pay for door-to-door service.

If you need a taxi to Gatwick Airport, we at Airport Direct Transfer are here to help you.

What Makes Gatwick Airport Unique?

With over 46 million passengers passing through every year (pre-pandemic levels), Gatwick is not just about location. Here are some special features that make it stand out.

Dual Terminals

Gatwick Airport has two main terminals:

1. North Terminal
2. South Terminal

Each terminal is packed with shops, restaurants, and other traveler-friendly amenities. The terminals are connected by a free shuttle train, which runs 24/7 and takes just two minutes.

Great for Direct Flights

Gatwick is known for its extensive flight network. It operates flights to 200+ destinations across 90 countries, including many smaller airports that are off the beaten track. This makes it ideal for both domestic and international travelers.

Budget Airline Hub

Gatwick also serves as a hub for budget-friendly airlines like easyJet and Norwegian Air, making it a favorite for those searching for affordable travel options.

Learn more about the terminals at Gatwick Airport.

Tips for Your Trip to Gatwick Airport

To ensure smooth sailing, keep these helpful tips in mind while planning your visit to Gatwick.

1. Check Your Terminal

Before you leave for the airport, double-check whether your flight is departing from the North Terminal or South Terminal. You can find this information on your airline’s website or your ticket.

2. Arrive Early

Gatwick is a busy airport, so it’s a good idea to arrive at least 2–3 hours before an international flight and 1.5–2 hours before a domestic flight. This allows enough time for check-in, security, and grabbing a coffee before boarding.

3. Use the Gatwick App

Download the Gatwick Airport app for real-time updates on flights, maps of the terminals, and other helpful tools.

4. Plan Parking in Advance

If you’re driving, it’s often cheaper to book your parking space in advance online. Many deals are available for both short and long stays.

5. Enjoy the Amenities

Gatwick has plenty of excellent shops and restaurants, so you can grab a delicious meal, pick up last-minute travel essentials, or buy gifts for loved ones.

How Far is Gatwick Airport from Other Key Locations?

To truly understand Gatwick’s location, it helps to see how far it is from other important places.

• Central London: 28 miles (45 kilometers)
• Brighton (seaside town): 26 miles (42 kilometers)
• Heathrow Airport: 38 miles (61 kilometers)
• Surrey Hills (great for nature lovers): 6 miles (10 kilometers)

Each of these locations is accessible by public transport, car, or a combination of both!

Final Thoughts on London Gatwick Airport

Whether you’re a frequent flyer or visiting Gatwick for the first time, understanding its location and transport connections will make your trip hassle-free. Gatwick’s accessibility by train, car, bus, and even bike (!) ensures that there’s an option for everyone.

If you want an airport that combines convenience, a wide range of flight options, and top-notch amenities, Gatwick is a fantastic choice.

Happy travels, and safe flights!