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Gatwick Airport

London's lively gateway south

Airport in United Kingdom

London (40 km)

191 destinations

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London’s Gatwick Airport serves as a major gateway to southern England and beyond. With two terminals, it handles millions of passengers each year, connecting travelers worldwide through numerous airlines. The airport features shops, dining options, lounges and transport links including trains and buses that connect directly into central London. Its layout supports both short-haul flights across Europe and long-haul routes to Asia, Africa and the Americas. Gatwick’s operations focus on efficiency while providing essential services for a busy travel hub.

Last update: 12 Oct 2026

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Gatwick Airport Summary

Gatwick Airport is an airport near London in United Kingdom. It currently offers regular passenger service to 191 destinations operated by 59 airlines.

Top airlines

easyJet (U2)

1374 flights per week

British Airways (BA)

403 flights per week

Vueling Airlines (VY)

160 flights per week

Top destinations

AGP Málaga

BCN Barcelona

FAO Faro

Cheapest destinations

DUB Dublin

BCN Barcelona

MXP Milan

Best destinations

SIN Singapore

JFK New York City

FLR Florence

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Gatwick Airport, located about 30 miles south of Central London near Crawley, is a vibrant hub that perfectly blends modern travel convenience with a rich aviation history. Operating primarily on a single runway and hosting two terminals – the North and South – this airport manages millions of passengers annually, including many flying with British Airways and easyJet.

The airport is famous for its pioneering train connection, with a dedicated railway station that links directly to London in under 40 minutes by Gatwick Express, Thameslink or Southern Railway. This connectivity has made it a vital transport hub not only for London but also for the wider Southeast England area.

Visitors can enjoy exploring nearby attractions without straying far from the airport. The Gatwick Aviation Museum offers a fantastic glimpse into aviation history, while Worth Park Gardens and Wakehurst Gardens provide peaceful nature escapes with beautiful landscapes. For families, Hever Castle and model villages in the vicinity add a fairy-tale touch to the travel experience.

While Gatwick is efficient and bustling, travelers should be mindful of occasional crowding, especially during peak hours and the single-runway operation can lead to delays if issues arise. However, the range of lounges and new passenger facilities helps ease the journey, providing comfort and rest before flights.

Helpful tips for Gatwick Airport

Arrive at least two hours before departure for security and check‑in.
Use the free Wi‑Fi to download flight updates, local transport apps and maps of London’s public transit network.
Check the airport’s real‑time departure board online; delays are common during peak travel periods and can affect connecting flights.
Explore Gatwick’s duty‑free shops early in the morning to avoid crowds and note that the South Terminal offers a dedicated family lounge with play areas for children.

Available airport lounges

Clubrooms North & South Terminals

The premium VIP lounges offering waiter service with hot bistro dishes, fine wines, and champagne. Prices range from £44 to £50 . These lounges have age restrictions and provide an exclusive experience.

No1 Lounge North Terminal

A stylish lounge with runway views, offering a full-service bar and a variety of hot and cold snacks. Prices start around £46 per adult, with access typically for 3 hours pre-flight. Children are allowed.

My Lounge North Terminal

A more casual lounge with self-service snacks and drinks, games rooms, and a relaxed vibe. Entry costs from £38 , suitable for families as children can enter.

Club Aspire South Terminal

Features quiet zones and business areas with charging facilities, ideal for work or rest. Tickets start at £38 , and the lounge is open early until late.

Where to stay near Gatwick Airport

Accommodation around Gatwick ranges from convenient airport hotels ideal for early flights to a variety of options in nearby Crawley, including mid-range and budget hotels. The area caters well to travelers needing quick access to the terminals, with some luxury offerings as well.

Hotel recommendations

*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.

Travelodge Gatwick Airport Central

8.1

Hilton London Gatwick Airport

8.5

Bloc Hotel Gatwick

8.7

Sofitel London Gatwick Hotel

8.9

Arora Hotel Gatwick Crawley

8.6

Corner House Gatwick

8.6

Hampton by Hilton London Gatwick Airport

8.7

Radisson RED London Gatwick Airport

8.3

Holiday Inn London - Gatwick Airport By IHG

8.3

ibis Styles London Gatwick Airport

8.4

Explore more accommodations

How to get from Gatwick Airport to popular destinations

To Central London:
Gatwick is famously linked to Central London by the Gatwick Express train, offering a nonstop journey to London Victoria in about 31 minutes, with frequent departures every 15 minutes. Thameslink and Southern trains provide additional services to London Bridge, St Pancras, and other major stations, often with stops en route. Coaches such as National Express and buses like Easybus run regularly. Taxi services are available but can be costly and slower in heavy traffic.

To Brighton:
Direct train services connect Gatwick Airport to Brighton in about 30 minutes via Southern Railway. This makes Gatwick a handy starting point for exploring the South Coast with frequent and affordable trains.

To Crawley:
Crawley, the nearby town, is reachable within 10 minutes by local bus or taxi. It offers additional hotels, shops, and dining options for travellers staying close to the airport.