London Gatwick Airport (LGW) is one of the UK’s major international airports, serving travellers flying to destinations across the UK, Europe and beyond. Whether you are departing for a holiday, travelling for business or collecting someone from an arriving flight, knowing how Gatwick works can make the journey much easier.
From its two terminals and extensive transport connections to check-in, parking, pick-up and airport transfers, this guide covers the essential information you need to know about Gatwick Airport.
Where Is Gatwick Airport?
Gatwick Airport is located in West Sussex, close to Crawley and around 30 miles south of Central London. Its location makes it convenient for passengers travelling from London and many parts of the South East.
For travellers carrying several bags, travelling with family or simply wanting a direct journey, a pre-booked chauffeur transfer can be an alternative to changing public transport services or arranging airport parking.
How Many Terminals Does Gatwick Airport Have?
Gatwick has two passenger terminals: North Terminal and South Terminal.
Your airline determines which terminal you need, so check your booking or flight information before travelling. If you arrive at the wrong terminal, there is no need to panic. Gatwick’s free inter-terminal shuttle runs 24 hours a day, every day, with the journey taking around two minutes.
North Terminal
The North Terminal has check-in facilities, security, shops, restaurants, lounges and other passenger services. It also has dedicated bus and coach connections.
South Terminal
The South Terminal provides similar passenger facilities and is also home to Gatwick’s railway station. The station is around a five-minute walk from the South Terminal’s arrivals and departures areas.
If your flight operates from the North Terminal, you can use the free shuttle between the railway station and North Terminal.
How Early Should You Arrive at Gatwick Airport?
Gatwick recommends that passengers arrive at least two hours before their flight. However, check your airline’s specific requirements because check-in opening times and procedures can vary.
As a general guide, Gatwick states that check-in normally opens:
- Around four hours before long-haul flights
- Around three hours before European flights
- Around two hours before UK and Ireland flights
If you are travelling during a busy holiday period, allow additional time for traffic, parking, check-in and security.
How Do You Get to Gatwick Airport?
Gatwick offers several transport options, so the right choice depends on your starting point, budget, luggage and travel time.
By Train
Gatwick is one of the UK’s best-connected airports by rail. Four train operators serve the airport: Gatwick Express, Southern, Thameslink and Great Western Railway. Direct services connect Gatwick with more than 120 stations. Train travel can be particularly convenient if you are travelling light and have a straightforward connection.
By Coach or Bus
National Express and other coach operators provide services from Gatwick to destinations across England and Wales. Coaches operate from both terminals, while local Metrobus services connect Gatwick with nearby towns and communities. If you are travelling by coach, booking in advance can be useful, particularly during busy periods.
By Car
Driving gives you flexibility and can be practical when travelling with children, several passengers or multiple suitcases. Gatwick has parking facilities at both terminals. If you are dropping someone off directly outside the terminal, designated drop-off areas are available at both North and South Terminals.
By Taxi or Chauffeur
A pre-booked chauffeur or private airport transfer can be useful when you want to travel directly from your home, hotel or workplace to Gatwick. Rather than changing trains with luggage or finding airport parking, you can arrange your journey around your flight and travel directly to the required terminal.
A chauffeur transfer can be particularly appealing for:
- Business travellers working to a schedule
- Families travelling with children
- Passengers with several suitcases
- Travellers departing early in the morning
- Visitors unfamiliar with the Gatwick area
- Anyone who prefers door-to-door transport
The key advantage is convenience. Instead of making multiple transport arrangements, your airport journey is planned as one direct trip.
How Does Pick-Up Work at Gatwick?
Picking up passengers works differently from dropping them off. Gatwick recommends using its Short Stay car parks when collecting passengers. From there, you can walk into the arrivals area to meet your passenger or use the express pick-up areas.
The current express pick-up locations are:
- North Terminal: Car Park 6, Level 4
- South Terminal: Car Park 3, Ground Floor
Vehicles using the express pick-up areas must remain attended, and these areas should not be used for passenger drop-off. If you have arranged a chauffeur transfer, follow the collection instructions provided by your chauffeur company. It is useful to have your flight number, arrival terminal and contact details available when making the booking.
What Facilities Are Available at Gatwick Airport?
Gatwick has a wide range of facilities across both terminals.
Passengers can find:
- Restaurants and cafés
- Shops and duty-free
- Airport lounges
- Toilets and changing facilities
- Accessible facilities
- Car hire services
- Passenger information
- Transport connections
- Wi-Fi
Gatwick also provides detailed airport maps showing check-in areas, shops, restaurants, toilets, lifts and other facilities. Checking the relevant terminal map before travelling can make it easier to find your way around. Passengers who need additional assistance can also use Gatwick’s Assisted Travel services. The airport recommends arranging assistance through your airline before travelling.
What Should You Know Before an Early Flight?
Early departures require extra planning, particularly if you are travelling from outside the Gatwick area.
Before travelling, check:
- Your airline and departure terminal.
- Your check-in opening and closing times.
- The first available train or bus if using public transport.
- Current road conditions if driving.
- How much luggage you are carrying.
- Your planned arrival time at the airport.
For an early flight, a pre-booked chauffeur transfer can provide a straightforward alternative to relying on an early public transport connection. You can arrange collection from your home or hotel in advance and travel directly to Gatwick.
How Can You Make Your Gatwick Journey Easier?
A little preparation can prevent many common airport problems.
- Check your terminal before leaving. North and South Terminals are separate, although they are connected by the free shuttle.
- Allow enough time. Gatwick recommends arriving at least two hours before your flight, while your airline may advise more time.
- Plan your transport in advance. This is particularly important for early flights, busy travel dates and journeys involving multiple passengers.
- Check your flight information. Delays, terminal information and boarding details can change, so check the latest information before travelling.
- Consider your luggage. A direct private transfer can be more convenient than changing trains or buses when you have several bags.
Final Thoughts
Gatwick Airport is easy to navigate when you know your terminal and have planned your journey in advance. Its two terminals, extensive rail network, coach services and road connections give passengers plenty of ways to reach the airport. For travellers who value convenience, a Gatwick airport chauffeur service can provide a direct alternative to public transport or driving yourself. This can be particularly useful for families, business travellers, passengers with heavy luggage and people travelling at less convenient times.
Whether you are flying from Gatwick for a holiday, business trip or international journey, checking your terminal, allowing enough time and arranging your transport in advance can help you start your trip with less stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many terminals does Gatwick Airport have?
Gatwick Airport has two passenger terminals: North Terminal and South Terminal. Your airline determines which terminal you need.
How early should I arrive at Gatwick Airport?
Gatwick recommends arriving at least two hours before your flight. Your airline may recommend arriving earlier depending on your destination and check-in requirements.
How do I get from Gatwick North Terminal to South Terminal?
The two terminals are connected by a free inter-terminal shuttle that operates 24 hours a day. The journey takes around two minutes.
Can I book a chauffeur to Gatwick Airport?
Yes. A pre-booked chauffeur or private airport transfer can take passengers directly to Gatwick from homes, hotels, offices and other addresses, depending on the service provider.
Where can I pick someone up from Gatwick Airport?
Gatwick recommends using the Short Stay car parks for passenger pick-up. Express pick-up areas are available at both terminals, with specific locations in the North and South Terminal car parks.
