Where is Gatwick Airport?

Gatwick Airport is the second busiest airport in the United Kingdom, following closely behind Heathrow.

Located to the south of London, it serves as a major international travel hub, connecting millions of passengers each year to destinations across Europe, the Americas, Asia, and beyond.

What makes Gatwick unique is that despite having only one runway (which is a rarity for such a busy international airport) it manages to efficiently handle over 30 million passengers annually.

It is also a key player in the world of low-cost air travel, with airlines like EasyJet and Ryanair operating significant numbers of flights.

Whether you’re flying for business or holiday, Gatwick is a gateway that combines global reach with regional convenience.

Where is Gatwick Airport

Where is actually Gatwick Airport located? It’s situated in West Sussex, 28 miles (or approximately 45 km) south of Central London.

This location places it in a prime position to serve both Greater London and the South East of England. The airport lies near the town of Crawley, between London and Brighton, making it easily accessible by both road and rail.

Gatwick is split into two main terminals – North Terminal and South Terminal. Passengers should double-check which terminal their flight departs from, as they are separate and serve different airlines and destinations.

The official address is Gatwick Airport, Horley, Gatwick RH6 0NP, United Kingdom and the coordinates are 51.1537° N, 0.1821° W.

This central southern location ensures quick travel times to and from many parts of England, with particularly fast connections to Central London, Surrey, Kent, and Hampshire.

Transport to and from Gatwick Airport

Getting to Gatwick Airport is easy, with multiple convenient options – whether you prefer train, bus, or car.

By Train (Gatwick Express)

The Gatwick Express is the quickest choice, offering a direct 30-minute ride between London Victoria and Gatwick’s South Terminal every 15 minutes. For more flexibility, Southern and Thameslink trains also serve the airport, with stops at key stations like London Bridge, Blackfriars, and Clapham Junction, plus longer routes to Brighton or Bedford.

By Bus

There are plenty of affordable and frequent bus services that connect Gatwick to London Victoria Coach Station (via National Express/Megabus), Heathrow Airport (direct routes), and some major South England cities like Brighton and Portsmouth.

By Car

Driving? Take the M23 motorway (Junction 9), which links directly to both terminals. Clear signage makes navigation stress-free, but you should consider some extra time during peak hours or holidays, especially near the M25 interchange.

Airport Services and Amenities

Gatwick Airport provides a wide variety of facilities to ensure your journey is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

Passengers can enjoy a great selection of well-known restaurants and cafes, including Wagamama, Pret A Manger, Starbucks, and Nando’s. For shopping, Gatwick offers popular retail outlets such as Harrods, WHSmith, Boots, World Duty Free, Reiss, and Superdry, catering to everything from travel essentials to luxury goods.

For those seeking relaxation, the No1 Lounge (available in both terminals) provides a peaceful space with complimentary food, drinks, and Wi-Fi. Travelers looking for a more premium experience can opt for the Clubrooms, which feature à la carte dining, private showers, and exclusive seating areas.

Families traveling through Gatwick will find dedicated play areas in both terminals, along with baby changing rooms and family-friendly restrooms. To make security checks easier, priority lanes are available for families with young children.

Fast Track & Parking

To save time, passengers can book Fast Track Security for expedited screening. Gatwick also offers multiple parking options to suit different needs.

Short Stay Parking is perfect for quick pickups or brief visits, while Long Stay Parking provides a budget-friendly option with shuttle bus transfers to the terminals.

For added convenience, Premium and Valet Parking services are available. Those dropping off passengers can use designated zones (note that fees apply), and disabled travelers will find Blue Badge parking spaces conveniently located near terminal entrances.

If you’re unsure where to park at Gatwick Airport, your best option depends on the length of your stay and your budget. Booking your parking online in advance not only secures your spot but often gives you the best available rates.

Airlines and Destinations

Gatwick Airport serves as a hub for numerous popular airlines, catering to both budget-conscious travelers and those seeking full-service options.

Among the key carriers are EasyJet (Europe’s leading low-cost airline operating dozens of routes), British Airways (offering both long-haul and European services), TUI Airways (specializing in holiday packages and charter flights) and Norse Atlantic Airways (providing affordable transatlantic travel).

Other notable operators include Ryanair, Wizz Air, and Vueling, ensuring a wide range of flight choices.

With connections spanning more than 90 countries, Gatwick serves as an excellent gateway for various travel experiences.

It’s perfect for quick city breaks across Europe, relaxing beach holidays in the Mediterranean or Caribbean, and important business trips to major hubs like New York, Dubai, and numerous European cities.

Whether you’re flying for leisure or work, Gatwick’s extensive network offers convenient options to suit every traveler’s needs.

6 Essential Travel Tips for Gatwick Flyers

These six essential travel tips will definitely make you trip much easier:

#1: Know Your Terminal

Check whether your airline departs from the North or South Terminal. A free shuttle connects the two in just a few minutes;

#2: Check-In Online

Most airlines offer online check-in to save time. Print your boarding pass or use a mobile app;

#3: Arrive Early

Aim to arrive at least 2 hours before European flights and 3 hours before long-haul journeys;

#4: Use Travel Apps

Download the official Gatwick app or your airline’s app for real-time flight updates, terminal info, and gate changes;

#5: Plan Your Parking

Booking your Gatwick parking online not only saves money but also secures your spot. You can choose from Short Stay, Long Stay, Premium, or even hotel-with-parking packages;

#6: Accessible Travel

Passengers with disabilities or special assistance needs should notify their airline or travel provider at least 48 hours before departure. Gatwick is fully accessible with help points and assistance staff.

Gatwick Airport is not just south of London – it’s strategically positioned to offer quick, efficient, and comfortable travel for millions each year. With excellent transport links, modern terminals, and a wide variety of routes, Gatwick remains a favourite for those who want the best of both accessibility and convenience.