London Gatwick Airport is the second busiest airport in the UK after Heathrow. In 2024, it handled over 43 million passengers, making it one of the most important gateways for London and the South East. Gatwick has only two terminals but serves more than 200 destinations across Europe, Asia, North America, and beyond.
Gatwick is a hub for EasyJet, TUI, Norse Atlantic, Emirates, British Airways, and Vueling. It is located about 28 miles south of Central London. For many travellers, it’s the airport of choice for holiday flights, business trips, and low-cost connections.
In this detailed Gatwick Airport Guide, we have covered everything you need to know: terminals, transport, parking, hotels, restaurants, Wi-Fi, luggage storage, including how TappAXI’s Gatwick Transfers can make your ground transfer seamless, and travel tips.
Where is Gatwick Airport & Why It Matters
Gatwick Airport (LGW) is in Crawley, West Sussex, about 28 miles (45 km) south of Central London. The airport sits directly next to the M23 motorway and has its own railway station, Gatwick Airport Station, connected to both the Gatwick Express and Thameslink services.
Its location makes Gatwick perfect for travellers from South London, Surrey, Sussex, Kent, and Brighton. It’s also an important link for passengers flying into London who need onward connections by train, coach, or taxi.
Gatwick’s North and South Terminals are linked by a free shuttle train that runs 24/7. This makes transfers fast and simple, taking only 2 minutes between terminals.
Gatwick Terminals Overview
Gatwick Airport has two main terminals: the North Terminal and the South Terminal. Together, they handle millions of passengers each year, with each terminal hosting a wide range of airlines, lounges, shops, and facilities. The two terminals are linked by the Gatwick Shuttle, a free 24/7 service that takes just 2 minutes.
London Gatwick Airport North Terminal:
Airlines Operating from North Terminal
The North Terminal is the main hub for EasyJet, one of Europe’s largest low-cost carriers. Other airlines include:
- Emirates (long-haul to Dubai and beyond)
- TUI Airways (holiday destinations)
- WestJet (Canada routes)
- Jet2.com (European leisure routes)
Departures at North Terminal
- Modern check-in zones with EasyJet self-service kiosks.
- Traditional full-service desks available for long-haul carriers.
- Clearly signed security lanes leading to departure gates.
Arrivals at North Terminal
- Facilities include baggage reclaim, currency exchange, and car hire desks.
- Easy access to the Gatwick Shuttle, which connects directly to the South Terminal.
Lounges at North Terminal
North Terminal hosts No1 Lounge, My Lounge, Plaza Premium Lounge, and Clubrooms. The Gatwick North Terminal is offering everything from budget-friendly spaces to premium dining.
Shopping & Dining at North Terminal
- Shops: Boots, WHSmith, World Duty Free.
- Restaurants & Cafés: Wagamama, Pret A Manger, Starbucks, Giraffe.
- Mix of grab-and-go and sit-down dining options.
London Gatwick Airport South Terminal:
Airlines Operating from South Terminal
The South Terminal is home to a mix of full-service and low-cost carriers, including:
- British Airways (major hub for short-haul and long-haul)
- Vueling
- Aer Lingus
- Norwegian
- Ryanair (limited routes)
Several seasonal charter airlines
Departures at South Terminal
- Large check-in hall with self-service bag drops for BA.
- Traditional airline counters for charter and partner airlines.
- Direct access to security screening and departure gates.
Arrivals at South Terminal
- Includes baggage reclaim, car hire services, and currency exchange.
- Direct connection to the Gatwick Airport Train Station, offering services to London (Victoria, London Bridge, St Pancras), Brighton, and other destinations.
Lounges at South Terminal
London Gatwick Airport’s south terminal hosts No1 Lounge, My Lounge, Plaza Premium Lounge, and Clubrooms, offering everything from budget-friendly spaces to premium dining.
Shopping & Dining at South Terminal
- Shops: Harrods, Hugo Boss, WHSmith, Boots.
- Restaurants: Wondertree, Nando’s, Shake Shack, Costa Coffee.
- Wide mix of high-street fashion, luxury shopping, and family dining.
Terminal Transfers
- Gatwick Shuttle: Runs every 2–3 minutes, 24/7, connecting North and South terminals. The journey takes only 2 minutes and is free of charge.
- Walking: Not possible, as the terminals are separated by the main runway.
The Beehive: Gatwick’s Original Terminal
Long before Gatwick became one of London’s busiest airports, it started with a landmark building called The Beehive. It was opened in 1936. World’s first circular airport terminal, designed to make passenger movement smoother and faster. In the 1930s, it was considered revolutionary, and its iconic shape quickly became part of Gatwick’s identity.
By the 1950s, however, Gatwick was growing rapidly and a much larger terminal was needed. The Beehive became obsolete as operations shifted, but it wasn’t demolished. Instead, it was repurposed and today forms part of the City Place business complex, where it still stands as a piece of aviation history.
Accessibility at Gatwick Airport
Gatwick Airport accessibility services make travel smoother for passengers with reduced mobility. Both North Terminal and South Terminal have step-free access from car parks, drop-off zones, and train stations. All lifts, toilets, and boarding gates are wheelchair-accessible.
The airport offers a free assistance service for anyone needing extra help. This includes mobility support from check-in to boarding, or from the plane to arrivals. To use this service, passengers must pre-book assistance at least 48 hours before travel through their airline.
Assistance points are located at every terminal entrance, in car parks, and near train and bus stations. Staff at these points can arrange wheelchair use or guide passengers through security. Gatwick is one of the UK’s leading airports transfers for accessible travel, and customer feedback shows high satisfaction with the support service.
Medical Services and Pharmacies
Medical services at Gatwick Airport are well-prepared for emergencies. First aid rooms and defibrillators are available in both terminals, with trained staff on hand 24/7. If you feel unwell, approach airport staff who will guide you to the nearest medical point.
Pharmacies are available inside the terminals. Boots Pharmacy operates in both North and South Terminals, offering prescription services, over-the-counter medicines, travel essentials, and baby care items. Passengers can also pre-order prescriptions for pickup at the airport before flying.
Post Office and SIM Cards
For passengers needing to stay connected, Sim Local shops at Gatwick Airport sell prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs from major UK networks like EE, Vodafone, O2, and Three. Packages usually include calls, texts, and data. Shops are located in the Arrivals halls of both terminals, making it easy to buy a SIM as soon as you land.
There are also currency exchange desks, and some terminals have a small post office counter where you can send letters or buy stamps. This is convenient for travellers wanting last-minute postal services before flying.
Wi-Fi and Charging Facilities
Wi-Fi at Gatwick Airport is free and unlimited. Speeds are strong, up to 50 Mbps (source: Gatwick Airport), which is enough for streaming, video calls, and downloads. Simply select the network “Gatwick Free Wi-Fi” and register with your email. Premium upgrades are available if you want even faster connections, but the free option is enough for most travellers.
Charging your devices is also easy. Charging stations with USB and UK power sockets are located in seating areas near departure gates, in cafes, and in lounges. Both terminals also have work zones where you can plug in laptops and phones. This ensures you stay connected before or after your flight.
Shopping and Duty-Free at Gatwick
Shopping at Gatwick Airport is a big part of the experience. Both North Terminal and South Terminal have World Duty Free stores offering alcohol, tobacco, perfumes, cosmetics, and luxury goods at tax-free prices.
Beyond duty-free, you’ll find fashion brands like Hugo Boss, Superdry, and JD Sports, plus technology shops such as InMotion and Dixons Travel. There are also convenience stores like WHSmith for books, snacks, and travel items.
Passengers can also use the Shop & Collect service, which allows you to buy goods at departure and pick them up when you return. This is useful if you don’t want to carry shopping bags on your trip.
Smoking and Vaping at Gatwick Airport
Smoking Policy at Gatwick Airport
Gatwick Airport enforces a strict no-smoking policy inside the terminals. This rule applies to all forms of smoking, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, e-cigarettes, and vapes.
- Smoking is only allowed in designated outdoor areas before security.
- Once you clear security and enter departures, there are no smoking or vaping areas inside.
- Fines apply if you are caught smoking in non-designated spaces.
Smoking Area at North Terminal
- Smoking areas are located outside the terminal entrance on the forecourt.
- No indoor smoking areas once you pass security.
Smoking Area at North Terminal
- Smoking zones are outside the departures forecourt and near the arrivals exit.
- After security, no access to smoking or vaping facilities.
Vaping and E-Cigarettes
- Vaping and e-cigarettes are treated exactly the same as smoking.
You cannot use e-cigs or vapes anywhere inside the terminals, including bars, lounges, or departure gates. - If you vape, you must do so in the same outdoor areas as cigarette smokers before security.
Airport Services at Gatwick
Gatwick is more than just a place to catch a flight. The airport provides a wide range of services to make the passenger experience smoother and more comfortable. These include fast track security, lounges, luggage storage, prayer facilities, and even luxury services like Signature Elite Class.
Fast Track Security
Passengers can purchase Gatwick Fast Track Security to skip the standard security queues. For a small fee, travellers enter a separate lane that moves quickly, especially at peak times. This is a useful option for business passengers or anyone with tight connections. It is available at both North and South Terminals and can be pre-booked online.
Fast Track Passport Control
For returning passengers, Fast Track Passport Control helps avoid long queues at border checks. UK and EU passport holders benefit most, as the fast-track lanes are usually less crowded than standard ones. Tickets can be pre-booked or purchased on arrival, depending on availability.
Signature Elite Class
For passengers looking for maximum privacy and luxury, Signature Elite Class Gatwick offers a VIP experience. This includes a private check-in, personal security screening, chauffeur transfers directly to the aircraft, and access to luxury lounges. It’s aimed at celebrities, executives, and travellers who want exclusivity.
Luggage Storage at LGW Airport
Luggage storage at Gatwick is operated by the Excess Baggage Company. Facilities are available in the arrivals areas of both North Terminal and South Terminal.
Passengers can store bags for a few hours or several days. Prices are around £10 for up to 3 hours, £15 for up to 24 hours, and £25–35 for longer stays. This is useful for passengers on long layovers, or those who want to explore London without carrying heavy bags. All items are screened for security before storage.
Airport Lounges at Gatwick Airport
Travelling can be tiring, and sometimes you just want a quiet, comfortable space before boarding. Gatwick Airport has several lounges across both the North and South Terminals. These lounges are not just for business travellers — anyone can book a pass online in advance or pay at the door if there’s space. Prices generally start at £35–40 per person.
Here’s a breakdown of the main lounges available:
North Terminal Lounges
No1 Lounge (North Terminal)
- Location: After security, follow signs for airport lounges.
Facilities: Comfortable seating, hot and cold buffet food, complimentary drinks (alcoholic & non-alcoholic), Wi-Fi, newspapers, and magazines. Some packages include shower access. - Pricing: Day passes from £36 if booked online. Door prices may be higher.
- Airline Access: Used by several airlines for business-class passengers, but also open to independent travellers with Priority Pass or LoungeKey memberships.
Club Aspire Lounge (North Terminal)
- Location: After security near the main shopping area.
- Facilities: Light meals, snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, Wi-Fi, charging points, and comfortable seating. Quieter than the main terminal areas.
- Pricing: From £34.99 pre-booked.
Airline Access: Many airlines allocate business-class passengers to Aspire lounges. Accepts Priority Pass and DragonPass.
Plaza Premium Lounge (North Terminal)
- Location: Next to the departure gates area.
Facilities: Spacious seating, freshly prepared meals, bar service, Wi-Fi, showers, and private resting areas. - Pricing: From £40 for 2 hours. Showers may have an additional fee.
- Airline Access: Plaza Premium is often used by Middle Eastern and Asian airlines for premium passengers. Membership cards accepted.
Clubrooms (North Terminal)
- Location: Close to the No. 1 Lounge area.
- Facilities: Premium, restaurant-style experience with table service, à la carte dining, fine wines, and cocktails. More private than standard lounges.
- Pricing: Starts around £50–55.
- Airline Access: Bookable directly. Typically not included with Priority Pass due to exclusivity.
South Terminal Lounges
No1 Lounge (South Terminal)
- Location: Near the main departure gates after security.
- Facilities: Buffet dining, self-pour bar, Wi-Fi, workspace areas, and newspapers. Designed for both leisure and business travellers.
- Pricing: From £36.
- Airline Access: Available to passengers via some airline upgrades or lounge memberships.
Club Aspire Lounge (South Terminal)
- Location: Next to the No. 1 Lounge, after security.
- Facilities: Fresh meals, snacks, hot and cold drinks, Wi-Fi, quiet working zones, and family-friendly seating.
- Pricing: Around £34.99 pre-booked.
- Airline Access: Accepts Priority Pass, DragonPass, and selected airline passengers.
Clubrooms (South Terminal)
- Location: Within the lounge section near departures.
- Facilities: Premium, intimate environment with restaurant service, champagne, cocktails, and à la carte dining.
- Pricing: From £55 per person.
- Airline Access: Exclusively pre-booked. Not generally included with lounge membership passes.
Restaurants and Dining at Gatwick Airport
Food is a big part of the travel experience, and restaurants at Gatwick Airport are designed to suit every taste. Whether you want a quick snack before boarding, a sit-down meal, or a coffee on the go, both the North Terminal and South Terminal have plenty of choices.
At the North Terminal, travellers can enjoy:
- Jamie’s Coffee Lounge: A cosy place with pastries, sandwiches, and barista coffee. Perfect for breakfast on early flights.
- Pret A Manger: Well-known stop for natural food, sandwiches, and soups. Always quick and reliable.
- Wagamama: Serving fresh Asian-inspired noodles, curries, and rice bowls. Ideal for a filling lunch or dinner.
- Nando’s: Famous peri-peri chicken with options for sharing. Great for groups.
- Costa Coffee: Hot drinks and cakes, available landside and airside.
In the South Terminal, you’ll find:
- The Nicholas Culpeper Pub: Britain’s first airport gin distillery pub, offering hearty meals and craft drinks.
- Itsu: Light and healthy sushi boxes and Asian salads. Quick to grab before boarding.
- Joe’s Coffee House: Perfect for freshly ground coffee and baked goods.
- Caviar House & Prunier Seafood Bar: A luxury choice, with oysters and champagne for premium travellers.
- Shake Shack: Famous for burgers, fries, and milkshakes.
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are widely available. Both terminals also have child-friendly menus, making eating at Gatwick Airport restaurants simple for families.
Transport Options at Gatwick Airport
Getting to and from London Gatwick Airport is easy thanks to multiple transport connections. Passengers can choose between train, coach, bus, taxi, or car hire.
Train
The fastest way to central London is the Gatwick Express, a non-stop service to London Victoria Station in around 30 minutes. Trains run every 15 minutes during the day. Other rail services include Thameslink (to London Bridge, Blackfriars, St Pancras) and Southern trains to Brighton and the south coast.
Coach and Bus
National Express and Megabus coaches run frequent services between Gatwick and many UK cities, including Heathrow Airport, Oxford, Birmingham, and Cardiff. Travel times vary, but coaches are cheaper than trains and include luggage space. Local buses also connect Gatwick with nearby towns like Crawley and Horley.
Taxi
Pre-booked Gatwick Airport taxis are one of the most reliable ways to travel. Unlike public transport, taxis take you door-to-door with luggage space and flexibility. Taxi services like TappAXI Gatwick Airport transfers include free meet and greet, flight tracking, and all charges upfront, so you can travel hassle-free.
Car
Drivers can use the M23 motorway, which links to the M25 for connections across the UK. Both terminals have easy access for drop-offs, pickups, and car parks. Rental car desks are also available inside the terminals for Avis, Hertz, Europcar, and other companies.
Drop-Off and Pick-Up
Gatwick drop-off zones are located directly outside both terminals. A fee of £6 applies each time a car enters the drop-off area. Payment must be made online by midnight the next day. For free options, use the Long Stay car parks, where passengers can take a free shuttle to the terminal. Pick-ups are not allowed at terminal forecourts, only in the Short Stay car parks.
Walking and Cycling
For staff or local travellers, walking and cycling routes are marked around the airport. Bike racks are available at both terminals. These routes link Gatwick to nearby Crawley and Horley.
Airport Information and Passenger Facilities
Airport Maps
Gatwick Airport maps are available online and through the official Gatwick app. They help you navigate check-in zones, security, gates, and shops. Terminals are large, but signage is clear.
Chapel and Prayer Rooms
There are multi-faith chapels in both the North and South Terminals. They are open daily for quiet prayer or meditation. Services for Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, and Sikh passengers are held regularly.
Lost Property
If you lose something at Gatwick, the Lost Property office is managed by Excess Baggage Company. You can file a claim online or in person. Items found in terminals are usually held for up to 3 months. There may be a small fee for collection.
Travel Advice
Before travelling, Gatwick advises passengers to check airline baggage rules, security restrictions (100ml liquids in bags), and passport validity. The airport website publishes live security wait times, helping you plan when to arrive.
Travelling with Children
Family services at Gatwick make travelling with kids easier. Both terminals have play areas, baby changing rooms, and family-friendly security lanes. Restaurants also provide children’s menus. Some lounges even have quiet spaces for families.
Parking at Gatwick Airport
Finding the right Gatwick parking option depends on how long you plan to stay and how close you want to be to the terminals. The airport offers a wide range of short stay, long stay, mid stay, premium, and valet parking. All car parks are well signposted, and each is linked by shuttle buses or direct walking routes. Pre-booking is always cheaper than paying on the day, and it guarantees your space during peak travel periods.
Short Stay Parking
The Short Stay car parks at Gatwick are located next to both the North Terminal and South Terminal. These are multi-storey car parks within a few minutes’ walk of the check-in areas. They are best suited for drop-offs, pickups, or short visits. Prices are charged by the hour, and payment is made at the machines before leaving. This option is ideal for meeting family, saying goodbye to travellers, or quick business trips.
Long Stay Parking
The Long Stay car parks are further from the terminals but include free shuttle transfers running every 10–15 minutes, 24 hours a day. Shuttles take about 10 minutes to reach the terminal. This option is the most economical for travellers going away for several days or weeks. It is also secure, with 24-hour surveillance and regular patrols. Many families choose Gatwick long stay parking because of the balance between price and convenience.
Mid Stay Parking
Mid Stay parking is a relatively new option at Gatwick. It’s designed for those staying two to four days and is located closer than long stay but cheaper than short stay. Transfers are usually by shuttle bus and take less than 7 minutes. For long weekend trips, this is a popular choice.
Premium Parking
For those who prefer the closest possible access, Premium Parking at Gatwick is located right next to the terminal entrances. Spaces are wider, and you walk directly into the terminal building. Prices are higher, but it saves time and is useful for business travellers or anyone with heavy luggage.
Valet Parking
Valet Parking at Gatwick allows you to drop your car at the terminal forecourt, hand your keys to a staff member, and head straight to departures. Your car is parked securely and returned to you when you arrive back. This is the most convenient service but also the most expensive. It’s especially popular with families and corporate travellers who need a smooth, hassle-free start to their journey.
Other Parking Options at Gatwick
In addition to Short Stay, Long Stay, and Meet & Greet parking, Gatwick also offers Valet Parking and Summer Special Parking (seasonal promotions). Some independent off-airport car parks also provide shuttle transfers to the terminals, often at lower rates. If you choose off-site parking, always check that the operator is Gatwick-approved, as rogue firms have been reported.
Drop-Off Charges at Gatwick Airport
Now Gatwick applies a drop-off charge at both North and South terminals:
Gatwick Airport Drop-Off Charges
| Time Spent | Charge | Notes |
| First 10 minutes | £7 | Flat fee for entry |
| Each additional minute (up to 20 minutes) | £1 per minute | After the initial 10 minutes |
| Maximum daily charge | £27 | Charged if you exceed time limits |
| Maximum stay allowed | 30 minutes | No extensions permitted |
Tip: If you want to avoid drop-off charges, you can use the Long Stay car parks where passengers can be dropped off and take the free shuttle bus to the terminals. This is the most budget-friendly alternative
Discover Local Attractions Near Gatwick
If you have a long layover or are staying nearby, Gatwick’s location in West Sussex makes it easy to explore. Popular nearby attractions include:
- Tilgate Park in Crawley – a family-friendly park with lakes, animals, and gardens.
- Wakehurst Gardens – part of the Royal Botanic Gardens, just 20 minutes from Gatwick.
- Brighton – a seaside city with a pier, beach, and shops, only 30 minutes by train.
- Arundel Castle – a historic castle and gardens within an hour’s drive.
These attractions are great for passengers who want to explore outside the airport before continuing their journey.
Why Pre-Book Gatwick Transfers
With millions of travellers passing through each year, transport at Gatwick can get busy. Pre-booking a taxi from Gatwick Airport ensures you have a driver waiting, without worrying about train delays or drop-off charges. Companies like TappAXI offer fixed fares, free 60 minutes of waiting, and secure online payment. This is often cheaper and easier than paying for parking or last-minute cabs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I arrive at Gatwick before my flight?
The recommended arrival time at Gatwick depends on your flight type. For long-haul flights, airlines advise arriving at least 3–4 hours before departure. For European flights, arriving 2–3 hours before is usually enough, while for domestic UK and Ireland flights, 2 hours is considered sufficient. These times give passengers a safe buffer for check-in, baggage drop, security, and reaching the departure gate. During peak holiday seasons or early mornings, security queues may be longer, so adding extra time is always wise.
How do I know which terminal to go to at Gatwick?
Gatwick has two terminals, the North Terminal and the South Terminal. Your airline determines which one you need to use. For example, EasyJet, Emirates, TUI, Jet2, and WestJet operate mainly from the North Terminal, while British Airways, Vueling, Aer Lingus, Norwegian, and Ryanair (limited routes) use the South Terminal. If you are unsure, you can check your booking confirmation, boarding pass, or use the “Which Terminal” tool on the Gatwick Airport website.
Can I smoke or vape at Gatwick Airport?
Smoking and vaping are not allowed inside Gatwick Airport. Both North and South Terminals only permit smoking in designated outdoor areas before security. Once you pass through security, there are no smoking or vaping facilities inside departures, including bars and lounges. Fines apply for those caught smoking in non-designated spaces
How can I transfer between Gatwick’s North and South Terminals?
The two terminals are connected by the Gatwick Shuttle, a driverless train that runs every 2–3 minutes around the clock. The journey takes only two minutes and is completely free of charge.
Does Gatwick have facilities for families and children?
Yes, Gatwick is designed to be family-friendly. Parents travelling with young children can use dedicated family lanes at security. Facilities for warming baby bottles are available at Pret A Manger cafés in both terminals. You can also pre-order baby food, nappies, or milk from Boots, which has outlets after security in both terminals.
What should I do if I lose something at Gatwick?
If you lose something in the terminal, you should contact Gatwick’s Lost Property Office by filling out the online form on their website. The team will notify you if your item is found and explain how to collect it. There may be an administration fee for retrieving certain items, so it’s best to provide a detailed description when reporting a loss.
Can I use the eGates at Gatwick immigration?
Yes, if you are travelling with a biometric passport from an eligible country and are aged 12 or above, you can use the automated ePassport gates at Gatwick.
Is there a prayer room or chapel at Gatwick Airport?
Gatwick has multi-faith prayer rooms and chapels located in both terminals. Services are held at certain times, and facilities are available for Anglican, Catholic, and Free Church worship. Muslim travellers will also find spaces for prayer, with ablution areas available.
How do I get to and from Gatwick by public transport?
The train station is located inside the South Terminal, with direct services on the Gatwick Express to London Victoria, as well as Thameslink and Southern Rail trains to London Bridge, St Pancras, and Brighton. Passengers from the North Terminal can take the free shuttle to reach the station. Coaches, including National Express and FlixBus, also operate from Gatwick, providing connections across the UK.
Summary
London Gatwick Airport is the UK’s second busiest airport, handling over 40 million passengers a year. It provides everything a traveller needs, from parking and transport options to restaurants, shops, lounges, prayer rooms, and family services.
Whether you’re flying short-haul to Europe, long-haul across the Atlantic, or just connecting flights, knowing the layout and facilities saves time and stress. For smooth onward travel, booking a Gatwick Airport taxi is one of the most reliable choices. With services tailored for families, business travellers, and international visitors, Gatwick works like a small city, ready to welcome you.
