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London Gatwick Airport

The insider's guide, from travelers who've actually been through.

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Snapshot

Gatwick is simpler than Heathrow. Two terminals (North/South), good lounge options, fast train to London.

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Lounges

Terminal Lounge Access Showers Good for Price (paid)
North No1 Lounge PP/Dragon/Paid No Buffet + made-to-order items About £34–45 / $43–58 USD
North Plaza Premium PP/Dragon/Paid Yes Hot food, bar, showers About £35–50 / $45–65 USD
North Clubrooms Paid No Quieter, table service About £38–60 / $49–78 USD
South No1 Lounge PP/Dragon/Paid No Buffet + made-to-order items About £34–45 / $43–58 USD
South Club Aspire PP/Dragon/Paid Yes Snacks, hot items, showers About £30–45 / $38–58 USD
South Clubrooms Paid No Quieter, table service About £38–60 / $49–78 USD

Arrive early; No1/Clubrooms can run waitlists at peak times. Showers at Plaza Premium and Club Aspire.

Traveler notes

  • No1 and Clubrooms often get crowded; book ahead if possible.
  • Inter-terminal transfer via shuttle; know your terminal before check-in.
  • Gatwick Express is fast but pricey; standard trains are cheaper.

Sleep / Rest

  • No formal nap zones; seating only.
  • Hotels: Bloc (South terminal landside), Sofitel (North terminal bridge), Hampton (near North).

Food

  • Quick: Pret, M&S Food, grab-and-go everywhere.
  • Sit-down: Pub/brasserie options in each terminal; quality varies but fine for a layover.
  • 24h: Limited late-night; check info screens.

Showers

  • In Plaza Premium (North) and Club Aspire (South).

Luggage Storage

  • Landside excess baggage facilities. About £8–12 / $10–15 USD per item/day.

Transit to City

  • Gatwick Express: ~30 minutes to London Victoria; about £19–25 / $24–32 USD one-way (cheaper off-peak/advance).
  • Southern/Thameslink trains: Cheaper; ~30–45 minutes depending on service.
  • Taxi: Time/cost varies; trains usually better.
  • Buffer: Back at LGW 3h long-haul, 2h short-haul.

Essentials

  • SIM/eSIM: Airport shops sell UK SIMs; eSIM beforehand is cheaper.
  • ATMs: Decline DCC; pay in GBP.
  • Water: Fountains/bottle fillers available.
  • Wi‑Fi: Free.

Fast City Hit (6–9h)

  • Train to Victoria, quick Buckingham/Westminster glance, and back. Leave 3h before departure.

Longer City Hit (10h+)

  • Victoria/Westminster plus a quick Soho/Covent Garden stroll. Leave 4h if peak times.
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