Heathrow to Gatwick

Getting from Heathrow to Gatwick is easier than you think, and there are a number of different ways to travel there! So, whether you've got an interconnecting flight or are meeting a loved one, here's everything you need to know.

It is highly recommended that you get to and from either airport with at least 3 hours to spare. At Heathrow and Gatwick, it also takes on average of between 45 - 75 minutes from when you land to clearing customs - so please bear this in mind.

By Coach

This option is the only direct public transport link; National Express coaches run up to 5 times an hour from all terminals. A single fare from Heathrow to Gatwick is around £12.00 and a return around £24.00.

The direct coach transfer takes 1 hour and 15 minutes, which is 25 minutes quicker than the train. If you're travelling in a group of four or more people, you can save up to 25% on standard fares by booking at least three days in advance. Please note that you can only take a maximum of two medium size suitcases on the coach.

It's also important to factor in extra travel time, as there are potential traffic delays on your coach journey with the motorway route connecting both airports regularly congested during peak times (such as morning and evening rush hour).

By Rail

To get from Heathrow to Gatwick by train requires going via Central London by tube or taxi, then by rail. The journey takes on average 1 hour and 40 minutes.

The fastest route is taking the Heathrow Express to London Paddington. It is a 15 minute journey from Heathrow T1 and T3, and 23 minutes from Heathrow T4 and 5. The Heathrow Express runs every 15 minutes. Fares cost around £19.00.

Next, you go on the tube from Paddington to Farringdon on the Circle Line. This takes 16 minutes (there is also a 7 minute interchange) and costs around £4.30.

The next step is to go from Farringdon to Gatwick by First Capital Connect. This journey takes 41 minutes (and there is also a 5 minute interchange) and costs £9.90.

When you're at Gatwick train station, it takes 5 minutes to get to the South Terminal and 15 minutes via shuttle to get to the North Terminal.

By Licensed Airport Taxi

Heathrow - you will find the black cab ranks outside all of the airport terminals which can take you to Gatwick. Average cost is at least £100.00, and you may have to wait around for a taxi during busy peak times.

Gatwick - black taxis can only pick you up if you have booked in advance. Fares all depend on the number of passengers there are, but the average cost is similar to Heathrow, and around £100.00.

By Private Airport Transfer

One of the most quickest routes is by a pre-booked private taxi or minibus. In good traffic, the journey can take as little as 45 minutes. The average cost for a privately hired taxi for 4 people is between £85.00 - £90.00.

Heathrow and Gatwick Airport Hotels

Why not take out the hassle of a rushed airport transfer by staying overnight at one of our Gatwick Hotels (starting from £35.00 a night), or Heathrow Hotels (starting from £29.00 a night)?