Transferring between Heathrow and Gatwick airports requires crossing Greater London, with no direct rail link between the two. The most common options are the National Express coach (direct, 65-75 minutes), driving via the M25 motorway, or a train route through Central London. Planning adequate transfer time is essential for connecting flights.

About Gatwick Airport (LGW)

London Gatwick Airport is the UK's second-busiest airport, located 48 km south of Central London in West Sussex. The airport has two terminals — North and South — connected by a free shuttle train. Gatwick serves as a major hub for low-cost carriers including easyJet and is heavily used for flights to European leisure destinations, the Caribbean, and North Africa.

The South Terminal is the larger of the two and handles most long-haul flights, while the North Terminal serves a mix of scheduled and charter airlines. Both terminals have extensive shopping, dining, and lounge facilities. The airport's single-runway operation makes it one of the busiest single-runway airports in the world.

Gatwick sits near the town of Crawley and on the edge of the Surrey Hills, though most inter-airport transfer passengers won't venture beyond the terminals. The Gatwick Express train provides a fast 30-minute connection to London Victoria station, and Southern and Thameslink trains connect to various London stations and the wider UK rail network.

Nearby Landmarks

Gatwick Aviation Museum Crawley Town Centre Tilgate Park South Terminal Viewing Gallery Worth Abbey

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost 120-160 GBP ($150-200)
Time 60-90 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. At Heathrow, follow signs to the National Express Coach Station (Central Bus Station between Terminals 2/3)
2. From Terminal 5, take the free Heathrow Express shuttle to Terminal 2/3 area
3. Board the National Express coach to Gatwick (runs every 15-30 min during the day)
4. The coach takes approximately 65-75 minutes direct to Gatwick
5. Alight at either North or South Terminal as needed
6. Alternative rail route: Take Elizabeth Line to Paddington, Underground to Victoria, then Gatwick Express (total ~90 min)
7. Allow minimum 3-4 hours between flights for this inter-airport transfer

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi 120-160 GBP ($150-200) 60-90 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

National Express coaches between Heathrow and Gatwick operate through the night, with departures approximately every 60-90 minutes between midnight and 5 AM. The journey takes 65-90 minutes depending on traffic.

There is no direct rail service overnight. The rail route via Central London is unavailable after approximately midnight (except Friday/Saturday Night Tube on the Piccadilly Line). A taxi or private car between the two airports costs £100-150 and takes 45-75 minutes depending on time and traffic on the M25.

Luggage Tips

National Express coaches have generous luggage allowances with two checked bags and one carry-on included in the ticket price. If traveling by train through London, you'll need to manage luggage across stations (Paddington to Victoria, or via the Underground). Consider a private transfer service if traveling with excessive luggage.

Accessibility

National Express coaches are wheelchair accessible with advance booking — call at least 36 hours ahead. Both Heathrow and Gatwick have accessible coach stations. The rail route via London is step-free on the Elizabeth Line and Gatwick Express. Both airports have dedicated assistance services for passengers with reduced mobility.