London Gatwick Airport (LGW) is one of the UK’s busiest airports, operating two main terminals — North and South. It’s a major hub for short-haul and long-haul flights, with a wide choice of nearby hotels and fast transport links to London and the South East.
Introduction
London Gatwick Airport serves millions of travellers each year and is a key departure and arrival point for flights across Europe and beyond. Whether you’re flying early, arriving late, or stopping over between flights, understanding Gatwick’s terminal layout, hotel options, and transport links makes planning far easier.
This guide covers:
- Gatwick terminals and how they connect
- Where to stay near Gatwick Airport
- Transport options to London and surrounding areas
- Who Gatwick Airport is best suited for
Key Facts Box
Airport: London Gatwick (LGW)
Terminals: North Terminal, South Terminal
Distance to Central London: ~30 miles south of London
Fastest train to London: Gatwick Express to Victoria
Best terminals for hotels: North & South (both well served)
Best for: Early flights, late arrivals, short stopovers, value-focused travel
Gatwick Airport Terminals Explained
London Gatwick has two terminals, connected by a free inter-terminal shuttle.
North Terminal
The North Terminal handles a wide range of short-haul and long-haul flights.
What to know:
- Frequent flight schedules
- Good hotel access nearby
- Easy transfers between terminals
Best for: International departures, early flights, overnight stays.
South Terminal
The South Terminal is Gatwick’s original terminal and remains extremely busy.
What to know:
- Direct rail access
- Multiple nearby hotels
- Fast connections to London
Best for: European routes, late arrivals, fast onward travel.
Where to Stay Near Gatwick Airport
Choosing the right hotel near Gatwick depends on your terminal, flight time, and budget.
You’ll find:
- Walkable terminal hotels for maximum convenience
- Shuttle-served hotels offering better value
- Budget to premium options within minutes of the airport
👉 Best hotels near Gatwick Airport
This dedicated guide compares hotels by:
- Terminal access
- Distance
- Price range
Gatwick Airport vs Staying in Central London
Staying near Gatwick is about convenience, not sightseeing.
Stay near Gatwick if:
- You have an early morning flight
- You arrive late at night
- You’re stopping over for one night
Stay in London if:
- You’re sightseeing
- You have multiple nights
- You’re travelling during the day
If you’re unsure which option suits your trip, our guide on where to stay in London breaks down the best areas by budget, transport access, and travel style.
Transport From Gatwick Airport
Gatwick has strong transport links across London and the South East.
Main options include:
- Gatwick Express (fastest to central London)
- Thameslink and Southern trains
- Coaches and buses
- Taxis and private transfers
Choosing the right option depends on:
- Time of arrival
- Luggage
- Budget
Who Should Use Gatwick Airport?
Gatwick Airport is ideal for:
- Budget-focused travellers
- Short-haul European flights
- Early departures and late arrivals
- Travellers looking for good-value airport hotels
It’s less ideal if:
- You want immediate central London access late at night
- You’re connecting through multiple terminals quickly
Planning a Wider Trip?
If Gatwick is one part of a larger itinerary, explore our travel destinations and city guides to compare where to stay, what to do, and how to plan trips across major cities worldwide.
Ready to Plan Your Stay Near Gatwick?
Compare terminals, hotels, and transport options to plan your trip confidently.
👉 Compare hotels near Gatwick Airport
Transparency
We may earn a commission when you book through our partners — at no extra cost to you. This helps keep our guides accurate and up to date.