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Gatwick Airport to London train ticket prices
£12.50
On Mon 08 Jun
Gatwick Airport to London train timetable
From Gatwick Airport to London, take the fastest train in 29m, typically 32m. Daily, 302 trains depart from Gatwick Airport, with the first at 00:16 and the last at 23:59. During Off-Peak times starting at 09:30 on weekdays, enjoy a quieter space with fewer people. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. We save you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
02:45 Gatwick Airport | 51m, Direct | 03:36 London Blackfriars | Thameslink | Find tickets |
03:45 Gatwick Airport | 51m, Direct | 04:36 London Blackfriars | Thameslink | Find tickets |
04:20 Gatwick Airport | 46m, Direct | 05:06 London Blackfriars | Thameslink | Find tickets |
04:41 Gatwick Airport | 45m, Direct | 05:26 London Bridge | Thameslink | Find tickets |
05:19 Gatwick Airport | 35m, Direct | 05:54 London Bridge | Thameslink | Find tickets |
Gatwick Airport to London train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Gatwick Airport to London with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.
Train Operator | Avg. Duration | Departure Station | Best For | Feature Services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Gatwick Express | 32 mins | Gatwick Airport | Speed & convenience | Non-stop, dedicated luggage space, free Wi-Fi |
Southern | 36mins | Gatwick Airport | Value for money | Frequent stops incl. East Croydon, free Wi-Fi, 2-for-1 attraction deals |
Thameslink | 32mins | Gatwick Airport | Central & North London access | Serves London Bridge & St Pancras, 24/7 service, free Wi-Fi |
Train travels from Gatwick Airport to London
Departure from Gatwick Airport
Specific transport links
- Shuttle: Free North to South Terminal train every few minutes.
- Buses: Metrobus services stop directly outside both terminals.
- Taxi: Ranks located outside terminal entrances for quick onward travel.
Station layout
- Platforms: Seven in total, accessed via escalators and lifts; fully step-free.
- London-bound departures: Usually Platforms 3–7, but always check the live departure boards.
Pre-departure essentials
Onboard trains from Gatwick Airport to London
The scenic side
Key landmarks
Arriving at London Victoria Station
The correct exit
- Terminus Place (Main Exit): The primary way out for city centre access. This exit leads directly onto Victoria Street and towards the Apollo Victoria Theatre and Westminster beyond.
- Victoria Place Exit: Best for the covered shopping centre and indoor route connections.
- Plaza (Upper Level above Platforms 1–7): Follow signs here for the official black cab taxi rank.
Onward travel
- London Underground: The Victoria Line (fast north–south route), plus the District and Circle lines, operate directly beneath the station.
- London Buses: A major bus hub sits immediately outside the main Terminus Place exit, serving routes across central and south London.
- National Coach Services: Victoria Coach Station is around a 10-minute signed walk via Buckingham Palace Road.
Walkability
Arriving at London Bridge station
The correct exit
- Tooley Street Exit: The main exit for the riverside, offering immediate access towards The Shard and the Thames Path.
- Borough High Street Exit: The quickest route to Borough Market and Southwark.
- St Thomas Street Exit: Best for Guy’s Hospital and the clearly signposted taxi rank.
Onward travel
- London Underground: The Jubilee and Northern lines operate directly below the station, providing fast links to Canary Wharf, the West End and north London.
- River Services: London Bridge City Pier is around a five-minute walk from the Tooley Street exit for Thames riverboat services.
- London Buses: Multiple routes run along Tooley Street and Borough High Street with stops directly outside the station.
Walkability
Gatwick Airport to London train travel guide
Taking the train from Gatwick Airport to London is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Gatwick Airport, you can arrive at London in just 29m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Gatwick Airport to London?
Ticket prices from Gatwick Airport to London average around £12.50, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.
What is the best way to travel from Gatwick Airport to London by train?
What is the fastest train from Gatwick Airport to London?
The fastest train journey time from Gatwick Airport to London is 29m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.
Are there direct trains from Gatwick Airport to London?
No, there are no direct trains from Gatwick Airport to London. However, you can still find the best train options using the TrainPal Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to see all available train services and plan your trip
Is it worth taking a train from Gatwick Airport to London?
Yes, the train is a highly practical choice. Compared to driving, it is more eco-friendly and avoids the stress of traffic and parking. Compared to coaches, it offers more comfort, space, and scheduling flexibility. Furthermore, its ability to drop you off in the heart of the city makes it an exceptionally convenient option for most journeys.
How far in advance can I book my train ticket?
You can book UK train tickets as far as 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is the key period when train operators release their cheapest Advance tickets. Therefore, to ensure you get the best possible fare, we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as they become available.
Check timetables and during the journey
How do I find Gatwick Airport to London train timetables?
Gatwick Airport to London trains are generally punctual, but delays or disruptions can happen due to weather, strikes, and other factors. With Train Journey Planner, finding a train timetable for your trip is simple. Enter your departure and arrival stations to view a detailed schedule of available trains. Provide your travel details to find the best routes, connections, and train times.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
It’s recommended to reach the train station 15-20 minutes before your train is set to leave. This gives you sufficient time to locate your platform, particularly in larger stations. Arriving early is also beneficial if you need to collect tickets or find your way around an unfamiliar station, helping to minimise any potential stress.
Do Gatwick Airport to London trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Gatwick Airport to London are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company
How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?
Transferring between train stations in the UK can be effortless with some planning. If your travel requires a transfer, review your ticket and journey details for specific transfer instructions. Major stations typically feature clear signage and helpful staff. Additionally, TrainPal Train Journey Planner offers comprehensive transfer details.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific train operator.
Other things you might be interested
Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?
Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?
How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?
Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.
Which train companies operate the Gatwick Airport to London route?
The Gatwick Airport to London route is operated by Thameslink. For any journey, the easiest way to find the operator is to search for your route on this page. The operator's name will appear next to each travel option in the results.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
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Bicycle
A free reservation is required for bikes on most journeys due to limited space. While standard bicycles and folding bikes are widely permitted, some operators have provisions for e-bikes and tandems. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bike trailers are not allowed. As policies vary, it is essential to consult your specific train operator's website for their definitive cycle rules before you travel.
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Children
Discounts are available for young travellers based on age: Travellers under 5 usually travel free, children aged 5–15 get a 50% discount, and 16 to 17-year-olds can use a 16-17 Saver Railcard to get 50% off.
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Pets
Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier. Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
How to buy cheap Gatwick Airport to London train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
Your plans have changed?
Your train was disrupted?
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* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.
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