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Gatwick Airport to London train ticket prices
£12.50
On Mon 28
Gatwick Airport to London train timetable
From Gatwick Airport to London, take the fastest train in 29m, typically 32m. Daily, 306 trains depart from Gatwick Airport, with the first at 00:16 and the last at 23:55. 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 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
13:06 Gatwick Airport | 29m, Direct | 13:35 London Bridge | Thameslink | Find tickets |
13:10 Gatwick Airport | 31m, Direct | 13:41 London Victoria | Gatwick Express | Find tickets |
13:13 Gatwick Airport | 32m, Direct | 13:45 London Victoria | Southern | Find tickets |
13:16 Gatwick Airport | 29m, Direct | 13:45 London Bridge | Thameslink | Find tickets |
13:19 Gatwick Airport | 41m, Direct | 14:00 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
Related travel guides
Why book Gatwick Airport to London trains with TrainPal?
Why book with TrainPal vs Trainline?
TrainPal's Split Ticket feature automatically divides your journey into multiple ticket segments, saving up to 50% compared to buying a single through ticket. Train fares from Gatwick Airport to London start from just £12.50 on TrainPal.
Is TrainPal cheaper than buying direct?
TrainPal is often cheaper than buying direct. We don't charge any booking fees, and our Split Ticketing technology searches for the lowest fare combination across your entire journey—something train operator websites don't offer. Plus, we compare prices across multiple operators (e.g., Thameslink, Southern, Gatwick Express on the Gatwick Airport to London route) in a single search, so you always see the cheapest option regardless of which company operates the train.
Gatwick Airport to London train travel guide
The train journey from Gatwick Airport to London combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Gatwick Airport, you can get to London in just 29m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Gatwick Airport to London?
The average ticket fare from Gatwick Airport to London is about £12.50, but prices are dynamic. The final cost depends on when you book, when you travel, and ticket flexibility. To find the exact cost for your journey, please search with your travel 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 quickest train journey from Gatwick Airport to London takes 29m . Utilise our Train Journey Planner to locate direct trains, minimise transfers, and compare travel times across various routes. Discover the most efficient way to travel with fewer stops for a smooth and seamless journey.
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, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.
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?
Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
While Standard Class offers a good travel experience, First Class provides an upgrade in comfort and service. This typically includes enhanced amenities like complimentary food and drinks, though the specific offerings depend on the 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?
Checking train delays and cancellations in the UK is simple. Utilise the TrainPal mobile app for real-time information. We offer live updates, including live train status and notifications of any train strikes.
Which train companies operate the Gatwick Airport to London route?
The route from Gatwick Airport to London is operated by Thameslink. To find the operator for any other journey, perform a search for your route on this page; the operator's name will be listed with each travel option.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
Each passenger is permitted to bring up to 3 pieces of luggage at no extra cost. This can include a combination of items such as suitcases, backpacks, and satchels.
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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
You are welcome to bring up to 2 pets with you at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead and other animals in a suitable carrier. Please note that for the comfort of all passengers, pets are not allowed on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.
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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