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Gatwick Airport to London train ticket prices
£12.50
On Mon 06 Jul
Gatwick Airport to London train timetable
Travelling from Gatwick Airport to London, the fastest train takes 29m with an average travel time of 32m. With 301 daily trains, the first departs at 00:13 and the last at 23:55. Off-Peak hours begin at 09:30 on weekdays, and all-day Off-Peak on weekends and bank holidays. Keep informed of live train status, times, delays, and cancellations with us.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
05:19 Gatwick Airport | 35m, Direct | 05:54 London Bridge | Thameslink | Find tickets |
05:27 Gatwick Airport | 54m, Direct | 06:21 London Victoria | Southern | Find tickets |
05:32 Gatwick Airport | 48m, Direct | 06:20 London Bridge | Thameslink | Find tickets |
05:38 Gatwick Airport | 33m, Direct | 06:11 London Victoria | Southern | Find tickets |
05:41 Gatwick Airport | 36m, Direct | 06:17 London Victoria | Gatwick Express | 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
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.
How do I find the best train route from Gatwick Airport to London?
What is the fastest train from Gatwick Airport to London?
The fastest train journey time from Gatwick Airport to London is 29m. Direct trains can save significant time by avoiding transfers. Always check if a direct route is available for your journey. Moreover, when searching for trains, consider the total travel time. Some routes with fewer stops or more efficient schedules might be faster.
Are there direct trains from Gatwick Airport to London?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Gatwick Airport to London. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.
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?
While Gatwick Airport to London trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from Gatwick Airport to London is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover the best routes, connections, and train times.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
Typically, you should plan to arrive at the station 15-20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. However, the size of the station and your familiarity with it can affect this timing. For larger or less familiar stations, leaving home earlier can help reduce stress and ensure a more relaxed journey.
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?
Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.
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 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
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
Children under 5 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 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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