Gatwick Airport, one of London and the UK’s main airports, is situated around 45 km from the city center. When traveling from Gatwick Airport to London you have four transport options to choose from: taxi, private transfer, train, or taxi.
If you opt for a Gatwick Airport taxi or a private Gatwick Airport transfer you can expect a journey time of 1 hour and 15 minutes in normal traffic, however, you’ll save time with the door-to-door service both of these options provide.
The quickest way to travel, however, is on the Gatwick Express train to London Victoria which takes 30 minutes, not including wait times and any additional time taken to reach your destination from the station. The least convenient choice, but also the cheapest, is a National Express bus. The trip takes around 2 hours and once in the city center, you can transfer to a local bus or train line.
4 options to go from London Airport to city center
Although taking a taxi from Gatwick Airport to the city center of London is convenient, it's very costly. However, if you're traveling in a group, splitting the cost can save you some money.
London Victoria is one of the major train stations of London. Once you get there, you will have access to multiple bus and underground train lines that will get you to your hotel in no time.
Due to the speed and efficiency of the train service at Gatwick Airport, the only reason to choose a bus over a rail transfer service is the low ticket price.
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How to get from Gatwick Airport to London by taxi
When it comes to deciding on your Gatwick Airport to London City transfer, a Gatwick Airport taxi is the most convenient and stress-free transfer option. Airport Cars Gatwick is the official airport provider for taxi services, however, other providers can be arranged when booked in advance. Vehicles are typical black London taxis called “hackney carriages” which seat 5 passengers and are wheelchair-friendly.
Since London traffic is known to fluctuate throughout the day, you can expect a taxi ride to central London to take anywhere between 75 and 105 minutes. Keep in mind that Gatwick Airport is also very busy, so unless you pre-book an airport transfer with a company like Welcome, you may have to wait in line to get a taxi.
How much is a taxi from Gatwick Airport to London?
Airport Cars Gatwick offers fixed rate fares to anywhere in London, however, it’s still commonplace for regular black taxis to use a taximeter to determine your Gatwick Airport to London taxi cost. In this instance, your fare will be calculated based on the time and distance traveled, with additional charges for riding at night, on weekends, toll roads, and airport pick-ups added on top.
In any case, the average cost for a taxi from Gatwick Airport to London is £200 (€240) for up to 5 passengers.
Prices for Private Transfer from London Airport
Taxi prices
Day time
Night time
Duration
FROM LGW - TO HOTELS IN CITY CENTRE
68
68
60 MIN
FROM LGW - TO CITY CENTRE
68
68
60 MIN
FROM LGW - TO HEATHROW AIRPORT
180
180
50 MIN
FROM LGW - TO OXFORD
207
207
1H 45 MIN
FROM LGW - TO CAMBRIDGE
234
234
1H 50 MIN
FROM LGW - TO BRIGHTON
72
72
40 MIN
FROM LGW - TO COLCHESTER
201
201
1H 50 MIN
Where do I catch a taxi from?
You will find a taxi rank with black cabs lined up outside both the North and South Terminal. There is also a dedicated service desk located inside each Arrival Hall.
Convenience
Hiring a taxi for your airport transfer is ideal if you don’t want to wait around for public transport or lug your heavy luggage around on a crowded bus or train. No matter what time you land, a taxi will be waiting to whisk you off directly to your hotel, with your belongings and loved ones traveling comfortably alongside you.
Useful Tips
To ensure you're using an official Gatwick Airport taxi, look for the white plate at the back of the car and a sticker on the windshield displaying the unique license number.
Never accept taxi services from random individuals that approach you at the airport.
You can ask your driver for an estimated cost for your journey, but it may differ from the actual price if traffic is heavy.
Make sure your driver resets the taximeter once you get in the taxi and that the correct base fare is showing.
How to get from Gatwick Airport to the city center by train
The Gatwick Airport to London train run by Gatwick Express is the fastest mode of transport from the airport to downtown with services taking just 30 minutes to reach London Victoria train station. Direct services run regularly and there are no stops along the way.
*Southern and Thameslink train lines cover various routes from Gatwick Airport to the city center of London which may be more convenient, depending on your final destination. However, their services are much slower and not as frequent.
How much is the train from Gatwick Airport to London?
The Gatwick Airport to London train should cost around £20.50 (€24.60) for a one-way standard ticket. Tickets can be bought online or from the ticket counters and automated ticket machines at Gatwick Airport train station, which is located next to the South Terminal.
*If you’re going to be spending a few days in London, we recommend purchasing an Oyster card, as you’ll save money on each journey and have access to special offers. You can purchase this card from the Skybreak Service Centre in both terminals at Gatwick Airport.
Cost
€24.60
Trip Duration
30 Min.
The wait time between trains is around 30 minutes.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
Gatwick Express trains operate from the airport from 05:41 to 23.10.
Where do I get the train from?
The Gatwick Airport train station is a 5-minute walk from the South Terminal. Simply follow the clearly marked signs for the train station after exiting Customs and passing through Baggage Claim.
If you arrive at the North Terminal, you’ll need to take the free shuttle train that travels between terminals 24/7. Travel time is only 2 minutes and the shuttle runs every few minutes.
Convenience
Traveling from Gatwick Airport to London by train is much cheaper and faster than taking a taxi. It’s also not dependent on traffic, making it a great option if you land during or just before rush hour. Gatwick Express trains offer free WiFi, toilets, and comfortable seating; however, luggage space is limited, and trains can get quite crowded, so it may not be ideal if you’re traveling with family.
Timetables
Gatwick Express train schedule
Gatwick Airport - London Victoria Train Station
Southern and Thameslink train schedule
Gatwick Airport - London Victoria Train Station
Useful Tips
Gatwick Express train tickets are much cheaper if you book them online in advance.
Children under 5 years of age travel for free.
There are limited luggage racks throughout the train to store your luggage safely.
How to get from Gatwick Airport to London by bus
The National Express bus service offers the cheapest transfer from Gatwick Airport to London, however, with the journey taking between 2 and 2 hours and 30 minutes, it’s also rather slow. The trip runs directly between the North and South Terminals and London Victoria Coach Station and tickets can either be booked in advance or on the day.
How much is the bus from Gatwick Airport to the city center?
The cost of your National Express bus ticket depends on how far in advance you purchase it, although tickets usually cost £10.50 (€12.60) per person. You can buy tickets online in advance or from the automated ticket machines and ticket desks in the International Arrivals Hall. The ticket desks operate on a daily basis from 06:00 to 22:00.
*A £1.50 (€1.80) booking fee will be applied to online bookings.
Cost
€12.60
Trip Duration
120 Min.
Buses depart hourly.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
National Express buses run 24/7 from Gatwick Airport to London Victoria Coach Station.
Where do I get the bus from?
National Express bus stops can be found in front of each terminal’s exit doors on the Ground Level. At the South Terminal, the bus departs from stops 1-5.
Convenience
Bus journeys from Gatwick Airport to London Victoria Coach Station may be inexpensive, but the trip can be long and tiring for travelers who want to get to their accommodation as soon as possible. Furthermore, you will likely need to transfer to a bus, train or taxi from the station to complete your journey which can add time and money. If you’re in a rush or not traveling on a budget, you may want to look at an alternate transfer option.
Timetables
National Express Timetables
Gatwick Airport – Victoria Coach Station
Useful Tips
Air-conditioning, free WiFi, USB charging ports and toilets are available onboard.
Tickets can't be purchased directly from the driver.
Children under 6 years of age travel free.
If you miss the bus, your ticket is valid for the next one.
How to get from Gatwick Airport to London by private transfer
London is a huge city and for first-time visitors, using the public transport system can be a little daunting. That’s why we recommend arranging a fully customizable private Gatwick Airport transfer with a trusted provider like Welcome Pickups. That way, you’ll receive a warm welcome on arrival and a direct and hassle-free ride straight to your door.
Our English-speaking drivers are highly trained and would be all too happy to show off some of their city on the way to your hotel. They’ll also gladly share some of their best tips for enjoying London and answer any questions you might have.
On top of that, you’ll receive a competitive fixed fare and around-the-clock support from our customer service team, including travel assistance to ensure your holiday gets off to a smooth and relaxing start.
How much is a private transfer from Gatwick Airport to London?
Not only is a Welcome Pickupsairport transfer from Gatwick Airport considerably cheaper than a regular taxi, but when you book your trip online you’ll be provided with an all-inclusive quote so there won’t be any surprises on the day. This means that the price you pay at the time of booking will be the final fare cost.
For a ride for two passengers, your transfer will cost £104 (€125), or for a regular sedan that seats 5 passengers, the cost will be £145 (€174). Bookings can easily be made online or via our easy-to-use app; simply enter your personal details and flight information, and then select the time that suits you best.
Cost
€125
Trip Duration
75 Min.
*When booked in advance a vehicle will be waiting for you on arrival.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
Private transfers can be arranged 24/7 from Gatwick Airport.
Where will my private transfer depart from?
Regardless of whether you land at the North or South Terminal, you won’t need to walk far or wait around for your Welcome driver. To make your journey as smooth as possible, your driver will be waiting for you at the entrance to the Arrivals Hall, right after you’ve collected any luggage. After introducing themselves, they’ll help with your bags and show you to your pre-selected vehicle so your transfer can begin.
Convenience
Unlike all other transportation options, a Gatwick private transfer offers a fully customizable and personalized service. While not as affordable as public transport, your ride will be direct which is ideal for families and larger groups when keeping everyone and their belongings together is the main priority. Furthermore, Welcome transfers are cheaper than a regular taxi which makes booking your ride an even easier decision.
Useful Tips
In the event that your flight is delayed or due to arrive early, your driver will receive a notification so that they can adjust your pick-up time.
Your transfer will be paid for at the time of booking so you can simply rock up and be on your way.
Any requests and customizations such as baby seats, minivans, and wheelchair-accessible vehicles should be made at the time of booking to ensure everything is arranged for your arrival.
London Airport private transfers
Powered by Welcome Pickups. Book a trained, English-speaking driver to pick you up for a fixed price with no hidden fees.
How do I get from London Gatwick Airport to London?
There are four ways to travel between Gatwick Airport and London city center; taxi, private transfer, train or bus.
An airport taxi or private transfer are the only direct options, taking around 75 minutes in light traffic. The train is the fastest, taking just 30 minutes, although you may have to wait up to 30 minutes for the next service. The least convenient option but also the most affordable, is the bus which can take up to 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and wait times.
How much does it cost to go from Gatwick Airport to London?
The cost of your journey from Gatwick Airport to London City will depend on which mode of transport you choose to use. The cheapest option is the bus (£10.50/€12.60), followed by the train (£20.50/€24.60), private transfer (£145 /€174) and lastly, a regular airport taxi (£200/€240).
How much is a taxi from London Gatwick to London City?
If you plan on taking a taxi from Gatwick Airport to London the price will either be determined by a taximeter or you’ll be charged a fixed rate fare. For a black taxi that seats 5 passengers, the average cost should be around £200 (€240).
How much is a train ticket from Gatwick to London?
A one-way ticket on a Gatwick Airport to London train should cost around £20.50 (€24.60) per person. Gatwick Express is the most popular and efficient train provider for this journey, however, Southern and Thameslink also cover various routes from the airport for similar prices.
When it comes to deciding on your Gatwick Airport to London City transfer, a Gatwick Airport taxi is the most convenient and stress-free transfer option. Airport Cars Gatwick is the official airport provider for taxi services, however, other providers can be arranged when booked in advance. Vehicles are typical black London taxis called “hackney carriages” which seat 5 passengers and are wheelchair-friendly.
Since London traffic is known to fluctuate throughout the day, you can expect a taxi ride to central London to take anywhere between 75 and 105 minutes. Keep in mind that Gatwick Airport is also very busy, so unless you pre-book an airport transfer with a company like Welcome, you may have to wait in line to get a taxi.
How much is a taxi from Gatwick Airport to London?
Airport Cars Gatwick offers fixed rate fares to anywhere in London, however, it’s still commonplace for regular black taxis to use a taximeter to determine your Gatwick Airport to London taxi cost. In this instance, your fare will be calculated based on the time and distance traveled, with additional charges for riding at night, on weekends, toll roads, and airport pick-ups added on top.
In any case, the average cost for a taxi from Gatwick Airport to London is £200 (€240) for up to 5 passengers.
Prices for Private Transfer from London Airport
Where do I catch a taxi from?
You will find a taxi rank with black cabs lined up outside both the North and South Terminal. There is also a dedicated service desk located inside each Arrival Hall.
Convenience
Hiring a taxi for your airport transfer is ideal if you don’t want to wait around for public transport or lug your heavy luggage around on a crowded bus or train. No matter what time you land, a taxi will be waiting to whisk you off directly to your hotel, with your belongings and loved ones traveling comfortably alongside you.
Useful Tips
Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi
Learn moreThe Gatwick Airport to London train run by Gatwick Express is the fastest mode of transport from the airport to downtown with services taking just 30 minutes to reach London Victoria train station. Direct services run regularly and there are no stops along the way.
*Southern and Thameslink train lines cover various routes from Gatwick Airport to the city center of London which may be more convenient, depending on your final destination. However, their services are much slower and not as frequent.
How much is the train from Gatwick Airport to London?
The Gatwick Airport to London train should cost around £20.50 (€24.60) for a one-way standard ticket. Tickets can be bought online or from the ticket counters and automated ticket machines at Gatwick Airport train station, which is located next to the South Terminal.
*If you’re going to be spending a few days in London, we recommend purchasing an Oyster card, as you’ll save money on each journey and have access to special offers. You can purchase this card from the Skybreak Service Centre in both terminals at Gatwick Airport.
Gatwick Express trains operate from the airport from 05:41 to 23.10.
Where do I get the train from?
The Gatwick Airport train station is a 5-minute walk from the South Terminal. Simply follow the clearly marked signs for the train station after exiting Customs and passing through Baggage Claim.
If you arrive at the North Terminal, you’ll need to take the free shuttle train that travels between terminals 24/7. Travel time is only 2 minutes and the shuttle runs every few minutes.
Convenience
Traveling from Gatwick Airport to London by train is much cheaper and faster than taking a taxi. It’s also not dependent on traffic, making it a great option if you land during or just before rush hour. Gatwick Express trains offer free WiFi, toilets, and comfortable seating; however, luggage space is limited, and trains can get quite crowded, so it may not be ideal if you’re traveling with family.
Timetables
Gatwick Express train schedule
Gatwick Airport - London Victoria Train Station
Southern and Thameslink train schedule
Gatwick Airport - London Victoria Train Station
Useful Tips
The National Express bus service offers the cheapest transfer from Gatwick Airport to London, however, with the journey taking between 2 and 2 hours and 30 minutes, it’s also rather slow. The trip runs directly between the North and South Terminals and London Victoria Coach Station and tickets can either be booked in advance or on the day.
How much is the bus from Gatwick Airport to the city center?
The cost of your National Express bus ticket depends on how far in advance you purchase it, although tickets usually cost £10.50 (€12.60) per person. You can buy tickets online in advance or from the automated ticket machines and ticket desks in the International Arrivals Hall. The ticket desks operate on a daily basis from 06:00 to 22:00.
*A £1.50 (€1.80) booking fee will be applied to online bookings.
National Express buses run 24/7 from Gatwick Airport to London Victoria Coach Station.
Where do I get the bus from?
National Express bus stops can be found in front of each terminal’s exit doors on the Ground Level. At the South Terminal, the bus departs from stops 1-5.
Convenience
Bus journeys from Gatwick Airport to London Victoria Coach Station may be inexpensive, but the trip can be long and tiring for travelers who want to get to their accommodation as soon as possible. Furthermore, you will likely need to transfer to a bus, train or taxi from the station to complete your journey which can add time and money. If you’re in a rush or not traveling on a budget, you may want to look at an alternate transfer option.
Timetables
National Express Timetables
Gatwick Airport – Victoria Coach Station
Useful Tips
London is a huge city and for first-time visitors, using the public transport system can be a little daunting. That’s why we recommend arranging a fully customizable private Gatwick Airport transfer with a trusted provider like Welcome Pickups. That way, you’ll receive a warm welcome on arrival and a direct and hassle-free ride straight to your door.
Our English-speaking drivers are highly trained and would be all too happy to show off some of their city on the way to your hotel. They’ll also gladly share some of their best tips for enjoying London and answer any questions you might have.
On top of that, you’ll receive a competitive fixed fare and around-the-clock support from our customer service team, including travel assistance to ensure your holiday gets off to a smooth and relaxing start.
How much is a private transfer from Gatwick Airport to London?
Not only is a Welcome Pickups airport transfer from Gatwick Airport considerably cheaper than a regular taxi, but when you book your trip online you’ll be provided with an all-inclusive quote so there won’t be any surprises on the day. This means that the price you pay at the time of booking will be the final fare cost.
For a ride for two passengers, your transfer will cost £104 (€125), or for a regular sedan that seats 5 passengers, the cost will be £145 (€174). Bookings can easily be made online or via our easy-to-use app; simply enter your personal details and flight information, and then select the time that suits you best.
Private transfers can be arranged 24/7 from Gatwick Airport.
Where will my private transfer depart from?
Regardless of whether you land at the North or South Terminal, you won’t need to walk far or wait around for your Welcome driver. To make your journey as smooth as possible, your driver will be waiting for you at the entrance to the Arrivals Hall, right after you’ve collected any luggage. After introducing themselves, they’ll help with your bags and show you to your pre-selected vehicle so your transfer can begin.
Convenience
Unlike all other transportation options, a Gatwick private transfer offers a fully customizable and personalized service. While not as affordable as public transport, your ride will be direct which is ideal for families and larger groups when keeping everyone and their belongings together is the main priority. Furthermore, Welcome transfers are cheaper than a regular taxi which makes booking your ride an even easier decision.
Useful Tips
Sedan up to 3 passengers
€47Starting from 15.7 EUR / passenger
Minivan up to 5 passengers
€59Starting from 11.8 EUR / passenger
Van up to 8 passengers
€71Starting from 8.9 EUR / passenger
Frequently asked questions
How do I get from London Gatwick Airport to London?
There are four ways to travel between Gatwick Airport and London city center; taxi, private transfer, train or bus.
An airport taxi or private transfer are the only direct options, taking around 75 minutes in light traffic. The train is the fastest, taking just 30 minutes, although you may have to wait up to 30 minutes for the next service. The least convenient option but also the most affordable, is the bus which can take up to 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and wait times.
How much does it cost to go from Gatwick Airport to London?
The cost of your journey from Gatwick Airport to London City will depend on which mode of transport you choose to use. The cheapest option is the bus (£10.50/€12.60), followed by the train (£20.50/€24.60), private transfer (£145 /€174) and lastly, a regular airport taxi (£200/€240).
How much is a taxi from London Gatwick to London City?
If you plan on taking a taxi from Gatwick Airport to London the price will either be determined by a taximeter or you’ll be charged a fixed rate fare. For a black taxi that seats 5 passengers, the average cost should be around £200 (€240).
How much is a train ticket from Gatwick to London?
A one-way ticket on a Gatwick Airport to London train should cost around £20.50 (€24.60) per person. Gatwick Express is the most popular and efficient train provider for this journey, however, Southern and Thameslink also cover various routes from the airport for similar prices.
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