The Gatwick Express is a dedicated train service that whisks you from London Gatwick Airport to London Victoria Station in a stress-free 30 minutes! It’s a great way to start your London adventure, leaving the hassle of taxis and traffic behind.
Frequent Service and Convenient Travel
Trains depart every 15 minutes from around 5am until midnight, making it easy to catch a ride no matter when your flight arrives or departs. The train is also faster and more comfortable than taking a taxi, and you can bring as much luggage as you can carry.
Pricing and Ticket Options
While the Gatwick Express is faster and more convenient than other options, it is also the most expensive. You can save money by purchasing tickets online in advance, as they’re typically cheaper than buying them at the station. Plus, you’ll avoid any queues!
Online discounts, like the “Web Duo” for two travellers, and GroupSave for groups of 3-9, can significantly reduce your travel costs.
First Class Comfort and Perks
For an extra touch of luxury, consider travelling First Class. This option offers more space, a work desk, complimentary newspapers, and even access to the No.1 Traveller Airport Lounge at Gatwick.
Enjoying London’s Attractions
With a return Gatwick Express ticket, you can enjoy the 2 for 1 sightseeing promotion. This means one person pays full price for admission to many of London’s top attractions, and the other gets in free! This includes popular destinations like the Tower of London, Madame Tussauds, and the London Eye.
Using Oyster Cards for Travel
You can now use London’s Oyster cards and contactless payments to pay for your journey on the Gatwick Express. However, Oyster cards are not usually the cheapest option for this route.
If you’re planning to use your Oyster card on other London transport, it may be convenient for you to use it on the Gatwick Express as well.
Tips for Using Oyster Cards at Gatwick
- Buy Visitor Oyster cards in advance online or at the Visitor Centre at Gatwick.
- You cannot cancel or refund your Oyster card at Gatwick.
- Gatwick has no specific fare zones or caps, so you’ll be charged based on your journey length.
- If you interchange between the Gatwick train and the London Underground/DLR, you must pass through ticket barriers within 15-30 minutes to avoid being charged for two journeys.
- Using Oyster cards does not qualify you for the 2 for 1 sightseeing promotion.
Choosing the Right Travel Option
The best option for your journey will depend on your budget, travel style, and group size. For a fast, comfortable, and convenient trip, the Gatwick Express is a great choice.
However, if you’re looking for the most affordable option, consider buying tickets online in advance and exploring online discounts. Remember, using Oyster cards offers convenience but might not be the most cost-effective option for travelling to and from Gatwick.
