London Gatwick Airport is a major hub for international travel, serving as the second-busiest airport in the UK in terms of passenger numbers. Although it’s not located in the heart of London – situated north of Crawley, almost 50km from the city center – its excellent transport connections make it a popular entry point for visitors.
In 2010, Gatwick welcomed a staggering 31.3 million passengers, solidifying its position as Europe’s ninth-busiest airport and the continent’s leading airport for point-to-point flights. With the 2012 Olympic Games in London, this impressive passenger count is only expected to soar.
Getting to Gatwick: A Breeze
Reaching Gatwick is a smooth process, thanks to the variety of airlines offering flights from various locations. You can find flights from budget carriers like easyJet and Flybe to established airlines like British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, along with charter airlines like Monarch and Thomson Airways.
Gatwick boasts an extensive network of international destinations, with its top seven most popular flights leading to Malaga, Dublin, Orlando, Alicante, Faro, Dubai, and Geneva.
Explore Gatwick’s Transportation Options
Once you land at Gatwick, navigating to your final destination is simple. The Gatwick Express provides efficient rail transportation to London, Brighton, and Reading, departing frequently from the airport’s conveniently located station in the South Terminal.
If you’re heading to the town of Gatwick, local buses connect you to hotels and the downtown area. For a more personalized experience, Gatwick Cars offers exclusive taxi services, ensuring a seamless journey around the town. Alternatively, you can rent a car directly at the airport, with companies like Europcar, Enterprise, and Budget offering their services.
Discover Gatwick’s Hidden Gems
Gatwick offers a wealth of attractions for every taste. History and culture enthusiasts can delve into the Gatwick Aviation Museum, explore the Lowfield Heath Windmill, or wander through the manicured gardens of Wakehurst Place.
For those fascinated by wildlife, the British Wildlife Centre and Tulleys Farm provide engaging encounters with animals. Families can enjoy a day of thrills at Chessington World of Adventures, with its rollercoasters, ziplines, and shows. And for those seeking adrenaline-fueled entertainment, nearby racecourses like Epsom and Lingfield Park offer a thrilling glimpse into the world of horseracing.
Your Gateway to the UK: All You Need to Know
Traveling to Gatwick as a UK citizen requires no passport, but picture identification like a driver’s license or military ID is needed for boarding. If you’re seeking cost savings, flights with stopovers can often be more affordable than direct flights. For those looking for the best flight experience, easyJet consistently receives high ratings from Cheapflights users.
London Gatwick is currently the most budget-friendly airport in Gatwick, with one-way flights starting at £13 and round-trip flights averaging £15.
Reaching Gatwick is also convenient for those looking to save time, as London offers the fastest one-way flight, lasting just 1 hour and 10 minutes. And for those needing accommodations near the airport, the Sofitel London Gatwick is the closest hotel, located just 0.0 miles away.
London Gatwick is more than just an airport. It’s a gateway to countless experiences, from cultural exploration to thrilling adventures. With its diverse destinations, excellent transportation options, and nearby attractions, Gatwick is a convenient and exciting starting point for your UK journey.
