Gatwick Airport Train

All the information featured on this page was compiled and written by David Enrich, a renowned expert in aviation and airport guides, since 1999.

Gatwick Airport Train Services

Gatwick Airport is one of the best-connected airports in the UK by rail. The airport features a train station located directly within the South Terminal, providing fast and convenient access to central London and many other destinations across the country.

From Gatwick, passengers can reach over 120 destinations directly and more than 700 stations with just one change, making the train one of the most efficient and reliable transport options available.

For most travelers heading to London, the train is the fastest and most convenient option.

Gatwick Express

The Gatwick Express is the fastest rail service between Gatwick Airport and central London. It runs non-stop between the airport and London Victoria Station.

Journey time: ~30 minutes
Frequency: Every 15–30 minutes
Route: Direct (no stops)
Station: South Terminal

Tickets can be purchased online or at the station.

The Gatwick Express is the fastest option, but not always the cheapest compared to other train services.

Other Train Services

In addition to the Gatwick Express, several other rail operators provide frequent and more affordable connections:

Southern Railway: Connects Gatwick with London Victoria, London Bridge, Brighton, Portsmouth and Southampton.
Thameslink: Links the airport with central London, St Pancras, Luton Airport and beyond.
Great Western Railway: Offers connections to Reading via Guildford.

Train Comparison

Service	Destination	Time	Price	Best For
Gatwick Express	London Victoria	30 min	£17–£25	Fast travel
Southern	London & South Coast	35–50 min	£10–£18	Budget option
Thameslink	London & Luton	40–60 min	£10–£20	Multiple stops
GWR	Reading	~75 min	£20+	Regional travel

Train Station Location

The train station is located within the South Terminal, just a short walk from both arrivals and departures. Passengers arriving at the North Terminal can easily access the station via the free shuttle train, which operates 24/7 and takes around 2 minutes.

Train station Gatwick Airport — Railway station at Gatwick Airport.

The shuttle between terminals is free and runs every few minutes, making transfers quick and easy.

Tickets & Fares

Train ticket prices vary depending on the service, time of travel and destination. Tickets can be purchased at ticket machines, online or via mobile apps.

Contactless payment and Oyster cards are accepted
Advance booking often offers cheaper fares
Off-peak tickets provide better value

Booking tickets in advance or traveling during off-peak hours can significantly reduce costs.