If you’re going to London, there’s a high probability that you’ll come across Heathrow or Gatwick airport at some point during the trip. You might be using London as a place where you’ll stay for a while travelling between Heathrow and Gatwick. This could either be because you’re looking to explore more of Europe or you might have secured a good bargain by booking split tickets with different airlines.
Whatever be the case, this guide will help make your transfer very convenient.
- The Basics For Heathrow To Gatwick
- Heathrow To Gatwick By Taxi
- Heathrow To Gatwick By Bus
- Heathrow To Gatwick By Black Cab
The Basics For Heathrow To Gatwick
Known as one of the busiest international airports, Heathrow airport is located 15 miles to the west of London. All the five terminals are connected to Central London through the London Underground. The Gatwick airport is almost 30 miles to the south of London and is the second-largest airport in the UK. The north and south terminals are linked with an amazing monorail service, while the airport is connected to central London by train.
Both the airports are almost 38 miles apart and there is no direct rail service that transfers passengers from Heathrow to Gatwick. If you want to commute by train, you will have to go through central London.
If you’re booking connecting flights that come to Gatwick and depart from Heathrow or vice versa, you’ll have to remember that these are the two biggest and busiest airports in the UK, which is why you will have to factor ample time to allow for any potential delays. These delays usually occur due to security checks, customs, check-ins, and luggage collection along with the transfer journey time. Ideally, you should always play it safe when booking flight connections, and you can easily do this by allowing sufficient time for an overnight stay, specifically when booking separate flights through different airlines. You must bear in mind neither the transfer operator nor the airline will be responsible for any missed connection and you will have to book a new ticket if you miss the flight. Also, if you’re booking connecting flights through the same airline, you don’t have to worry if you fail to make a connection. You will be automatically connected to the next available flight.
Heathrow To Gatwick By Taxi
Outside the Heathrow terminals, you’ll find a lot of black taxi cabs in taxi ranks, ready to transport passengers to Gatwick. This journey takes around 45 minutes, depending on the traffic congestion. However, you must note that you might have to wait in line for long if you’re in peak hours. The fare will probably go up by 100 pounds one way. Black cabs usually take 4 passengers, but sometimes they also take 5 people.
Heathrow To Gatwick By Bus
If you want to take a direct route through public transport, the only option is the bus. The National Express Coach Service will take approximately 75 minutes (might take longer if there’s a lot of traffic). The fares start at 20 pounds one way if you book in advance for a particular departure. You also have the option to pay extra to board any available coach around 12 hours before or after the original departure time. The luggage allowance is around 20 kg suitcases and one hand item per person. However, you must have a safe 15 minutes for the walk to the bus station from Heathrow Terminals 1 and 3. Megabus also travels between Gatwick South Terminal and Heathrow terminal 5. The time between these terminals is noted as around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Other amenities at this place include free Wi-Fi and a 20kg luggage allowance and charging points.
Low-cost carrier easyJet operates a bus service from Heathrow and Gatwick to Central London. Unfortunately, it does not travel between the airports. The most affordable and convenient approach to use this service is by taking the tube from Heathrow to Earls Court and then connect to the easyBus from Earls Court to Gatwick Airport North Terminal. This journey takes around 65 minutes, depending on time.
Heathrow To Gatwick By Black Cab
If you want to save yourself from waiting in line, a cab transfer is the best option. The black cab to Heathrow airport will offer great convenience as you’ll pre-book this private car service. Some reputable black cab providers also offer discounts if you book in advance. With these cabs, you can expect to reach your destination within 50 minutes, depending on traffic.