How to Get from Heathrow to Gatwick:
The Complete Guide
For many travellers, London serves as a gateway to the rest of the world, with its two largest airports, Heathrow Airport and Gatwick Airport, playing host to millions of passengers each year. Whether you’re flying into Heathrow and catching a connecting flight from Gatwick, or you’ve booked separate tickets to save money, knowing the best way to travel between these two major hubs is essential.
The journey between Heathrow Airport and Gatwick Airport isn’t as straightforward as one might expect, as there is no direct train service connecting them. However, there are plenty of options to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly coaches to convenient private transfers. This guide will help you navigate the best ways to travel between these two bustling airports, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.
Table of Contents
Understanding Heathrow and Gatwick
Heathrow Airport (LHR) sits around 15 miles west of central London and is one of the world’s busiest airports, with five terminals that cater to millions of passengers annually. It is well-connected to London via the Heathrow Express, the London Underground, and various Heathrow Transfers services.
Gatwick Airport (LGW) is located approximately 30 miles south of London. It is the UK’s second-largest airport and features two terminals, North and South, connected by a fast and efficient monorail system. Gatwick Airport has excellent links to the capital via train, but when it comes to travelling between Heathrow and Gatwick, a bit of planning is required.
The distance between these two airports is roughly 38 miles, and depending on your chosen mode of transport, the journey can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over two hours. If you’re catching a connecting flight, always factor in extra time for security checks, immigration, baggage collection, and potential traffic delays.
Heathrow to Gatwick by Taxi
One of the most convenient ways to travel between Heathrow and Gatwick is by taxi. London Heathrow Cabs are available outside every terminal at Heathrow, and a ride to Gatwick Airport typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
While Heathrow Taxi services are readily available, they can be expensive, with fares starting at around £85 one way. However, if you’re travelling in a group or with heavy luggage, a taxi can be a comfortable and hassle-free option.
For a smoother experience, many travellers prefer to pre-book a Heathrow Airport Taxi to avoid waiting in line at the terminal. Pre-booking also allows you to secure a fixed fare, which can often be cheaper than hailing a black cab at the airport.
Heathrow to Gatwick by Coach
If you’re looking for the most affordable way to get between Heathrow and Gatwick, coaches are your best bet. National Express operates direct coach services between the two airports, with journeys taking around 75 minutes. Coaches run up to five times an hour, though availability may be limited during late-night hours.
Tickets for the National Express start at around £20 if booked in advance, making it an economical choice. The coaches are comfortable, air-conditioned, and equipped with free Wi-Fi, ensuring a pleasant ride. They also have designated storage for luggage, making them a great option for travellers with suitcases.
Another bus provider, Megabus, offers services between Heathrow Terminal 5 and both Gatwick North and South Terminals. Their fares start from £18, and they also offer free Wi-Fi and charging ports. However, while both National Express and Megabus are budget-friendly, they do depend on traffic conditions, which could lead to delays during peak hours.
Heathrow to Gatwick by Train
Although there’s no direct train between Heathrow and Gatwick, it is possible to travel by rail via central London. One option is to take the Heathrow Express to Paddington Station (a 15-minute journey), then transfer to the London Underground (Circle Line) to Victoria Station, and from there, catch the Gatwick Express to the airport. This route takes approximately an hour and a half and costs around £48 if booked on the day.
A cheaper alternative is taking the London Underground’s Piccadilly Line from Heathrow to Green Park, transferring to the Victoria Line to Victoria Station, and then boarding the Gatwick Express. This journey takes slightly longer—around 1 hour and 45 minutes—but can be done for as little as £26.
While train travel can be a good option for those wanting to avoid traffic, it does require multiple transfers and may not be ideal for those with heavy luggage or young children.
Heathrow to Gatwick by Private Car service
For those who prioritise comfort and convenience, booking a private car service is an excellent option. Many companies offer Heathrow Transfers that can be pre-booked, ensuring that a driver is waiting for you upon arrival.
A private transfer from Heathrow to Gatwick usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic, and costs around £55. This option provides a stress-free experience, with door-to-door service, professional drivers, and luxury vehicles for a smooth ride.
Many Airport Transfers London UK services also offer executive and chauffeur-driven cars, perfect for business travellers or those looking for a touch of luxury. Pre-booking guarantees availability and can often result in discounted fares compared to hailing a cab upon arrival.
Things to Consider When Planning Your Transfer
When travelling between Heathrow Airport and Gatwick Airport, here are a few important factors to keep in mind:
- Time of Travel: London’s traffic can be unpredictable, especially during rush hour. If you’re taking a taxi or private car, factor in potential delays.
- Flight Connections: If you’re booking separate flights, leave plenty of time for security, check-in, and potential delays.
- Luggage: Consider how much luggage you have when choosing your transport method. Coaches and trains have specific baggage allowances, while taxis and private cars offer more flexibility.
- Accessibility: If you have mobility concerns, check in advance which transport options offer step-free access.
Which option is best for you?
Ultimately, the best way to travel between Heathrow and Gatwick depends on your priorities. If you’re looking for the cheapest option, National Express or Megabus is your best bet. For those wanting speed, the train via central London is a good choice, though it requires multiple transfers. If convenience is your priority, a pre-booked Heathrow Taxi or private transfer offers a comfortable and hassle-free journey.
Whichever method you choose, planning ahead and allowing enough time between flights will ensure a smooth and stress-free transfer experience. Safe travels!
Which option is best for you?
What is the fastest way to get from Heathrow to Gatwick?
The fastest way to travel between Heathrow Airport (LHR) and Gatwick Airport (LGW) is by private transfer or taxi, which takes around 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic. Another relatively fast option is the Heathrow Express & Gatwick Express train combination: Heathrow Express runs to London Paddington in 15 minutes. From there, take the London Underground (Circle or Hammersmith & City line) to Victoria Station (about 15 minutes). Finally, the Gatwick Express runs from Victoria to Gatwick in 30 minutes. While this method is fast, it requires multiple changes, making a private transfer more convenient and stress-free.
Is there a direct train between Heathrow and Gatwick?
No, there is no direct train from Heathrow to Gatwick. You must travel into central London first and then switch trains. The most common route is: Heathrow Express to Paddington London Underground to Victoria Station Gatwick Express to Gatwick Airport Alternatively, you can take the Elizabeth Line or TfL Rail to Farringdon Station, then transfer to the Thameslink train for Gatwick. This avoids the need to use the Underground.
How much does a taxi from Heathrow to Gatwick cost?
A taxi or private transfer from Heathrow to Gatwick typically costs between £100 and £150, depending on the time of day, traffic conditions, and the provider. Umbrella Transfers, for example, offers competitive pricing with the advantage of a professional chauffeur service, meet-and-greet, and flight tracking to accommodate delays. Black cabs are an option but tend to be more expensive due to metered fares. Booking a private airport transfer in advance is usually the best choice for reliability and cost control.
How long does it take to travel between Heathrow and Gatwick?
The travel time depends on the mode of transport: Private Transfer/Taxi: 45–60 minutes (best option for direct travel) Train + Tube + Train: 1.5 to 2 hours (requires multiple transfers) Bus/Shuttle: 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic Self-drive: 45 minutes to 1 hour, but parking at Gatwick may add extra time Traffic on the M25 motorway can significantly impact journey times, especially during rush hours (07:00–10:00 and 16:00–19:00).
Are there shuttle services between Heathrow and Gatwick?
Yes, shuttle bus services like National Express run between Heathrow and Gatwick. The journey takes about 75–90 minutes, and tickets cost around £20–£30 per person. While shuttles are cheaper than taxis, they operate on a schedule, meaning you may have to wait for the next departure. Additionally, traffic can cause delays, making them less reliable than a private transfer.
Can I take public transport from Heathrow to Gatwick?
Yes, you can take public transport, but there is no direct train or Underground connection. Your options are: Train: Heathrow Express + London Underground + Gatwick Express Thameslink: Elizabeth Line + Thameslink train Bus: National Express coach While public transport can be cheaper, it requires multiple changes, which can be challenging with luggage or after a long flight.