28/11/2016
Connecting between London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW) airports is a common challenge for many travellers. While both are major international hubs, they are located on opposite sides of London, approximately 40 miles apart. This distance means that a well-thought-out transfer plan is essential to ensure a smooth, stress-free journey and avoid missing onward flights. Whether you're prioritising speed, cost, or convenience, understanding the various transport options available is key to making the best choice for your specific travel needs.
This comprehensive guide will break down the most popular and reliable methods for getting from Heathrow to Gatwick, offering insights into journey times, costs, and practical tips to help you navigate this crucial leg of your trip. From direct coach services to multi-leg train journeys and private hire options, we'll cover everything you need to know to make your inter-airport transfer as seamless as possible.
Direct Coach Services: The Practical Choice
For many travellers, direct coach services offer the most straightforward and often the most cost-effective way to travel between Heathrow and Gatwick. National Express operates frequent services connecting both airports, providing a comfortable and relatively inexpensive option, especially for those with luggage.
The journey typically takes between 1 hour 15 minutes and 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific terminals involved. Coaches depart from the Central Bus Station at Heathrow (serving Terminals 2 & 3) and also have stops at Terminals 4 and 5. At Gatwick, services arrive and depart from both the North and South Terminals, making it highly convenient regardless of your flight's terminal.
- Pros: Direct route, no need to change, usually the most affordable option, ample luggage space, comfortable seating, frequent departures.
- Cons: Can be affected by road traffic, journey times can vary, not always the quickest option during peak hours.
- Booking: Highly recommended to book in advance online, especially during busy periods, to secure your seat and often get a better price. Tickets can also be purchased at the airport, but availability might be limited, and prices higher.
Rail Connections: A Multi-Leg Journey
While there isn't a direct train link between Heathrow and Gatwick, a rail journey is possible, albeit involving multiple changes. This option can be quicker than the coach during heavy traffic, but it's generally more complex and often more expensive.
The most common rail routes involve taking the Heathrow Express or Elizabeth Line into central London, and then connecting to a train service to Gatwick. Here's a typical breakdown:
Option 1: Heathrow Express / Elizabeth Line to Victoria, then Gatwick Express
- Heathrow to London Paddington: Take the Heathrow Express (15-20 minutes, non-stop from Terminals 2/3/5) or the Elizabeth Line (around 30 minutes from Terminals 2/3/4/5 with more stops).
- Paddington to London Victoria: From Paddington, take the London Underground Victoria Line (Southbound) directly to London Victoria Station (approximately 10-15 minutes).
- London Victoria to Gatwick Airport: From Victoria Station, board the Gatwick Express. This non-stop service takes approximately 30 minutes to reach Gatwick Airport (South Terminal, with a shuttle to North Terminal).
Total estimated journey time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes (excluding transfer times between platforms and waiting). This option prioritises speed over simplicity.
Option 2: Elizabeth Line / Piccadilly Line to Thameslink (e.g., Farringdon/St Pancras)
- Heathrow to Central London: Take the Elizabeth Line or Piccadilly Line from Heathrow into central London. For example, the Elizabeth Line can take you directly to Farringdon or London Blackfriars, which are Thameslink stations. The Piccadilly Line can take you to King's Cross St Pancras, where you can connect to Thameslink services.
- Central London to Gatwick Airport: From a Thameslink station (e.g., Farringdon, Blackfriars, St Pancras International), take a Thameslink train directly to Gatwick Airport. These trains are generally slower than the Gatwick Express but offer more stops and are often more frequent. The journey time from central London to Gatwick via Thameslink can range from 35-55 minutes.
Total estimated journey time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours (excluding transfer times). This route offers more flexibility with departure points in central London and can sometimes be more cost-effective than the Gatwick Express, especially if you use Oyster/contactless payment for the central London leg.
- Pros: Can be quicker than coaches during heavy traffic, highly reliable (less prone to road delays).
- Cons: Multiple changes (can be challenging with lots of luggage), generally more expensive than coaches, requires navigating London's Underground system.
- Booking: Tickets for Heathrow Express and Gatwick Express should be booked in advance for best prices. For Underground and Thameslink, Oyster cards or contactless payment are convenient.
Taxi and Private Hire Services: The Convenient Choice
For those prioritising convenience, comfort, and direct door-to-door service, a taxi or pre-booked private hire vehicle is an excellent option. This is particularly appealing for families, groups, or individuals with a lot of luggage.
A typical taxi journey from Heathrow to Gatwick takes approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on traffic. The distance is roughly 40-45 miles. Unlike public transport, you won't need to worry about multiple changes, navigating stations, or adhering to timetables.
- Pros: Door-to-door service, comfortable, suitable for groups and heavy luggage, available 24/7, no changes required.
- Cons: Significantly more expensive than coaches or trains, can still be affected by traffic delays.
- Booking: Pre-booking a private hire car is highly recommended. This allows you to fix the price in advance and ensures a vehicle is waiting for you upon arrival. Black cabs can be hailed at Heathrow, but they are generally more expensive than pre-booked services.
Many reputable companies offer airport transfer services between Heathrow and Gatwick. It's advisable to compare quotes from a few different providers to find the best deal.
Comparison Table: Heathrow to Gatwick Transfers
| Method | Approx. Journey Time | Approx. Cost (per person) | Convenience Level | Luggage Capacity | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Coach (National Express) | 1h 15m - 1h 45m | £20-£35 | High | Good (designated bays) | Most affordable and direct option. |
| Rail (Heathrow Express + Tube + Gatwick Express) | 1h 15m - 1h 45m | £45-£65+ | Medium | Moderate (can be tricky on Tube) | Fastest if traffic is bad, but multiple changes. |
| Rail (Elizabeth Line + Thameslink) | 1h 30m - 2h | £35-£55+ | Medium | Moderate (can be tricky on Tube) | Flexible central London connections, often cheaper than Gatwick Express. |
| Taxi / Private Hire | 1h - 1h 30m | £90-£150+ | Very High | Excellent | Door-to-door comfort, but most expensive. |
Note: Costs are approximate and can vary based on booking in advance, time of day, and specific service chosen. Journey times are estimates and subject to real-time conditions.
Essential Tips for a Smooth Transfer
- Allow Ample Time: Always factor in a generous buffer for your transfer, especially if you have an onward flight. Aim for at least 3-4 hours between your scheduled arrival at Heathrow and your departure from Gatwick, particularly during peak travel seasons or if you need to clear customs and immigration. Traffic, security queues, and unexpected delays can easily eat into your time.
- Know Your Terminals: Both Heathrow and Gatwick are large airports with multiple terminals. Ensure you know which terminal you are arriving at Heathrow and departing from at Gatwick. This will help you plan your exact pick-up and drop-off points.
- Book in Advance: For coaches and private hire services, booking your tickets or vehicle in advance is almost always cheaper and guarantees your spot. For rail, pre-booking Gatwick Express and Heathrow Express tickets can also save you money.
- Check Live Updates: On the day of travel, check for live traffic updates (for coaches/taxis) or rail service disruptions (for trains). Websites like National Rail Enquiries, Transport for London (TfL), and airport official sites provide real-time information.
- Consider Luggage: If you have a lot of luggage, direct coach services or a private hire car will be much more convenient than navigating multiple changes on the train or Underground.
- Accessibility: If you have specific accessibility needs, research options in advance. Coaches and newer train services often have good accessibility features, but it's worth confirming with the operator.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the quickest way to get from Heathrow to Gatwick?
A: The quickest way typically involves a combination of express rail services (Heathrow Express/Elizabeth Line + Gatwick Express), which can take as little as 1 hour 15 minutes. However, this relies on perfect connections and can be expensive. A private taxi is also quick if traffic is light.
Q: What is the cheapest way to get from Heathrow to Gatwick?
A: National Express direct coach services are generally the most affordable option, especially if booked in advance.
Q: How far is Gatwick from Heathrow?
A: The airports are approximately 40-45 miles apart by road, located on opposite sides of London.
Q: Do I need to book my transfer in advance?
A: While not always strictly necessary, booking coaches and private hire cars in advance is highly recommended. It often results in lower fares and guarantees your seat or vehicle, reducing stress on the day of travel.
Q: Can I use my Oyster card for the entire journey?
A: You can use an Oyster card or contactless payment for the London Underground/Elizabeth Line/Thameslink parts of a rail journey within London. However, you cannot use it for the Heathrow Express or Gatwick Express; separate tickets are required for these services.
Q: Are there direct train services between Heathrow and Gatwick?
A: No, there are no direct train services. All rail journeys require at least one, and usually two, changes in central London.
Q: What happens if my flight is delayed and I miss my pre-booked coach?
A: National Express often allows flexibility for delayed flights, though terms vary by ticket type. It's best to check their specific policy when booking. For private hire, communicate with your driver as soon as you know of a delay.
Conclusion
Transferring between Heathrow and Gatwick Airport requires careful planning, but with the right information, it can be a straightforward part of your journey. Whether you opt for the convenience and affordability of a direct coach, the speed of a multi-leg rail journey, or the comfort of a private hire car, understanding the pros and cons of each option will empower you to make the best decision for your travel style and budget. Remember to always allow ample time, book in advance where possible, and stay informed about real-time travel conditions to ensure a smooth and stress-free transfer between these two vital London hubs.
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