The Heathrow - Gatwick Airport Transfer Ultimate Traveler's Guide
Are you traveling to London and have to transfer between Heathrow and Gatwick airports?
It's likely that you'll connect through either Heathrow airport or Gatwick airport at some time during your trip. Both airports could be on your itinerary if you are using London as a starting point to your travel to Europe, or perhaps you have purchased a long-haul airline ticket that's split between different airlines.
Looking to make the best choice for your transfer from Heathrow to Gatwick? Let's break it down to help you decide what works best for you, balancing both cost and speed.
London Airport Transfers: Finding Your Best Option
First things first, there's no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to Heathrow to Gatwick transfers. But there's a standout option that many travelers swear by: the National Express bus service. With up to 80 daily trips between the two airports, it's a reliable choice that sets the standard for comparison.
It's worth noting that there's no direct train service or shared van shuttle between Heathrow and Gatwick, so the National Express bus often emerges as the top choice for many.
Heathrow to Gatwick:
A Quick Overview
Heathrow (LHR), situated just 15 miles (24 kms) west of London, stands as one of the globe's busiest international airports. Conveniently, all five of its terminals are seamlessly linked to central London via the renowned London Underground, affectionately known as The Tube or Subway. On the other hand, Gatwick Airport (LGW) lies approximately 30 miles (48 kms) south of London and holds the distinction of being the United Kingdom's second-largest airport. Gatwick boasts a swift monorail train service efficiently connecting its two terminals, north and south, while also offering a direct train link to central London.
The distance between Heathrow and Gatwick spans around 38 miles (61 kms), and regrettably, there exists no direct rail service bridging the two airports. For those opting to journey by train, a route through central London becomes necessary.
For passengers with connecting flights between Heathrow and Gatwick, particularly those arriving at one and departing from the other, it's essential to acknowledge the significant scale and activity of these airports within the UK. Consequently, ample time should be allotted to accommodate potential delays. From security checks and check-in procedures to customs clearance and baggage retrieval, navigating through these processes demands attention, not to mention the time required for transit between the two airports.
Pro Tip: When navigating through the intricacies of airline connections, especially when involving separate tickets or airlines, it's advisable to allow a minimum of 4 hours to mitigate any unforeseen complications.
Furthermore, it's crucial to brace for traffic delays, a common occurrence when traversing between Heathrow and Gatwick by car. Peak hours, particularly between 6:30 am and 10 am, and 3:30 pm to 7 pm on weekdays, often witness congested motorways. Even Sunday afternoons and evenings around Heathrow experience significant traffic. In optimal conditions, the journey between the two airports takes approximately an hour by road.
Pro Tip: Factor in additional time when scheduling flight connections, and consider arranging an overnight stay, especially when dealing with separate flights booked through different airlines. In the event of a missed connection, airlines and transfer operators typically bear no responsibility, potentially leading to the need for purchasing a new ticket.
Cheapest Option for Heathrow to Gatwick Transfers
(But Be Prepared to Spend Some Time)
While we're big fans of the National Express bus service, we also offer private car, bus, or coach transfers for those who prefer a more personalized experience. No matter your group size, there's options to take the stress out of your transfer, with transparent rates upfront. So, whether you prioritize cost savings or convenience, we'll give you options for your journey between Heathrow and Gatwick Airport.
Consider Your Transfer Options:
When it comes to traveling between Heathrow and Gatwick, your main alternatives boil down to taking a taxi/charter bus or opting for public transport into central London and then arranging further transportation. However, be aware that the latter option significantly extends your journey time.
It's important to note that there is no direct train service between Heathrow and Gatwick.
If you're traveling in a group or can gather a small group together (ranging from 2 to 200 individuals), it might be more cost-effective to consider hiring a private car or charter bus for your transfer needs. This can offer greater flexibility and potentially lower costs compared to individual or public transportation options.
Allow a minimum time of 4 hours between flights!
The absolute minimum time between flights without contingency that you should contemplate making a transfer between Heathrow and Gatwick is 3 hours - and that is with a through flight ticket using Terminal 5 at Heathrow. If you are changing airlines with separate tickets then you do need a minimum of 4 hours between flights.
Traffic Alert: Plan Accordingly!
The journey spanning approximately 45 miles between Heathrow and Gatwick entails navigating heavily congested motorways.
On weekdays, particularly Mondays to Fridays, expect routine traffic congestion between 6:30 am and 10 am, predominantly in the Gatwick-Heathrow direction. Delays of 15 minutes or more are common during these peak hours.
Similarly, between 3:30 pm and 7 pm, congestion is prevalent in the Heathrow-Gatwick direction, leading to significant delays. Additionally, Sunday afternoons and evenings typically witness congestion around Heathrow Airport.
As a rough estimate, allocate around 45 to 75 minutes from the time of landing to clearing customs and retrieving your luggage. Keep these factors in mind to plan your journey effectively and minimize any potential delays.
