Heathrow to Gatwick: by Bus
National Express Airport Coach Service: Enjoy the convenience of the National Express, the sole direct public transport link between London Heathrow Airport (LHR) and Gatwick Airport (LGW). The Heathrow - Gatwick Airport Bus, operated by National Express, offers comfortable coaches equipped with onboard washrooms, providing a convenient and direct public transport service between Heathrow and Gatwick Airport. Currently, it stands as the sole scheduled direct transport option for this route.
Alternatively, travelers can opt for taxis, charter buses, or take public transport into central London and then transfer to another mode of transportation, albeit with significantly longer travel times. It's important to note that there is no direct train service between Heathrow and Gatwick.
For those traveling in groups or able to assemble a small group (ranging from 2 to 200 individuals), hiring a private car or charter bus might present a more cost-effective option.
National Express Airport Coach Service:
Comfortable Coaches: Travel in comfort aboard National Express coaches with onboard washrooms, ensuring a pleasant journey between Heathrow and Gatwick.
Convenient Alternative: Skip the longer travel times of taxis or charter buses. The National Express bus offers a direct and efficient option for airport transfers.
Flexible Group Travel: For groups of any size, hiring a private car or charter bus can be a cost-effective alternative, providing flexibility and convenience.
Minimum Transfer Times: Allocate at least 3 hours, preferably 4, for transfers between Heathrow and Gatwick, especially when changing airlines with separate tickets.
Avoid Road Congestion: Plan around peak hours to navigate road congestion, which may affect travel times between the airports.
Convenient Luggage Allowance: Each passenger is allowed two medium-sized suitcases plus one small piece of hand luggage. Additional luggage can be arranged in advance or on the day of travel, with online booking offering cheaper rates.
Flexible Fare Options: Choose from Restricted, Standard, or Fully Flexible Fare options to suit your needs for amendments and refunds.
Airport Flexible Add-On: Consider the Change & Go Add-On for flexibility in case of flight delays or early arrivals, allowing changes to departure times without incurring additional fees.
Group Discounts: Traveling in a group of four or more? Enjoy discounted fares of £20 per person for transfers between London's airports.
Luggage Supplements: Know the luggage size and weight restrictions to avoid excess charges. Booking in advance not only saves money but also secures luggage space.
Wheelchair Accessible: Coaches are wheelchair accessible, but advance notice is recommended for accessible travel arrangements. Pay extra for the option to board any available coach up to 12 hours before or after your original departure time.
Bus Stops: National Express buses stop at both North and South Terminals at Gatwick and at the Central Bus Station at Heathrow, with convenient links to terminal buildings.
Arrival Tips: Arrive at least 10 minutes before departure and factor in a 15-minute walk to the bus station from Heathrow Terminals 1 and 3.
Alternative Options: Consider Megabus or EasyBus by EasyJet for additional travel choices between the airports, each with its own features and cost considerations.
Where to catch the bus?
Gatwick Airport:
You'll find the National Express bus serving both North and South Terminals.
Look out for the well-signed coach bays located right in front of the passenger terminals, just a few yards from the doors.
Heathrow Airport:
Terminals 1, 2, and 3 don't have bus stops, so passengers will need to stroll over to the Central Bus Station.
All buses start and finish their journey at the Central Bus Station (Terminals 2 and 3).
While buses always make a stop at Terminal 5, keep in mind that not all schedules include Terminal 4.
If you're traveling from Terminal 4 to the Central Bus Station, hop on the Heathrow Express train, which runs every 15 minutes and is free of charge.
The walk from Terminals 2 or 3 to the bus station is about 10 minutes and is designed with convenience in mind. You'll find it luggage-trolley friendly, with moving walkways and lifts to make your journey a breeze. Plus, it's underground, so you'll stay sheltered from the elements.
National Express Luggage Allowance:
Each passenger can bring along two medium-sized suitcases, weighing up to 20kg (44lb) each, as well as one small piece of hand luggage.
And here's a perk: drivers loading baggage won't weigh your bags!
If you're traveling with a group or family, you can pool your individual allowances, as long as you're all on the same ticket.
Keep in mind that going over your allowance may result in additional charges. To avoid surprises, it's best to arrange extra luggage in advance. Plus, booking online ahead of time tends to be more budget-friendly.
National Express Fares & Discounts:
National Express has you covered with three fare types: Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare. Each comes with its own set of rules for refunds and changes.
Need some extra flexibility? Consider the Change & Go Add-On, which lets you adjust your schedule in case your flight is delayed or arrives early, all for a small fee.
Traveling in a group of three or more? Score some savings with discounted fares of just £20 per person for transfers between London's airports.
Luggage Supplements:
When it comes to luggage, National Express allows either two medium-sized suitcases or one large case in the hold of the bus, along with one item of hand luggage.
Just remember, there are strict size and weight limits to avoid extra charges.
To save some cash and guarantee space for your belongings, it's wise to book your luggage supplements in advance. Prices tend to go up closer to the travel date, so plan ahead and keep those costs down!