Heathrow Airport to Gatwick Airport Train Tickets
Traveling between Heathrow and Gatwick, two of the UK’s busiest airports, is a common journey for international travelers. While there is no direct train connecting the two, you can make the trip smoothly with a combination of train services and smart ticket choices. Using Heathrow to Gatwick split train tickets can help cut costs while ensuring a comfortable transfer between airports.
How to Travel from Heathrow to Gatwick by Train
The most reliable way to travel is by taking the Elizabeth Line or Heathrow Express from Heathrow to London. From there, transfer via the Underground or Thameslink services to reach London Victoria or London Bridge, where frequent trains run to Gatwick Airport. The journey usually takes around 90 minutes, depending on your route and connection times.
Why Use Split Train Tickets Heathrow to Gatwick
A Heathrow Airport to Gatwick Airport split train ticket breaks your journey into smaller legs, often reducing the overall cost. For example, buying one ticket from Heathrow to London Paddington and another from London to Gatwick can be significantly cheaper than purchasing a single through-ticket. This approach helps you find cheap train tickets Heathrow to Gatwick without changing trains unnecessarily.
Average Journey Time and Frequency
Traveling from Heathrow Airport to Gatwick Airport by train requires a connection through central London, and journey times can vary depending on which services you choose. On average, the trip takes between 75 and 90 minutes, though this can extend slightly during peak hours or if connections are missed.
The Heathrow Express is the fastest way to leave Heathrow, reaching London Paddington in just 15 minutes. From Paddington, you can transfer to the Underground or Thameslink services that connect to London Victoria or London Bridge, where frequent trains depart for Gatwick. If you prefer the Elizabeth Line, the journey may take a little longer, but it’s often more budget-friendly.
Trains from central London to Gatwick run every few minutes, especially from Victoria and London Bridge. Thameslink services also operate late into the night and early in the morning, making them a reliable choice for travelers with odd-hour flights. Overall, with services running from dawn until nearly midnight, you can count on plenty of flexibility when planning your transfer.
Tips for Booking Heathrow to Gatwick Train Tickets
When traveling between Heathrow and Gatwick, planning ahead can make a big difference in both cost and convenience. Booking in advance is one of the most effective ways to save money, especially if you know your flight times. Advance tickets are often released up to 12 weeks before travel and tend to be much cheaper than last minute purchases.
If your schedule allows, consider traveling during off-peak hours. Trains are quieter, tickets are cheaper, and you’ll avoid the rush-hour crowds that can make connections stressful. This is particularly helpful if you’re carrying luggage between airports. Another smart way to save is by checking whether you qualify for a Railcard. Options like the 16–25 Railcard, Senior Railcard, or Two Together Railcard can reduce the cost of your ticket by up to a third. Even frequent business travelers find them worthwhile.
Finally, don’t forget to search for Split Train Tickets Heathrow to Gatwick. Splitting your journey into smaller ticket segments often unlocks hidden discounts, while you still travel on the same trains. It’s one of the easiest hacks for finding cheap train tickets Heathrow to Gatwick without sacrificing time or comfort.
Alternative Transport Options
Trains are the most reliable way to move between Heathrow and Gatwick, but they aren’t the only option. If you’d rather avoid making a transfer through central London, direct coach services connect the two airports. These usually take around 75 minutes in light traffic, but journey times can increase significantly during busy periods on the M25 motorway.
For those who value convenience above cost, private transfers or taxis are another alternative. While they are the most expensive option, they provide door to door service and can be especially useful for groups, families with children, or travelers carrying heavy luggage. Some travelers also choose to rent a car for the transfer, giving them flexibility to stop along the way or explore areas outside London before reaching Gatwick. However, this requires navigating London traffic and airport parking, which can add to the stress and cost of your journey.
Things to Do Between Flights
If you have a long layover and want to make the most of your transfer between airports, London offers countless opportunities for sightseeing and relaxation. From Paddington Station, you can quickly reach Hyde Park, one of the city’s largest and most beautiful green spaces, perfect for stretching your legs after a flight. Just around the corner is Little Venice, a picturesque area with canals, houseboats, and waterside cafés where you can pause for a coffee or light meal.
If your journey takes you through Victoria Station, you’ll find yourself close to Buckingham Palace, one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Depending on the time of day, you might even catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony. The area around Victoria is also filled with shops and restaurants, ideal for a quick bite before continuing to Gatwick.
Those connecting via London Bridge or the Elizabeth Line hubs can explore attractions like Borough Market, known for its food stalls and vibrant atmosphere, or take a short walk along the South Bank for stunning views of the Thames and landmarks like the Shard. These short visits not only make the transfer more enjoyable but also give you a taste of London even on a tight schedule.
Travelling From Heathrow Airport to Gatwick Airport by Train
|
Departure Station
|
First Service
|
Average Journey Time
|
|---|---|---|
|
Heathrow Airport
|
05:17
|
1 Hour 41 Minutes
|
|
Arrival Station
|
Last Service
|
Frequency
|
|---|---|---|
|
Gatwick Airport
|
23:36
|
|
Distance
|
Fastest Journey Time
|
Operators
|
|---|---|---|
|
25 Miles / 40 Kilometres
|
1 Hour 23 Minutes
|
Heathrow Express, Southern, Thameslink, Transport for London |
Heathrow Airport to Gatwick Airport Train Routes
Heathrow to Bristol
Heathrow to Birmingham
Heathrow to Southampton
Frequently Asked Questions
No, there is no direct train between the two airports; passengers must travel via central London or use bus services.
The fastest public transport is usually a taxi or private transfer, taking about 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Yes, National Express offers frequent direct coach services between Heathrow and Gatwick, with journey times around 50-70 minutes.
National Express runs up to 80 coach services daily between the airports, roughly every 15 minutes.
Heathrow Express and TfL Rail serve Heathrow to central London; Southern, Gatwick Express, and Thameslink serve London to Gatwick.
Public transport has standard luggage allowances similar to flights, while private transfer vehicles usually offer more luggage space.