The closest major airport to Gatwick is London Heathrow (LHR), about 25 miles away. It usually takes 1 to 1.5 hours to reach by road. London City Airport (LCY) is another nearby airport, around 25.8 miles from Gatwick. If your flight is cancelled, delayed, or you need to catch another flight, this guide will help you find the nearest airports, travel options, and estimated costs.
If you’re travelling from Leicester, you can also skip the comparison altogether and book a Leicester to Gatwick Airport taxi directly for a door-to-door transfer.
Why Might You Need an Airport Near Gatwick?
You may need to travel to another airport near Gatwick for several reasons. Your flight might be cancelled or delayed, and the airline could rebook you from a different airport. You may also find a cheaper flight or a more direct route from another London airport. Some travellers also need to transfer to a different airport for a connecting flight. Knowing the distance, travel time, and transport options can help you plan your journey and avoid missing your flight.
Nearest Airport to Gatwick: Heathrow (LHR)
London Heathrow (LHR) is the closest major airport to Gatwick and the best option if you need more flight choices or international connections.
Distance: 25.2 miles
Drive Time: Around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
How to Travel from Gatwick to Heathrow
- By Car/Taxi: It takes about 1 to 1.5 hours via the M25 motorway. You can also book a taxi from Leicester to Gatwick Airport, one of the UK’s busiest international airports.
- By Train: There is no direct train. You need to change trains in central London.
- By Coach: National Express runs direct coaches about every 30 minutes, with a journey time of around 1 hour 15 minutes.
Why Choose Heathrow?
- More airlines and flight options
- Better choice of long-haul and international flights
- Easier to find another flight if yours is cancelled
Things to Keep in Mind
- No direct train between Gatwick and Heathrow
- Traffic on the M25 can cause delays
- Taxi fares are usually higher than transfers to closer airports
London City Airport (LCY)
London City Airport (LCY) is one of the closest airports to Gatwick, located about 25.8 miles away. It is a smaller airport that mainly serves business travellers and offers mostly UK and European flights.
Distance: 25.8 miles
Drive Time: Around 1 hour
Best For
- Short-haul UK and European flights
- Business travellers
- Quick trips with fewer crowds
Things to Know
- Smaller airport with fewer airlines and destinations
- Not the best option if you need long-haul or international flights
- Good choice for short trips within the UK and Europe
Explore Other Closest Airport Guides
| Closest Airport to Manchester | Closest Airport to Heathrow |
| Closest Airport to Luton | Closest Airport to Birmingham |
Other Airports Near Gatwick
| Airport | Distance from Gatwick | Approx. Drive Time |
| London City (LCY) | 25.8 miles | ~1 hour |
| London Heathrow (LHR) | 25.2 miles | 1–1.5 hours |
| London Luton (LTN) | 51 miles | 1.5–2 hours |
| London Stansted (STN) | 54 miles | 1.5–2 hours |
| London Southend (SEN) | 63 miles | ~1.5 hours |
| Southampton (SOU) | 86 miles | ~2 hours |
While Luton and Stansted are further away, they’re worth considering if you’re travelling from the north side of London or need a specific budget airline route not offered from Gatwick or Heathrow.
Also read: 10 Best Things to Do in Leicester in Summer Holidays
How to Get Between Gatwick and Heathrow
There’s no single fast option, so here’s how the main choices compare:
| Transport Mode | Journey Time | Approx. Cost | Notes |
| Private taxi/transfer | 1–1.5 hours | £90–£130 | Direct, door-to-door, no transfers |
| National Express coach | ~1 hr 15 min | £10–£25 | Runs every 30 minutes, no luggage restrictions on transfers |
| Train (via central London) | 1.5–2 hours | £25–£45 | Requires a change, more luggage handling |
| Self-drive | 1–1.5 hours | Fuel + parking | Most flexible but adds parking costs at both ends |
If you’re carrying heavy luggage, have a short connection time, or arrive late at night, a private taxi transfer is often the easiest option. It takes you directly to the airport without worrying about missing a coach or train, making it a good choice if your flight has been delayed or you’ve been rebooked.
Which Airport Should You Choose Near Gatwick?
The best airport depends on your travel needs:
- Flight cancelled or rebooked? Choose Heathrow (LHR). It has the most airlines and destinations, making it easier to find another flight.
- Taking a short UK or European trip? Choose London City Airport (LCY). It’s smaller, quicker to get through, and ideal for short-haul flights.
- Looking for cheaper flights? Consider Luton (LTN) or Stansted (STN). These airports are farther away but often have more low-cost airlines.
- Travelling from the south coast or Hampshire? Southampton Airport (SOU) may be a more convenient option.
- Want the quickest transfer from Gatwick? Heathrow and London City are the closest airports, with shorter travel times than Luton or Stansted.
For most travellers, Heathrow is the best overall choice because it offers the widest range of flights and is the easiest alternative if you need to rebook.
Which Airport is Cheapest for Gatwick Airport Transfers?
Transfer costs don’t always depend on distance. The price you pay also depends on how you travel, whether by taxi, train, coach, or public transport. Here’s a comparison of the typical transfer costs from Gatwick Airport to nearby airports:
| Airport | Distance | Cheapest Transfer Option | Approx. Cost |
| London City (LCY) | 25.8 miles | Train via central London | £15–£25 |
| Heathrow (LHR) | 25.2 miles | National Express coach | £10–£25 |
| Luton (LTN) | 51 miles | Coach/rail combination | £25–£40 |
| Stansted (STN) | 54 miles | Coach/rail combination | £30–£45 |
| Southend (SEN) | 63 miles | Train | £20–£35 |
| Southampton (SOU) | 86 miles | Train | £35–£50 |
The National Express coach is usually the cheapest way to travel from Gatwick to Heathrow. It takes longer than a taxi but is a good option if you want to save money and are travelling with light luggage.
If you have heavy bags, a tight flight connection, or are travelling late at night, a private taxi is often the better choice. It costs more but offers a direct, faster, and more reliable journey.
Tips Before Booking Flights To or From Gatwick
- Check the correct terminal.
- If you’re flying from Heathrow, make sure you know which terminal your airline uses, as the terminals are far apart.
- Allow enough transfer time. If you’re travelling between Gatwick and Heathrow, leave at least 2.5 to 3 hours for the journey to avoid missing your flight.
- Compare the total travel cost. A cheaper flight from another airport may cost more once you add taxi, train, or coach fares.
- Book your transfer early. During holidays and busy travel periods, coaches and trains can sell out quickly.
- Check your flight status first. If your flight has been cancelled or changed, wait until your new flight is confirmed before booking a transfer.
- Think about your luggage. Coaches have baggage limits. If you’re travelling with lots of luggage, a private taxi may be a more convenient option.
Also read: 10 Best Things to Do Near Leicester Airport
Closest Airport to Gatwick Airport (Summary)
- Closest major airport: London Heathrow (LHR) – 25.2 miles away, about 1 to 1.5 hours by road. It offers the most airlines and flight options.
- Closest by distance: London City Airport (LCY) – 25.8 miles away. Best for UK and short-haul European flights.
- Other nearby airports: Luton (51 miles), Stansted (54 miles), Southend (63 miles), and Southampton (86 miles). These can be good options for budget airlines or specific routes.
- Getting from Gatwick to Heathrow: There is no direct train. The National Express coach is the easiest and most affordable public transport option.
- Best choice for most travellers: Heathrow is the best alternative because of its wide range of flights. If you want a direct and hassle-free journey, a private taxi transfer is the most convenient option.
FAQs About the Nearest Airport to Gatwick
1. What is the closest airport to Gatwick?
London Heathrow Airport (LHR) is the closest major airport to Gatwick, located about 25.2 miles (40.5 km) away. London City Airport (LCY) is slightly farther at 25.8 miles (41.5 km), making it the closest by straight-line distance.
2. Is there a direct train between Gatwick and Heathrow?
No. There is no direct train between Gatwick and Heathrow. You can travel by train with changes in central London or take the National Express coach, which offers a direct service between the two airports.
3. How long does it take to travel from Gatwick to Heathrow?
The journey by road usually takes 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. By public transport, it typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours.
4. Which airport is better if my Gatwick flight is cancelled?
Heathrow Airport is usually the best alternative because it has more airlines, more destinations, and frequent flights, making it easier to find a replacement flight.
5. What is the cheapest way to travel from Gatwick to Heathrow?
The National Express coach is usually the cheapest option. Tickets generally cost £10 to £25, depending on when you book.
6. Which airport is best for international flights near Gatwick?
London Heathrow is the best choice for international and long-haul flights because it has the largest network of airlines and destinations in the UK.
7. Which airport is best for budget airlines near Gatwick?
If you’re looking for low-cost flights, London Luton and London Stansted are good options, as they are major hubs for budget airlines.
8. Can I take a taxi from Gatwick to Heathrow?
Yes. Private taxis are available 24/7 and provide a direct transfer. The journey usually takes 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
9. How much does a taxi from Gatwick to Heathrow cost?
Taxi fares generally range from £70 to £120, depending on the vehicle type, travel time, and booking provider.
10. How much time should I allow for an airport transfer?
If you’re connecting between Gatwick and Heathrow, it’s recommended to allow at least 2.5 to 3 hours to account for traffic, security, and check-in.
11. Are there hotels near Gatwick Airport?
Yes. There are many hotels close to Gatwick, including budget, mid-range, and luxury options, making it easy to stay overnight before or after your flight.
12. Which London airport is closest to Gatwick?
The closest London airports to Gatwick are:
- Heathrow (LHR): 25.2 miles
- London City (LCY): 25.8 miles
- Luton (LTN): 51 miles
- Stansted (STN): 54 miles
- Southend (SEN): 63 miles
13. Is London City Airport a good alternative to Gatwick?
Yes, but mainly for UK and short-haul European flights. It has fewer airlines and destinations than Heathrow.
14. Can I book a private airport transfer between Gatwick and Heathrow?
Yes. Many companies offer pre-booked private transfers, which are a convenient option if you’re travelling with heavy luggage, children, or have a tight connection.
Can I book a taxi from Gatwick Airport to Leicester?
Yes. A Gatwick Airport to Leicester taxi is available 24/7 and offers a direct, door-to-door transfer, ideal if you’ve just landed and want to avoid navigating trains or coaches with luggage. Pre-booking in advance also means your driver can track your flight and adjust for delays.
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