Guide to Airports Near Crawley: Complete Guide to London Gatwick Airport

London Gatwick Airport is one of the busiest airports in the UK and the closest international airport to Crawley. Flights departing from here connect to over 200 destinations worldwide. It is not only an aviation hub but also the best gateway for visitors traveling to Crawley. As the eighth-largest airport in Europe, Gatwick is known for its efficiency, convenience, and diverse services, ensuring that every traveler can start their journey smoothly and enjoyably.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to Gatwick Airport, covering transportation options, airport facilities, practical tips, and shopping and dining recommendations. It is designed to ensure your trip to Crawley is as hassle-free as possible.

1. Overview of Gatwick Airport

Gatwick Airport is located approximately 6 kilometers north of Crawley and features a two-terminal design: the South Terminal and the North Terminal.

• South Terminal: Primarily serves traditional airlines and some international flights, with rich facilities and heavy traffic.
• North Terminal: Mostly used by low-cost carriers, and also handles a portion of long-haul international flights.

Every year, Gatwick Airport handles more than 45 million passengers. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, its extensive flight network and efficient operation can meet all your needs.

Important Information:

• Airport code: LGW
• Distance to Crawley town center: About 10 minutes by car
• Terminal connection: Free shuttle train, running every 2 minutes

2. Transportation from Crawley to Gatwick Airport

As Crawley’s primary international gateway, Gatwick Airport is very well connected to surrounding transportation networks. Below are several common transportation options:

1. Train: The Fastest Option

Trains from Crawley Station to Gatwick Airport take just 7 minutes, with one-way tickets costing around £3-£5, making it the top choice for travelers in a hurry.

• Operating companies: Thameslink, Southern
• Frequency: Every 15 minutes during peak times
• Tip: Pre-booking tickets via the train company’s app can offer additional discounts.

2. Bus: The Economical Option

Metrobus services from Crawley town center provide an easy and affordable route to the airport.

• Route recommendation: Route 200 (Crawley to South Terminal)
• Travel time: About 15-20 minutes
• Ticket price: £2-£3 for a one-way trip

3. Driving: The Flexible Option

If you prefer to manage your own time, driving to Gatwick Airport is very convenient. It takes just 10 minutes from Crawley to the airport via the A23 road. The airport offers a variety of parking options, including short-term, long-term, and VIP parking.

• Parking Tip: It is recommended to book parking online in advance to secure lower prices.

4. Taxi or Ride-sharing: The Comfortable Option

Taxi services in Crawley offer fixed-price transfers to the airport, typically ranging from £15-£25. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also widely available and can be booked in advance for added convenience.

3. Gatwick Airport Facilities

1. Check-in and Security

• Self-service check-in kiosks: Most airlines provide self-service check-in and baggage drop services, saving time and avoiding queues.
• Security reminders: UK security regulations require liquids to be no more than 100ml, and they must be placed in a clear bag. Preparing these in advance will help you pass through security smoothly.

2. Airport VIP Lounges

If you want a higher-quality experience before your flight, Gatwick’s VIP lounges such as No1 Lounge and Club Aspire are excellent choices.

• Cost: £20-£40
• Services: Free snacks, drinks, fast Wi-Fi, and a quiet environment.

3. Free Wi-Fi

The airport offers free Wi-Fi for up to 90 minutes. Travelers who need longer access can opt for paid packages.

4. Shopping and Dining Recommendations at Gatwick Airport

Shopping Paradise

Gatwick Airport is a shopper’s paradise, with everything from luxury brands to local souvenirs available.

• Luxury brands: Burberry, Gucci, Michael Kors
• Duty-Free Stores: World Duty Free offers significant discounts on alcohol, perfumes, and cosmetics.
• Travel Essentials: WHSmith and Boots offer books, medicines, and travel accessories.

Dining Selection

The airport features a wide variety of restaurants to satisfy the needs of different travelers:

• Nando’s: Great for a quick bite of Portuguese-style grilled chicken.
• Wagamama: Offers a variety of Asian cuisines.
• Joe & The Juice: Recommended for healthy juices and light meals.
• Comptoir Libanais: A must-try for those who enjoy Mediterranean cuisine.

5. Practical Tips for Gatwick Airport

To make your airport experience smoother and more enjoyable, here are eight practical tips:

1. Check-in Online in Advance

Avoid long queues and save precious time, especially when flying with low-cost carriers.

2. Use the Airport App to Track Flight Information

Download the official Gatwick Airport app to check real-time flight information, gate details, and any delays, making it easier to plan your next steps.

3. Plan Your Transport in Advance

Choose the right transport option based on your flight times. It’s also wise to allow an extra 30 minutes for unexpected delays, such as traffic.

4. Take Advantage of Duty-Free Shopping

Passengers flying to non-EU countries can benefit from duty-free shopping. Make sure to understand the regulations before you buy.

5. Use the Fast Track Security Lane

If you’re pressed for time, consider purchasing the Fast Track service (£5-£10), which can help you skip the lines at security.

6. Ensure Your Devices Are Charged

Charging outlets at the airport can be limited, so make sure your phone and other electronic devices are fully charged before you board.

7. Take Care of Children’s Needs

Families with children can use the airport’s family lounges and children’s play areas to allow little ones to burn off energy before the flight.

8. Check Your Terminal

Gatwick has two terminals, each with specific flight routes. Make sure you know which terminal you need to go to in order to avoid confusion.

6. Short Trip Recommendations from Gatwick Airport to Crawley

After your flight, why not take advantage of Crawley’s convenient location and enjoy a short trip? Here are some recommended attractions nearby:

• Tilgate Park: A family-friendly natural park, only a 15-minute drive from the airport.
• Worth Abbey: A historic and tranquil abbey.
• Crawley Town Centre Shopping Streets: Explore local shops and experience the community atmosphere of Crawley.

7. A Smooth Journey from Gatwick Airport

London Gatwick Airport is not only the gateway to Crawley and the surrounding areas but also a model of modernity and convenience. From an efficient transportation network to a wide range of shopping and dining options, it offers a stress-free starting point for every traveler.

Whether you’re visiting Crawley for the first time or you’re a frequent traveler, this comprehensive guide to Gatwick Airport will ensure your journey is as comfortable and seamless as possible. We hope you have a fun-filled trip to Crawley!