subject: Gatwick Airport - Convenient London Departure To Almost Anywhere [print this page] Gatwick airport is the second busiest in the United Kingdom and links London to the world. You can find easy access whether you wish to travel to Athens or New York or about two hundred other destinations. Some ninety airlines operate out of Gatwick, which has two convenient terminals. All journeys are easy and expedient from this convenient location, which is only thirty miles from London's West End or forty kilometres (twenty five miles) from London proper. While Gatwick airport is not the busiest airport in the world, it is the busiest single runway airport.
Gatwick parking is especially popular as the airport is a hub for low cost airlines and charter services, as well as international flights that may have difficulties booking time slots for the busier London Heathrow airport.
With its close proximity to London and all the fine shops eager to please foreign shoppers, Gatwick airport parking can become a challenge. Dining either at the airport or in the surrounding area, including London itself is found to be an epicurean's delight. With this Gatwick parking can be difficult however there are a range of parking options at Gatwick as well as other means of transport available.
Transportation:
The Gatwick Express is train service to London Victoria Station in about thirty five minutes time.
Regular trains run from Gatwick station connecting all around the south of England, connecting the national rail network.
Taxi cabs are at the ready at both terminals and the ride is about one hour and fifteen minutes.
Motor coaches belonging to the National Express transport to many destinations in the United Kingdom
There are car rental agencies including all the major companies available
Dining and Shopping:
Plenty of shopping options to select from among many UK high street shops to be found at both the north and south terminals of Gatwick airport. There are duty free shops which sell many luxury goods as well as souvenirs (knick knacks) to take home to family and friends. These are duty free for passengers who are leaving the EU.
At the Gatwick airport itself there are many options for hungry travellers to choose from pizza, sandwich shops, coffee houses, and a few pubs as well. There is a convenient and free "automatic" train linking the north and south terminals.
Currently only Delta and US Airways service Gatwick from the United States. British Airways, Aer Lingus, EasyJet, Virgin Atlantic, and Flybe are among the normally scheduled airlines with Monarch Airlines, Thomson Airways, and Thomas Cook Airlines acting as charter services. The Gatwick airport caters to many low frills full service or low service transport and charter flights that seldom use the busier London Heathrow.
A word on security: As the security alert has recently been downgraded, flights have basically returned to normal at all of the UK airports but still visitors are advised to expect delays and should prepare by leaving extra time for parking as private automobiles are still not allowed to approach terminal buildings. It is advisable to use public transportation to and from the airport vicinity for the most expedient arrival and departure.
