Booking through APH means you are booking with the experts. With over 43 years’ experience, we know all about parking at Gatwick Airport. And our great customer service has brought us many awards, including Best Airport Parking Company at the British Travel Awards – 12 years in a row.

Car ParkParking Type
Customer Rating
Transfer TimePark Mark
Price From (per week)
APH Park and Ride
APH Park And Ride Gatwick Airport LGW1

Off Airport

Transfer time 10 - 12 minutes
Elite Park Mark Plus
£96.96
Airparks Gatwick Park & Ride
Airparks Gatwick Park & Ride Gatwick Airport Airparks Gatwick

Off Airport

Transfer time 10 - 12 minutes
parkmark logo
£96.96
APH Self Park
APH Self Park Gatwick Airport LGSP

Off Airport

Transfer time 10 - 12 minutes
Elite Park Mark Plus
£119.46
Ace Meet & Greet
Ace Meet & Greet Gatwick Airport LGA5(1)

Meet & Greet

Walking time 2 minutes
parkmark logo
£128.00
APH Park and Ride with EV charging
APH Park And Ride With EV Charging 2 Copy

Off Airport

Transfer time 10 - 12 minutes
Elite Park Mark Plus
£136.95
I Love Meet & Greet Parking
I Love Meet & Greet Parking Gatwick Airport LGWL

Meet & Greet

Walking time 2 minutes
parkmark logo
£145.00
APH Meet & Greet Forecourt
APH Meet & Greet Forecourt Gatwick Airport LGA7

Meet & Greet

Walking time 2 minutes
parkmark logo
£152.05
I Love Meet & Greet Valet
I Love Meet & Greet Valet Gatwick Airport LGWK

Meet & Greet

Walking time 2 minutes
parkmark logo
£170.00

Park Mark Safer Parking - why it's so important

Always lookout for a Park Mark Safer Parking Award when looking at parking in Gatwick Airport. A Police Crime Prevention Initiative designed to reduce crime and the fear of crime in car parks across the UK, the Park Mark Safer Parking Award is given only to car parks that meet certain security, maintenance, and management standards. All the Gatwick airport car parking products that you can book through APH use car park facilities that have attained the award. Our own APH Park & RideAPH Self Park and APH Park & Ride EV have gone one step further and have attained the Park Mark Plus award, the ultimate in parking accreditation. 

Gatwick Parking Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find cheap Gatwick parking?
Here are several ways to ensure you get the best value Gatwick parking. The off-airport parking options, which run regular shuttle buses to the terminals, are usually priced lower than the on-airport car parks, including the Meet & Greet services. Also, booking in advance will help keep the costs down too. The closer you get to your day of departure, the more the price is likely to rise, as availability lessens.


Can I amend my Gatwick airport parking booking?
APH Park & Ride, APH Self Park, Airparks Self Park and Airparks Park & Ride, all offer free amendments for Gatwick parking – any time before arrival. APH Meet & Greet Forecourt, I Love Meet & Greet and ACE Meet & Greet allow free amendments up to 24 hours prior to the date of travel. Please refer to the information at the time of booking, and your booking confirmation.


Where to park at Gatwick airport?
There are different Gatwick parking options to suit all travellers. Our own APH Park & Ride and APH Self Park are economical, easy to find and just a short shuttle bus ride from the terminal entrance. If you’d prefer to drive directly to the terminal, then select one of our trusted Meet & Greet partners, who will meet you in person and drive your car to a secure car park, while you make your way into the check-in area.

Can I just turn up and park at Gatwick?
Yes, although it’s usually much better value to book Gatwick car parking in advance. Click through the Gatwick parking options above to see which best meets your requirements.


How can I get from the South Terminal to the North Terminal?
Travelling between the airport terminals is effortless as you can easily hop onto the inter-terminal shuttle service, which operates 24/7 and runs every few minutes. The shuttle service only takes two minutes to reach its destination.


Is there free disabled parking at Gatwick?
While there is no complimentary parking available at Gatwick for Blue Badge holders, there are several parking options that can accommodate your needs, such as APH Gatwick, complete with designated Blue Badge spaces. It is important to carefully review the details of each service provider before making a reservation.


What happens if I arrive earlier or later than planned?
Rest assured, the majority of car parks are equipped to accommodate early arrivals, but it is recommended that you contact them as soon as possible to inform them of your situation. In the event that you return later than expected, any additional parking charges will be at the discretion of the service provider and must be paid at the car park. It is advisable to carefully review the car park's information to learn more.


How do I book airport parking at Gatwick Airport?
To book airport parking at Gatwick Airport, you can visit aph.com and navigate to the Gatwick Parking page. From there, you can choose from various parking options, including park and ride or meet and greet. You will need to enter your travel dates and times, and then select the parking option that suits your needs. Once you have chosen your parking option, you can proceed to make a booking by providing your personal and payment details. After completing the booking process, you will receive a confirmation email with all the necessary details, including directions to the car park and your booking reference number.


How much is Gatwick Airport Parking per day?
If you book your parking in advance with APH, the cost of parking at Gatwick Airport starts at £7.49 per day. On the other hand, if you choose to turn up and park at the Long Stay car park at Gatwick Airport, you will be charged £30 for the first day and £25 for each subsequent day of parking.


How do I extend my Gatwick parking?
You will be given contact information with your booking confirmation. Simply contact the car park where you are parked and request to extend your stay. Overstay charges normally apply; please check at the time of booking or at the time you request your extension.

 

Gatwick Airport Car Parks Reviews

With over four decades of experience, we pride ourselves on providing our customers with Gatwick parking that is easy to book, secure and good value, backed up by a friendly team of staff.

"Aph I've been using them for maybe over 10 years now I feel like my car is safe there I have no complaints" Hugh Brown.

"Quick and efficient service to the airport Friendly staff Will definitely use again" Diane Stubbs.

Can't really fault the service we received from this company. Great value, efficient, professional and friendly with a cleaned car thrown in for good measure. Will definitely use them for all future parking at Gatwick." Andy Waterhouse

This Company is fantastic for parking near the airport. The service from Start to finish was excellent. That included Reception, those parking car, Drivers of bus. The parking area is fantastic and very easy to find.
Thank you all so much and I strongly recommend. "
Maria C

Used them for years never a problem even during lockdown,no problem changing dates or move them on. Highly recommended first class." John Hickmott

Gatwick Airport Terminals 

There are two terminals at Gatwick Airport – North Terminal and South Terminal. You need to know which one your flight departs from, when booking airport parking.

The off-airport car parks, such as APH Self Park, APH Park & Ride and Airparks Park & Ride, are good for both terminals. The shuttle transfer from car park to the terminals takes 10-12 minutes and runs every 10-15 minutes. The shuttle buses are equipped with seatbelts and WiFi for a comfortable ride.

If you are booking on-airport Gatwick parking, such as a Meet & Greet service, please ensure you select the correct product for your terminal.

You can find lots of useful information on each terminal – from maps to shops and trollies to mobile charging facilities – on the links below.

North Terminal

South Terminal

Gatwick Airport Hotels & Parking

Spending the night before your flight at the airport, or nearby, is a great option for those with longer journeys or an early flight. It’s often good value too, with a park and stay Gatwick package usually costing less than if you booked the parking and the accommodation separately.

We offer a comprehensive range of airport hotels, some right next to the airport terminal, such as the 3-star Hampton by Hilton, and some off-airport, such as the 4-star Crowne Plaza, which can be easily combined with our award-winning APH Park & Ride or APH Self Park car parks, a couple of miles down the road.

You’ll find more information on our Gatwick hotel and parking packages on the link below.

Gatwick Hotels & Parking – Park and Stay Gatwick Airport

How to get cheap Gatwick Airport parking

Here at APH, we are committed to offering multiple Gatwick parking products to ensure you always have access to the cheapest parking, without compromising on security or service.

Book early to save on your Gatwick parking

Gatwick Airport parking prices are not fixed. Just like airfares, they fluctuate with availability. Booking in advance, therefore, is a great way to benefit from significant savings. Our data has revealed that if you make a Gatwick Airport car parking booking with APH six months prior to your flight departure, you could save up to 60%, compared with making a reservation just one week prior to departure.

The graph below gives you an indication of how much Gatwick parking prices can shift over a period of six months. Prices are average price per day.

 

When to book your Gatwick Airport parking

Based on prices for stays between 28th July 2022 to 28th March 2023

Opt for off-airport Gatwick Parking

We offer a choice of great-value Park & Ride or Self Park Gatwick parking options. These are virtually always cheaper than the on-airport car parks but are easy to find and provide a free shuttle service to both North and South terminals. For your peace of mind, the APH Park & Ride, APH Self Park and Airparks Park & Ride car park carries the Park Mark Safer Parking Award and is protected with security fencing, CCTV, entry, and exit barriers, and 24-hour manned patrols.

Our cheapest parking at Gatwick Airport

We have to rate our own APH Park & Ride and APH Self Park as offering the best value for Gatwick parking. While we cannot guarantee it is always the cheapest, it often is, and always offers a friendly welcome to customers old and new.

Sign-up for great deals

Another easy way to maximise your savings is to sign up for our mailing list. Not only will you receive details of the latest deals and sales, but you will also benefit from an instant discount of at least 10 per cent.

Enter your email below to claim your discount.

Here’s a handy overview of the different types of Gatwick car parking.

Parking type comparison for Gatwick Airport

On-airport parking: How it works

There are Long Stay and Short Stay car parks at Gatwick, which are located within the airport perimeter.

If you choose to use Short Stay parking, you simply drive to the terminal and follow the signs to the Short Stay multi-storey car park adjacent to the terminal building. Take a ticket at the entry barrier, find a space to park, unload your bags and walk across to the terminal. Keep your keys with you, and keep the car park ticket safe. When you return from your travels, walk back to the car park, use your ticket to pay at one of the payment machines, and collect your car.

On airport short stay process

The Official Long Stay car park operates in the same way as the Short Stay except with a shuttle transfer. Once you arrive at the airport simply follow the signs to the Long Stay car park, take a ticket at the entry barrier and park your car. The car park operates regular shuttle services to the terminal, which take 7-12 minutes. When you return from your travels, take the Long Stay shuttle bus back to the car park, pay at the ticket machine, and collect your car.

Both the Short Stay and Long Stay parking at Gatwick operate on a pay-by-ticket basis and do not require pre-booking. If you prefer to have a confirmed booking for your Gatwick parking – or are looking for the best value-for-money – then consider off-airport parking options, such as APH Self Park, where you still get to keep your keys with you, or APH Park & Ride. It is also worth comparing on-airport parking prices with a Meet & Greet service, such as APH Meet & Greet Forecourt, where you drive directly to the terminal and leave your car with an approved driver, who will park it in a secure compound for the duration of your trip.

Off-airport parking: How it works

Follow the directions to the car park. Park your car and take a short shuttle bus transfer to the North or South Terminal. Transfers operate 24 hours a day and drop you right outside the terminal doors.

If you choose a Self Park Gatwick parking product, such as APH Self Park, you park your car in a parking space, take the shuttle transfer to the terminal, and keep your keys with you.

If you book a Park & Ride Gatwick parking product, such as APH Park & Ride or Airparks Park & Ride, you park your car in an arrivals bay and leave your keys at Reception. Your car will be parked for you, while you take the shuttle transfer to the airport terminal.

Off airport parking process

If you are looking for cheap Gatwick parking, then consider booking an off-airport parking facility. Just make sure that it carries the Police-approved Park Mark Safer Parking Award, for your peace of mind while you are away on your travels. If you book our own APH Self Park or APH Park & Ride, you will be leaving your car in the state-of-the-art car park, which is protected by an impressive range of high-tech security features and accredited with the Park Mark Plus award.

This price comparison table compares the value of off-airport versus on-airport Gatwick parking.

Car Park Parking Type Transfer Time Price (per week)*
APH Car Park, Gatwick Airport Park & Ride 10 minutes £151.96*
Airparks Gatwick Park & Ride Park & Ride 10 minutes £151.96*
Gatwick Airport Long Stay South Terminal Parking Park & Ride 7 - 12 minutes £139.00*

* prices based on 8 days' parking for an arrival in August 2023

Meet and greet parking: How it works

Meet & Greet parking allows you to drive straight to the terminal, where you leave your car with the Meet & Greet operator. While you walk into check-in, your car will be driven to a secure parking facility for the duration of your trip, and brought back to the terminal for you upon your return.

 

Meet and Greet parking process

 

 

Booking your Meet & Greet parking with APH means you can be sure you are booking with an approved Meet & Greet operator. All our Meet & Greet partners, as well as our own APH Meet & Greet Forecourt service, are listed on Gatwick Airport’s Approved Operators Scheme.

Compare Meet & Greet prices with other Gatwick parking options on the table below.

Car Park Parking Type Transfer Time Price (per week)*
APH Meet & Greet Forecourt Meet & Greet 2 min walk £195.00*

* prices based on 8 days' parking for an arrival in August 2023

We asked our customers why they choose APH to book their Gatwick parking. Watch the video to read their comments and get a taste of the APH Gatwick parking experience.

Book APH Self Park

Book APH Park & Ride

Use the map to find directions to our Gatwick car parking facilities. We look forward to welcoming you.

Gtawick Airport Guide

History of Gatwick Airport

Originally a flying club and then a 1930s aerodrome, modern-day Gatwick Airport was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1958 and has grown from serving 186,000 passengers to over 46 million per year. In 1963, it took over all charter flights that previously operated out of Heathrow and in 1970, the runway was extended to allow jet aircraft to fly to the USA. In 1973, it was extended again to enable non-stop flights to the US west coast.

Further growth in passenger numbers meant a second terminal was required and construction work began on the North Terminal in 1983, while a new control tower – at the time the tallest in the UK – opened in 1984, just in time for the first Concorde flights to start taking off from the airport in 1985. By 1987, Gatwick had overtaken New York’s JFK airport to become the world’s second busiest – some of the famous faces it has greeted over the years include JFK himself, back in June 1963.

Just over a decade later, in 2000, both terminals were extended and in 2005, the largest air passenger bridge in the world – 197 metres in length – was opened, connecting the North Terminal with the new Pier 6 over a live taxiway.

2012 saw the arrival of the new A380s; the world’s largest, full-length, double-deck passenger aircraft. By 2014, Gatwick’s runway had an aircraft taking off or landing every 63 seconds – the first time any commercial airport had handled more than 900 movements with just a single runway.

Terminals

Gatwick has two terminals, North and South. The two are connected by monorail shuttle. Note that if you are arriving at Gatwick by train, the railway station is at the South Terminal. To get to the North Terminal, just follow the signs; the shuttle takes two minutes.

North Terminal

Less than a mile from South Terminal, Gatwick’s North Terminal has all the facilities you’d expect, from a variety of airport parking and hotel options to duty-free shopping, restaurants, bars, cafes and lounges. Check-in is located on level 2 and includes self-service kiosks. Although Gatwick’s main bus station is at the South Terminal, some coach companies, such as National Express, stop on the lower level, outside the arrivals hall. 

Airlines that fly from North Terminal include:

  • Air Transat
  • EasyJet
  • Emirates
  • Freebird
  • Icelandair
  • Jet2
  • JetBlue
  • Qatar Airways
  • Royal Air Maroc
  • Rwandair
  • TUI
  • WestJet

South Terminal

Gatwick’s first terminal has enjoyed major renovations over recent years. There is a state-of-the-art security area, with dedicated entrance for special assistance passengers. The airport’s railway and bus stations are located at the South Terminal and are clearly signposted. South Terminal also offers a wide variety of airport parking and hotel options. Check-in is on level 2.

Airlines that fly from South Terminal include:

  • Aer Lingus
  • Air Arabia Maroc
  • Air Baltic
  • Air Europa
  • Air Malta
  • Air Transat
  • Aurigny
  • Corendon Airlines
  • Croatia Airlines
  • Eastern Airways
  • easyJet
  • Enter Air
  • Iberia Express
  • Norwegian
  • Nouvelair
  • Norse
  • Ryanair
  • Scoot
  • SmartWings
  • SunExpress
  • TAP Air Portugal
  • Titan Airways
  • TUI
  • Turkish Airlines
  • Ukraine International
  • Vueling
  • Wizz Air

Always check which terminal is direct with your airline before making any travel or parking arrangements; some airlines fly from both terminals.

Check-in areas

The check-in area for both terminals is on level 2 and includes self-service check-in kiosks. If your airline offers online check-in, then you simply need to drop your bags at the bag drop-off point. Or, if you are travelling light with just carry-on luggage, then you can skip the check-in area altogether and head straight for Departures, where you will proceed through the security area to the departures lounge. 

For international flights, check-in normally opens four hours prior to departure, and you are advised to check in no later than three hours prior.

For European flights, check-in normally opens three hours prior to departure, and you are advised to check in no later than two hours prior.

For domestic flights, check-in normally opens two hours prior to departure, and you are advised to check in no later than 1.5 hours prior.

Always check your travel documents in advance for check-in information.

Self-service check-in

The self-service check-in kiosks are located near the standard check-in desks. Self-service means you can avoid the check-in queues by following a few simple steps on a screen. You will be able to choose seats and print boarding passes and luggage labels. Attach the luggage labels to your bags and take them to the nearby bag drop-off point. The self-service check-in process should only take a couple of minutes.

Online check-in

Many airlines offer online check-in either 24 hours in advance of travel (or several weeks ahead). With online check-in, you can either have an electronic boarding pass on your device or print your boarding pass off at home before you travel. If you have checked in some luggage, then you just need to drop those bags and suitcases at the bag drop-off in the check-in area when you arrive at the airport.

Note there are no flight calls at Gatwick, so make sure you keep an eye on the departure screens for up-to-date boarding information for your flight. Boarding is usually around 45 minutes prior to departure.

Main travel connections

By road

Just under 30 miles south of London, Gatwick Airport is a couple of minutes’ drive from Junction 9 of the M23, which itself is just a 10-minute drive from the M25, Junction 7. To the south, Brighton is 27 miles via the M23/A23.

With easy access to the rest of the UK via the national motorway network, driving to and from Gatwick is a good option. There are various airport parking options to suit all budgets.

National Express coaches offer services from Gatwick to multiple destinations across the UK. Buy tickets online or from the National Express desks in either the North or South Terminal. In the North Terminal, the National Express coaches arrive and depart from the lower level, outside International Arrivals. In the South Terminal, they arrive and depart from the lower forecourt, stops 1 to 5.

In addition to National Express services, The Airline (Oxford Bus Company) shuttles between Gatwick and Oxford via Heathrow.

Local buses are mostly run by Metrobus. 

By rail

When modern-day Gatwick re-opened in 1958, it was the first airport in the world to have a direct railway link. The railway station is at the South Terminal, close to the monorail shuttle, which takes two minutes to reach the North Terminal. 

Gatwick Express offers a non-stop 30-minute service from/to London Victoria. There are also slower but cheaper services to/from London operated by Southern and Thameslink, who will also take you south to Brighton, Eastbourne and beyond. Thameslink also crosses London via Blackfriars and St Pancras to Luton Airport Parkway and Bedford, avoiding the need to switch stations in London. There is also an hourly GWR service from Gatwick to Reading via Redhill, Reigate and Guildford.

Tickets can be bought online or at the station. You can also use contactless payment at the ticket gates.

Drop-off zones

Free drop-off

The free drop-off points at Gatwick Airport are the Long Stay car parks at either the North or South Terminal. As you arrive at the airport, follow the signs to your terminal and the Long Stay car park. Take a ticket at the entry barrier and find a free parking bay. Passengers can then take the free shuttle bus to the airport terminal, which takes between five and 12 minutes. The shuttle buses run every 10-12 minutes, so make sure you factor in enough time to reach check-in and go through security. Boarding usually closes at least 45 minutes prior to departure. The driver then exits the car park using the same ticket; no charge is payable if you have stayed less than two hours.

The Long Stay car parks can also be used for free pick-up, as long as the vehicle is parked for less than two hours. Passengers simply take the shuttle bus from the terminal back to the car park to meet their driver.

Pay drop-off

The pay-for-drop-off zones are on the lower-level forecourt area and are clearly signposted as you enter the airport. Number plate recognition cameras register each vehicle as it enters the zone, for which there is a minimum charge of £5.00 and a maximum length of stay of 30 minutes. Exemptions are in place for Blue Badge holders and there is a local commuter scheme for commuters who are regularly dropped off at Gatwick South Terminal for the railway station. The fee must be paid online before midnight the following day, to avoid a penalty notice of £100.00.

Drop-off fees:

  • £5.00 for the first 10 minutes
  • £1.00 for each additional minute, up to 20 minutes
  • maximum charge: £25.00
  • maximum length of stay: 30 minutes

If you are picking up family and friends flying into Gatwick, use the Short Stay car parks rather than the drop-off zones.
Short Stay car park charges

The Short Stay car parks at Gatwick offer convenient, secure parking just a few minutes’ walk from the terminal entrance. Perfect for families with young children or those with bulky luggage, Short Stay parking is also a good option for people with mobility restrictions, as all car park levels are fully accessible. 

For same-level access, the Premium Short Stay areas are on level 3 of car park 5 in the North Terminal and level 2 of car park 3 in the South Terminal.

Once you enter the airport, just follow the signs to the Short Stay car parks. At the entrance barrier, take a ticket and drive into the car park to find a parking bay. When you return to the car park, use the pay machines near to the lifts to pay for your parking:

  • up to 30 minutes £5.00
  • up to 1 hour £8.00
  • 1 - 2 hours £13.00
  • 2 - 3 hours £15.00
  • 3 - 4 hours £19.00

Once you have your ticket receipt, collect your vehicle, follow the exit signs, and insert your ticket into the exit barrier.

Premium Short Stay parking charges:

  • up to 30 minutes £6.50
  • up to 1 hour £10.30
  • 1 - 2 hours £15.00
  • 2 - 3 hours £19.00
  • 3 - 4 hours £24.50

Vehicle Restrictions

  • North Terminal car park 5: 1.8m
  • North Terminal car park 6: 2.1m
  • South Terminal Short Stay: 2.0m

Blue Badge holders

There are dedicated Blue Badge bays in the Short Stay parking at Gatwick. In the North Terminal, there are 18 Blue Badge bays across car parks 5 and 6. The South Terminal has 55 Short Stay Blue Badge bays.

Fast-track security lane

Beat the queues at security and enjoy dedicated access to a fast-track lane, available at both North and South terminals. 

As well as first and business-class passengers, all adult leisure passengers can book Premium Security from £5.00 per person. Places are limited to just 50 per hour so it is a good idea to book in advance. Note prices can vary according to availability and opening times are 04:00 to 20:00.

Special assistance and disabled facilities

Special Assistance

If you have booked assistance when you arrive at the terminal building just make your way to one of the special assistance reception desks located in and around both the North and South terminals. The desks are clearly signposted, and staff will be on hand to help you. 

There are also special assistance reception areas, with seating and heating, located by the dedicated drop-off point in both terminals. Staff will log your arrival and arrange help to the check-in area if required. If the desk isn’t staffed, just use the phone to speak to a member of the special assistance team and somebody will help.

Special assistance help points can be found in the following areas: the terminal forecourts, Short Stay car parks, stations, baggage reclaim halls and on some routes within the terminals where there are long distances to walk. Assistance is free. You can also ask for help with your wheelchair or baggage to get to check-in. 

Disabled parking

Disabled parking bays are available in all Gatwick Airport Short Stay and Long Stay car parks, which are clearly signposted. The Premium Short Stay areas offer same-level access to the terminal buildings. Alternatively, the APH Park and Ride car park provides assistance where required – there is a button to press at the entrance gate – and the APH shuttle buses to/from the terminal are wheelchair friendly. You can also book a Meet & Greet parking service, which allows you to drive directly to the terminal.

Dedicated seating

The dedicated seating areas are clearly marked by special assistance signs and are located in the general seating areas of the airport.

Toilets

Accessible toilets are available near most toilet blocks and are usually unisex. There is a mix of right and left-hand transfer toilets. If you require a peninsula pan you may prefer to use the Changing Places facilities.

Changing Places

There are two adult Changing Places on the arrivals route in both terminals. These include an adjustable bed, a hoist, flexible wash basins and full shower facilities. The South Terminal also has a small Changing Place on the upper level of the departure lounge with an adjustable bed and wash basin. If you are departing from the North Terminal, go to the special assistance desk in the departures lounge and they will be able to escort you to the facility on the arrivals route.

Eagle hoists

Eagle hoists for boarding the aircraft can be arranged but must be booked at least 24 hours in advance of travel, by emailing lgweaglehoist@wilsonjames.co.uk with:

  • customer name and contact details
  • date of travel, flight number and departure time
  • height and approximate weight of passenger
  • if you have used the service before

Sensory room

Gatwick was the first airport in the UK to open a sensory room, designed to be a calming environment for passengers with disabilities such as autism, dementia, or cognitive impairment. The sensory room is wheelchair accessible and is in the North Terminal.

Hidden disabilities

In 2016, Gatwick Airport was the first to recognise the needs of travellers with autism and helped develop the hidden disabilities symbol – a sunflower. The sunflower lanyard can be used to identify someone who may need support, help, or just a little more time in shops, transport, or public spaces and has since been adopted by airports and businesses throughout the world.
Sunflower lanyards are available to everyone at the special assistance reception desks, both before and after security. You can get more information by emailing HiddenDisability@gatwickairport.com. 
Gatwick Airport also offers an autism-friendly guide to travelling through the terminals.

Family facilities

Gatwick provides an array of practical facilities to help families on their way through the airport, from assisted lanes to baby-change rooms and play areas.

Security and assisted lanes

If you are travelling with young children, there are special assistance and family lanes to help you progress through the security area more smoothly. Baby milk and sterilised water over 100ml are permitted within your hand luggage if required for the length of your journey. Any specific drinks required for children as part of their dietary needs require an accompanying letter from their GP.   

Baby changing

Gatwick Airport has specially equipped rooms for feeding and baby-changing, which can be identified by the Babycare symbol. There are changing facilities in the check-in area, departures lounge, on the way to the gates, in the transfer area and after in arrivals after passport control. There are also fold-down tables provided in some male and female toilets.

Pushchairs

If you are travelling with a pushchair, you can take it right up to the gate, just before you board your flight. When flying into Gatwick, your pushchair will be in the baggage hall for you to collect with the rest of your luggage.

Play areas

Once you have passed through security, you will find special kids’ zones in both North and South terminals. These are separate areas that have been created for children to play and interact with fun educational elements. In the South Terminal, you will find the kids’ zone on the upper level opposite Dixons, and in the North Terminal, you will find it on the lower level at the left end of the departure lounge, opposite WHSmith. The kids’ zones are free of charge.

In addition, you might want to look out for airport parking options that are great for families with young children, such as Meet & Greet parking.

Business facilities

Business travellers will find a variety of facilities including a premium security service, executive lounges and meeting rooms.

Premium security

Take advantage of dedicated access to a fast-track lane through security, available at both North and South terminals. Book online from £5.00 per person or from £6.00 at the airport. Places are limited to just 50 per hour, however, so are subject to availability. 

Opening times: 04:00 to 20:00

Executive lounges

No 1 Lounge - The No 1 Lounge in both the North and South terminals provides a private meeting room, library, sports TV lounge, free unlimited WiFi, charging points, digital newspapers and magazines, complimentary food and beverages and panoramic views of the runway. Follow the signs to Airport Lounges once through security.

Opening times:

No 1 Lounge North Terminal: 04:00 – 21:00
No 1 Lounge South Terminal: 05:00 – 20:00
 
Price from £34.00 per person

Plaza Premium Lounge

North Terminal also has a Plaza Premium Lounge, where you can enjoy runway views, a complimentary worldwide buffet, a fully tended bar, a dedicated kids’ zone and games area, free WiFi and charging points. The Plaza Premium Lounge is signposted in the main departure hall; turn left after security and take the lift to level 4 Lounge Pavilion.

Opening times: 05:00 – 20:00

Price from £36.00 per person

The Gateway

Created by No 1 Lounges and EasyJet, The Gateway at Gatwick North Terminal offers a complimentary hot and cold food menu with a selection of beverages, unlimited WiFi, charging points, digital newspapers and magazines. In the departures hall, follow the signs to Airport Lounges and take the lift to level 4 Lounge Pavilion.

Opening times: 04:00 – 21:00

Price from £32.00 per person

Clubrooms

You’ll find quiet business zones in the Clubrooms, which are situated in both North and South terminals. Offering a premium pre-flight experience, including dedicated waiter service and a la carte menu, the Clubrooms can be found by following the signs to the Airport Lounges.

Opening times: to be confirmed (currently closed)

Price from £38.00 per person

Meeting rooms

There are private meeting rooms in the No 1 Lounges at both North and South terminals, which can be booked in advance. The Hilton London Gatwick Airport, connected by a covered walkway to the South Terminal, also has multiple meeting and conference rooms.

Chapel

Gatwick Airport has a chapel and prayer rooms in both North and South terminals, which are open 24 hours a day to people of all faiths for private prayer and meditation.

There are regular services held by Anglican, Roman Catholic and Free Church chaplains. There are also Buddhist services, which are held on Mondays and on significant dates for major traditions. Details are posted on the chaplaincy website as well as on the noticeboard outside the chapel.

In the South Terminal, you’ll find the chapel before security on level 3, near to Caffe Nero.

In the North Terminal, you’ll find the chapel before security on level 1, before the entrance to the Hampton by Hilton hotel.

Services last approximately 25 minutes.

Food and drink

From coffee stalls, cafes and fast-food outlets to seafood bars and dine-in restaurants, Gatwick has got you covered when it comes to refreshments before your flight. Grab a sandwich, wrap or burrito; tuck into nutritious salads, classic American burgers or a stone-based pizza. Whether you are on the hunt for traditional British pub food, local artisan produce or oodles of noodles, you’ll find something sure to hit the spot, either landside before security or airside in the departures lounge.

North Terminal – before security

  • Costa - Opening times: 05:00 – 23:00
  • The Nicholas Culpepper - Opening times: 04:30 – 20:00

North Terminal – after security

  • coffee-bike - Opening times: 03:00 – 12:00 (Fri-Sun)
  • Pret a Manger - Opening times: 03:00 – 21:00
  • Starbucks - Opening times: 03:00 – 21:00
  • Warrens Bakery - Opening times: 03:30 – 20:00
  • Shake Shack  - Opening times: 06:00 – 19:30
  • Pure - Opening times: 04:00 – 20:00
  • Juniper & Co - Opening times: 03:30 – 21:00
  • Sonoma - Opening times: 03:30 – last flight
  • Tortilla - Opening times: 04:00 – 21:00
  • The Red Lion - Opening times: 03:00 – last flight 
  • Wagamama - Opening times: 04:00 – 19:00

South Terminal – before security

  • Costa - Opening times: 05:00 – 23:00
  • Caffe Nero - Opening times: 05:00 – 22:00
  • joe’s coffee house - Opening times: 06:00 – 21:00
  • Giraffe World Kitchen - Opening times: 06:00 – 21:00

South Terminal – after security

  • Costa - Opening times: 06:00 – 18:00
  • Pret a Manger - Opening times: 03:00 – 21:00
  • Starbucks - Opening times: 05:00 – 20:30
  • Nando’s - Opening times: 04:30 – 21:30
  • Grain Store - Opening times: 05:00 – 21:00
  • itsu - Opening times: 08:00 – 18:00
  • Joe & the Juice - Opening times: 05:00 – 20:00
  • Caviar House & Prunier - Opening times: 06:00 – 20:00
  • The Flying Horse  - Opening times: 03:00 – 21:30
  • Wagamama - Opening times: 04:00 – 20:00

Smoking areas

There are designated zones for smoking outside the terminal buildings, which are clearly marked. No smoking is permitted once you have passed through security, including for those who are connecting from one flight to another. The same restrictions apply to e-cigarettes.

Click here to find out where can you smoke cigarettes and ‘vape’ e-cigarettes at all major UK airports

Water fountains

There are free water fountains in both North and South terminals at Gatwick, after you have passed through security. There are two water fountains on the right-hand side of the entrance to the World Duty-Free shop and there are also some near the toilets. In addition, drinking water is provided in the special assistance seating areas.

Duty-free shopping

Gatwick has World Duty Free stores in both the North and South terminals. World Duty-Free offer a reserve and collect service, which means you can shop in advance at home, reserve your items, and collect them at the airport.

Also on offer are services including beauty consultations, sunglasses consultations, food and drink tastings and personal shopping.

Note that duty-free shopping is available only for departing and arriving passengers.

World Duty-Free North Terminal
For departing passengers – after security
Opening times: 04.30 – 19.00
Tel: 01293 504260

World Duty-Free North Terminal
For arriving passengers – before entering the arrivals hall
Opening times: first flight – last flight
Tel: 01293 505851

World Duty-Free South Terminal
For departing passengers – after security
Opening times: 04.00 – 20.00
Tel: 01293 502029

World Duty-Free South Terminal
For arriving passengers – before entering the arrivals hall
Opening times: first flight – last flight
Tel: 01293 502421

Charging points 

There are multiple free charging points in both terminals at Gatwick, either before or after security, where you can sit and charge your mobile device.

EV charging points 

On-airport

There are eight 22kW charging points in Gatwick’s Short Stay car parks.

North Terminal: Car Park 5, Level 3 

South Terminal: Orange Car Park 3, Level 1 

Download the Pod Point Open Charge app in advance and register for free. Use the app to find the correct charging point and check live availability. Pre-booking is not required.

Off-airport

You’ll find a few EV charging options within a ten-minute drive of Gatwick, including 
APH Park & Ride airport parking with EV charging, as well as the Holiday Inn and Crowne Plaza airport hotels.

APH Park and Ride with EV charging
Drop your car at the APH car park, unload your bags and take the 10-12-minute free shuttle bus to the airport terminal. Your car will be charged for you while you are away on your travels.
30kW or 50kW. 

Holiday Inn London Gatwick Airport
A few minutes’ drive from Gatwick North Terminal.
bp pulse 35p/kWh, 50kW CCS, 50kW CHAdeMO, 43kW Type 2.

Crowne Plaza London Gatwick Airport
10 minutes’ drive south of Gatwick South Terminal
bp pulse 50kW CCS, 50kW CHAdeMO, 45kW Type 2. 

BP Pulse Charging Station
There is a BP Pulse Charging Station on Charlwood Road, RH11 0QB, close to the western perimeter of the airport.
3 x 150kW CCS
3 x 100kW CHAdeMO
4 x 50kW CHAdeMO
4 x 50kW CCS

Internet access

Free WiFi is available throughout Gatwick Airport. Once you enter the terminal building, you need to log on as follows:
•    on your device, navigate to the list of available wireless networks
•    select Free Gatwick Wi-Fi
•    click the 'get online now' button
•    enter your email address
•    your session will start
If you require faster WiFi, you can sign up to myGatwick, verify your account and log in to the WiFi using your myGatwick username and password. myGatwick access should provide speeds of up to 100mbps. 

Luggage trolleys

Luggage trolleys are available in both the North and South terminals. You will need a £1.00 or €1.00 coin, which is refunded when the trolley is returned. There are change machines in both terminals.

Luggage lockers

You can store your luggage at the Excess Baggage Company’s left luggage facilities, located in the arrivals hall of the North or South Terminal. Baggage can be stored for a few hours or a few weeks. The Excess Baggage Company offers secure, manned storage facilities and you can pre-book in advance or pay in-store on the day. Other services include baggage shipping and forwarding, bag wrapping, baggage weighing scales, courier services, travel accessories and tourist information.

North Terminal
Before security
Adjacent to the monorail shuttle
Opening times: 04:00 – 20:00
Tel: 01293 569 900
gatwick@excess-baggage.com

South Terminal
Before security
At the back of the check-in area
Opening times: 05:00 – 21:00
Tel: 01293 569 900
gatwick@excess-baggage.com

Currency exchange 

Currency exchange at Gatwick is operated by ChangeGroup, which offers multiple currencies. There are 15 branches across the airport as well as 70 ATMs.

Services include a BuyBack guarantee, whereby you can exchange any leftover foreign currency back into GBP at the same rate as the time of purchase (fees apply); pre-order, whereby you can order your currency in advance and simply collect it at the airport (collection fees apply); and Western Union Money Transfers, a quick and secure way of sending money to anyone in the world.

Collection points:

North Terminal
ChangeGroup
Branch N121
Level 2 opposite security

South Terminal
ChangeGroup
Branch S67
Level 3 opposite security

Opening times: 05:00 – 22:00.

Also, APH have partnered with CannyApp Prepaid Mastercard® to offer our customers 3% Cashback on all overseas spend. Open an account here and order a card in minutes! All direct from your mobile phone. Pre load foreign currency onto the card and don't even worry about getting cash at the airport.

Pharmacies

Well Pharmacy
Located within WHSmith with trained pharmacists on hand.
North Terminal – after security
Opening hours: 04:00 – 20:00
Tel: 01293 568664

Boots

You can pre-order up to two tubs or 56 ready-to-drink cartons of baby milk on the Boots website, so it’s ready to collect once you’ve passed through security at either North or South Terminal. Orders can be taken no later than seven working days in advance of travel. Alternatively, you can make baby milk purchases in-store on the day, along with other essentials such as nappies, baby food and wipes.

North Terminal – after security
Opening times: 04:00 – 20:00
Tel: 01293 579232

North Terminal – arrivals
Opening times: 05:00 – 22:00
Tel: 01293 567625

South Terminal – after security
Opening times: 04:00 – 20:00
Tel: 01293 567574

South Terminal – arrivals
Opening times: 05:00 – 00:00
Tel: 01293 579451

Help desk

For assistance while at the airport, look for the Your Service Centre Gatwick desks. Your Service Centre Gatwick operates in partnership with Skybreak to offer help with booking hotels, onward travel, missed connections, travel information and advice.

Your Service Centre Gatwick
North Terminal – Zone D
Opening times: 06:00 – 22:00
Tel: 01293 555700
customerservices@skybreak.com

Your Service Centre Gatwick
South Terminal – Zone J
Opening times: 06:00 – 22:00
Tel: 01293 555700
customerservices@skybreak.com

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