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Gatwick Airport Parking

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Cheap Gatwick airport parking

Gatwick is a major airport, so if you’re jetting off on a holiday or business trip from there, sorting out the best value airport parking should be top of your list of things to do. Airport parking at Gatwick doesn’t have to be confusing.

Long stay or short stay, valet parking or meet and greet, you can be sure to find the right parking option if you plan well ahead. For both the North Terminal and South Terminal at Gatwick, there is an airport parking option to suit every budget.

Plane flying over Gatwick airport parking

Types of parking at Gatwick Airport

Being a busy passenger hub, Gatwick handles millions of passengers per year. The good news is that this means there are plenty of parking options to choose from. The price you pay for parking at Gatwick Airport will depend on a number of factors – how close you want to park to the terminal, the length of your stay, or whether you are travelling at a peak time for example.

Before choosing your parking, think about whether you are travelling from the North or South terminal, to be sure to pick an option which is convenient.

Long Stay parking at Gatwick Airport

Long-stay parking is a great option for passengers looking for budget airport parking at Gatwick. There are long-stay car parks for both the North and South terminal available, with great rates for stays of over a few days.

There is a free shuttle bus available to take you from the long-stay car parks to the terminal of your choice. Shuttles run approximately every 10-12 minutes, with the trip taking a little over ten minutes.

Make sure you allow plenty of time to catch the shuttle, as the service can get busy during peak periods.

The long-stay car parks at Gatwick are safe and secure, with perimeter fencing and good lighting. Even if you arrive late at night, or early in the morning, the car parks are covered by cut and patrolled by security for complete peace of mind.

The long-stay car parks are suitable for all vehicles as there is no height restriction. However, it is worth noting that trailers are not permitted.

Blue Badge holders can find accessible parking spaces in both North and South long-stay car parks.

To find the long-stay car parks, use the postcode RH6 0RN for the North Terminal, and RH6 0NY for the South Terminal.

Premium Parking at LGW

Arriving at the airport can sometimes be a stressful business. For the utmost convenience, at Gatwick Airport you could choose Premium Parking. The Premium Parking spaces are the closest possible parking to the terminal.

Located in the multi-storey car parks on the same floor as the main terminal building, it is just a two-minute walk to departures after you park your car.

Premium Parking means you can save time when you get to the airport. With wider than average parking bays, it also makes it easy to unload any luggage, or pushchairs with plenty of room to manoeuvre.

Short stay parking

If you are only planning on travelling for a very short time, or need to drop off passengers at the airport, short-stay parking is a good option. At Gatwick, the short-stay car parks are located close to the terminal.

Both North and South short-stay car parks are just a 5-minute walk from the check-in areas. Short-stay parking is a good choice if you are looking for convenient parking close to the terminal.

The Short Stay car parks at Gatwick are covered multi-storey buildings. All are well-lit and accredited with the ParkMark scheme for safer parking.

For the North Terminal, short-stay parking is in car parks 5 and 6. For the South Terminal, car parks 1, 2 and 3 are the best choice.

Because the airport is so large, the short-stay car parks have different postcodes. For the North Terminal, follow satnav directions to RH6 0PJ, or RH6 0LL for the South Terminal short stay.

Valet Parking

Gatwick Airport offers a valet parking service. Valet Parking is perhaps the most convenient of all airport parking options. Instead of having to find a space, with valet parking simply arrive and drop your keys with the professional staff, then make your way to the terminal.

The Valet Parking team park your car for you, and have it ready and waiting for you when you arrive back from your trip.

Valet parking is available at both the North and South Terminals at Gatwick. It is a short 4-minute walk to the terminal once you have dropped off your keys.

Your car will be stored securely in an airport facility while you travel, so you can relax and enjoy your trip without worrying about your vehicle.

For an extra touch of luxury, you can also book a Premium Car Care package along with Valet Parking. This includes a full hand-wash and interior vacuum, so you can step into a clean, fresh car on your return.

Hotel and parking near Gatwick Airport

Gatwick serves passengers from all over the south-east and beyond, many of whom travel long distances to the airport. For early morning starts, booking a hotel close to the airport is a great way to ensure there are no last-minute traffic delays when you travel to the terminal. There are plenty of hotels close to Gatwick Airport.

Many hotels offer combined hotel and parking deals, with either free parking on-site, valet parking for your whole trip or shuttle bus services to the terminal. Depending on the length of your trip, it can sometimes work out cheaper to book a hotel with parking than simply airport parking alone.

Bloc Hotel

The Bloc Hotel is perfect for South Terminal departures. With runway views, it is probably the closest possible place to stay. The hotel is compact, but well designed, with facilities like super-fast wifi, Egyptian cotton bedding and comfortable beds.

Deals are available when combined with valet parking, and guests to the hotel can also benefit from discounts in some of the airport’s cafés and bars.

Hampton by Hilton

The Hampton by Hilton Hotel is close to the North Terminal at Gatwick. Offering a range of facilities for business and leisure travellers, it is just moments from the terminal building, with a free shuttle bus service for guests.

Unwind in a walk-in power shower, or hit the on-site gym for a last-minute workout. A hot breakfast is included in the room rate, and business travellers can also take advantage of the work zone to catch up on last-minute emails before a flight.

Gatwick Airport Premier Inn

For budget hotel stays close to Gatwick Airport, the Premier Inn is easy to reach. Located right next to the North Terminal, rooms start from just £35 per night in this simple, modern hotel. It is a few minute’s walk to the terminal shuttle, so you can head to the airport refreshed and ready to fly without having to worry about the traffic. The hotel has free wifi, along with a restaurant and coffee shop.

Gatwick Airport Parking at a glance

  • Long stay with free shuttle bus
  • Short stay close to the terminal
  • Valet parking for convenience
  • Premium Parking for quick terminal access
  • All car parks are safe and secure
  • CCTV
  • Book in advance for the best rates
  • ParkMark accredited

Drop off and pick up at Gatwick Airport

As you would imagine at such a busy airport, there are strict rules governing where it is permitted to wait or drop off passengers. There is no stopping on the approach roads to the airport.

If you don’t need to go into the terminal, drop-off areas are located on the lower level forecourt of both terminal areas and are clearly signposted. It is also possible to use the short-stay car parks for dropping off passengers.

The long-stay car parks for both terminals offer two hours of free parking for pickups and drop-offs. From the long-stay car parks, simply take the free shuttle bus to the terminal.

Transfers to and from Gatwick Airport

As you would expect from such a major airport hub, Gatwick is extremely well served by a variety of road, rail and bus links.

Central London is just 30 minutes from the terminals by train, and regular connections serve the other major airport, Heathrow, close by.

By Car

Driving to Gatwick is simple. The airport is within easy reach of the major motorway network. Being 28 miles south of London, most passengers by car take the M23 motorway southbound, leaving at Junction 9 from where the airport is clearly signposted.

The M23 motorway connects to the M25 London circular, from where connections can be made to the wider southeast and midlands.

From the south, the A23 London to Brighton road connects the airport and the south coast.

If you are using a satnav, the postcodes to find the airport are as follows:

North Terminal: RH6 0PJ
South Terminal: RH6 0NP

By Taxi

Travelling to the airport or making your onward journey by taxi means you can relax in comfort, without having to worry about parking, finding directions or navigating traffic.

There are many taxi operators providing transfers to and from Gatwick Airport.

A range of vehicles is available, including luxury saloons, 8-seaters, minibuses, standard cars and electric vehicles.

By Rail

There is a train station at Gatwick Airport, so reaching your flight by rail is very simple. The terminal station connects the airport with 120 other stations directly, and a further 700 stations are within easy reach with just one change.

The rail interchange is located at the South Terminal, from where a free shuttle bus is available for passengers requiring the North Terminal.

Trains run directly to London Victoria station approximately every 15 minutes during busy times. The journey takes around 30 minutes.

By Bus

Gatwick Airport is well served by both local bus services and national coaches. Most buses stop at the lower South Terminal Forecourt, including the airport transfer shuttle service, which calls at local hotels and both terminals.

Metrobus services to local destinations stop on the A23 outside the main terminal compound.

National coach operators running transfers to and from Gatwick Airport include Megabus, EasyBus and National Express.

Coach transfers can be booked from both terminals to over 100 towns and cities throughout the UK.

Gatwick Airport Overview

Gatwick Airport serves over a 44million passengers a year, making it the second busiest airport in the UK after Heathrow. Easily located within a short drive of London, the airport is located on the border of Surrey and West Sussex, just north of Crawley.

Gatwick acts as a base for operators like British Airways, EasyJet and RyanAir, offering flights to popular destinations throughout Europe and the rest of the world. Although the airport has two runways, it operates as a single-runway airport.

There are two terminal buildings, with a wide range of facilities at each catering to the needs of international business and leisure travellers.

The airport was founded in 1930 as an aerodrome, with the first terminal building being erected in 1935. Commercial flights from Gatwick have expanded in range and reach ever since, along with considerable developments in the infrastructure of the airport.

Gatwick Airport Facilities

As one of the busiest airports in the UK, and the tenth busiest in Europe, Gatwick Airport terminals have almost every conceivable facility available for passengers. From luxury shopping to coffee and snack bars, there is plenty to keep passengers entertained as they wait to board a flight.

There is a huge range of restaurants, bars and cafes to choose from in both terminals. Grab a full English breakfast before an early morning flight in the traditional Red Lion restaurant, or pick up a speciality wrap to eat on the go. All restaurants on-site aim to serve meals in 15 minutes or less, so there’s no need to rush.

Airport lounges are available at both sites and offer a quiet space to relax before your flight. There is a chapel and a prayer room, along with all the usual airport facilities like currency exchange bureaus, wifi, baby change areas and trolleys available.

Facilities available at Gatwick include:

  • Long and short stay accredited parking
  • Trolleys
  • Hotels
  • Free inter-terminal shuttle
  • Shopping
  • Reserve and collect
  • Duty-free
  • Cafes
  • Restaurants
  • Bars
  • Lounges
  • Baby change facilities
  • Accessible toilets
  • Lost property
  • Currency Exchange
  • Fast track security
  • Showers
  • Special assistance
  • Luggage services

Travelling with children at Gatwick Airport

Millions of families fly from Gatwick each year, and the airport is working hard to make it a stress-free experience for those travelling with infants or small children.

Gatwick is the first Family Friendly accredited airport in the UK. There are dedicated family lanes at security, so if you’re travelling with a pushchair you’ll have plenty of room to get through.

Most cafes and restaurants on-site have high chairs and serve a range of meals suitable for children, so it’s easy to pick up breakfast, lunch, dinner or just child-friendly snacks on your way through the terminal.

Baby bottles can be warmed in the Pret a Manger in both terminals, and free tap water is available everywhere.

There are two kid’s zones with free-to-use activities suitable for younger children. The zones are a good way to keep small children entertained while you wait for your flight.

Baby change facilities are available through both terminals, and any essentials like nappies, wipes or formula can be bought both land and air-side if required.

When travelling with small children, it’s a good idea to allow plenty of time to make your way through the terminal. Gatwick is a large airport, and at busy times there may be queues for security.

You will be able to take your pushchair all the way to the departure gate, and free-to-use pushchairs are located throughout the arrivals area before baggage reclaim.

Book a lounge at Gatwick

Gatwick Airport has a range of lounges suitable for passengers who would like to get their trip off to a flying start.

Choose from informal lounges like the MyLounge, where you can pour your own complimentary drinks and relax with a magazine, or the luxurious Club Rooms in the South Terminal.

Here you could choose from the a la carte menu, or perhaps enjoy a glass of wine from the extensive wine list.

Some Lounges at Gatwick offer views of the runway, like the Club Aspire lounge.

In all lounges, you can take advantage of a range of hot or cold snacks, complimentary wifi, charging points, television and newspapers, comfortable seating and quiet spaces away from the hustle and bustle of the main terminal.

For the best prices on airport lounges, it is advisable to book in advance, although it may be possible to pay on arrival at quieter times.

Things to do near Gatwick Airport

Visit the Aviation Museum

For plane enthusiasts, a visit to Gatwick Aviation Museum is a must. Filled with interesting facts and exhibits about the history of the airport, the museum has great views of the runway. You can learn about how planes were made, and if you fancy it, even take a seat in the cockpit of a light aircraft. The museum is a fun day out for the whole family, with adult entry tickets costing just £7.50

Get a bird’s eye view of London

Gatwick is just 30 minutes from central London by train, so there is plenty to explore. Hop on the regular shuttle, then head up to the capital city’s tallest building, The Shard. From the top of the 306meter tower, you can get incredible 360degree views of London in the viewing gallery. If you really want to treat yourself, why not book into one of the luxury rooms in the Shangri-La hotel, for an unforgettable stay on top of the city?

Explore vibrant seaside Brighton

Gatwick is just a stone’s throw from the south coast of Britain. In 22 minutes by train, you could be exploring the pretty streets and shingle beaches of Brighton, a vibrant seaside town with interesting shops, galleries and cafes. Spend an afternoon wandering the famous Pier and the seafront at your leisure, or hop on a Discovery Tour for a guided insight into the city’s history and landmarks.

Visit a historic castle.

Leeds Castle is around ten miles from Gatwick Airport and is a fine example of historic England at its best. Discover the 900-year-old Norman stronghold which has been used by Kings and Queens of England, or lose yourself in the maze on the castle grounds.

There is a packed programme of activities and events at the castle, including falconry displays, archery, guided tours, seasonal attractions and workshops. There’s plenty to explore for all the family, and even book accommodation on-site if you want to take in the sights over more than one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any height restrictions in the car parks?

The long-stay car parks at Gatwick do not have a height restriction in place. If you are planning on parking in the short stay or premium car parks, be aware that these are multi-storey buildings. All South Terminal short-stay parking is suitable for vehicles up to 2m in height. North Terminal car park 5 has a height restriction of 1.8m and 2.1m for car park 6.

Can I charge my electric vehicle at Gatwick Airport?

There are currently eight charging points available at Gatwick. These are located in the short stay car parks at both terminals. To use the charging points, you’ll need to download the free POD Point Open Charge app and register for an account.

Can I park my motorbike at Gatwick Airport?

Motorbike parking bays are available in short-stay car parks. The motorbike spaces are designed by yellow hatches on the ground and can be found on one side of each floor in the multi-storey.

Are there size restrictions on taking items through security?

You should always check with your airline before you fly on what you are allowed to carry onboard the plane. Most airlines restrict the size and number of bags you are permitted to take as hand luggage.

Can I take liquids in my hand luggage?

You are permitted to take liquids through security in limited amounts. All liquids should be in containers of not more than 100ml (larger containers half-full will not be allowed). Any liquids – which includes gels, creams, paste, spray or aerosols – must be presented separately for inspection in a clear, re-sealable plastic bag not exceeding 20cm x 20cm.

Can I take baby milk through security?

The formula, sterilised water and breast milk may be taken as hand luggage. You should only take the amount you need for the duration of travel, and you may be asked to present any baby milk or food at security for additional checks.

Can I smoke in the airport?

The terminal is a no-smoking zone, and this includes the use of e-cigarettes and vapes.

Is it possible to transfer between the North and South terminal?

Yes. A regular shuttle bus is available to take passengers between the two terminals on-site, so there’s no need to worry if you arrive at the wrong place for your flight.

Is assistance available for disabled passengers?

Gatwick Airport offers a range of special assistance for passengers who may need help with any aspect of their journey. Disabled car parking spaces are available in short- and long-stay car parks and shuttle buses are accessible to wheelchair users. Passengers with physical or hidden disabilities requiring special assistance should contact their airline in advance to pre-book service, giving at least 48 hours’ notice.

How many pieces of hold baggage can I check in?

You should check with your airline before you travel to Gatwick how many pieces of hold baggage are permitted. Rules differ by airline. If you arrive and your hold baggage exceeds the weight allowance for your flight, you may face excess baggage charges.

What happens if I lose something in Gatwick Airport?

You should always keep a close eye on your possessions at the airport. In the unfortunate event that you lose something in the terminal building, you should contact the lost property office. There is a short form to fill out, with details of your item and contact details so it can be returned to you if found. If you accidentally leave something onboard your flight, you should contact the airline directly.

What time should I arrive for my flight?

Give yourself plenty of time to make your way from the car parks to check in. Gatwick is a busy airport, and passing through security can take a while during busy periods. You should allow at least two hours before your flight to make your way through the terminal to board.