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A practical guide to London Gatwick — the terminals, how to reach them, where to park, and what to expect when you arrive.
London Gatwick (LGW) is the UK's second-busiest airport, handling over 40 million passengers a year across two terminals — North and South — connected by a free inter-terminal shuttle train.
It's a 30-minute train ride from central London via the Gatwick Express and sits directly on the M23, making it equally easy to reach by car. That's why parking demand stays high all year round.
Home to British Airways, easyJet (most flights), Vueling and Norse Atlantic. Has its own Long Stay, Short Stay, Premium and Valet car parks.
Used by TUI, Wizz Air, Ryanair and most long-haul carriers. Connected to Gatwick railway station and similarly served by dedicated car parks.
Gatwick is signposted from junction 9 and 9A of the M23. Each terminal has its own approach road — follow signs carefully because once you commit to one terminal, the only way to switch is via the inter-terminal shuttle from inside the airport.
The drop-off forecourt is right outside departures at both terminals and now charges a fee. See current drop-off charges.
For a deeper breakdown see our full parking guide or our on-airport parking guide.
Take the M23 to junction 9 or 9A and follow signs for your terminal. Each terminal has separate approach roads and car parks.
BA, easyJet and Vueling mostly use North; TUI, Wizz and many long-haul carriers use South. Confirm on your boarding pass before driving.
The shuttle train runs every 2–3 minutes and the journey itself takes about 2 minutes — but allow 15–20 minutes door to door with walking.
For trips of 3 days or more, pre-booked Long Stay almost always beats a return taxi from anywhere in Greater London.