You have just landed at Gatwick. Your phone is at 12%, your bags are heavy, and the signs all look the same. Which way do you walk?
This is where the map of Gatwick South Terminal comes in handy.
The terminal is easier to navigate once you know which level handles arrivals, where departures are located, and how the transport routes connect.
This guide walks you through the map of Gatwick South Terminal, floor by floor. You will learn where to find check-in, security, baggage reclaim, shops, parking, pickup points, and transport into central London.
Let’s start with the layout.
Gatwick South Terminal Overview
Gatwick South Terminal is one of the airport’s two passenger terminals, alongside North Terminal. It originally opened in 1958 and serves domestic, European, and long-haul international flights.
Gatwick Airport is around 28 miles (45 km) south of central London, near Crawley in West Sussex. The South Terminal is especially convenient for passengers travelling by train because Gatwick Airport railway station is directly connected to the building.
The walk between the station and South Terminal arrivals or departures takes around five minutes.
Several airlines operate from the South Terminal, including:
- British Airways
- Ryanair
- Jet2
- Wizz Air
- Vueling
- Norwegian
- Turkish Airlines
- TAP Air Portugal
- Norse Atlantic Airways
Other carriers also use the terminal. Meanwhile, easyJet, Emirates, and Qatar Airways are currently listed at North Terminal.
Always check your flight confirmation before travelling, as terminal assignments can change.
The map of Gatwick South Terminal also shows a free shuttle connection to North Terminal. The shuttle runs 24 hours a day, takes around two minutes between stations, and is useful for passengers changing terminals.
To make navigation easier, we have included the Gatwick Airport South Terminal map directly below.
They show the airport’s main levels, including arrivals, departures, check-in, security, shopping, and transport connections.
You can refer to these maps as you move through the guide without opening another page.
Here is a quick overview before we look at each floor.
| Terminal Level | Main Facilities | Best For |
| Level 00 | Buses, coaches, road access and drop-off zones | Ground transport |
| Level 20 | Landside | Arrivals, check-in, railway station routes, shops and terminal shuttle | Arriving passengers and check-in |
| Level 20 | Airside | Baggage reclaim, lower departure lounge, duty-free shopping and gate routes | Arrivals and passengers after security |
| Level 30 | Landside | Departures, security, Fast Track and special assistance | Passengers preparing to fly |
| Level 30 | Airside | Upper departure lounge, restaurants, shops and airport lounges | Waiting for boarding |
Landside means the public area before security or after customs. Airside means the restricted passenger area.
One Thing Worth Remembering: The South Terminal’s upper and lower departure lounges are connected, but they are separate from the public arrivals and check-in areas.
Map of Gatwick South Terminal | Level-by-Level Layout
The easiest way to understand the terminal is to follow the same route you would take through the building.
Each level serves a different purpose. Some are used mainly by arriving passengers, while others are designed for check-in, security, shopping, and boarding.
Level 00 | Bus Stops, Coaches and Terminal Drop-Off
Level 00 is the lower ground transport area.
On the map of Gatwick South Terminal, this level shows the road system, bus and coach stops, nearby parking buildings, and the terminal drop-off charging zone.
You will find:
- Bus and coach stops numbered along the terminal road
- Access to local public transport
- Road access to Short Stay Car Parks 1, 2 and 3
- The terminal drop-off charging zone
- Pedestrian routes, lifts and connections to other levels
How to Navigate Level 00?
If you are taking a coach, follow the signs marked “Coaches” or “Buses” from the arrivals hall. Use the lifts or escalators where needed to reach the lower transport area.
National Express and other coach operators serve Gatwick, although the correct stop depends on your operator and destination.
If someone is dropping you off, the designated terminal drop-off zone is on the lower forecourt. This area is not intended for waiting or passenger collection.
One small but useful detail: Gatwick’s published terminal map shows Long Stay car park shuttle boarding arrangements on the upper forecourt at Level 20. So do not assume that every bus leaves from Level 00. Follow the signs for your particular service.
Level 20 | Arrivals Hall, Check-In and Train Station Access
Level 20 is one of the busiest parts of South Terminal.
The map of Gatwick South Terminal places international arrivals, UK and Republic of Ireland arrivals, check-in areas, shops, and onward travel connections on this level.
It is also where you will find routes towards the railway station, North Terminal shuttle, taxi access, and car parks.
Check-In Areas
The South Terminal map labels several check-in zones, including A, C, D, E, F, H, J and K.
Each airline uses an assigned area for check-in and bag drop. These allocations can change, so check the flight information screens when you arrive.
If you have already checked in online and only have cabin baggage, you may be able to go straight towards security, depending on your airline’s requirements.
Arrivals Hall
The public arrivals area is where passengers come after collecting their luggage and clearing customs.
It includes familiar landmarks such as:
- WHSmith
- Boots
- M&S Simply Food
- Pret a Manger
- Greggs
- Onward travel desks
- Toilets and accessible facilities
- Lifts and escalators
These shops are useful landmarks if you need to explain your location to someone meeting you.
Train Station and Shuttle Routes
The South Terminal Gatwick map marks the routes towards the railway station and the North Terminal shuttle.
From the public arrivals hall, follow the signs reading “Train Station” or “Trains”. Gatwick Airport station is connected to South Terminal, and the walk normally takes about five minutes.
For North Terminal, follow the signs for the inter-terminal shuttle rather than the railway platforms.
Level 20 Airside | Baggage Reclaim and Lower Departure Lounge
Level 20 also contains restricted passenger areas.
However, the arriving baggage hall and the departing airside lounge are not the same public space. They have separate access routes.
International Baggage Reclaim
After passport control, arriving international passengers follow the signs to baggage reclaim.
The airport map shows baggage carousels numbered 1 to 8, with an oversized baggage collection area near carousels 6 and 7.
Look at the flight information screens to identify your assigned carousel.
After collecting your luggage, continue through customs and into the public arrivals hall.
Lower Departure Lounge
Passengers who have passed through departure security can access the lower international departure lounge.
This area includes:
- World Duty Free
- WHSmith
- Boots
- Pandora
- Other fashion and travel shops
- Toilets, seating and passenger services
- Routes towards departure gates
The terminal map groups the gates into two main directions.
- Gates 1–5: Follow signs for Pier 1.
- Gates 10–95: Follow signs for Piers 2 and 3.
Some gates are farther from the main lounge than others. Check the flight information screens regularly and leave enough time to walk to your assigned gate.
Level 30 | Departures, Security and Upper Departure Lounge
Level 30 is where departing passengers reach the main security entrance.
The map of Gatwick South Terminal shows the standard departures route, Fast Track entrance, family and assistance security areas, lifts, escalators, and nearby shops.
Before Security
After completing check-in or bag drop on Level 20, follow the signs towards Level 30 departures.
The public side of Level 30 includes:
- Standard security access
- Fast Track and premium security access
- Family and special assistance routes
- Passenger seating
- Toilets and accessible facilities
- Cafés and nearby services
Gatwick also has designated assistance facilities for passengers who need help moving through the airport.
If you require assistance, arrange it through your airline in advance.
After Security (Upper Departure Lounge)
Once you have cleared security, you can explore the main departure lounge.
Food and drink options include Pret a Manger, Starbucks, Wagamama, Nando’s, Wetherspoon, and other restaurants.
You will also find airport lounges, retail shops, and routes connecting to the lower departure area.
The airport’s floor map is helpful here because the upper lounge contains different walkways and facilities from the lower shopping area.
Navigation Tip: Do not head towards a gate simply because it looks closest on the map. Check your actual flight’s gate number first, then follow the overhead signs.
Gatwick South Arrivals | How to Find Your Way After Landing?
Arriving passengers follow a different route from those heading to departures.
The map of Gatwick South Terminal becomes especially useful once you reach the public arrivals hall and need to find your onward transport.
Here is how the process works.
Step 1: Leave the Aircraft
Follow the signs marked “Arrivals”. Depending on where the aircraft parks, you may walk through a pier or take an airport bus to the terminal.
Step 2: Go Through Passport Control
International passengers who require immigration checks will pass through UK Border Force. Use the correct queue or ePassport gate for your passport and eligibility.
Step 3: Collect Your Luggage
Check the baggage information screens, go to your carousel, and collect your bags. If your luggage is missing, contact your airline’s baggage handling team before leaving the restricted area.
Step 4: Pass Through Customs
Use the appropriate customs channel. Declare goods when required.
Step 5: Enter the Public Arrivals Hall
Once you leave customs, you will be on Level 20. This is where you can find shops, travel information, the railway station route, and people meeting arriving passengers.
Where Is the Meeting Point at Gatwick South Terminal?
If someone is collecting you inside the terminal, agree on a clear landmark before your flight.
WHSmith and M&S Simply Food are both useful locations within the Level 20 public area.
For passengers who have booked with My London Transfer, the designated South Terminal meeting point is WHSmith inside the arrivals hall.
Your driver meets you with a personalised name board and helps you reach the vehicle.
You can check the exact location, along with arrangements at other airports, on our airport meeting points guide.
Remember that an inside-terminal meeting point is different from the vehicle pickup area. Your driver may meet you in arrivals and then walk with you to the parked car.
Gatwick South Departures | From Check-In to Boarding
Flying from South Terminal? Your route starts with check-in and ends at the departure gate.
Using the map of Gatwick South Terminal, you can divide the process into four simple stages.
1. Find Your Check-In Zone
Enter the terminal and check the departure screens for your airline’s bag-drop or check-in area on Level 20.
2. Head Towards Level 30
Once you have checked in and dropped off your bags, follow the overhead signs for departures and security.
3. Clear Security
Use the standard security entrance or the assistance, family, or Fast Track lane that applies to you.
4. Check Your Boarding Gate
Once inside the departure lounge, look at the flight information screens. Follow the signs for the correct pier and gate.
For planning, allow around two hours before short-haul departures and three hours before long-haul flights, unless your airline advises otherwise.
You can also check the live Gatwick flight information for arrivals and departures.
Gatwick South Terminal Shops, Restaurants and Facilities
Need a coffee, forgotten a travel essential, or looking for somewhere to eat before your flight?
The map of Gatwick South Terminal helps you distinguish between shops available before security and those only accessible after security.
Before Security
The public areas include options such as WHSmith, Boots, M&S Simply Food, Greggs, Pret, and Caffè Nero.
These are convenient if you are waiting for someone, arriving early, or need snacks and other essentials before heading to security.
After Security
The departure lounges have a wider selection of retail and dining options.
You can find World Duty Free, Boots, WHSmith, JD Sports, Pandora, and other fashion and travel shops.
Restaurants include Wagamama, Nando’s, PizzaExpress, Starbucks, Pret, and Wetherspoon.
Other Useful Facilities
South Terminal also provides:
- Free airport Wi-Fi
- Cash machines and currency exchange
- Toilets and baby-changing facilities
- Special assistance facilities and accessible lifts
- Excess Baggage Company luggage storage
- Airport lounges and seating areas
- Prayer and quiet reflection facilities
Some services have different opening hours, so check the airport’s current directory if you need a particular facility late at night.
Gatwick South Terminal Parking | Car Parks, Prices and Pickup Areas
Parking is often the most confusing part of visiting Gatwick South Terminal, especially if you are collecting someone for the first time.
The map of Gatwick South Terminal shows the car park buildings close to the terminal and the roads leading towards the drop-off areas.
However, parking for several days, collecting a passenger, and dropping someone off are three different situations.
1. Short Stay Car Parking at Gatwick South Terminal
South Terminal has three main Short Stay car parks: Car Park 1, Car Park 2, and Car Park 3.
These are located close to the terminal, with a typical walk of around four minutes.
They are suitable for:
- Collecting friends or family
- Meeting an arriving passenger inside the terminal
- Short visits to the airport
- Parking when you want quick terminal access
Gatwick’s published Short Stay roll-up prices include:
| Parking Duration | Published Roll-Up Price |
| Up to 30 minutes | £8 |
| 31–60 minutes | £14 |
| 1–2 hours | £18 |
| 2–3 hours | £21.50 |
These are standard published rates, not guaranteed future prices. Check the official Gatwick parking rates before travelling.
Where Is Express Pickup?
The designated South Terminal express pickup area is:
- Car Park 3, Ground Floor (Level 0).
This is the correct area for drivers who want passengers to walk directly to their waiting vehicle.
Drivers must remain with their vehicles in the express pickup bays.
Do not confuse this with Premium Short Stay parking, which uses Level 2 of Car Park 3.
2. Long Stay Parking
Long Stay parking is better suited to people leaving their vehicles at the airport for several days.
It is farther from the terminal and requires a shuttle bus.
The airport provides free shuttle transfers, with journeys to South Terminal generally taking around 5–10 minutes, depending on the service and stop.
One particularly useful feature is the first two hours of free Long Stay parking.
This can be a practical choice for friends or family collecting an arriving passenger, especially when they do not mind taking the shuttle bus.
Charges apply after the free period. Follow the signs to the designated Long Stay shuttle stop.
3. Mid Stay, Premium and Valet Parking
Gatwick also offers several alternatives for drivers who want different levels of convenience.
- Mid Stay: A walking-distance parking option, with the airport advertising roughly six minutes to South Terminal departures.
- Premium Short Stay: Closer terminal access, including Level 2 of Car Park 3, with a walk of around two minutes.
- Valet Parking: You hand over your vehicle at a designated location, and the operator parks it for you.
These options are useful for longer trips, business travel, or anyone who prefers not to use a transfer bus.
4. South Terminal Drop-Off Zone
The drop-off zone is outside the terminal on the lower forecourt.
The current published charge is:
- £10 for the first 10 minutes
- £1 for each additional minute up to 20 minutes
- Maximum charge of £30, with a maximum stay of 30 minutes
Payment is due by midnight the day after using the zone.
Blue Badge holders may qualify for an exemption, subject to the airport’s registration requirements.
Important: The forecourt drop-off area is not the normal collection point for arriving passengers. For pickups, use the designated Short Stay parking areas instead.
Transport Options from Gatwick South Terminal to Central London
Travelling from Gatwick South Terminal to central London? You have several options, from trains and coaches to private airport transfers. Here is a quick comparison of prices, journey times, pickup locations, and the pros and cons of each.
1. Pre-Booked Private Airport Transfers
Cost: From £85 per vehicle
Journey Time: 65–100 minutes
Pickup: South Terminal, Level 20 arrivals hall
A pre-booked airport transfer takes you directly to your hotel or chosen address. With My London Transfer’s Gatwick airport taxi service, your driver meets you near WHSmith in the arrivals hall, holding a name board, and helps with your luggage.
How Much Does It Cost Per Person?
| Vehicle | Total Fare | Cost Per Person |
| Standard Saloon (3 passengers) | £84.66 | £28.22 |
| Electric/Hybrid (4 passengers) | £86.78 | £21.70 |
| Large People Carrier (7 passengers) | £152.39 | £21.77 |
Prices are example one-way fares to central London, shared equally at full passenger capacity. Check luggage allowances and your final quote before booking.
Pros: Door-to-door service with no transport changes; fixed fare, flight monitoring, and luggage assistance.
Con: Advance booking is recommended.
2. Gatwick Express
Cost: Around £24 per person
Journey Time: 30–31 minutes
Frequency: Every 30 minutes
Destination: London Victoria
Where to board: From Level 20 arrivals, follow the “Trains” signs to Gatwick Airport railway station, approximately five minutes away. Check the departure screens for your platform.
The train runs non-stop to London Victoria, where you can change to the Underground or take a taxi to your hotel.
Pros: Fast, direct train to Victoria; comfortable with luggage space.
Cons: More expensive than regular trains; only serves Victoria, so you may need another connection.
3. Thameslink
Cost: Around £10.70 off-peak / £19.20 peak
Journey Time: 30–50 minutes
Frequency: Several trains per hour
Destinations: London Bridge, Blackfriars, Farringdon and St Pancras
Where to board: Follow the “Trains” signs from Level 20 to Gatwick Airport station. Check the departure boards for a Thameslink service stopping at your destination.
Use an eligible contactless card, Oyster card, or train ticket.
Pros: Affordable off-peak fares; direct connections to several central London stations.
Cons: Can be crowded during rush hour; luggage can be inconvenient on busy trains.
4. Southern Railway
Cost: Around £10.70 off-peak / £19.20 peak
Journey Time: 32–46 minutes
Frequency: Up to 4 trains per hour to Victoria
Destination: London Victoria via East Croydon and Clapham Junction
Where to board: From South Terminal arrivals, follow signs to the railway station and check the screens for Southern services towards London Victoria.
You can use contactless, Oyster, or a valid rail ticket.
Pros: Usually cheaper than Gatwick Express; regular services to Victoria.
Cons: Stops at intermediate stations; limited luggage space during busy periods.
5. National Express Coaches
Cost: From £6 per person on selected advance fares
Journey Time: 65–140 minutes
Destination: London Victoria Coach Station
Where to board: From Level 20 arrivals, follow the “Coaches” signs down to the lower forecourt. National Express uses Stops 1–5; check your ticket for the correct departure.
Coaches have luggage storage and take you to Victoria Coach Station, where you can continue by Underground, bus, or taxi.
Pros: Low-cost tickets available; luggage storage included.
Cons: Journey times depend on traffic; usually slower than trains.
6. Licensed Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps
Cost: Around £90–£120 for a licensed taxi; UberX published average around £81
Journey Time: 60–100+ minutes
Destination: Directly to your chosen address
Where to board: For official airport taxis, follow the “Taxis” signs from arrivals. Gatwick’s official private hire provider is Airport Cars Gatwick.
For Uber or other ride-hailing apps, book your ride and follow the app’s pickup directions to the designated car park area. Do not wait in the terminal drop-off forecourt.
Pros: Direct travel to your destination; no advance booking required.
Cons: Prices can vary with demand; you may need to walk to a car park and wait for your driver.
Which Transport Option Is Best?
| Transport | Approx. Cost | Journey Time | Best For |
| Pre-Booked Private Transfer | From £85/Car (£21.70/Person For 4 In The Example) | 65–100 Min | Families and groups |
| Gatwick Express | £24/Person | 30–31 Min | Fast travel to Victoria |
| Thameslink | From £10.70/Person | 30–50 Min | Multiple London stations |
| Southern | From £10.70/Person | 32–46 Min | Budget travel to Victoria |
| National Express | From £6/Person | 65–140 Min | Lowest-cost travel |
| Taxi / Uber | Approx. £81–£120/Car | 60–100+ Min | Flexible door-to-door trips |
Prices are indicative and may change with travel dates, demand, routes, or ticket types. Journey times exclude additional connections and waiting.
Our Tip: If you are travelling alone and staying near a train station, Thameslink or Southern may offer better value. For families or groups with luggage, a shared private transfer can cost around £22–£28 per person, depending on vehicle size, while taking you straight to your destination.
If you are travelling onward to another London airport, check connection times carefully. Our London airport-to-airport transfer guide explains the main routes and transfer choices.
Practical Tips for Finding Your Way Around Gatwick South Terminal
A few simple checks can save you a lot of walking.
- Download the terminal map before travelling. Keep a copy on your phone in case your internet connection is unreliable.
- Check your flight’s terminal. Do not assume that every flight operated by a familiar airline uses South Terminal.
- Remember the main levels. Level 20 is the key area for arrivals and check-in. Level 30 leads to departures and security.
- Check whether a shop is before or after security. Some facilities are only available once you have entered the departure lounge.
- Confirm your pickup instructions. An arrivals-hall meeting point and a car park collection bay are not the same location.
- Leave time to reach your gate. Some South Terminal gates involve a longer walk from the main departure lounge.
- With the map of Gatwick South Terminal saved on your phone, you can find the right route without searching for directions at every turn.
Conclusion
Gatwick South Terminal is much easier to navigate once you know how its levels connect.
Level 00 covers lower ground transport. While level 20 handles arrivals, check-in, and station connections. Level 30 is the main route to departure security, with shopping and dining areas on the airside levels.
The map of Gatwick South Terminal helps you locate these areas, find the right gate, reach the railway station, and avoid confusion over car park pickup points.
Before travelling, check your airline terminal, save the official map, and decide how you will leave the airport.
That way, once you arrive, you will already know where to go.
Tired After Your Flight and Unsure Where to Go?
My London Transfer offers a fixed-price airport taxi transfer with a driver waiting for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where can I download a map of Gatwick South Terminal?
You can download the official South Terminal PDF from Gatwick Airport’s website. It includes layouts for Level 00, Level 20, Level 30, baggage reclaim, check-in, security, shopping, and gate access.
2. What level are arrivals at Gatwick South Terminal?
The public arrivals hall is on Level 20. After baggage reclaim and customs, passengers enter this area, where they can find WHSmith, Boots, M&S Simply Food, and onward transport routes.
3. What level are departures at Gatwick South Terminal?
Check-in and bag drop are mainly on Level 20, while the main departures and security entrance are on Level 30. After security, passengers can access the departure lounges and routes towards their gates.
4. Is the Gatwick Airport train station at South Terminal?
Yes. Gatwick Airport railway station is directly connected to South Terminal, around a five-minute walk from arrivals and departures. Trains include Gatwick Express, Thameslink, Southern, and Great Western Railway services.
5. Which airlines use Gatwick South Terminal?
Airlines listed at South Terminal include British Airways, Ryanair, Jet2, Wizz Air, Vueling, Norwegian, Turkish Airlines, and Norse Atlantic Airways. Always confirm your specific flight’s terminal before travelling.
6. Can you walk between Gatwick North and South Terminals?
Gatwick publishes outdoor walking routes between the terminal areas, but the free inter-terminal shuttle is the easiest option for most passengers. It runs 24 hours a day and takes around two minutes between shuttle stations.
The shuttle is on the public side of the airport, so it is not a direct airside connection between departure lounges.
7. Where is the pickup point at Gatwick South Terminal?
The airport’s express pickup area is in Car Park 3, Ground Floor. If you have arranged to meet someone inside the arrivals hall, use the landmark agreed with that person or your transfer provider.
8. How much is parking for 30 minutes at Gatwick South Terminal?
Gatwick’s published standard Short Stay roll-up rate is £8 for up to 30 minutes. The next rate is £14 for 31–60 minutes. Charges can change, so check the current parking tariff before arriving.
9. Is there free parking at Gatwick South Terminal?
Yes. Gatwick offers up to two hours of free parking in its Long Stay car parks, with a free shuttle bus to the terminal. The terminal’s Short Stay car parks are chargeable.
10. What is the Gatwick South Terminal drop-off charge?
The published drop-off charge is £10 for the first 10 minutes, followed by £1 per additional minute up to 20 minutes. Payment must be made by midnight the following day. The maximum published charge is £30.
11. Can I use Oyster or contactless on Gatwick Express?
Yes. Oyster and contactless payment are accepted on eligible Gatwick Express journeys between Gatwick Airport and London Victoria. Gatwick Express charges a higher fare than Southern, so compare prices before choosing your train.
12. How early should I arrive at Gatwick South Terminal?
As a general guide, aim to arrive two hours before a short-haul flight and three hours before a long-haul flight. Always follow your airline’s specific check-in and bag-drop instructions.
13. Are there shops and restaurants before security at Gatwick South Terminal?
Yes. Shops and food outlets in the public terminal area include WHSmith, Boots, M&S Simply Food, Pret, Greggs, and Caffè Nero. More shopping and dining options are available after security.
14. How do I get from Gatwick South Terminal to central London?
You can use Gatwick Express, Thameslink, Southern, coaches, taxis, ride-hailing apps, or a pre-booked private transfer. Trains are usually quicker for station-to-station journeys, while a car provides direct travel to your final address.
15. Where can I find a driver meeting me at Gatwick South Terminal?
Check the meeting location stated in your booking confirmation. My London Transfer uses WHSmith inside the South Terminal arrivals hall. Your driver will be holding a personalised name board.
