London Gatwick Airport is one of the UK’s busiest airports, second only to Heathrow. Every year, millions of travellers pass through Gatwick on their way to destinations across Europe, North America, Asia, and beyond.
Unlike some airports that have a single central hub, Gatwick is divided into two major terminals North and South.
Wondering, “How to Get from North to South Terminal Gatwick?” Fear not, intrepid traveler! You’ve got options galore! Hop on the free 24/7 shuttle train, or if you’re feeling fancy, grab a taxi, book a private transfer, or hail a ride with an app. It’s all about balancing budgets, bags, and body comfort!
- Is time flying faster than your plane?
- Lugging a mountain of bags or just a backpack?
- Going solo or wrangling kids?
- Need a smooth ride for mobility?
- Pinching pennies or going stress-free?
Gatwick Airport Terminals Map Guide
If you are transferring between terminals at Gatwick Airport, checking the official terminal map beforehand can save you time and confusion.
Gatwick has two main terminals, North Terminal and South Terminal, connected by a free shuttle train. The layout is straightforward, but knowing where the shuttle station, check in desks, security, and arrivals areas are located can make your transfer much smoother.
North Terminal Map Street View
South Terminal Map
How Much Time Does It Take to Travel Between Gatwick North and South Terminals?
The North and South Terminals at Gatwick airport are approximately one mile apart. While this distance may seem manageable on paper factors such as luggage, airport congestion, and time constraints make walking impractical. Instead, you’ll want to opt for a shuttle, taxi, or ride-hailing service for a more convenient journey.
What Are the Transfer Time Options Between the Terminals?
Here is a simple breakdown of how long each option usually takes:
Shuttle Train (Free Inter Terminal Monorail)
- Journey time is around 2 minutes
- Including walking time most transfers take 5 to 10 minutes in total
- Runs frequently throughout the day
- Completely free for all passengers
Taxi Between Terminals
- Travel time is usually 5 to 10 minutes
- Depends on traffic and airport road conditions
- Direct drop off at the terminal entrance
- Ideal if you have heavy luggage or limited time
Even though the terminals are close to each other, choosing the right transfer option can make your journey much easier, especially if you are connecting to a flight and every minute matters. So while the distance isn’t huge, choosing the right transfer method can save you time and stress, especially if you’re cutting it close for a flight.
How Does the Free Shuttle Train Work Between North and South Terminal?
The Gatwick Airport Shuttle Train is the fastest and most reliable way to travel between the two terminals at Gatwick Airport. It is designed specifically to make terminal transfers smooth and stress free, especially for passengers catching connecting flights.
- Frequency: Every 2–3 minutes
- Operating hours: 24/7, day and night
- Duration: Just 2 minutes for the ride itself
- Access: Platforms are well signposted in both terminals, with lifts and escalators for easy step-free access
Pros of the Shuttle
- Free of charge
- Runs constantly, so you will rarely wait long
- Very fast and often quicker than a taxi when you factor in walking to taxi ranks
- Step free and accessible for wheelchairs, prams, and heavy luggage
- Environmentally friendly compared to road transport
- Clearly marked signs make navigation simple
Cons of the Shuttle
- It can get crowded at peak hours, especially early mornings and late afternoons
- Mostly standing room, which may not feel comfortable if you have bulky luggage or restless toddlers
- Still requires some walking inside the terminal to reach the platform
If your main concern is speed and cost, the shuttle is unbeatable. For most travellers, it’s the go-to option.
Are Taxis at Gatwick a Convenient Option for Terminal Transfers?
If convenience is your priority, Gatwick offers plenty of taxis right outside the arrivals halls. For connecting flights, Gatwick taxi north to south terminal are fast and reliable, ensuring you reach your gate on time. Whether you’re catching your next flight or heading directly to your destination.
- Taxi ranks: Easy to find, with licensed drivers.
- Payment options: Cash, credit/debit card, or contactless. Receipts are available on request.
- Cost: Expect to pay a small local fare for a terminal-to-terminal ride (ask or confirm with the driver before boarding).
When Taxis Are a Good Choice?
- You’re carrying heavy luggage or multiple bags
- You have a tight flight connection and don’t want to deal with shuttle crowds
- You’re travelling with children, prams, or elderly relatives
- You’re arriving or departing late at night and prefer a private vehicle
Cons of Taxis
- More expensive than the free shuttle
- It could take slightly longer during busy airport traffic periods
- Availability may vary slightly during peak travel times
Are Private Transfers and Ride Hailing Apps Worth It at Gatwick?
For travellers who want guaranteed comfort and complete peace of mind, private transfers or ride hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are excellent alternatives at Gatwick Airport.
If you prefer a more personalized and pre arranged service, My London Transfer offers private transfers at Gatwick Airport. This option is ideal for travellers who want everything organised in advance without worrying about queues, availability, or changing fares.
These services are especially popular with business travellers, families, and passengers arriving late at night who prefer a smooth and professional experience.
Pre-Booked Private Transfers
- Fixed price agreed in advance so there are no hidden costs
- Professional driver with meet and greet service inside arrivals
- Flight monitoring to adjust pickup time if your flight is delayed
- Comfortable and clean vehicles suitable for individuals or groups
- No waiting in taxi queues or dealing with busy shuttle platforms
- Easy online booking with advance fare estimates helpful if you’re wondering how much is a 30 minute taxi ride in London before planning your journey.
Ride-Hailing Apps (Uber, Bolt, etc.)
Ride hailing apps like Uber and Bolt offer a flexible and convenient way to travel between terminals at Gatwick Airport. You can book directly through the app, track your driver in real time, and pay digitally without handling cash.
They are a practical option if you prefer arranging transport from your phone, although prices can vary depending on demand and time of day.
- Book directly through the mobile app
- Pick up points are clearly marked at both terminals
- Digital payment makes the process simple and cash free
- Pricing can vary depending on demand, so watch for surge pricing during peak hours
Ride hailing apps offer flexibility, but fares may change depending on demand and time of day.
Pros and Cons of Private Transfers and Ride Hailing
Pros:
- Stress free, especially when booked in advance
- More private and often more comfortable than the shuttle
- Perfect for overnight arrivals or peak time travel
- Minimal walking compared to train platforms
- Greater reliability when pre booked with a trusted provider
Cons:
- More expensive than the free shuttle
- Ride hailing fares may fluctuate
- Advance booking is recommended during busy travel seasons
Which Option Should You Choose for Travelling Between Gatwick Terminals?
The best way to travel between terminals at Gatwick Airport really depends on your situation, budget, and how much time you have.
- Budget travellers: The shuttle is fast, free, and reliable.
- Travelling with kids, mobility needs, or lots of luggage: A taxi or pre-booked transfer is more convenient.
- Business travellers or those short on time: Pre-book a private transfer for guaranteed efficiency.
- Late-night or peak-time arrivals: A taxi or Uber saves you from crowds and waiting.
Tips for a Smooth Transfer
- Allow a buffer: Even if the shuttle is quick, always plan for an extra 20–30 minutes to avoid stress during connections.
- Pre-book during peak times: If travelling over Christmas, summer holidays, or weekends, arrange a taxi or transfer in advance.
- Follow the signs: Gatwick has excellent signage. Just keep an eye out for shuttle, taxi, or ride-hailing pick-up directions.
- Think about your luggage: If you’re handling multiple cases, a door-to-door taxi is often worth the extra money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the inter-terminal shuttle is completely free for all passengers and operates 24/7 between the two buildings.
The most common way is the free inter-terminal shuttle which runs 24/7 every few minutes, but for a more private and luggage-friendly experience, you can book a direct transfer that drops you right at the terminal doors.
Walking between terminals isn’t recommended as it takes about 20 to 25 minutes along outdoor paths, instead, the shuttle takes just 2 minutes, while a pre-booked car offers the quickest door-to-door transition.
The North Terminal is generally more modern and hosts airlines like easyJet and Emirates, while the South Terminal is the original airport hub, houses the train station, and serves carriers such as British Airways and Vueling.
The ride itself takes just 2 minutes, though you should allow about 10 minutes in total to account for walking to the station and waiting for the next train.
A terminal-to-terminal transfer is a short local fare; while prices can vary slightly based on the vehicle type and time of day, you can get an instant fixed quote through our booking tool for complete transparency.
Absolutely, professional taxi services and private transfers operate around the clock, ensuring you have a reliable way to move between terminals even in the middle of the night.
Yes, you can pre-book your transfer in advance to guarantee a driver is waiting for you, which is the best way to ensure a stress-free connection during busy periods.
The distance between Gatwick’s South and North Terminals is approximately 2.2 km, a journey that takes roughly two minutes via private transfer or the terminal shuttle.
No, walking between the terminals at Gatwick Airport is not allowed. There is no public pedestrian route, as the terminals are separated by airport roads and restricted areas.
Instead, you can use the free inter terminal shuttle train, which runs every 2 to 3 minutes, 24 hours a day. The ride takes about 2 minutes, and the full transfer usually takes 5 to 10 minutes including walking time.
Conclusion
Transferring between Gatwick’s North and South Terminals is a choice between standard transit and a tailored travel experience. While the automated shuttle provides a functional link for the average passenger, My London Transfers transforms this connection into a smooth experience, removing the burden of heavy luggage and long terminal walks through door-to-door service. By opting for a professional affordable taxi services over public options, you secure a reliable, private environment that remains unaffected by terminal crowds or peak-hour delays.
Whether you prioritize the speed of the shuttle or the refined ease of a pre-booked vehicle, Gatwick’s layout ensures a successful connection, however, for those individuals who value punctuality and a quiet space to prepare for their flight, a dedicated transfer remains the most dependable choice for a sophisticated journey.
