Updated: October 2009
Traveling by Train between Gatwick Airport and Central London
The Gatwick Express is the quickest way into central London. The station is in the South Terminal and linked to other parts by escalators and lifts. Gatwick Express operates four trains per hour to and from London Victoria, journey time 30 minutes. There is no service between 00.30 and 03.30 from London and between 01.35 and 04.35 from Gatwick. Other rail operators run services through the night. Fares are from £16.90 single.
Southern operate several trains per hour to and from London Victoria. The average journey time is 40 minutes. An hourly service operates through the night. Fares are from £10.90 single.
First Capital Connect (formerly Thameslink) operate up to four trains per hour to and from London Bridge, City Thameslink, Blackfriars, Farringdon, and St. Pancras International stations. (Note, Blackfriars underground station is closed until late 2011 as part of Network Rail's Thameslink upgrade program.) Journey time is from 30 minutes. An hourly service operates through the night. Fares are from £7.90 single.
Coach Services between Gatwick Airport and Central London
National Express operates an hourly coach service to and from Victoria Coach Station. Journey time is 65-95 minutes. Fares are from £7.30 single.
Easy Bus operates the eb4 route from Fulham Broadway from 06.00 to 22.00 and Gatwick from 06.40 to 23.00. Journey time is about 70 minutes. Online fares are always better than paying the driver. Prices from £2 single (online price), £7 (at ticket desk).
By Taxi between Gatwick Airport and Central London
You can usually find a queue of black cabs at both terminals. The fare is metered, but watch for extra charges such as late night or weekend journeys. Tipping is not compulsory, but 10% is considered the norm. Expect to pay at least £75 to get to Central London. Only use a reputable mini-cab and never use unauthorized drivers who offer their services at airports or stations.
