April 19, 2026 • By Santorini Dave
See Also
1. Sofitel Gatwick • 2. Hampton by Hilton • 3. Bloc Hotel • 4. Hilton Gatwick Airport • 5. Courtyard by Marriott Gatwick Airport
Gatwick Airport: My Practical Tips
- Terminal Transfers: Gatwick’s North and South terminals are linked by a free, 24 hour automated shuttle. The ride takes about 2 minutes. You can easily stay at a hotel in one terminal even if you are flying from the other, though staying at your departure terminal is the most convenient choice.
- North Terminal (Connected): Hampton by Hilton. This is my personal favorite for value. It is directly connected to the terminal so no shuttle is needed. It is modern and includes a reliable free breakfast.
- North Terminal (Connected): Sofitel Gatwick. This is the only true luxury option at the airport. It is connected via a covered walkway and offers excellent soundproofing and a professional hotel atmosphere.
- South Terminal (Connected): Bloc Hotel. This hotel is located inside the terminal right next to security. The rooms are tiny pods with wet rooms, but the location is unbeatable for early flights.
- South Terminal (Connected): Hilton Gatwick. A large, full service hotel connected by a covered walkway. The walk takes about 5 minutes. This is a solid choice for families who need more living space.
- Gatwick Express: This is the premium, non-stop service to Victoria Station. It takes 30 minutes and is the most expensive train option.
- Southern Trains: These trains run the same route to Victoria but make a few stops along the way. The journey takes 35 to 40 minutes and is significantly cheaper than the Express.
- Thameslink: This is the best option if you are staying in The City, Shoreditch, or near Kings Cross/St Pancras. It connects Gatwick directly to London Bridge, Blackfriars, and St Pancras. It is faster than taking the Express and then a tube.
- Day Trip Strategy: If you have a long layover, do not stay in the local area. Take the train south to Brighton. The trip takes 30 minutes. You can visit the famous pier, explore the Royal Pavilion, and find great food. It is far more interesting than the nearby town of Crawley.
- Best for Families: The Sofitel at the North Terminal has the largest rooms and good interconnecting options. For a more budget-friendly family stay, the Premier Inn at the North Terminal offers family rooms where kids eat for free.
The 5 Best Hotels near Gatwick Airport
1. Sofitel Gatwick – Luxury
• Grand hotel connected to the North Terminal (200m) via a skywalk; a free inter-terminal shuttle connects to the South Terminal and train station.
• Rooms are luxurious and soundproof and feature mod-cons and ensuite bathrooms with bathtubs; connecting rooms are available and Junior Suites can sleep 5.
• Luxury Rooms and Prestige Suites offer 24/7 Club Millesime access with complimentary breakfast in the morning and canapes and drinks in the evening.
• Dining options include 3 great restaurants (European, Asian, and casual bistro) + 2 bars.
• Fitness center, on-site parking, and business center with support staff.
• Front desk, concierge, and room service are available 24 hours.2. Hampton by Hilton – Moderate
• Good option connected to the North Terminal (50m) via a skywalk; connected to the South Terminal and train station by a 24-hour free inter-terminal shuttle.
• Comfortable and soundproofed rooms feature tea/coffee facilities and modern bathrooms, and include free breakfast; rooms with sofa beds can sleep 3.
• 1 café and bar with a limited menu; early (cold) breakfast starts at 4am.
• Adequate fitness center, small business center, and 24-hour front desk.
• Several dining options in both the terminals, or take the train to the city center (30 minutes).
• Note to NBA fans: I watched game 7 of the 2016 NBA finals at the Hampton’s hotel bar.3. Bloc Hotel – Moderate
• Great budget hotel in the South Terminal, just steps from the departure gates on the third floor.
• Sleek, compact rooms with king beds, smart lighting, complimentary bottled water, fast wi-fi, and powerful rain showers; Family Rooms available.
• Discounted Gatwick Airport Valet parking and 24-hour front desk.
• Hotel guests receive a special booklet with discount vouchers for several restaurants, cafes, and bars in the terminals.
• The city center is less than 30 minutes by train from the station within the terminal.4. Hilton Gatwick – Moderate
• Modern, pet-friendly hotel connected to the South Terminal and train station by a skywalk (500m).
• The spacious rooms are soundproof and feature blackout curtains and tea/coffee facilities; Twin Rooms can be connected with King Rooms to form Family Rooms.
• Suites and Executive Room guests can access the Executive Lounge to enjoy complimentary breakfast, refreshments, and drinks.
• 2 restaurants (international a la carte), 2 bars (1 sports bar), and 1 Costa Coffee outlet; breakfast starts at 5.30am (kids under 10 eat free).
• Other amenities include a bright, well-equipped fitness center and a business center.
• Concierge, front desk, and room service are 24 hours.
• Several restaurants and bars in both the terminals, and the city center is less than 30 minutes by train.5. Courtyard by Marriott Gatwick Airport – Moderate
• Spacious, soundproof rooms with blackout curtains, tea/coffee facilities, and comfortable beds; some rooms have bathtubs and some rates include breakfast.
• Family Rooms and Junior Suites sleep 4; cribs/play yards for babies (available on request).
• Dining options include a nice restaurant specializing in burgers, a barbecue and picnic area, a small convenience store, and room service.
• Amenities include paid parking, good breakfast choices (chargeable), business center, modern and well-equipped fitness center, and 24-hour front desk.
• Several dining options in both the terminals, otherwise, catch a train to the city center.
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