Gatwick North Terminal Guide-Lounges, Parking, Hotels & Transport
The London Gatwick North Terminal is one of the two passenger terminals at London Gatwick Airport, serving millions of travellers each year. Opened in 1988, the terminal has grown into a modern travel hub with efficient check-in areas, premium lounges, diverse shopping options, restaurants, parking facilities, and excellent transport connections to London and the rest of the UK.
This detailed guide explains everything travellers need to know about the North Terminal, including arrivals procedures, departures, lounges, parking options, airport hotels, transport links, and passenger services.
Overview of Gatwick North Terminal
London Gatwick Airport has two terminals: the North Terminal and the South Terminal. They are connected by a free automated shuttle train that runs 24 hours a day and takes approximately two minutes. The North Terminal is known for its modern layout, efficient passenger flow, and wide range of facilities for both business and leisure travellers.- Location: Northern side of Gatwick Airport
- Distance from Central London: about 28 miles
- Free shuttle train connection to the South Terminal
- Open 24 hours daily
Arrivals at Gatwick North Terminal
Aircraft Arrival
Passengers normally disembark via a jet bridge into the terminal building. In some cases, buses transport passengers from the aircraft to the terminal.Immigration and Passport Control
The immigration area includes lanes for UK passport holders, automated e-passport gates, and international visitors. E-gates allow eligible travellers to scan their passports and pass through immigration quickly.Baggage Reclaim
After immigration, passengers proceed to baggage reclaim, where digital screens display flight numbers and carousel information. Luggage trolleys are available throughout the baggage hall, and airline service desks assist passengers with delayed baggage.Arrivals Hall Facilities
- ATMs and currency exchange
- Car hire desks
- Airport information desks
- Coffee shops and convenience stores
- Meeting point for taxi and transfer drivers
Airlines at Gatwick North Terminal
The following airlines all operate from the North Terminal| Aeroflot | Air Canada | Air China | Air Transat |
| Delta | easyJet | Emirates | Freebird |
| Icelandair | JetBlue | Lufthansa | Meridiana |
| Qatar Airways | Royal Air Maroc | Rwandair | Saudia |
| TUI | West Jet |
Departures at Gatwick North Terminal
Entering the Terminal
Passengers can reach the North Terminal by train, bus, taxi, airport transfer, or private car.Check-In Options
- Airline check-in desks
- Self-service kiosks
- Online check-in with bag drop
- Short-haul flights – arrive 2 to 3 hours early
- Long-haul flights – arrive 3 to 4 hours early
Security Screening
Security screening includes X-ray scanning of hand luggage, body scanners, and checks for liquids and electronics. Passengers should remove laptops, tablets, and liquids from bags before placing them in trays.Airport Lounges at Gatwick North Terminal
Several premium lounges are available at the North Terminal. These lounges provide a quiet and comfortable space before departure.No1 Lounge
- Complimentary food and drinks
- Runway views
- Comfortable seating
- Free Wi-Fi
Plaza Premium Lounge
- Buffet meals
- Full bar service
- Work areas
- Comfortable seating
My Lounge
- Relaxed environment
- Self-service drinks
- Entertainment areas
- Snacks and refreshments
Clubrooms Lounge
- Premium lounge experience
- Waiter service
- À la carte dining
- Quiet business areas
Parking at Gatwick North Terminal
From family holidays and all-inclusive trips to business travel, we offer a variety of car parking options designed for convenience, great value, and a smooth start to your journey. If you’re unsure which parking option suits your needs best, our team is here to help you find the perfect choice.- You can’t park closer to the North Terminal
- Save up to 60% when you book online
- The only secure on-airport parking
- No cancellation or amendment fees*
Short Stay Parking
Heading away for a short break, travelling on business, or collecting arriving passengers? With official Short Stay parking at London Gatwick, you can park and walk directly to the terminal in minutes.- Keep your keys with you
- Just a four-minute covered walk to the terminal
- Safe and secure parking facilities
- Blue Badge parking spaces available
- Accessible for both North and South Terminals
Long Stay Parking
Gatwick Airport Long Stay Parking offers a convenient and budget-friendly solution for travellers planning longer trips or all-inclusive holidays. Located near the airport, this parking option lets you park your vehicle securely and take a quick shuttle directly to the terminal, ensuring a smooth, stress-free start to your journey.- Keep your keys with you
- Just a short 10-minute shuttle bus ride to the terminal
- Free shuttle bus service operates regularly
- Blue Badge parking spaces available
- Accessible for both North and South Terminals
Valet Parking
Start your journey in style with London Gatwick Airport Valet Parking, the ideal choice for travellers seeking a premium and hassle-free airport experience. Simply hand your vehicle over to our professional team at the terminal, walk straight to departures within minutes, and enjoy a seamless start to your trip. When you return, your car will be ready and waiting for you. Valet parking at London Gatwick offers several advantages, including:- Just atwo-minute covered walk to the terminal
- Available atboth North and South Terminals
- The only official on-airport valet parking service
- No waiting for shuttle buses
- Your vehicle is ready and waiting upon your return
- Complete peace of mind, knowing your car is managed and returned by trained professionals
Pickup and Drop-Off
Drop-Off passengers at London Gatwick
Gatwick North Terminal’s drop-off zone is on the lower forecourt, charging £10 for 10 minutes (plus £1 per extra minute up to 20), payable online by midnight the next day. For picking up, use Car Park 6, Level 4 (Short Stay). Taxis generally use the designated terminal forecourt for drop-offs. Drop-Off Information (North Terminal)- Location: Directly outside the terminal entrance, accessible via the approach road.
- Cost: £10 for up to 10 minutes, £1 per minute up to 20 minutes maximum.
- Maximum Stay: 30 minutes.
- Payment: Must be paid online at dropoff.gatwickairport.com or by phone. Failure to pay by midnight the day after arrival results in a £100 Parking Charge Notice (PCN).
Picking up passengers at London Gatwick
Whether you’re planning to meet friends, family, or colleagues inside London Gatwick Airport, or simply prefer a quick drive-through pickup, there are convenient options available to suit your needs.1- Meeting Passengers in the Arrivals Hall
If you wish to greet passengers inside the terminal, you can park in the Short Stay car parks, located just a few minutes’ walk from the terminal building. From there, it’s easy to reach the arrivals hall where you can welcome your passengers and assist them with their luggage.2- Express Pick-Up Areas
If you prefer to remain in your vehicle, Gatwick also offers Express Pick-Up bays within the Short Stay car parks. Simply pull into one of these designated areas and ask your passengers to meet you there. Location: North Terminal – Car Park 6, Level 4 Please note that drivers must remain with their vehicle at all times. Vehicles left unattended may receive a parking charge notice. Express Pick-Up zones are intended for collection only and should not be used for passenger drop-offs.Directions to the North Terminal Express Pick-Up
- From London or Brighton, exit the M23 at Junction 9 and follow signs for Gatwick Airport.
- At the first roundabout (Junction 9a), continue straight ahead following signs for the North Terminal.
- At the next roundabout, take the first exit, clearly signposted North Terminal.
- Move into the left-hand lane and proceed towards the Short Stay car park entrance barriers, located directly ahead.
- The Express Pick-Up area is located on Level 4 of Car Park 6.
Hotels At and Around Gatwick North Terminal
On-Airport Hotels
The North Terminal is within a few minutes’ walk of the impressive Sofitel, a towering luxury establishment overlooking the airport’s runways. The North terminals are linked by an automated train, meaning that travellers arriving or departing from either terminal are still just a short distance from their chosen hotel. The two on-site hotels, the Sofitel and the Hilton, are conveniently signposted around Gatwick Airport. The hotels on the airport grounds can be easily reached either on foot via a covered walkway or by taking the free automated train service, which runs every 4-5 minutes- Restaurant and bar facilities
- Business lounges
- Express check-in services
1-Hampton by Hilton
Directly connected to Gatwick’s North Terminal, Hampton by Hilton is just steps from check-in and a five-minute ride from the South Terminal via the complimentary shuttle service.- Address: North Terminal, Longbridge House, Horley, Gatwick RH6 0PJ, United Kingdom
- Phone: +44 1293 579999
2-Sofitel
This four-star hotel is conveniently located at the North Terminal and offers easy access to the South Terminal. Guests can choose from a variety of accommodation options, including luxurious suites, spacious family rooms, and accessible rooms designed for added comfort and convenience.- Address: London Gatwick Airport, North Terminal, Crawley, Horley, Gatwick RH6 0PH, United Kingdom
- Phone: +44 1293 567070
2-Premier Inn
Premier Inn is conveniently located directly opposite the North Terminal’s main entrance, making it extremely easy to access on foot. The hotel also provides a complimentary transfer to the South Terminal, which takes approximately two minutes. This quick connection makes Premier Inn a practical accommodation choice regardless of which terminal you are departing from.- Address: North Terminal, Northway, Horley, Gatwick RH6 0GQ, United Kingdom
- Phone: +44 871 527 9354
Nearby Hotels
Many nearby hotels offer shuttle buses to the airport and lower room rates than on-site hotels.1-Holiday Inn London Gatwick – Worth by IHG
It is 0.9 miles from Gatwick Airport. This contemporary hotel is also 5 miles from the Hawth Theatre and 12 miles from the Wakehurst Place country estate. The relaxed rooms feature Wi-Fi (fee), flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffee-making facilities. Some also have sofabeds, and upgraded rooms include desks and minibars. Kids age 17 and under stay free with an adult. Room service is available.- Address: Crabbet Park, Turners Hill Rd, Worth, Crawley RH10 4SS, United Kingdom
- Phone: +44 1293 884806
2-Sandman Signature London Gatwick
This sleek, modern hotel is 2 miles from the County Mall Shopping Centre, 6 miles from Gatwick Airport and 8 miles from the famous gardens at Wakehurst Place. The contemporary, air-conditioned rooms all include en suite bathrooms and have flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi, as well as tea and coffee-making facilities. There’s a restaurant and a bar serving food, as well as an indoor pool and a fitness room. Conference and event facilities are also available. Parking is free.- Address: 18-23 Tinsley Ln S, Three Bridges, Crawley, RH10 8XH, United Kingdom
- Phone: +44 1293 561186
3-The Elite Venue Selection
This stylish hotel is 6 miles from Hammerwood Park and 8 miles from Gatwick Airport. The understated rooms feature air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Suites add lounge areas, and the honeymoon suite has a claw-foot tub and a private deck. Leisure facilities include an indoor pool, tennis courts, a gym, and a spa. The hotel offers afternoon tea, as well as fine and casual dining at 2 restaurants.
- Address: London Rd, East Grinstead RH19 2BH, United Kingdom
- Phone: +44 1342 337700
4-ibis Styles London Gatwick Airport
it is 3 miles from Gatwick Airport. This contemporary budget hotel is also 5 miles from Gatwick Airport train station and 10 miles from the gardens and estate of Wakehurst Place. The streamlined, modern rooms feature free Wi-Fi, work desks, flat-screen TVs, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. Pets are welcome for a fee. Breakfast is available for a fee. Other amenities include a casual 24-hour cafe/bar and a business centre. Parking and an airport shuttle are offered for a surcharge.
- Address: London Road, County Oak, Gatwick RH10 9GY, United Kingdom
- Phone: +44 1293 590300
5-Crowne Plaza
This modern airport hotel is 4 miles from Gatwick Airport, 6 miles from the National Trust’s Nymans gardens, and 9 miles from the 16th-century manor house, Wakehurst Place. Relaxed rooms with warm decor feature flat-screen TVs, minifridges, free Wi-Fi, and soundproof windows. Suites add separate sitting areas. Club quarters offer access to a private lounge. Room service is available 24/7. Amenities include a sleek restaurant, a lounge bar, a 24-hour fitness room, and a business centre in the lobby. Parking is available for a surcharge.
- Address: Crowne Plaza Hotel, Langley Dr, Crawley RH11 7SX, United Kingdom
- Phone: +44 1293 608608
Shopping at Gatwick North Terminal
1-Accessorize
Find your holiday fashion at Accessorize. Their selection of seasonal items complements any summer outfit.- Location: Both Terminals, After security
2-Bobbi Brown
Bobbi Brown offers a wide range of cosmetics and skincare, plus a free makeup lesson.- Location: North Terminal, after security
3-Boots
Stop by Boots for any essentials you forgot. Get dry shampoo, face wipes, paracetamol, bottled water, and more.- Location: Both TerminalsBefore and after security
4-Hugo Boss
Boss is the best place to shop for the perfect suit. But they also have a lot of casual wear and sportswear, so you can really treat yourself.- Location: Both TerminalsAfter security
5-ChangeGroup
Need to change currency at the last minute? ChangeGroup offers over 60 currencies.- Location: Both Terminals, before and after security
6-curi.o.city
Forgot to pick up a souvenir? Well, you’re in luck! This shop has it all, from the beloved Paddington Bear to Harry Potter.- Location: North Terminal, after security
7-Dune London
Looking for the finishing touches to your holiday wardrobe? Make sure to visit Dune London for all the latest men’s and women’s fashion must-haves.- Location: Both Terminals, After security
8-Excess Baggage Company
Pick up your last-minute luggage bags and travel accessories here. Why not opt to have your bags wrapped to avoid damage en route? You can even weigh your baggage before check-in to avoid excess charges.- Location: Both Terminals, Before security
9-Hamley’s
Hamley’s is every kid’s candy store of toys, gifts, and the latest games! So bring your little ones to find remote-control cars, magic tricks, teddy bears, and more!- Location: North Terminal, after security
10-Harrods
Harrods is known for quality and style. Shop branded accessories, luxury products, and unique food and drink.- Location: North Terminal, after security
11-Havaianas
Pick up a pair of iconic, comfortable flip flops—they’re holiday must-haves.- Location: Both Terminals, Before security
12-InMotion
Why not buy some must-have tech for either your travels or for personal use? There are many options, including portable chargers, mobile accessories, speakers, and more.- Location: Both Terminals, Before security
13-JD
JD is the place for top sportswear brands. Whether you need trainers or t-shirts, they’ve got you covered. Location: Both Terminals, Before security14-LEGO
From cuddly toys to action figures and travel games, you’ll find it all here.- Location: Both Terminals, Before security
15-Monsoon
Want something chic? Monsoon has it. Find everything from party dresses to children’s wear.- Location: Both Terminals, Before security
16-Reiss
Browse a wide selection of designer wear for women and men.- Location: Both Terminals, Before security
17-Sunglass Hut
Forgot your sunglasses? No worries—Sunglass Hut will help you find your next favorite pair.- Location: Both Terminals, Before security
18-Superdry
Find jumpers, hoodies, jeans, shoes, coats, hats, dresses, and more. The perfect stop for trendy outdoor styles for men and women.- Location: Both Terminals, Before security
19-Sim Local
Sim Local is your one-stop shop for network needs. Pick up a new SIM card and save on roaming fees.Since 1860, TAG Heuer has been a leader in high-precision timing, growing alongside the world of sports. Their focus on accuracy and performance has made them a trusted name.- Location: Both Terminals, Before security
20-WHSmith
WHSmith is known for books and magazines, but also offers drinks, snacks, music, and other essentials.- Location: Both Terminals, Before Security
21-White Stuff
Unique clothing with distinctive details, amazing fit, and certified sustainable materials.- Location: NorthTerminal, After Security
22-Venchi
Intense chocolate and gelato creations made from the finest fruits of nature. Venchi embodies the Italian soul of chocolate.- Location: NorthTerminal, After Security
23-Sknfed London
Compact, eco-conscious skincare essentials perfect for travel, wellbeing, and radiant skin.
- Location: NorthTerminal, After Security
24-RoarSome
Animal-themed swimwear for epic family holidays! Designed to get kids outdoors.
- Location: NorthTerminal, After Security
25-Rayban
Ray-Ban consistently combines great styling with exceptional quality, performance, and comfort.
- Location: NorthTerminal, After Security
26-Oakley
Explore sport sunglasses, goggles, apparel, and accessories at Oakley.
- Location: NorthTerminal, After Security
27-Laduree
A world-renowned Parisian patisserie, offering an array of delicate, colourful macarons.
- Location: NorthTerminal, After Security
Restaurants and Dining Options
1-BAR on the BALCONY
Enjoy a stylish start to your journey at the Bar on the Balcony, offering a wide range of beverages, including premium English sparkling wines. Whether you’re preparing for departure or simply taking a moment to relax, it’s the ideal spot to unwind and savour a refreshing drink before your flight.- Cuisine: Bar
- Location: North Terminal After security
2-BrewDog
Enjoy 20 rotating craft beer taps alongside a full-day menu of BrewDog favourites, complemented by a games area, photobooth, and plenty more to enhance your visit.- Cuisine: Brewery and Pub
- Location: North Terminal After security
3-Black Sheep Coffee
You certainly won’t go hungry here. A tempting selection of treats awaits, including freshly baked croissants, delicious cakes, and their signature Norwegian waffles, which can be customised with a variety of sweet or savoury fillings.- Cuisine: Coffee House
- Location: North Terminal After security
4-The Breakfast Club
The Breakfast Club is a lively café known for serving its signature dishes throughout the day. Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast, a flavourful brunch, or a satisfying lunch, this popular eatery offers a wide selection of delicious options to suit every taste.- Cuisine: Café
- Location: North Terminal After security
5-Juniper & Co
You’ll be spoilt for choice from Juniper Breakfast Club to steak sandwich!- Cuisine: Bar & Kitchen
- Location: North Terminal After security
6-Krispy Kreme
Craving something sweet? Stop by Krispy Kreme and treat yourself to one of their famous, melt-in-your-mouth doughnuts.- Cuisine: Doughnuts
- Location: North Terminal After security
7-M&S Simply Food
Renowned UK retailer Marks & Spencer offers a diverse range of high-quality food and drink products for travellers and shoppers alike.- Cuisine: Food Store
- Location: North Terminal After security
8-Pret A Manger
A popular high street brand across the UK, known for its excellent coffee, delicious sandwiches, fresh salads, and tempting sweet treats.- Cuisine: Coffee House
- Location: North Terminal After security
9-Pure
Enjoy a refreshing smoothie or a warm, freshly made toastie! With a wide range of options—including vegan and vegetarian choices—there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.- Cuisine: Bars and restaurants
- Location: North Terminal After security
10-Shake Shack
Shake Shack is renowned for its burgers so ordering a burger is a must!- Cuisine: Fast Food
- Location: North Terminal After security
10-Sonoma
Savour fresh, healthy meals and beverages while unwinding in a comfortable, stress-free environment.- Cuisine: Coffee House
- Location: North Terminal, after security
11-Wagamama
This well-known Japanese restaurant specialises in tasty noodle dishes. Head to the bench for your eat-in or takeaway Wagamama fix before you fly.-
- Cuisine: Bars and restaurants
- Location: Both Terminal After Arrivals
12- Starbucks
One of the world’s most recognised and loved coffee houses. Take a seat inae comfy chair and pick your favourite coffee.Customised coffee, handcrafted hot and cold beverages, sandwiches, and snacks are available.s.- Cuisine: Coffee House
- Location: North Terminal After Security
Gatwick North Terminal Passenger Facilities
Free Wi-Fi
Unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.Special Assistance
- Wheelchair assistance
- Escort through security
- Priority boarding
Family Facilities
- Baby-changing rooms
- Family seating areas
- Stroller access
Transport Connections
Whether you’re travelling by train, car, or coach, reaching London is simple and convenient. With direct transport links and train journeys taking less than 30 minutes, getting to and from London is quick and efficient. Explore the different travel options below to learn more about each route and discover how easily you can connect between London and the airport using your preferred mode of transportTrain Services
The Gatwick Airport railway station offers direct connections to Central London, Brighton, and other UK destinations.All rail services operate from London Gatwick’s South Terminal. If you arrive at North Terminal, simply take the free two-minute terminal shuttle service to the South Terminal.Bus and Coach Services
Long-distance coaches connect Gatwick Airport with several cities across the UK. National Express operates non-stop services between London Gatwick and Heathrow, with services to Stansted and Luton airports as well.Private Transfers & Minicabs
You can, of course, get a private transfer, taxi, or minicab to London Gatwick Airport. If you have a lot of luggage you don’t want to deal with on public transport, and you don’t like the idea of driving, this is a great option. You will be better off booking in advance, as there’s no guarantee that a taxi will be available at your required time, and it will nearly always be cheaper to do it this way. LTR Taxis is a Direct taxi transfer Company to and from Gatwick airport to London and anywhere in the UK.Airlines at Gatwick South Terminal
The South Terminal handles the bulk of Gatwick Airport’s traffic, serving domestic, international, and charter flights.| Aeroflot | Air Canada | Air China | Air Transat |
| Delta | easyJet | Emirates | Freebird |
| Icelandair | JetBlue | Lufthansa | Meridiana |
| Qatar Airways | Royal Air Maroc | Rwandair | Saudia |
| TUI | West Jet |
Travel Tips for Gatwick North Terminal
- Confirm your airline terminal before travelling
- Arrive early during peak travel seasons
- Pre-book parking and transport
- Check baggage rules before arriving
