Gatwick South Terminal Guide-Lounges, Parking, Hotels & Transport
Lounges, Parking, Hotels, Taxi Pickup & Drop-Off, Arrivals, Departures, Shops, Restaurants & Essential Information
If you are travelling through London Gatwick South Terminal, understanding how the terminal works before you arrive can completely change your experience. We guide you step by step—whether you are arriving in the UK for the first time or departing on an international journey. This is not a surface-level overview. It is a fully explainable, traveller-focused guide covering every major aspect of Gatwick South Terminal, including what happens from the moment you arrive at the terminal, where to go, how long things take, where taxis really pick up, where to eat, where to shop, where to park, and how to move confidently through the airport.Understanding Gatwick South Terminal in Context
London Gatwick Airport has only two terminals: the South Terminal and the North Terminal. They are not walkable between each other. Instead, they are connected by a free, automated shuttle train that runs 24 hours a day, taking around 2 minutes. The South Terminal is the original and traditionally the busier of the two terminals. It primarily handles:- International long-haul flights
- Full-service airlines
- A high volume of leisure travellers
Arriving at Gatwick South Terminal: Step-by-Step Guidance
1-Aircraft Arrival and Disembarkation
After landing, passengers disembark either via:- A jet bridge directly into the terminal, or
- A short bus transfer (more common for some long-haul flights)
2-Immigration & Passport Control
Gatwick South Terminal handles passengers from all over the world. Immigration is divided into:- UK passport holders
- Eligible e-passport gates
- Manual passport control for international travellers
3-Baggage Reclaim
Once through passport control, you proceed to baggage reclaim:- Flight information screens clearly show carousel numbers
- Airport staff are available for assistance
- Lost baggage desks are located nearby
4- Arrivals Hall Facilities
After baggage reclaim, you enter the public arrivals hall. Here you’ll find:- ATMs and currency exchange
- SIM card providers
- Car hire desks
- Cafés and convenience stores
- Information desks
Airlines at Gatwick South Terminal
The South Terminal handles the bulk of Gatwick Airport’s traffic, serving domestic, international, and charter flights.| Aegean Airlines | Aer Lingus | Air Arabia Maroc | Air Baltic |
| Air Europa | Air Malta | Aurigny | Badr Airlines |
| Bamboo Airways | BH Air | British Airways | Corendon Airlines |
| Croatia Airlines | Eastern Air | easyJet | Enter Air |
| Germania | Iberia Express | Jet2 | Med-View Airline |
| Montenegro Airlines | Norwegian (Self-Service Available) | Norse | Pegasus |
| Ryanair | Scoot | Sky Express | SmartWings |
| SunExpress | TAP Portugal | Titan Airways | TUI |
| Turkish Airlines | Ukraine International Airlines | Vueling | Wizz Air |
Departing from Gatwick South Terminal: A Clear Process
1. Entering the Terminal
If you arrive by:- Train → you enter directly into the South Terminal
- Taxi or car → follow signs for Departures
Check-In Explained
The South Terminal offers:- Traditional airline desks
- Self-service kiosksy
- Automated bag-drop counters
- Short-haul flights: 2–3 hours before departure
- Long-haul flights: 3–4 hours before departure
3-Security Screening (Realistic Expectations)
Security is modern but busy. Expect:- Liquids and electronics screening
- Separate fast-track lanes (if eligible)
4-Departures Lounge (Airside)
Once through security, you enter the airside departures area:- Comfortable seating
- Charging points
- Clear gate signage
- Shops, restaurants, and lounges
Gatwick South Terminal Lounges
Lounges are not only for first-class travellers. Many are pay-to-enter and ideal for:- Long waits
- Business travellers
- Families wanting quiet space
What Lounges Typically Offer
- Complimentary hot and cold food
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
- Wi-Fi and charging points
- Comfortable seating
- Flight information screens
Parking at Gatwick South Terminal(Explained Simply)
Short-Stay Parking
- Closest to the terminal
- Ideal for drop-off and pick-up
- Higher cost for longer stays
Long-Stay Parking
- More affordable for holidays
- Shuttle buses operate frequently
- Secure and well-managed
Valet Parking
- Drop your car near the terminal
- Staff park it securely for you
- Highest convenience, highest price
Taxi Pickup & Drop-Off Locations (Clear Guidance)
Drop-Off
-
- Designated drop-off zones outside the terminal
Taxi Pickup
- Official taxi ranks near arrivals
- Pre-booked transfers have specific pickup points
- Meet-and-greet drivers wait inside arrivals
Hotels at and Around Gatwick South Terminal
On-Site Airport Hotels
Choose from a wide selection of on-airport and nearby hotels designed to suit every type of traveller. Whether you’re facing a long layover, looking for a convenient base to explore London, or planning a relaxing park-and-stay before an early morning departure from London Gatwick, there’s an option tailored to your needs. Several hotels also offer the added convenience and security of Official London Gatwick Parking, which can be seamlessly included in a value-packed accommodation-and-parking bundle. Park and stay options are available- Soundproofed and comfortable rooms
- Runway views are available in some
- Easy access to bars, cafes, and restaurants
- Short walks to both terminals
1-bloc
Perfectly positioned within the South Terminal, you’re just moments away from your departure gate. Relax with impressive runway views and enjoy a restful night’s sleep, then walk directly from the entrance to airport security in minutes — making your journey effortless from start to finish.- Address: South Terminal, Perimeter Rd E, Horley, Gatwick RH6 0NQ, United Kingdom.
- Phone: +44 20 3051 0101
2-Courtyard by Marriott
Just a short walk from the South Terminal, Courtyard by Marriott offers the convenience of an on-site restaurant and a fully equipped fitness centre — ideal for squeezing in a workout before your flight.- Address: Buckingham Gate, London Gatwick Airport, Horley, Gatwick RH6 0NT, United Kingdom
- Phone: +44 1293 566300
3-Hilton
Perfect for families, holidaymakers, and business travellers, the hotel offers a wide range of amenities including a fully equipped business centre, modern meeting rooms, an on-site hair salon, a 24-hour LivingWell Express Gym, plus a selection of restaurants and bars for dining and relaxation.- Address: South Terminal, Airport, Horley, Gatwick RH6 0LL, United Kingdom
- Phone: +44 1293 518080
4-Premier Inn
Located directly opposite the North Terminal’s main entrance, the Premier Inn offers convenient on-site amenities including a Costa Coffee outlet, a full-service restaurant and bar, a dedicated business lounge, and express check-in facilities for a smooth and efficient arrival.- Address: London Rd, Lowfield Heath, Crawley RH10 9ST, United Kingdom
- Phone: +44 333 777 7274
5-YOTEL
Situated within the South Terminal, YOTEL provides a selection of smart, comfortable cabins to suit different needs — Premium cabins featuring a double bed and Standard cabins with a single bed. With flexible bookings starting from just four hours, YOTEL is an ideal option for passengers in transit seeking rest and convenience between flights.- Address: Concourse, Gatwick Airport Ground Floor South Terminal, Arrivals Rd, Gatwick RH6 0NN, United Kingdom
- Phone: +44 20 7100 1100
Nearby Off-Airport Hotels
Often more affordable and served by shuttle buses.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
Gatwick South Terminal Shops
1-Accessorize
Find your holiday fashion at Accessorize. Their selection of seasonal items complements any summer outfit.- Location: Both Terminals, After security
2-Aerospa
Treat yourself before your flight with a massage, manicure, pedicure, or brow and lash treatment. Check their list for prices.- Location: South Terminal, After security
3-Bobbi Brown
Bobbi Brown offers a wide range of cosmetics and skincare, plus a free makeup lesson.- Location: North Terminal, after security
4-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
5-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
6-ChangeGroup
Need to change currency at the last minute? ChangeGroup offers over 60 currencies.- Location: Both Terminals, Before and after security
7-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
8-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
9-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
10-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
11-Harrods
Harrods is known for quality and style. Shop branded accessories, luxury products, and unique food and drink.- Location: North Terminal, after security
12-Havaianas
Pick up a pair of iconic, comfortable flip flops—they’re holiday must-haves.- Location: Both Terminals, Before security
13-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
14-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 security15-LEGO
From cuddly toys to action figures and travel games, you’ll find it all here.- Location: Both Terminals, Before security
16-Monsoon
Want something chic? Monsoon has it. Find everything from party dresses to children’s wear.- Location: Both Terminals, Before security
17-Reiss
Browse a wide selection of designer wear for women and men.- Location: Both Terminals, Before security
18-Rituals
Rituals Cosmetics has home and body products—from skincare to fragrances—to help you create meaningful routines.- Location: South Terminal, Before security
19-Sunglass Hut
Forgot your sunglasses? No worries—Sunglass Hut will help you find your next favorite pair.- Location: Both Terminals, Before security
20-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
21-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
22-TUDOR
TUDOR offers mechanical watches that combine style and reliability. Known for craftsmanship, these timepieces deliver unmatched value—luxury made accessible.- Location: South Terminal, Before security
23-WHSmith
WHSmith is known for books and magazines, but also offers drinks, snacks, music, and other essentials.- Location: Both Terminals, Before Security
24-World Duty Free
World Duty Free is your one-stop shop for last-minute gifts. Find oversized bags of chocolate, discounted aftershave, cuddly toys, sunglasses, and more.- Location: South Terminal, Before security
Gatwick South Terminal Restaurants
1- Big Smoke
If you want somewhere cosy, nothing beats Big Smoke! Enjoy the freshest beers, signature cocktails, and a delicious all-day menu to suit all tastes.- Cuisine: Taphouse & Kitchen
- Location: South Terminal After security
2- Black Sheep Coffee
You won’t go hungry here. Enjoy delightful cakes, croissants straight from the oven, and special Norwegian waffles you can customize with different fillings.- Cuisine: Coffee House
- Location: South Terminal, before security
3- Caffe Nero
One of the most recognised coffee houses in the UK, offering your favourite coffees and authentic Italian snacks. Traditional Italian-style food and coffee are available, along with ample power points.- Cuisine: Coffee House
- Location: South Terminal, before security
4- Caviar House & Prunier Seafood Bar
Caviar House & Prunier has been a purveyor of fine foods since 1950. Visit the contemporary seafood bar, serving the finest caviar, salmon, and seafood selection across both Gatwick terminals.- Cuisine: Bars and restaurants
- Location: Both Terminal Before security
5- Costa
Whatever drink you fancy, Costa has it covered, from a wide range of Italian coffees and speciality teas to delicious hot chocolate.- Cuisine: Coffee House
- Location: South Terminal After security
6- Giraffe
It offers perfect wake-up coffee and quick dishes if you’re on the go, or you can relax with a hearty Full English. This friendly restaurant features flavours from around the world and matching music.- Cuisine: Bars and restaurants
- Location: South Terminal, before security
7- Greggs
Grab a taste of home any time, no matter where you’re jetting off to with Greggs at London Gatwick. Visit the UK’s Favourite bakery for a hot sausage roll, delicious baguette or choose from an array of freshly baked cakes.- Cuisine: Pastries and Snacks
- Location: South Terminal After Arrivals
8- Itsu
Flavours of the Far East! Itsu provides food high in nutrients and low in fats and calories. The Asian-inspired menu is packed with vitamins and protein, with most dishes under £8.- Cuisine: Bars and restaurants
- Location: South Terminal After Security
9- Joe’s Coffee House
Grab a quick latte and muffin before you head through security. Choose from a variety of juices, smoothies, coffee, and freshly made sandwiches.- Cuisine: Coffee House
- Location: South Terminal After Security
10- Nando’s
Fill up on chicken, olives, and chips, and wash it down with an unlimited soft drink. Available for eat-in or collection, pop into Nando’s for some pre-holiday Peri-Peri chicken.- Cuisine: Bars and restaurants
- Location: South Terminal After Security
11- Pizza Express
Pizza Express classics or try their new breakfast menu, offering a variety of options to start your day. Takeaway is available, so you can grab a bite before your flight or while on the move.- Cuisine: Bars and restaurants
- Location: South Terminal After Security
12- Pret A Manger
A high street favourite around the UK for good reason. Enjoy great coffee, tasty sandwiches, fresh salads, and sweet treats. Famous for freshly made sandwiches, salads, hot breakfast rolls, croissants, cookies, and organic hot drinks.- Cuisine: Coffee House
- Location: South Terminal After Security
13- Small Batch Social
Enjoy premium small-batch food and drinks, including fine English wines, expertly crafted cocktails, freshly baked pastries, and delicious sandwiches. Each item is carefully sourced to provide a high-quality, flavorful experience.- Cuisine: Bars and restaurants
- Location: South Terminal After Security
14- 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: South Terminal After Security
15- The Beehive
This Wetherspoon pub offers its typical menu and great views of arrivals. Enjoy a cold beer and burger pre-security, along with a cosy interior.- Cuisine: Bars and restaurants
- Location: South Terminal Before Security
16- The Flying Horse
Friendly service and a laid-back atmosphere with tasty meals and a great selection of wines and beers. This family pub offers great value and classic British food and drinks.- Cuisine: Bars and restaurants
- Location: South Terminal After Security
17- 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
18- Wondertree
Visit this vibrant, family-friendly spot for a selection of favourite dishes in a relaxed world food-style restaurant. Enjoy fresh world food, Fairtrade coffee, and independent wines with an airfield view.- Cuisine: Bars and restaurants
- Location: South Terminal After Arrivals
Gatwick South Terminal Passenger Facilities
The South Terminal offers ample space and all the amenities a modern traveller needs, including Wi-Fi, popular restaurants, and shopping facilities.Shopping
A wide range of retail stores are found throughout the terminal. Fifteen are located before security control and another 27 after, catering to clothes, sports, accessories, toiletries, magazines, entertainment, and more.Cafés and restaurants
There are about 17 cafés and restaurants at the South Terminal, from coffee shops like Starbucks and Costa to fast-food options like McDonald’s and eat-in restaurants such as Frankie and Benny’s and Est Caffe.Bureaux de change
There are bureaux de change desks at check-in, departures, and arrivals. Over 50 currencies are accepted at each.Internet access
Wi-Fi is available in the arrivals area, departures area, and The Village. Additional Wi-Fi, email, a printer, and other office facilities are in the departure lounge beyond security.Toilets
Public toilets and baby-change rooms are located throughout the South terminal.Information desk
The information desk is in the main arrivals area.Multi-faith chapel
The Village, before security control, has a chapel for travellers of all faiths. They welcome people for private prayer and worship.Transport Connections
Train Services
Gatwick railway station connects directly to the South Terminal, and you can reach the North Terminal in just a few minutes using the free shuttle train, which runs every three minutes during busy times. You’ll find rail information and ticket desks in the arrivals areas of both terminals. If you buy your train tickets to or from Gatwick Airport in advance through The Trainline, you could save around 43%. Booking online is quicker and easier than waiting until you arrive at the station, and it can save you money too. The Trainline brings together all train companies in one place and offers a fare finder to help you get the best price. They also provide details on train times and routes to help you plan your trip. Trains from Gatwick serve the rest of the UK through Southern, Southeastern, First Capital Connect, and CrossCountry.Coaches & Buses
In addition to National Express, easybus.co.uk also offers buses, with fares from just £4.This budget transfer runs direct buses between Gatwick Airport and London Victoria Coach Station, Earls Court, and West Brompton. From the South Terminal, there’s also service to London Waterloo.EasyBus releases a few £4 seats online, but these are limited. Once sold, prices rise to the top rate. For the best deal, book early online. All buses are air-conditioned for a comfortable journey.With easyBus, each passenger may bring one piece of hand luggage and one hold case. Large items, like skis, non-folding pushchairs, and animals, are not allowed. For extra luggage, buy an additional seat and check your bag allowance before booking.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.| Aegean Airlines | Aer Lingus | Air Arabia Maroc | Air Baltic |
| Air Europa | Air Malta | Aurigny | Badr Airlines |
| Bamboo Airways | BH Air | British Airways | Corendon Airlines |
| Croatia Airlines | Eastern Air | easyJet | Enter Air |
| Germania | Iberia Express | Jet2 | Med-View Airline |
| Montenegro Airlines | Norwegian (Self-Service Available) | Norse | Pegasus |
| Ryanair | Scoot | Sky Express | SmartWings |
| SunExpress | TAP Portugal | Titan Airways | TUI |
| Turkish Airlines | Ukraine International Airlines | Vueling | Wizz Air |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Confusing North and South Terminals
- Arriving late during peak seasons
- Not pre-booking transport or parking
- Underestimating luggage challenges
