Everything You Need to Know About Gatwick Airport

Beehive was the name given to Gatwick’s very first terminal building back in the 1930s, and decades later, the airport has grown into two full terminals, each with a personality of its own. North leans quiet and long-haul; South carries the crowds and the history. Getting your bearings with the London Gatwick Airport terminal map before travel day means you head straight to the right check-in desk, security lane, and gate.

This guide outlines the airport’s location, terminal layout, the differences between the North and South terminals, and the facilities available once you’re through security.

Where is Gatwick Airport Located

Gatwick sits in West Sussex, close to the town of Crawley, and is one of the two main airports serving passengers traveling to and from the South of England. It lies roughly 45 kilometers south of central London, placing it within easy reach of the wider commuter belt.

Distance from Major Towns and Cities

Passengers traveling from Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire towns such as St Albans, Harpenden, and Hatfield can reach Gatwick by road in a couple of hours, depending on traffic. Planning ahead helps avoid delays caused by roadworks or busy periods on the motorway network.

Road Links and Motorway Access

The airport connects directly to the M23 motorway at Junction 9, with the A23 Brighton road running alongside it. A short drive brings travelers to Junction 7 of the M25, linking Gatwick to the rest of the UK’s motorway system.

Nearby Areas Around the Airport

Crawley sits just a few miles from the terminals, and the surrounding towns offer hotels, parking sites, and services for passengers arriving the night before an early flight. Redhill and Horley are also close by, making them popular spots for pre-flight stays.

How Many Terminals Does Gatwick Airport Have

Gatwick has two terminals, North and South, operating two airlines and two routes. North opened in 1983 as part of a large-scale expansion, and has a much more laid-back atmosphere, ideal for long-distance flying and quiet days. South opened in 1958, making it the original building on site, and is still a popular draw for visitors today, along with the airport’s famous Beehive building close by.

There is also a free shuttle train that connects the two, passing through every few minutes and night, in about 2 minutes. Once you’re in, North and South operate almost as separate airports, and crossing the security checkpoints from one to the other will result in you having to repeat the entire security screening procedure.

Difference Between Gatwick North and South Terminal

Although physically close, the North and South Terminals operate almost as separate airports, each with its own check-in desks, security area, and departure lounge. Knowing which one applies to your flight saves a good deal of walking on the day.

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London Gatwick Airport Terminal Map

A clear terminal map helps passengers locate check-in desks, security lanes, and departure gates without wasting time once inside the building.

Finding Your Way Around North Terminal

The North Terminal map indicates that the check-in is on the lower level, while the security and main shopping area are on the upper level. Once passengers have passed through the departure lounge, signage throughout the terminal leads them to their gate area.

Finding Your Way Around South Terminal

The South Terminal is structured in a similar fashion, featuring check-in desks on the bottom floor and security up to a large departure lounge with shops and restaurant facilities. Signs with gate numbers are all around the lounge.

Using the Airport App for Directions

The official Gatwick app provides real-time maps and gate details from both terminals, which are updated as flights come into view for boarding. After downloading it, the app allows passengers to view changes in gates without needing to look for a screen when they arrive at the airport.

Facilities Available at Gatwick Airport

Gatwick offers a wide range of facilities designed to make waiting more comfortable, including quiet zones and premium lounges.

Lounges and Fast Track Security

There are a number of lounges, run by No1 Lounges and British Airways, accessible to any person who has booked a pass, no matter airline or ticket class. Fast Track Security is also available, and as such, waits at the main security area are significantly reduced, at a small cost.

Shopping and Dining

After security, passengers have access to a variety of shops, cafes and restaurants for quick bites or longer meals before boarding. Both terminals offer a variety of SIM card vendors, gifts and travel essentials.

Prayer Rooms and Family Facilities

Both terminals have prayer and quiet rooms, which are always open for quiet reflection. Baby changing rooms and quiet areas are located throughout the departure lounges for families with young children.

Left Luggage and Baggage Services

There are baggage facilities with staff before security at each terminal where passengers can weigh, wrap and store bags. The services are meant for travelers who have to get in before the check-in opens, those who have to wait long before the check-in opens, and those who want to drop off the heaviest bag before they head to the shops.

Quick Tips for Your Gatwick Trip

A handful of small habits can make the difference between a smooth departure and a rushed one.

• Double-check your terminal on your boarding pass before you leave home, since North and South run as separate buildings.
• Arrive with plenty of time before your flight, especially during busy travel periods.
• Download the official Gatwick app for live gate updates and terminal maps.
• Pack liquids and electronics somewhere easy to reach, ready for the security tray.
• Book Fast Track Security online in advance for a quicker path through the queue.
• Check the shuttle schedule if your return flight departs from a different terminal than your arrival one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gatwick Airport located within a major city?

No, Gatwick is close to the town of Crawley in West Sussex, and is easily accessible by the motorways M23 and M25.

Can passengers walk between North and South Terminal?

No. The two terminals are not connected and are only connected by the free shuttle train, which takes about 2 minutes.

Do I need to go through security again if I change terminals after check-in?

Yes. Passing through security from one terminal to another involves going through security twice.

Which terminal at Gatwick is busier?

South Terminal has more passengers and offers a broader selection of airlines as it is the original building.

Can passengers use Gatwick’s lounges without flying business class?

Yes. Lounges at both terminals are available to all airline passengers who buy a pass (no matter which airline or ticket class) and are free of charge.

Conclusion

Once the fundamentals are understood, Gatwick Airport offers a simple set-up with the two terminals (A and B), a short shuttle ride (which is paid for) between them and a decent variety of facilities at each. Understanding the distinction between Gatwick North and South Terminal, as well as the various shops, lounges and services offered, will give you control over your travel day and not leave it to chance. The first thing to do is to check your terminal early and familiarise yourself with its layout beforehand; this will pay off the moment you walk through the door.

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