Gatwick Express
Gatwick Express runs non-stop between London Victoria and Gatwick Airport in about 31 minutes, with some trains also serving Brighton.
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Gatwick Express is a direct rail link between central London and Gatwick Airport, one of four separate customer facing brands run by Govia Thameslink Railway alongside Southern, Thameslink and Great Northern.
Route and journey time
Trains run non-stop between London Victoria and Gatwick Airport in as little as 31 minutes. A second pattern of services connects Gatwick Airport with Haywards Heath and Brighton for travellers heading to or from the Sussex coast. Victoria trains normally use platforms 13 and 14, and the station is step-free and open around the clock. Gatwick Airport station sits inside the South Terminal, with a free shuttle covering the two minute link to the North Terminal.
Onboard and at the airport
Trains carry free Wi-Fi, spacious seating and dedicated luggage storage. That is handy for anyone arriving straight from a flight with bags in tow.
Tickets and fares
Fares include Anytime and Off-Peak singles and returns, plus a First Class option with a plug socket and a quieter carriage. Web Duo is a discounted return for two people travelling together one way from London Victoria to Gatwick Airport, and the return stays valid for a full month. A Carnet book of pre-purchased single tickets gives a 10% saving and stays valid for three months. Children aged 5 to 15 travel at a flat discounted rate on most journeys, and under 5s travel free with a fare-paying adult. Booking directly online or through the Gatwick Express app saves 10%. Contactless and Oyster pay as you go are also accepted, with fares calculated automatically as passengers tap in and out.
Flight delays and brand history
A ticket bought for a specific date stays valid until 4:29am the following day if a flight is delayed past midnight; travelling later than that needs a new ticket. Gatwick Express began running in 1984 and has operated as a separate brand within Govia Thameslink Railway since 2015, after an earlier period as part of Southern.
Where to book
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Frequently asked questions
How long does the Gatwick Express journey take?
Non-stop trains between London Victoria and Gatwick Airport take as little as 31 minutes.
Which stations does Gatwick Express serve?
The main route runs between London Victoria and Gatwick Airport. A second service pattern also connects Gatwick Airport with Haywards Heath and Brighton.
What happens to my ticket if my flight is delayed?
A ticket bought for a specific date stays valid until 4:29am the following day if the flight is delayed past midnight. Beyond that, a new ticket is needed.
Is it cheaper to book online?
Booking directly online or through the Gatwick Express app saves 10%.
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