The Complete Guide for Traveling from London Heathrow to Gatwick Airport by Bus
It doesn’t have to be difficult to go between London Heathrow and Gatwick Airport. Taking a bus from London Heathrow to Gatwick Airport is a fantastic method to travel between two of London’s major airports, regardless of your budget or preferred more laid-back travel schedule. This article addresses all you need to know about bus travel, the advantages of taking the bus, and how to evaluate it with other alternatives, including the Heathrow to Gatwick airport taxi.
The Bus from London Heathrow to Gatwick Airport
Particularly for those seeking a cheap and practical solution, the bus from London Heathrow to Gatwick Airport is among the most often used means of getting between the two airports. Regular connections between Heathrow and Gatwick are made by bus companies such as National Express, easyBus, and other local shuttle services, facilitating seamless transit between the airports.
Coach Station Location London Victoria
Victoria Coach Station in downtown London is one of the principal places of departure for those busing from London Heathrow to Gatwick Airport. Many coach companies base their operations here, which is easily reachable from Heathrow by Underground or cab. One of the most direct and reasonably priced routes is offered by the Victoria to Gatwick coach service.
Why Would One Choose the Bus from Heathrow to Gatwick Airport?
The bus from London Heathrow to Gatwick Airport is an outstanding choice for various reasons:
Affordability
Especially in relation to a Heathrow to Gatwick airport taxi, the bus is among the most reasonably priced means of getting from Heathrow to Gatwick Airport.
Comfort and Convenience
The bus offers enough room for luggage, free Wi-Fi, and comfy seating even if the travel could take more than alternative choices.
Environmentally Friendly
Compared to taxis, bus travel helps to lower the traffic load, thus enhancing sustainability.
Price of the Heathrow to Gatwick Airport Bus
The bus from London Heathrow to Gatwick Airport’s cost varies depending on the service provider and the advance booking distance:
- For a one-way trip, National Express tickets normally range between £10 and £20.
- easyBus, known for its low-cost options, may sell tickets for as little as £5, although rates rise as departure times approach.
- Prices ranging from £15 to £25 make shared shuttle services and private coaches more reasonably priced than a Heathrow to Gatwick airport taxi.
Although Heathrow to Gatwick taxi fares can run up to £60 depending on traffic, the bus offers a much cheaper alternative.
The Trip from Heathrow to Gatwick Takes How Long?
Generally depending on traffic and the time of day, the bus from London Heathrow to Gatwick Airport takes 1.5 to 2 hours. This trip may take more time during busy hours, so it’s suggested to leave extra time.
- Cab Duration: By contrast, a Heathrow to Gatwick airport cab can take roughly 1 hour to 1.5 hours, although this may vary greatly with traffic conditions, especially during rush hour.
From Heathrow, Where Do Buses Depart?
Should you be riding the bus from London Heathrow to Gatwick Airport, services usually start from:
- Terminals 2 and 3: National Express buses leave the Central Bus Station, situated in the Car Park 5 area.
- Terminal 5: If departing from Terminal 5, buses also depart from the central bus station, a short stroll from the terminal.
For those opting for a taxi rather than the bus, they are easily located at the appropriate taxi ranks at every airport.
Where at Gatwick Airport Do Buses Arrive?
Arriving at the South Terminal of Gatwick Airport, the bus from London Heathrow reaches this convenient site with quick access to several facilities, cabs, and trains. From here, you can continue your rail trip to other areas of London or the United Kingdom.
Arranging Your Heathrow to Gatwick Bus Ticket
Simply booking your bus ticket from London Heathrow to Gatwick Airport is easy. Offering savings for early bookings, the official National Express or easyBus websites allow you to book online in advance. Should you not want to reserve ahead of time, you can purchase tickets at the bus station; however, be ready for limited availability and possibly higher fees.
How to Discover the Greatest Bus Ticket Bargains
- Book in Advance: Early booking of your bus from London Heathrow to Gatwick Airport will help to guarantee the lowest rates.
- Use Comparison Websites: Evaluate National Express and easyBus’s rates against those of other operators.
- Look for Discounts: Seek seasonal discounts or promotional offers that could further reduce costs.
Advice for a Painless Bus Trip
- Arrive Early: Ensuring your bus from Heathrow to Gatwick Airport checks in without problems depends on arriving 15 to 20 minutes before departure.
- Luggage: Every bus company has baggage limits, so be sure to review the policies beforehand. Usually, one or two big bags per passenger constitute the limit.
- Bring Snacks and Entertainment: Especially if you are on longer trips, say early mornings or late evenings.
Heathrow to Gatwick Alternatives to Bus Travel
There are other choices even if the London Heathrow to Gatwick Airport bus is reasonably priced:
- Taxis: Direct service and comfort abound from a Heathrow to Gatwick airport taxi, but its cost is much greater.
- Gatwick Express: Another choice for people wishing to travel fast and comfortably is the Gatwick Express, which leaves Victoria Station; however, it can be more costly than the bus.
Accessibility for Travelers with Special Needs
Both bus services and Heathrow to Gatwick airport taxi services can meet your requirements should you have mobility problems or other specific needs. Wheelchair accessibility is provided by several buses; certain private car services also cater to persons with disabilities.
Client Testimonials and Reviews
Both National Express and easyBus are usually well appreciated for their dependability, economy, and comfort. Travelers should be advised, however, that especially during high traffic, the bus from Heathrow to Gatwick may be slower than taxis.
Although taxis provide quicker, more private transportation, some clients find them costly. Heathrow to Gatwick Airport taxis, however, are preferred by those who value money less than convenience.
Expectations for Your Bus Ride
Most Heathrow to Gatwick buses include complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and comfy seating. Still, the operator will influence the experience. Road conditions or traffic could cause delays, so be ready, especially if you are heading during rush hour.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Using the Bus from Heathrow to Gatwick
1. How often do buses leave Heathrow for Gatwick?
During the day, buses run frequently, with services every 30 minutes to 1 hour.
2. Can I ride the bus carrying big bags?
Indeed, usually buses allow two to three items of luggage per passenger. Consult particular bus provider policies for details.
3. How much does the bus from Heathrow to Gatwick cost?
Depending on the supplier and how long in advance you book, the fare falls between £5 and £20.
4. From Heathrow to Gatwick, is the bus or taxi faster?
With a journey length of between 1 hour and 1.5 hours, taxis are usually faster than buses, which run 1.5 to 2 hours.
5. Can I reserve my bus ticket for the day of travel?
Indeed, a ticket can be purchased on the day at the station, but costs may be more.
6. Is there a direct bus from Heathrow to Gatwick?
Yes, thanks to National Express and easyBus, there are direct buses from Heathrow to Gatwick.
7. Is there late-night bus service between Gatwick and Heathrow?
Although most buses run during the day, certain late-night options are available. Make sure to review schedules in advance.
In Summary
Travelers wishing to go between two of London’s busiest airports will find the reasonably priced and dependable bus from London Heathrow to Gatwick Airport an excellent option. Although it is slower than a Heathrow to Gatwick airport taxi, especially if you book in advance, it provides amazing value for money. The bus is a practical, comfortable, and eco-friendly choice for airport transfers, whether your budget is tight or you simply want to relax.
