London is served by six airports, but for long-haul international flights, Heathrow (LHR) and Gatwick (LGW) are the primary choices. This article compares their location and key features to help you decide which airport suits your travel needs.
Location and Transportation
A common question among travelers is: “Where Is Gatwick Airport Compared To Heathrow?” While both airports are situated outside central London, their distances and travel times differ. Heathrow is approximately 16 miles from central London, with a typical car journey taking around an hour. Gatwick, on the other hand, is further afield, located about 28 miles from the city center. Despite being nearly twice the distance, the travel time to central London from Gatwick is often only about 30 minutes longer than from Heathrow, around 1 hour and 30 minutes by car.
Public transportation offers alternative options. The Piccadilly line connects Heathrow to central London in roughly an hour. Gatwick is served by the Gatwick Express and District Line, providing a journey time of around 50 minutes to the city center. Uber costs average around £50 ($65) from Heathrow and £65 ($83) from Gatwick. Keep in mind that traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times, especially by car.
Airlines and Flight Routes
Heathrow boasts a vast network of international flights, serving as a hub for numerous airlines. Major US carriers like United, Delta, and American offer flights to Heathrow from various North American cities. British Airways, the flag carrier, connects Heathrow to numerous global destinations. Virgin Atlantic, while not part of a major alliance, has a strong partnership with Delta, expanding its reach across the US. Heathrow accommodates airlines from nearly every corner of the world, offering unparalleled connectivity.
Gatwick, while hosting a comprehensive range of short-haul European flights, offers fewer long-haul options. A few transatlantic flights operate from Gatwick to US cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Orlando, and Miami, primarily serviced by Norwegian Airlines, with some British Airways and Virgin Atlantic flights. Limited flights also connect Gatwick to Asia, with carriers like Cathay Pacific and Air China offering select routes.
Airport Amenities and Lounges
Heathrow offers a wide array of amenities and lounges, varying by terminal. British Airways’ Terminal 5 features the exclusive Concorde Room for first-class passengers and elite members, offering premium food and drinks. The Aspire Lounge in Terminal 5 is accessible to Priority Pass members. Virgin Atlantic’s Clubhouse in Terminal 3 provides a luxurious experience. Numerous other airlines operate dedicated lounges at Heathrow, including Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Qantas, Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways, and Etihad. Future additions include an Amex Centurion Lounge and flagship lounges for United and American Airlines.
Gatwick, while lacking airline-branded lounges, provides several third-party options accessible through Priority Pass membership. Pre-booking lounge access is recommended, especially during peak travel periods. In the South Terminal, Priority Pass members can enjoy discounts at the Grain Store Cafe & Bar.
Conclusion
Heathrow, closer to central London and boasting a broader selection of flights and premium amenities, caters to a vast number of travelers. Gatwick, further out but with potentially quicker transit times and fewer crowds, offers a viable alternative, particularly for those traveling on budget airlines or within Europe. Choosing between the two depends on your individual travel needs and priorities.
