Gatwick Airport South Terminal Parking

South Car Park Generic(5)

If you're driving to Gatwick South Terminal, APH offers a choice of airport parking options to suit different travel requirements. Compare Park & Ride, Meet & Greet and on-airport parking services based on location, transfer arrangements, security features and price. Family-owned since 1980, APH helps travellers find convenient airport parking options. Visit our dedicated Gatwick South Terminal parking page to compare availability and book online.

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Gatwick Airport South Terminal Hotels & Parking

South Terminal Exterior Front

Staying near Gatwick South Terminal before an early flight can make your departure day more convenient. APH offers hotel and parking packages that combine an overnight stay with parking for the duration of your trip. Accommodation options include hotels within walking distance of South Terminal and properties offering airport transport connections. Visit our Gatwick South Terminal hotel and parking page to compare available packages, parking arrangements and transfer options.

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Gatwick Airport South Terminal Hotels

Hilton South Exterior Day

Gatwick South Terminal has several nearby hotel options for passengers who want to stay close to the airport before or after their flight. Some hotels provide direct pedestrian access to South Terminal, while others require a short transfer. Hotel facilities, walking distances and transport arrangements vary by property.

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Gatwick Airport South Terminal Lounges

Gatwick Airport South Terminal Meet & Greet

South Car Park Generic(5)

Meet & Greet parking can be a convenient option for passengers flying from Gatwick South Terminal. Depending on the provider, passengers drive to a designated vehicle handover area before walking or transferring to the terminal. Your vehicle is then parked by the operator while you travel. Vehicle handover, storage and collection arrangements vary by service, so always follow the instructions in your booking confirmation. Visit our Gatwick South Terminal Meet & Greet parking page to compare available services.

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Gatwick Airport South Terminal Essential Information

If you’re flying from Gatwick Airport South Terminal Terminal, we’ve collected the essential ‘must-know’ information you’ll need to ensure your trip gets off to the perfect stress-free start:

Take a virtual tour

Explore Gatwick South Terminal before travelling with a virtual tour of the terminal. A virtual walk-through can help you familiarise yourself with check-in areas, departure facilities and the general terminal layout. Some images may not reflect recent changes, so use Gatwick Airport's official terminal map for the latest information.

Top Tip

Use the virtual tour to familiarise yourself with the terminal before travelling, but always follow current airport signs and staff instructions on the day.

View a map of the terminal

Gatwick South Terminal has check-in facilities, security screening, departure gates, shops, restaurants and passenger services across several levels. Use London Gatwick's official South Terminal map to locate check-in zones, security, toilets, accessibility services, shops and departure facilities. The railway station is connected directly to South Terminal, while the free inter-terminal shuttle provides access to North Terminal.

Top Tip

Check your airline's departure terminal before travelling. If your flight departs from North Terminal, use the free inter-terminal shuttle from South Terminal.

Terminal Airport Live Flights

Check live departure and arrival information for flights operating from Gatwick South Terminal. London Gatwick's official flight information service provides scheduled times, estimated departure and arrival times, flight status and gate information when available. Flight times and gate assignments may change, so check your flight regularly on the day of travel.

Top Tip

Check your flight status before leaving home and again when you arrive at the airport. Gate information may not be available until closer to departure.

Check traffic before you leave home

Gatwick South Terminal is accessible from the M23 motorway via Junction 9, with connections to the M25 and the wider motorway network. Traffic conditions can change throughout the day, particularly during peak holiday periods and busy flight departure times. Check live traffic information before travelling and follow signs for South Terminal, passenger drop-off or your pre-booked car park. Allow additional journey time if roadworks or congestion are affecting the airport approach roads.

Top Tip

If you've booked airport parking, use the directions and postcode in your APH booking confirmation rather than navigating directly to the terminal.

Flight check-in details

Check-in times at Gatwick South Terminal vary depending on your airline, destination and whether you're travelling with checked luggage. As a general guide, allow around two hours before short-haul flights and three hours before long-haul departures, unless your airline advises otherwise. Many airlines offer online check-in, self-service kiosks or automated baggage drop-off facilities, although availability varies by carrier. Check your airline's recommended arrival time, check-in opening hours and baggage drop-off deadlines before travelling. Make sure you have the correct travel documents and follow signs for your airline's check-in area.

Top Tip

Check in online before travelling where available. If you have checked luggage, confirm your airline's baggage drop-off closing time to avoid arriving too late.

Online and mobile check-in

Many airlines operating from Gatwick South Terminal offer online or mobile check-in before departure. Depending on your airline, you may be able to download a digital boarding pass, select seats and manage your booking through a mobile app. Online check-in opening times and deadlines vary by airline. If you're travelling with checked luggage, follow your airline's baggage drop-off instructions. Check your airline's official website for current check-in requirements and arrival recommendations.

Security and hand luggage:  Gatwick South Terminal uses upgraded security scanners that allow passengers to leave permitted liquids and electronic devices inside their hand luggage during screening. Passengers can carry liquids, aerosols and gels in individual containers of up to two litres through security. Metal and double-walled containers are subject to additional restrictions and may need to be emptied. Laptops, tablets and other large electronic devices can remain inside hand luggage. Have your boarding pass ready and follow instructions from security staff. Remember that security rules at your return airport may be different. Check London Gatwick's latest security guidance before travelling.

Top Tip

Download your boarding pass before arriving at the airport and make sure your phone has enough battery. Keep a copy available offline in case you lose your internet connection.

Terminal destinations

Gatwick South Terminal serves a wide range of domestic and international destinations. Airlines operating from South Terminal include British Airways, Norwegian, Ryanair and Wizz Air, alongside other scheduled and seasonal carriers. Some airlines operate from both Gatwick terminals, so always check your flight details before travelling. Routes and flight schedules vary throughout the year. Visit London Gatwick's official destinations directory for the latest flight information.

Top Tip

Don't assume your airline always uses the same Gatwick terminal. Check the terminal shown on your booking confirmation and the airport's official flight information before travelling.

Facilities for disabled passengers

Gatwick South Terminal provides Assisted Travel services for passengers with reduced mobility, disabilities and additional accessibility requirements. Passengers requiring assistance should arrange support through their airline or travel provider at least 72 hours before departure, where possible. Assistance may include help with check-in, security screening, moving through the terminal and boarding the aircraft. South Terminal provides accessible toilets, assistance points and a dedicated family and Assisted Travel security lane. Support is also available for passengers with hidden disabilities. Visit London Gatwick's official Assisted Travel pages for the latest information before travelling.

Top Tip

If you require airport assistance, book it through your airline at least 72 hours before departure where possible. On arrival, follow signs for the Assisted Travel welcome desk.

Getting There

Gatwick South Terminal is accessible by train, car, bus, coach and taxi. 

By train: Gatwick Airport railway station is located at South Terminal, with direct services to London, Brighton and other destinations across the South East. By car: Gatwick Airport is accessible from the M23 motorway at Junction 9. Follow signs for South Terminal and your designated car park or drop-off area. By bus and coach: Local buses and long-distance coaches serve Gatwick Airport. Check your operator's timetable and terminal stop before travelling.

By taxi: Taxis and private hire vehicles provide transport to and from South Terminal.

Between terminals: The free automated shuttle connects South and North Terminals. It operates 24 hours a day, with a journey time of approximately two minutes.

Check transport timetables, traffic conditions and your departure terminal before travelling.

Fast-track security lane

Gatwick South Terminal offers Security Fast Track for passengers who want to use a dedicated route through airport security. Fast Track can be booked in advance, subject to availability and the airport's booking conditions. Passengers using Fast Track must still complete all required security screening procedures. Fast Track does not guarantee a particular waiting time. Check London Gatwick's official website for current prices, booking arrangements and availability.

Top Tip

Book Security Fast Track in advance if you want to use the dedicated lane, but still allow enough time for check-in, baggage drop-off and boarding.

Push chairs and child seats

Families travelling through Gatwick South Terminal can bring pushchairs and child car seats, subject to their airline's baggage rules. Many airlines allow pushchairs to be taken through security and handed over at the boarding gate. Arrangements for returning pushchairs after landing vary by airline and flight. Ask your airline whether your pushchair will be returned at the aircraft or collected from baggage reclaim. Families requiring additional assistance should speak to airport staff when arriving at the terminal.

Top Tip

Check your airline's pushchair and car seat policy before travelling, including where your pushchair will be returned after landing.

Family assistance lanes

Gatwick South Terminal provides a dedicated family and Assisted Travel security lane for passengers who need additional support during screening. The lane has a wider entrance to accommodate wheelchairs and pushchairs, with specially trained staff available to assist passengers. Families travelling with babies and young children can ask airport staff for guidance on the most suitable route through security. Passengers requiring additional assistance can visit the Assisted Travel welcome desk in the check-in area. All passengers must complete the required security checks.

Top Tip

If you're travelling with a pushchair or need extra support at security, speak to a member of the airport team before joining the queue.

Airport shopping

Gatwick South Terminal offers a wide range of shops selling travel essentials, fashion, beauty products, electronics, gifts and duty-free items. Passengers can purchase toiletries, snacks, reading materials and last-minute travel essentials from selected retailers. Shopping facilities are available before and after security, although the selection varies by location. Shop opening hours may change according to flight schedules.

Check London Gatwick's official South Terminal shopping directory for current retailers, locations and opening hours, here’s a full list of shops at Gatwick Airport.

Top Tip

If you need a particular item before travelling, check the airport's shopping directory and retailer opening hours before arriving.

Where to eat

Gatwick South Terminal offers a selection of cafés, restaurants, bars and takeaway outlets before and after security. Passengers can choose from coffee shops, quick snacks, breakfast options and sit-down meals. Food and drink availability varies by location and time of day, with some outlets operating according to flight schedules. Check London Gatwick's official South Terminal restaurant directory for current dining options, menus and opening hours. We’ve compiled a guide to the top six places to eat at Gatwick Airport (both South and North terminals), you can also find a full list of Gatwick eateries at the bottom of the page.

Top Tip

Check whether your chosen restaurant is before or after security. If you're travelling early in the morning or late at night, confirm its opening hours in advance.

Area for kids

Gatwick South Terminal provides facilities to help families travelling with young children. A children's play area is available within the terminal, giving younger passengers somewhere to spend time before departure. Baby changing facilities and family-friendly dining options are also available. Play area locations and facilities may change, so check the latest South Terminal map or ask airport staff for directions. Children should be supervised by a parent or carer while using the play facilities.

Top Tip

Allow time for children to use the play facilities before boarding, but keep an eye on your flight information and departure gate announcements.

Wi-Fi access

Gatwick South Terminal provides free, unlimited WiFi for passengers. To connect, select Free Gatwick Wi-Fi Vinci Airports from the available networks on your phone, tablet or laptop. Choose the Free Superfast Wi-Fi option and follow the on-screen instructions to start your session. The free service provides speeds of up to 50Mbps, suitable for checking flight information, accessing digital boarding passes and browsing online. Faster connectivity options may also be available.

Top Tip

Download your boarding pass and important travel documents before leaving home so you can access them even if you experience connection problems at the airport.

Charging mobile devices

Gatwick South Terminal provides free charging points for mobile phones, tablets and other electronic devices. Charging facilities are available at selected locations before and after security. Many restaurants also provide power sockets or USB charging points within their seating areas. Bring a suitable charging cable or portable power bank and check your airline's rules for carrying spare lithium batteries. Use the airport's official terminal map to locate charging facilities.

Top Tip

Bring your own charging cable and keep your phone charged if you're using a digital boarding pass. Avoid leaving devices unattended while charging.

Baby changing facilities

Gatwick South Terminal provides baby changing facilities in designated areas throughout the terminal. Facilities are available before and after security, including within selected toilet areas. Follow airport signage or ask staff for directions to the nearest baby changing facilities. Families travelling with babies should also check the airport's latest security guidance for carrying milk, food and other essential items.

Top Tip

Allow extra time for feeding and changing your baby before boarding. Check the terminal map for the nearest facilities to your departure gate.

Luggage Trollies

Luggage trolleys are available at Gatwick South Terminal to help passengers transport their bags. Trolley collection points are located in designated areas around the terminal and airport car parks. Availability and any payment requirements may change. Follow airport signage or ask staff for the nearest trolley collection point. Find out all the essential information on luggage trolleys at Gatwick here.

Top Tip

If you're travelling with several large bags, look for a trolley collection point before entering the terminal.

Luggage Lockers

Gatwick South Terminal offers luggage storage through Excess Baggage Company. The service is located before security on Level 2, behind Check-in Zone E. The desk is currently open daily from 04:00 to 22:00. Passengers can store luggage for a few hours or several days, subject to the provider's conditions. There are no self-service luggage lockers at Gatwick Airport. Check the official luggage storage information for current prices and booking arrangements.

Top Tip

If you need to store luggage, check the Excess Baggage Company opening hours and prices before travelling. The service is located before security, so allow time to collect your bags.

Pharmacies

Gatwick South Terminal has Boots retail facilities offering health and beauty products, toiletries, food and travel essentials. Store locations, opening hours and available services may vary. Passengers requiring prescription medication should arrange this before travelling rather than assuming a dispensing pharmacy service is available. Keep essential medication in your hand luggage and check security guidance when travelling with liquid medicines or medical equipment. Visit London Gatwick's official shopping directory for current Boots locations and services.

Top Tip

Gatwick's current security rules allow permitted liquids in individual containers of up to two litres. Baby milk and food can also be carried through security, subject to screening requirements. Check the airport's latest guidance before travelling.

Showers

Public shower facilities are not currently confirmed as available within Gatwick South Terminal.

Passengers who require shower facilities should check directly with London Gatwick before travelling, as access and availability may change.

Top Tip

If shower facilities are essential to your journey, confirm their availability with the airport before travelling rather than relying on older terminal information.

Chapel

Gatwick South Terminal provides a multi-faith chapel and prayer room for passengers, visitors and airport staff. The facility is located before security on the third floor of South Terminal. After reaching the third floor by escalator or lift, turn right and continue to the far end of the corridor. The chapel is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and welcomes people of all faiths and none for prayer, meditation and quiet reflection. Ask airport staff for directions if required.

Top Tip

The South Terminal chapel is located before security, so visit before entering the departure lounge if you would like time for prayer or quiet reflection.

Viewing Areas

Passengers travelling through Gatwick South Terminal may be able to watch aircraft movements from selected areas of the terminal. Views of the runway and aircraft stands vary depending on the location and terminal facilities. Some cafés and restaurants may offer views of aircraft arriving, departing or moving around the airport. For information about aircraft viewing opportunities, contact London Gatwick directly.

Top Tip

If you enjoy watching aircraft, look for seating near terminal windows, but remember that views may be limited by the building layout and aircraft parking positions.