Heathrow vs. Gatwick: Which London Airport Saves You More Time & Money?
Heathrow is London’s largest hub, 15 miles west of central London; Gatwick sits 30 miles south. Both serve millions, yet their distance, airlines, and ground links create totally different cost and time equations.
Friends brag about “cheap Gatwick fares” while others swear by Heathrow’s speed—yet they forget to add the price and minutes of reaching each. The mix-up happens because both carry the “London” label, hiding the real door-to-door story.
Key Differences
Heathrow: 4 terminals, direct 15-min Heathrow Express from Paddington (£25 off-peak). Peak landing fees push fares up. Gatwick: 2 terminals, 30-min Southern or 28-min Gatwick Express from Victoria (£19.90 off-peak). Lower fees, longer ride. Check-in, security and walk to gate: Heathrow 45-60 min, Gatwick 30-45 min.
Which One Should You Choose?
City-bound and price-blind? Pick Heathrow. On a budget with south-coast plans? Gatwick wins. Add £10-£20 and 20-40 min each way for Gatwick’s distance; subtract it from Heathrow fares. Use Google Maps live transit times on travel day for the final call.
Examples and Daily Life
A Tuesday 6 p.m. landing: Heathrow to Bank is 40 min and £7.80 via Elizabeth line; Gatwick to Bank is 55 min and £11.50 via Thameslink. A £40 cheaper Ryanair ticket from Gatwick evaporates after the extra £15 train and £20 Uber from Victoria at midnight.
Is Gatwick always cheaper?
Not if you land late; £30-£40 Ubers into town often wipe out the airfare savings.
Which has shorter security queues?
Gatwick’s South terminal averages 15 min; Heathrow T5 can dip to 10 min, but T3 may hit 25 min during morning bank departures.
Do both airports have 24-hour rail links?
No. Last Gatwick Express leaves Victoria at 00:30; after that, night buses take 90 min. Heathrow keeps the Elizabeth line running until 00:55 and night Tube on Friday–Sunday.