How Much Is the Cheapest Transfer From Gatwick to London?

If you’re planning a trip to London and landing at Gatwick Airport (LGW), one of the first questions you’ll ask is:👉 “How much is the cheapest transfer from Gatwick to London?”

The answer depends on how you travel, where you’re going in London, and how much comfort and convenience you desire. From budget trains to private taxis, Gatwick offers multiple transfer options — each with different costs, travel times, and pros and cons.

This guide breaks down all the cheapest ways to get from Gatwick to London, compares prices, and helps you choose the best-value option for your needs.

Quick Answer: What’s the Cheapest Way From Gatwick to London?

Cheapest overall: Train (off-peak tickets)
Cheapest door-to-door option: Shared or fixed-price taxi (for groups)
Best balance of cost & comfort: Private taxi when travelling with luggage or family

1. Train From Gatwick to London – Cheapest Public Transport Option

Trains are usually the cheapest way to travel from Gatwick to London for solo travellers.

Train Options

Thameslink (cheapest, slower)
Southern Rail
Gatwick Express (fastest, most expensive)

💷 Typical Prices

£10–£15 (Thameslink / Southern, off-peak)
£19–£25 (Gatwick Express)

⏱ Travel Time

30–50 minutes depending on destination

✔ Pros

Lowest ticket price
Frequent departures
No traffic delays

❌ Cons

Not door-to-door
Extra cost for Tube or taxi after arrival
Difficult with heavy luggage

2. Bus / Coach – Cheapest but Slowest Option

Coaches can sometimes be slightly cheaper than trains but take much longer.

💷 Price

£8–£12

⏱ Travel Time

1.5–2.5 hours

✔ Pros

Very budget-friendly
Direct routes available

❌ Cons

Long journey time
Limited luggage space
Traffic delays

3. Taxi From Gatwick to London – Cheapest Door-to-Door Option for Groups

While taxis cost more than trains, they are often the cheapest transfer overall when travelling with 2–4 people.

💷 Typical Taxi Cost

£60–£100 (fixed-price airport transfer)

Split between 3–4 passengers, this can be cheaper per person than trains.

⏱ Travel Time

60–90 minutes, depending on traffic

✔ Pros

Door-to-door service
No luggage stress
24/7 availability
Fixed pricing (no surge)

For reliable pricing and service, see:👉 Gatwick Airport Transfers to/from London

4. Cheapest Route to Specific Areas (Example: London Bridge)

Costs can vary depending on your final destination in London.

For example, if you’re heading to London Bridge, compare all options here:👉 Gatwick to London Bridge Taxi

This helps travellers decide whether a taxi or train is cheaper for that exact route.

5. Staying Near Gatwick? Cheapest Option Might Be a Hotel Shuttle

If you’re arriving late or departing early, staying near the airport can save money.

Check nearby accommodation options here:👉 Top Gatwick Airport Hotels Near North Terminal

A short hotel shuttle and next-day train can sometimes be cheaper than a late-night London transfer.

Price Comparison: Cheapest Transfers From Gatwick to London

Transfer Type	Price Range	Best For
Train (Off-Peak)	£10–£15	Solo travellers
Coach / Bus	£8–£12	Budget travellers
Taxi (Private)	£60–£100	Families & groups
Hotel + Shuttle	Varies	Late arrivals

So, What Is the Cheapest Transfer From Gatwick to London?

✔ If you’re travelling alone and light: Train (Thameslink or Southern)

✔ If you’re travelling in a group: Private taxi (cheapest per person)

✔ If you want zero hassle: Fixed-price airport taxi

Public transport may look cheaper upfront, but once you factor in Tube tickets, luggage, time, and convenience, taxis often deliver better overall value.