Travelling from Reading to Gatwick Airport can be a smooth and stress-free experience when you choose the right mode of transport. Whether you’re catching an early morning flight, travelling with family, or heading out for business, understanding your travel options can help you save both time and money.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the best transfer options from Reading to Gatwick Airport, estimated travel times, fares, and useful travel tips.
The distance between Reading and Gatwick Airport is approximately 60 miles (96 km). The journey typically takes between 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on the route and traffic.
While public transport options such as trains are available, many travellers prefer private taxi transfers for convenience, reliability, and comfort—especially when carrying luggage or travelling at odd hours.
For affordable and professional airport transfer services, you can visit our dedicated page: 👉 Gatwick Airport Transfers to/from London
There’s no direct train from Reading to Gatwick Airport. Most journeys require a transfer at Redhill or Guildford, making it less convenient, especially for travellers with luggage.
Duration: Around 1 hour 45 minutes (with changes)
Fare: £25–£40 per person
Best for: Solo travellers or those travelling light
A private taxi from Reading to Gatwick Airport offers direct, door-to-door service with flexible pickup times. It’s ideal for business travellers, groups, and families who value comfort and reliability.
Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes (average)
Fare: £100–£140 (depending on vehicle type and timing)
Best for: Hassle-free, direct travel
For smooth and affordable transfers, check our Gatwick Airport Transfers page and pre-book your journey online.
A private airport transfer service ensures you travel in comfort and style without worrying about train delays, parking issues, or luggage handling.
Here’s why passengers from Reading prefer booking a Gatwick taxi transfer:
🚗 Door-to-door convenience – direct pickup from your home, hotel, or office
🕒 24/7 availability – perfect for early flights or late-night arrivals
💼 Reliable service – professional drivers, flight monitoring, and fixed fares
👨👩👧👦 Family-friendly – child seats and extra luggage space available on request
When travelling with multiple passengers or bulky luggage, this option ensures a relaxed start to your journey.
Most taxis or private transfers take the M25 or M3 motorway to reach Gatwick Airport from Reading. While routes can vary depending on traffic conditions, an experienced chauffeur will always choose the fastest and most efficient path.
Typical Route: Reading → M4 → M25 → Gatwick Airport (South or North Terminal)
Travel Time: Approx. 1 hour 20 minutes
Traffic Tips: Allow an extra 20–30 minutes during rush hours (6–9 AM and 4–7 PM)
Before heading out, it’s important to understand Gatwick drop-off charges to avoid unexpected fees.
Both the North and South Terminals at Gatwick now have drop-off zones, costing £6 for up to 10 minutes and £1 extra per minute thereafter. For detailed information, you can check our full guide:
👉 Gatwick Drop-Off Charges Explained
If you’re using a pre-booked taxi, your driver will handle all parking or drop-off logistics—ensuring a stress-free arrival.
If your flight is early morning or you’re arriving late, staying overnight near the airport is a smart move. Gatwick offers several hotels within walking distance or a short shuttle ride from the terminals.
Check our detailed list of recommended stays here:
👉 Top Gatwick Airport Hotels Near North Terminal
Some popular options include:
Sofitel London Gatwick (North Terminal) – directly connected by a covered walkway
Hampton by Hilton (North Terminal) – excellent value and early breakfast options
Bloc Hotel Gatwick (South Terminal) – perfect for short stays inside the terminal
Booking your transfer in advance ensures peace of mind and a guaranteed pickup time. At Airport Transfer to Heathrow, you can easily book online with transparent pricing and professional service.
✅ Instant online quotes
✅ No hidden charges
✅ Free flight tracking & waiting time
✅ Comfortable and well-maintained vehicles
If you have any queries or special requests, our team is happy to assist:
📞 Contact Us
Here are a few quick tips to make your journey from Reading to Gatwick Airport smoother:
🕐 Leave early: Aim to reach the airport at least 3 hours before international flights
🎒 Check luggage weight: Avoid last-minute repacking at the terminal
🚘 Confirm your booking: Verify pickup time and location with your transfer company
☕ Carry essentials: Snacks, water, and travel documents within easy reach
Whether you’re travelling for business, leisure, or a family holiday, choosing a private taxi or transfer from Reading to Gatwick Airport guarantees a comfortable and timely journey.
Avoid the stress of public transport and let a professional chauffeur handle your transfer—so you can focus on your upcoming flight.
Book your hassle-free Gatwick transfer today with Airport Transfer to Heathrow and experience top-rated airport travel convenience.
FAQs:
Q1. How far is Reading from Gatwick Airport?
Reading is approximately 60 miles (96 km) from Gatwick Airport, and the journey usually takes between 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes depending on traffic and route.
Q2. What is the best way to travel from Reading to Gatwick Airport?
The most convenient and time-efficient way is by booking a private taxi or airport transfer service, offering door-to-door travel without the hassle of train changes or parking.
Q3. How much does a taxi from Reading to Gatwick Airport cost?
A typical private taxi fare ranges from £100 to £140, depending on the vehicle type, time of day, and booking options.
Q4. Are there any drop-off charges at Gatwick Airport?
Yes, Gatwick Airport charges £6 for up to 10 minutes at both terminals, with £1 added per extra minute. Drivers handle these charges when using pre-booked airport transfers.
Q5. Can I pre-book a return transfer from Gatwick to Reading?
Absolutely. You can pre-book your return transfer easily online with fixed pricing, ensuring your driver is ready when you land back at Gatwick Airport.
Q6. What time should I leave Reading for an early morning flight from Gatwick?
For morning departures, it’s best to leave at least 3.5 hours before your flight time to account for check-in, security, and possible traffic delays.
Q7. Do private transfers from Reading include meet-and-greet services at Gatwick?
Yes, most professional airport transfer providers include free meet-and-greet services at the arrivals hall for a seamless travel experience.