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Trains from London Waterloo East to
Gatwick Airport

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London Waterloo East to Gatwick Airport by train

Planning a train journey from London Waterloo East to Gatwick Airport? The trip usually takes about 50 mins, covering approximately 24 miles (38 kilometres). With roughly 81 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options to suit your schedule. Booking your tickets ahead of time can snag you fares as low as £20.40, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

London Waterloo East to Gatwick Airport Key Stats

Arrival Station

Gatwick Airport

Departure Station

London Waterloo East

Frequency

81trains
per day

Journey Time

from0hrs 43 mins

Changes

1-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

00:53 / 23:32

Distance

24miles
(38 km)

2 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£20.40

Travelling from London Waterloo East to Gatwick Airport by Train

Jump on a Train from London Waterloo East to Gatwick Airport – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

Considering a train trip from London Waterloo East to Gatwick Airport? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!

Typically, the trip takes about 50 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Waterloo East, the quickest trains can get you there in just 0hrs 43 mins. With approximately 81 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 24-mile (38 km) route usually requires just one change, with Southern, Southeastern, Thameslink providing comfortable seating and ample luggage space – because being cramped isn't anyone's idea of fun!

The best news? By booking early, you can find tickets starting at just £20.40, a significant saving compared to last-minute purchases. To save even more, consider traveling during Off-Peak hours or using a Railcard to keep your expenses down.

Ready to grab those low-cost tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest discounts and keep your budget happy. Explore more travel tips below or check our timetable for current train schedules. All aboard to Gatwick Airport!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between London Waterloo East and Gatwick Airport

Curious about your trip from London Waterloo East to Gatwick Airport? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between London Waterloo East and Gatwick Airport by train?

The travel time between London Waterloo East and Gatwick Airport by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 50 mins & the fastest journey takes 0hrs 43 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between London Waterloo East and Gatwick Airport by train?

The fastest journey time by train from London Waterloo East to Gatwick Airport is 0hrs 43 mins.

How much does the train from London Waterloo East to Gatwick Airport cost?

Train ticket prices from London Waterloo East to Gatwick Airport can start from as little as £20.40 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between London Waterloo East and Gatwick Airport?

The departure and arrival times for trains between London Waterloo East and Gatwick Airport vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 81 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 00:53, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:32.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between London Waterloo East and Gatwick Airport?

First class tickets on trains between London Waterloo East and Gatwick Airport typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between London Waterloo East and Gatwick Airport?

Amenities on trains between London Waterloo East and Gatwick Airport can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from London Waterloo East to Gatwick Airport by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between London Waterloo East and Gatwick Airport. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Gatwick Airport, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.

Is it possible to take a direct train from London Waterloo East to Gatwick Airport?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between London Waterloo East & Gatwick Airport. However, there are 81 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from London Waterloo East to Gatwick Airport?

Southern, Southeastern and Thameslink are the main train operating companies running services between London Waterloo East and Gatwick Airport.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo East and Gatwick Airport?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo East and Gatwick Airport, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are London Waterloo East to Gatwick Airport Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from London Waterloo East to Gatwick Airport on Saturday 12th July 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Saturday 12th July
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
14:51 London Waterloo East15:34 Gatwick Airport1 changeLondon Bridge
43 mins Get Tickets
14:58 London Waterloo East15:44 Gatwick Airport1 changeLondon Bridge
46 mins Get Tickets
15:21 London Waterloo East16:04 Gatwick Airport1 changeLondon Bridge
43 mins Get Tickets
15:23 London Waterloo East16:14 Gatwick Airport1 changeLondon Bridge
51 mins Get Tickets
15:51 London Waterloo East16:34 Gatwick Airport1 changeLondon Bridge
43 mins Get Tickets
15:58 London Waterloo East16:44 Gatwick Airport1 changeLondon Bridge
46 mins Get Tickets
16:21 London Waterloo East17:04 Gatwick Airport1 changeLondon Bridge
43 mins Get Tickets
16:23 London Waterloo East17:14 Gatwick Airport1 changeLondon Bridge
51 mins Get Tickets
16:51 London Waterloo East17:34 Gatwick Airport1 changeLondon Bridge
43 mins Get Tickets
16:58 London Waterloo East17:44 Gatwick Airport1 changeLondon Bridge
46 mins Get Tickets
17:21 London Waterloo East18:04 Gatwick Airport1 changeLondon Bridge
43 mins Get Tickets
17:23 London Waterloo East18:14 Gatwick Airport1 changeLondon Bridge
51 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for London Waterloo East to Gatwick Airport journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

Anytime fares from London Waterloo East to Gatwick Airport are available for £20.40 one way, or £23.10 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from London Waterloo East to Gatwick Airport is £19.25 & the average saving on this route is £11.52!

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about London Waterloo East Station

Exploring London Waterloo East Train Station: A Convenient Gateway to Discover the City

Looking to explore the vibrant city of London and beyond? London Waterloo East train station is your perfect starting point. Conveniently situated, the station serves as a vital link, connecting you to numerous destinations within London and across the UK. Let’s dive into the details of what London Waterloo East has to offer and why it's an ideal choice for your travel plans.

Facilities and Amenities at London Waterloo East

Though London Waterloo East is a bustling hub, it provides essential amenities to ensure a smooth experience for travelers. While it lacks a traditional ticket office, fear not—ticket machines are readily available for both purchase and collection of pre-booked tickets. Accessibility is thoughtfully catered for, with accessible ticket machines and step-free access via lifts from Waterloo Main station. Need assistance? Help points are clearly marked, and staff are on hand to lend a helping hand when needed.

For those traveling with youngsters or seeking some comfort, the station hosts heated waiting rooms and accessible toilets with baby-changing facilities. CCTV surveillance is in place to ensure a secure environment throughout your journey. Hungry or in need of caffeine fix? Grab a snack or a hot drink from the coffee shops and vending machines on site—no worries about missing the news as newspapers are available too!

Onward Travel: Connecting You Further

Transportation links play a crucial role in making your journey seamless. London Waterloo East does not disappoint with its comprehensive connections to other parts of the city. The bus alighting point on Sandell Street ensures easy access to local transit and rail replacement services. If you're planning an onward journey by train, numerous exciting routes can spark your travel imagination.

Popular Routes: Embark on an Adventure

Dreaming of exploring iconic locations within and around London? London Waterloo East provides access to some fantastic destinations. Whether you're commuting or planning a day trip to explore new locales, this station links you to areas such as London Bridge, London Charing Cross, and Hither Green. With easy routes to places like East Croydon or Tonbridge, your adventures are just a train ride away.

Why Choose London Waterloo East?

As a commuter or an explorer, stepping through the doors of London Waterloo East gives you the flexibility and freedom to travel with ease. Whether it’s the convenience of arriving at London Bridge or the cultural allure of reaching London Charing Cross, this station offers it all. Its facilities cater to your needs, including accessibility and necessary travel support.

Embark on Your Journey Today!

Booking your ticket is the first step to countless experiences waiting at your fingertips. With easy access to online ticket collection, friendly staff to assist, and comprehensive travel links, London Waterloo East is not just a station—it's the beginning of your next adventure. Time to pack your bags, hop on board, and embrace the journey!

Everything you need to know about Gatwick Airport Station

Discovering Gatwick Airport Train Station

Gatwick Airport Train Station is a vital hub within the UK's railway network, offering convenient access to both air and rail travelers who wish to seamlessly connect between flights and city centers. Located at the heart of one of London's major airports, it plays a crucial role in facilitating the journey of millions of passengers every year. Whether you're just arriving by plane or embarking on a train journey, knowing the amenities and travel options available at Gatwick will ensure your trip is as smooth as possible.

Facilities and Amenities at Gatwick Airport Station

Though there is no ticket office, purchasing and collecting train tickets at Gatwick Airport Station is made easy with accessible ticket machines available throughout the premises. These machines are ideal for collecting tickets bought online, ensuring you’re all set to board your train without hassle.

The station is well-equipped for travelers with accessibility needs, with step-free access available across all platforms. For those requiring additional assistance, staff at Gatwick are available to offer help as needed. You’ll also find heated waiting areas on the platforms to ensure comfort during cooler months.

Additional amenities include accessible toilets and baby changing facilities, available on both the platforms and in the airport terminal itself. For those seeking refreshment or needing to withdraw cash, you’ll find facilities readily available, including a variety of shops and dining options in the adjacent airport terminal.

Onward Travel Options

There are numerous onward travel options available directly from the station. For direct connectivity, taxis can be found at the South Terminal bus station, a short walk from the concourse. There are also various car hire providers operating from the airport terminals, perfect for those looking to explore at their own pace.

Bus connections are conveniently located at the upper level of the bus station, providing easy access to further travel by road. Gatwick Airport is known for its close ties to the south east rail network, making the transition from air travel to city commuting remarkably straightforward.

Popular Train Journeys from Gatwick Airport

If your travels take you farther afield, Gatwick Airport Train Station serves as a gateway to numerous popular destinations across the UK. The station is a stone's throw from central London, with frequent trains to London Victoria and London Bridge, perfect for business travelers and tourists alike.

Journeying south, you can quickly reach the coastal charms of Brighton. If your destination is in the north, reliable service to London St Pancras International links you directly to international rail services.

Aside from these key routes, there are frequent connections to Haywards Heath, Redhill, and even further afield to destinations like Reading and Southampton Central — offering a wide variety of choices for any itinerary.

Conclusion

In summary, Gatwick Airport Train Station is more than just a stop along your journey; it’s a well-equipped hub that ensures travelers’ needs are met efficiently and comfortably. With its myriad transit options and seamless integration with the airport, this station is a pivotal link whether you're heading into the heart of London, exploring the southern coast, or journeying towards Europe.

So, the next time you're planning a journey through or from Gatwick Airport Train Station, rest assured you'll find all the facilities and travel connections you need. Be sure to plan ahead and book your tickets in advance for the best deals and a smooth traveling experience.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from London Waterloo East