No booking fees on the app
Best Price Promise
Delay Repay
24/7 customer support
Brighton to Gatwick Airport train ticket prices
€9.69
On Thu 25 Jun
Brighton to Gatwick Airport train timetable
The journey from Brighton to Gatwick Airport on the fastest train in 26m, usually 37m. Each day, 141 trains leave from Brighton, starting at 00:02 and ending at 23:23. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
22:09 Brighton | 30m, Direct | 22:39 Gatwick Airport | Gatwick Express | Find tickets |
22:10 Brighton | 44m, 1 change | 22:54 Gatwick Airport | Southern | Find tickets |
22:14 Brighton | 31m, Direct | 22:45 Gatwick Airport | Thameslink | Find tickets |
22:28 Brighton | 37m, Direct | 23:05 Gatwick Airport | Thameslink | Find tickets |
22:39 Brighton | 30m, Direct | 23:09 Gatwick Airport | Gatwick Express | Find tickets |
Brighton to Gatwick Airport train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Brighton to Gatwick Airport with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.
Thameslink vs Gatwick Express: Which should you choose?
Whether you're after the fastest journey or the best value fare, take a look at our comparison below to find the right operator for this short hop north from Brighton to Gatwick Airport.
Train operators | Avg. duration | Departure station | Best for | Feature services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Thameslink | 31m | Most frequent departures & best value fares | Free Wi-Fi, most services throughout the day | |
Gatwick Express | 30m | Brighton | Dedicated express service | Airport-focused express, free Wi-Fi, plug sockets |
- Thameslink: With advance fares from £11.50, and trains running throughout the day, Thameslink is the most frequent service on the route. At 30-40 minutes, the journey is only a little longer than the Gatwick Express, making it a great value option.
- Gatwick Express: A dedicated airport express train completing the journey in around 30 minutes, with advance fares from £13.70, Gatwick Express offers a marginally faster and slightly more premium service than Thameslink.
Train travel from Brighton to Gatwick Airport
The approximately 25-mile journey from Brighton to Gatwick Airport heads north through the Sussex countryside and the High Weald before arriving directly into the South Terminal. To make sure your journey starts smoothly at either end, here are a few platform shortcuts and station tips to help you find your way around.
Brighton: Getting to the Platform
Its grand Victorian trainshed is one of the most recognisable railway buildings on the south coast. Brighton station sits on Queens Road, just a short walk away from the seafront. Taxis are available from the rear of the station, and a bus station in front provides services to the town centre, Hove and the surrounding area.
- The Platform Tip: Services to Gatwick Airport depart from platforms 3 to 6, which handle most northbound departures, but do check the departure boards before heading down, as platform allocations can vary by operator and service.
- Pre-Departure: The concourse has a good range of cafés, food shops and retail outlets for anything you might need before boarding, with food stalls and vans often setting up near the main entrance. The ticket office is staffed and there are also ticket machines available throughout the station if you need to purchase or collect your ticket before travelling.
Onboard trains from Brighton to Gatwick Airport
The journey might only be around 30 minutes, but the route north from Brighton passes through some varied countryside as you travel through Sussex before arriving directly beneath the terminal.
- The View Alert: Sit on the left-hand side heading north for the best views of the South Downs and the Sussex hills as the train climbs away from Brighton.
- Key Landmarks: The route passes through the edge of the High Weald, with the wooded hills and farmland of the Sussex interior visible as the train heads north through Haywards Heath.
Arriving at Gatwick Airport
Located right next to the South Terminal, Gatwick Airport station sees you arrive directly into the airport complex, with lifts and escalators connecting platforms with the terminal concourse above.
- The South Terminal: Exits from the station lead straight into the South Terminal building, with check-in, security and the departure halls all within easy reach once inside.
- The North Terminal: Passengers flying from the North Terminal should follow signs for the free inter-terminal shuttle, which departs from the South Terminal every few minutes and reaches the North Terminal in around two minutes.
- Onward Travel: For journeys away from the airport, buses and coaches depart from outside the South Terminal, with taxis also available nearby for shorter trips across Sussex and Surrey.
Brighton to Gatwick Airport train travel guide
The train journey from Brighton to Gatwick Airport combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Brighton, you can get to Gatwick Airport in just 26m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Brighton to Gatwick Airport?
The average fare from Brighton to Gatwick Airport is approximately €9.69, but the final price fluctuates. The actual cost depends on your travel dates, how far in advance you book, and your ticket's flexibility. To see the current price for your journey, please search with your specific dates.
What is the best way to travel from Brighton to Gatwick Airport by train?
What is the fastest train from Brighton to Gatwick Airport?
The fastest train journey time from Brighton to Gatwick Airport is 26m. Direct trains can save significant time by avoiding transfers. Always check if a direct route is available for your journey. Moreover, when searching for trains, consider the total travel time. Some routes with fewer stops or more efficient schedules might be faster.
Are there direct trains from Brighton to Gatwick Airport?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Brighton to Gatwick Airport. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.
Is it worth taking a train from Brighton to Gatwick Airport?
Yes, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.
How far in advance can I book my train ticket?
You can book UK train tickets as far as 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is the key period when train operators release their cheapest Advance tickets. Therefore, to ensure you get the best possible fare, we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as they become available.
Check timetables and during the journey
Are Brighton to Gatwick Airport trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Brighton to Gatwick Airport trains are generally punctual, but delays or cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
Typically, you should plan to arrive at the station 15-20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. However, the size of the station and your familiarity with it can affect this timing. For larger or less familiar stations, leaving home earlier can help reduce stress and ensure a more relaxed journey.
Do Brighton to Gatwick Airport trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Brighton to Gatwick Airport are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company
How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?
Transferring between train stations in the UK can be effortless with some planning. If your travel requires a transfer, review your ticket and journey details for specific transfer instructions. Major stations typically feature clear signage and helpful staff. Additionally, TrainPal Train Journey Planner offers comprehensive transfer details.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific train operator.
Other things you might be interested
Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?
Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?
How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?
Checking train delays and cancellations in the UK is simple. Utilise the TrainPal mobile app for real-time information. We offer live updates, including live train status and notifications of any train strikes.
Which train companies operate the Brighton to Gatwick Airport route?
The Brighton to Gatwick Airport route is operated by Thameslink. For any journey, the easiest way to find the operator is to search for your route on this page. The operator's name will appear next to each travel option in the results.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
-
Luggage
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
-
Bicycle
A free reservation is required for bikes on most journeys due to limited space. While standard bicycles and folding bikes are widely permitted, some operators have provisions for e-bikes and tandems. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bike trailers are not allowed. As policies vary, it is essential to consult your specific train operator's website for their definitive cycle rules before you travel.
-
Children
Children under 5 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.
-
Pets
Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier. Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.
-
Passenger assistance
Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
How to buy cheap Brighton to Gatwick Airport train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
Your plans have changed?
Your train was disrupted?
More train routes
* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.
New user welcome pack