Cambridge to Gatwick Airport Trains From €23.12*

If you want to travel from Cambridge to Gatwick by train, you’ll need to board a ThamesLink service. With 74 trains running between Cambridge to Gatwick each day, there are a lot of services to choose from. They start at 03:53 and run right through until 21:53. You’ll always find one that works with your schedule, whether you’re catching a flight, exploring the surrounding areas or travelling further afield. In total, the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 51 minutes, and it’s a direct route.

The journey from Cambridge to Gatwick Airport is largely a scenic one, with a lot of countryside, towns and sprawling greenery to see. As ThamesLink is the sole provider of the service, you can expect comfortable seating, clean carriages and a reliable service as you travel from A to B.

Departing from Cambridge

If you’re leaving Cambridge and heading to Gatwick Airport, your journey will start at the main station in the city. Located just a short walk from the city centre, the station is easily accessible by local buses, taxis and bikes routes. It’s simple to reach whether you’re starting your journey from the city or one of the surrounding towns.

Cambridge Station has everything you need to start a comfortable journey. There are ticket offices, waiting areas, cafes, shops and luggage storage options close by. Plus, as the station is central to the city, it doesn't matter if you have time to spare. Simply head out of the station and start exploring.

ThamesLink trains provide direct services to Gatwick Airport from Cambridge, as well as links to London, London Blackfriars and other destinations in the South East.

Main stops

When you travel on a ThamesLink service between Cambridge and Gatwick Airport, you will stop at various stations along the way. This includes Royston, Ashwell & Morden, Baldock, Letchworth Garden City, Hitchin, Stevenage, Finsbury Park, London St Pancras International, Farringdon, London Blackfriars, London Bridge and East Croydon.

Arriving at Gatwick Airport

When you travel from Cambridge to Gatwick Airport with ThamesLink, you’ll arrive at the station that’s located directly beneath the airport’s South Terminal. It’s easy to access both the North and South Terminals, either via the airport’s shuttle system or walking.

Gatwick Airport Station isn't lacking in any way. There are ticket offices, self-service machines, luggage trolleys, cafes and shops at the station. If you have time, grab a drink or something to eat, or browse some of your favourite high street names. Accessibility features such as ramps, lifts and assistance services are also available to help passengers with mobility needs or heavy luggage.

There are a lot of onward travel options from the airport. ThamesLink and Gatwick Express services connect you to central London in under an hour, whilst bus and taxi services provide links to nearby towns, hotels and attractions. There are even car hire options.

ThamesLink train classes

Standard Class

Travelling from Cambridge to Gatwick Airport is easy in Standard Class. Most ThamesLink services provide wifi and many trains are equipped with plug sockets, so you can stay connected and keep your devices charged throughout your journey. Standard Class is the 'go to' choice for most train passengers, as it offers a practical and cost-effective way to reach Gatwick. If you want to buy cheap train tickets from Cambridge to Gatwick Airport, Standard Class is the way to go. Plus, if you have a railcard, you can reduce the cost even more. Using a railcard can further reduce ticket prices by up to a third.

First Class

For a more relaxed and spacious journey between Cambridge and Gatwick, you might want to consider travelling First Class. When you travel from Cambridge to Gatwick Airport First Class, you can enjoy wider seats, quieter carriages, and complimentary refreshments on some services. First Class tickets tend to be more expensive than Standard Class tickets, and not all trains provide this option, so it’s best to check availability if you’re considering an upgrade.

ThamesLink train travel advice

If you’re planning a journey from Cambridge to Gatwick Airport, you can do so comfortably on a ThamesLink train.

• Luggage - ThamesLink trains have dedicated storage areas for suitcases and larger items, so you can travel with multiple bags and suitcases without an issue. Many passengers travelling to Gatwick Airport have luggage and storage space isn’t guaranteed, so passengers are advised to travel light where possible.
• Bicycles - Folding bikes are allowed on board ThamesLink trains between Cambridge and Gatwick, but full sized, non-folding bikes are often restricted during peak periods, particularly on busy services, including those heading to Gatwick.
• Children - Children under 5 travel for free on many ThamesLink services, including those between Cambridge and Gatwick. Kids aged between 5 and 15 are also eligible for discounted fares. You can reduce the cost of tickets even further if you have a valid railcard, such as the 16 - 17 Railcard or Friends & Family Railcard.
• Pets - You can take up to two small pets, including dogs and costs, on ThamesLink trains free of charge.
• Passenger Assistance - ThamesLink is there to support passengers who need extra help on journeys between Cambridge and Gatwick, and this can be arranged ahead of time. There are also options for Passenger Assistance to be organised on the day, in case of last minute travel plans.