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City Thameslink to Gatwick Airport train times and prices
* Note: Lowest prices are based on an analysis of recent historical pricing data. Live fares fluctuate based on demand and how far in advance you book.
7-day train ticket price trend
€17.30
On Wed 28
Compare train operators from City Thameslink to Gatwick Airport
- Thameslink
- Southern
Thameslink is the go-to national rail company for travel across the Capital, connecting counties like Cambridge with southern destinations like Brighton via central London. Whatever time of the day you’re travelling, its 24-hour service can take you to airports like Gatwick and Luton or on short hops across central London.
Standard
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"The rear carriage on Thameslink trains are declassified First Class carriages, so anyone can sit in the larger, more spacious seats there. On some local routes you might also find that both First Class carriages are declassified. You can check on the screen in the carriage itself as it will usually indicate whether Standard Class ticket holders may sit there."
"Thameslink trains can suffer from delays that can easily compound due to the complex network and high-density of its departures. Check the status of your service on a live tracker before setting out."
Essential onboard policies
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Luggage
- Most UK train operators allow passengers to bring a reasonable amount of luggage free of charge.
- This is commonly considered three items per passenger, typically 2 larger bags and 1 smaller bag. Larger items cover suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
- Bags go in overhead racks, under seats, or in designated floor-level luggage stacks.
- Occasionally, some providers have stricter policies, such as Lumo, which enforces a limit of 1 medium suitcase and 1 small under-seat bag per person.
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Bicycle
- Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed.
- Bike reservations are required on some services and are usually free.
- Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes.
- Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted.
- We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.
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Children
- Children under 5 usually travel free when accompanied by a fare-paying passenger.
- Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.
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Pets
- Each provider generally allows up to two animals per passenger free of charge, but individual operators can have additional restrictions.
- 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.
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Passenger assistance
- Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange free assistance with their train operator.
- This includes help at the station, boarding and leaving the train, and making connections. Assistance can also include ramps for wheelchair users and help finding accessible facilities or the correct platform.
- Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets are available on many trains, although facilities vary by service.
- To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
Departing from City Thameslink
Address:
Ludgate Hill, London, EC4M 7JH, United Kingdom
Public Transport Links:
London Underground: City Thameslink has no Tube station. Nearby stations include St Paul’s (Central line), Chancery Lane (Central line) and Blackfriars (District and Circle lines).
Bus: The station is served by routes stopping on Ludgate Hill (stops F and G), Farringdon Street (stops L and M) and Holborn Viaduct (stops HK and HL). Buses go directly to Waterloo, Shoreditch, Islington, King’s Cross and other areas.
Taxi pick-up and drop-off: There is no taxi rank or pick-up/drop-off point.
Platforms:
City Thameslink station has two platforms (numbered 1 and 2). Platform 1 is used for northbound trains to Bedford, St Albans City and Luton. Southbound services towards Brighton, Sutton and Sevenoaks depart from platform 2.
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"If you are travelling with heavy luggage, a pushchair, or need step-free access at City Thameslink, head for the southern Ludgate Hill entrance. Dedicated lifts there connect the street directly to the platforms. The northern Holborn Viaduct entrance relies on stairs and escalators, making Ludgate Hill your easiest option for a smooth entry or exit."
FAQs about City Thameslink Station
Is City Thameslink the same as Thameslink?
No, City Thameslink is a rail station in central London, whereas Thameslink refers to the train operator running the wider commuter network.
Where are the entrances to City Thameslink station?
City Thameslink station has entrances on Ludgate Hill and Holborn Viaduct. The Ludgate Hill entrance is close to Ludgate Circus and St Paul’s Cathedral, offering step-free access. About 350 metres up the road by Fleet Place is the Holborn Viaduct entrance with stairs and escalators to the platforms.
Is City Thameslink open on Sunday?
No, the station is closed on Sundays. Passengers will have to board and alight trains at London Blackfriars, about a five-minute walk from City Thameslink.
Does City Thameslink station have toilets?
Yes, there are male, female and accessible unisex toilets at the Ludgate Hill entrance past the ticket barriers. City Thameslink station doesn’t have baby changing facilities.
Is there lost property at City Thameslink?
Yes, items found on Thameslink services are taken to the lost property office at City Thameslink station. The office is located by the escalators near the Ludgate Hill entrance. A fee is charged for collection.
Arriving at Gatwick Airport
Address:
South Terminal, Gatwick Airport, West Sussex, RH6 0RD, United Kingdom
Onward Transit Options:
Bus: Local Metrobus routes operate to/from towns and villages around Gatwick Airport, such as Crawley, Redhill and Horsham. Buses stop on either side of the A23 (connected by a pedestrian walkway) and by the Lower Forecourt.
Coach: There are coach stops (numbered 1-5) by the Lower Forecourt, offering access to National Express services to numerous cities and airports.
Taxi pick-up and drop-off: A taxi rank is available outside the station by the Upper Forecourt.
Top Things to Do & Nearby Attractions:
Riverside Garden Park (14-min walk)
Picketts Wood (21-min walk)
Gatwick Aviation Museum (34-min bus journey)
National Cycle Route 21 (1.5-hour bike ride)
Airport Transfers:
Free shuttle transfers between North and South terminals. Frequent Gatwick Express and Southern (slower, stopping) trains between Gatwick Airport and London Victoria (31-57 minutes) / Brighton (26-38 minutes). More trains are operated by Thameslink (Bedford via London Bridge, Brighton, Cambridge) and Great Western Railway (GWR) (Reading, Guildford).
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Gatwick Airport station is directly connected to the South Terminal, making transfers with luggage smooth and easy. If you’re using the North Terminal, the free 24-hour monorail shuttle takes just two minutes to reach the station. To avoid peak-hour crowds on the main concourse, follow the signs to the upper-level walkways for a quicker route to platform lifts and ticket barriers."
FAQs: Gatwick Airport Station
Can you use contactless at Gatwick Airport station?
Yes, contactless pay-as-you-go is accepted on Gatwick Express, Southern and Thameslink services between London and Gatwick Airport station.
Does Gatwick Airport station have a ticket office?
Yes, the ticket office at Gatwick Airport station is open 24 hours.
Is Gatwick Airport station in the North or South terminal?
Gatwick Airport station is in the South Terminal. A free 24-hour shuttle runs between the North and South terminals, taking only two minutes.
What shops are at Gatwick Airport train station?
There is a Hi Coffee Express between platforms 1 and 2. Passengers can also grab drinks and a bite from M&S or Black Sheep Coffee close to the station entrance.
Are there toilets at Gatwick Airport station?
Yes, male, female and accessible toilets are located on platforms 1 and 2.
Travelling from City Thameslink to Gatwick Airport on Thameslink
Thameslink runs all direct services from City Thameslink to Gatwick Airport on its Class 700 trains, with both Standard and First Class. Here's what to expect onboard.
Class | Best for | Seating | Catering | Power & Wi-Fi |
Standard | Everyday travel and budget-conscious flyers | Forward-facing pairs and table seats, first-come, first-served | No catering or trolley service — bring your own food and drink | Free Wi-Fi; power sockets at seats |
First Class | A quieter ride with more room for hand luggage | Wider seats and more space, in the front carriage of the train | No catering, complimentary or otherwise | Free Wi-Fi; power sockets at seats |
- First Class location: First Class is only at the front of the train. The rear First Class compartment is nearly always declassified to Standard, so don't head to the back expecting an upgrade. Note that First Class isn't available on all Thameslink trains.
- Onboard facilities: There are standard and accessible toilets on board.
- Passenger assistance: Book at least 2 hours before travel through the Passenger Assistance app, by calling 0800 022 3720 (option 1), or texting 60083 (Mon–Fri, 09:00–17:00).
Is Gatwick Express or Thameslink cheaper?
How much is the train ticket from City Thameslink to Gatwick Airport?
Can I use Oyster on Thameslink trains to Gatwick?
Yes. You can tap in and out with Oyster, contactless or your mobile wallet at both City Thameslink and Gatwick, as the airport is part of the contactless PAYG zone. Just be aware that the contactless cap doesn't apply on this journey.
How much luggage can I take on Thameslink trains to Gatwick?
You can take three pieces per passenger onboard — usually one suitcase, one cabin bag and one personal item. Smaller bags go in the overhead racks, while large suitcases are best stored in the dedicated luggage areas at the end of each carriage by the doors. Just be sure to keep an eye on your possession at all times.
Thameslink trains from City Thameslink to Gatwick Airport
Departure from City Thameslink
- Getting to the station by bus: Buses stop on Ludgate Hill at "City Thameslink Stn / Ludgate Circus (F)" and "Fleet St City Thameslink (L)". Daytime services include routes 4, 8, 11, 15, 17, 23, 25, 26, 76, 100 and 172. Night routes N11, N15, N21, N26, N47 and N76 also call at these stops.
- Nearest Tube stations: Farringdon (Circle, Metropolitan, Elizabeth) is a 3–4 minute walk north via the Holborn Viaduct entrance. Blackfriars (District, Circle) is 5–7 minutes south — and also the station for Sunday and night Gatwick services. St Paul's (Central) is around 5 minutes east.
The concourse has toilets, accessible toilets, baby changing, sheltered seating, refreshments and shops. There's no public Wi-Fi or First Class lounge.
The journey from City Thameslink to Gatwick Airport
- The "you're nearly there" cue: After East Croydon, the train heads south through Surrey. Gatwick is the next major stop, so start gathering your bags and move toward the doors before the train arrives.
- Getting to Blackfriars: Turn left out of the Ludgate Hill entrance of City Thameslink, walk straight to Ludgate Circus, then turn left down New Bridge Street towards the Thames — you'll then see Blackfriars station is on your left just before the bridge across the river.
During the week, there are departures through the night from Blackfriars to Gatwick, with departures at 00:21, 00:51, 01:29, 02:29, 03:29, 04:29. On Sundays, services start at 09:22.
Arriving at Gatwick Airport
- Heading to South Terminal: Just take the lift or escalator up from the platform to the concourse and follow the Departures signs. Check-in zones are labelled A–J and clearly signposted. Allow 5–10 minutes from the platform to check-in.
- Heading to North Terminal: From the platform, head up to the South Terminal concourse, then follow the red Inter-Terminal Shuttle signs. The free shuttle runs 24/7 every few minutes and takes around 2 minutes to ride between terminals. Allow 15–20 minutes total from platform to check-in.
- Luggage trolleys: Free trolleys are available at terminal concourse level in both terminals.
- Passenger assistance: There's a meeting point at the station — book at least 2 hours before you travel.
Delay Repay & Refund Policies from City Thameslink to Gatwick Airport
Apply for Thameslink Delay Repay
If your Thameslink train is delayed, you can claim compensation depending on the length of your delay:
15-29 minutes: 25% of a single ticket, 25% of the affected portion of a return ticket or 25% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
30-59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket, 50% of the affected portion of a return ticket or 50% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
60-119 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 50% of a return ticket or 100% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
120+ minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 100% of a return ticket or 100% of the % cost of a Season ticket return journey (a full day’s travel). (Note: Two separate Advance Single tickets do not count as a return; you can only claim for the specific delayed ticket).
Apply for Southern Delay Repay
Southern operates Delay Repay 15, meaning eligible passengers can claim compensation when they arrive at their destination at least 15 minutes later than scheduled.
15 to 29 minutes: 25% of a single ticket price or 25% of the affected portion of a return ticket price
30 to 59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket price or 50% of the affected portion of a return ticket price
60 to 119 minutes: 100% of a single ticket price or 50% of a return ticket price
120 minutes or more: 100% of a single ticket price or 100% of a return ticket price
FAQ
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How much is a train from City Thameslink to Gatwick Airport?
Tickets from City Thameslink to Gatwick Airport typically cost €20.95, but can be as cheap as €17.30 when booked in advance. Other factors that may affect the ticket price include time of day and ticket type, so be sure to research before purchasing.
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How long is the train from City Thameslink to Gatwick Airport?
The journey should take, on average, 50m, though it can be as quick as 38m when booking specific services. Be sure to click the "Fastest" tab when searching your route to find out.
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Is there a direct train from City Thameslink to Gatwick Airport?
There is no direct service between City Thameslink and Gatwick Airport. Instead, when browsing routes, you will see our recommendations for changeover stations that are the most convenient and time-efficient.
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How far in advance can I book my train from City Thameslink to Gatwick Airport?
You can typically book tickets from City Thameslink to Gatwick Airport up to 12 weeks before departure.
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Do City Thameslink to Gatwick Airport trains offer Wi-Fi?
Yes, most trains on the route from City Thameslink to Gatwick Airport are equipped with Wi-Fi, as well as power sockets at your seat. However, please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train compan.
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How far is City Thameslink from Gatwick Airport?
The distance between City Thameslink and Gatwick Airport is approximately 25 miles (40km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.
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How frequent are trains from City Thameslink to Gatwick Airport?
There is 30 train running from City Thameslink to Gatwick Airport per day. Please note that trains run more regularly during peak hours.
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How can I buy the cheapest tickets from City Thameslink to Gatwick Airport?
To get the cheapest ticket, we recommend buying in advance, as early as 12 weeks before departure. We'd also strongly suggest travelling during off-peak hours where possible and getting a Railcard, which typically offers ⅓ off your ticket cost and is available to most travellers!
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How do I check if my train is delayed or cancelled?
Keep a close eye on your journey via the TrainPal app, which offers real-time information on train status and notifications of any train strikes that will impact you.
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Can my tickets be refunded or changed?
In the UK, refund and change policies for train tickets vary by type. Advance tickets are generally non-refundable but may be changeable for a fee. Flexible tickets, like Anytime and Off-Peak tickets, offer more options for refunds and changes. Review the specific terms and conditions of your ticket or refer to UK train ticket types for precise details.
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* 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.
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