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London Kings Cross to Gatwick Airport train ticket prices
€18.33
On Fri 22 May
London Kings Cross to Gatwick Airport train timetable
Journey from London Kings Cross to Gatwick Airport on the fastest train in 55m, usually 57m. Every day, 173 trains leave from London Kings Cross, starting at 00:13 and ending at 23:43. During Off-Peak Times from 09:30 on weekdays, enjoy a quieter and less crowded journey. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with us.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
04:21 London Kings Cross | 1h 11m, Direct | 05:32 Gatwick Airport | Thameslink | Find tickets |
04:41 London Kings Cross | 1h 6m, Direct | 05:47 Gatwick Airport | Thameslink | Find tickets |
05:09 London Kings Cross | 55m, Direct | 06:04 Gatwick Airport | Thameslink | Find tickets |
05:39 London Kings Cross | 55m, Direct | 06:34 Gatwick Airport | Thameslink | Find tickets |
05:49 London Kings Cross | 55m, Direct | 06:44 Gatwick Airport | Thameslink | Find tickets |
London Kings Cross to Gatwick Airport train tickets and times
Plan your journey from London Kings Cross 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 trains from London King's Cross to Gatwick Airport
However, Thameslink trains do not serve London King’s Cross and instead operate from St Pancras International, which is located just a 5-minute walk away, so passengers starting at King’s Cross must walk to the adjacent St Pancras station to board their Thameslink service.
Is Thameslink First Class worth it?
Thameslink First Class focuses on comfort rather than luxury. You’ll find wider seating, more legroom, and a quieter carriage, which is especially valuable during peak commuter hours.
However, there are no complimentary meals or drinks included. If you’re travelling early morning or evening when trains are busiest, paying extra can be worthwhile simply for guaranteed seating and a calmer environment.
How much luggage space is available?
Class 700 trains are purpose-built for mixed commuters and airport travellers, with practical storage throughout. Overhead racks handle smaller bags, while larger suitcases fit in floor-level luggage areas near doors. Space is generally sufficient, but it can fill quickly during peak holiday periods.
What are the onboard facilities like?
Thameslink trains are modern, air-conditioned, and designed for high-capacity travel. Expect free Wi-Fi and clear digital information screens displaying stops and connections. Accessible toilets and wheelchair spaces are standard. There’s no catering onboard, so it’s best to purchase food or drinks before departure at King’s Cross.
Train travels from London King's Cross to Gatwick Airport
This journey combines a short transfer within one of London’s largest transport hubs with a fast cross-city rail service. Understanding how to navigate King’s Cross and what to expect onboard ensures a smooth, stress-free experience from departure through to arrival at Gatwick Airport.
Departure from London King's Cross
London King’s Cross handles over 27 million passengers annually across 12 platforms, making it one of the UK’s busiest stations. For Gatwick services, you’ll walk approximately 250 metres to St Pancras International, where Thameslink trains depart.
Specific transport links
- The Tube Hub: Six Underground lines connect directly, including Victoria and Piccadilly, for fast cross-London access.
- Local Bus Network: Routes 30, 73, and 214 stop outside, ideal if travelling with heavy luggage.
- St Pancras Link: The underground pedestrian tunnel connects both stations in under five minutes without exiting outside.
- Taxi Access: Black cabs and ride-hailing pick-up points are located directly outside the main entrance.
Station layout
- Main Concourse: Platforms 0–8 handle long-distance trains under the iconic arched roof.
- Suburban Platforms: Platforms 9–11 serve Great Northern routes in a separate wing.
- Retail Core: Shops like Boots and M&S sit centrally for quick purchases.
- St Pancras Platforms: Thameslink trains depart from lower-level platforms labelled clearly for airport services.
Pre-departure essentials
Arrive at least 15–20 minutes early to navigate the short walk to St Pancras and locate your platform. For food, King’s Cross offers reliable options like Marks & Spencer for meal deals or coffee chains for takeaway drinks. St Pancras also has additional cafes if you prefer to grab something closer to departure.
Onboard trains from London King's Cross to Gatwick Airport
Thameslink’s Class 700 trains operate at speeds up to 100 mph, with departures every 10–15 minutes during peak times. With open-plan carriages and wide aisles, boarding is efficient even with luggage.
The scenic side
- Sit on the left-hand side for sweeping Thames views when crossing Blackfriars Bridge.
- Sit on the right-hand side for close-up views of South London’s Victorian railway architecture.
Key landmarks
- The Shard: Towering glass skyscraper visible near London Bridge station.
- St Paul’s Cathedral: Iconic dome clearly seen from Blackfriars crossing.
- Shakespeare’s Globe: Distinctive theatre visible along the South Bank.
- River Thames: Unique moment crossing directly above the water at Blackfriars.
Arriving at Gatwick Airport
Gatwick Airport station serves over 43 million passengers annually and has undergone a £150 million upgrade, improving passenger flow and accessibility. From platform to terminal, most travellers take under five minutes, making it one of the most seamless airport rail connections in the UK.
The correct exit
- South Terminal: Exit barriers lead directly into the terminal building; follow signs for Departures.
- North Terminal: Follow signs to the free shuttle transit, running every few minutes.
- Taxi Rank: Use the East Exit for direct access to official taxis and pick-up zones.
Onward travel
- Local Buses: Metrobus services connect Gatwick to Crawley and Horley 24/7.
- Rail Connections: Additional trains link to London, Brighton, and the South Coast.
- Car Hire: Rental desks located within both terminals for onward driving journeys.
Walkability
Gatwick Airport is not designed for pedestrian access beyond its terminals. While moving between North and South Terminals is simple via shuttle, reaching nearby towns like Crawley or Horley on foot is impractical due to major roads. For onward travel, trains or buses are strongly recommended as the safest and quickest options.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.
London Kings Cross to Gatwick Airport train travel guide
Travelling by train from London Kings Cross to Gatwick Airport is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from London Kings Cross, you can reach Gatwick Airport in just 55m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.

Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from London Kings Cross to Gatwick Airport?
The average fare from London Kings Cross to Gatwick Airport is approximately €18.33, 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.
How do I find the best train route from London Kings Cross to Gatwick Airport?
What is the fastest train from London Kings Cross to Gatwick Airport?
The fastest train journey time from London Kings Cross to Gatwick Airport is 55m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.
Are there direct trains from London Kings Cross to Gatwick Airport?
No, you will need to transfer when travelling from London Kings Cross to Gatwick Airport. TrainPal Train Journey Planner will assist you in finding the best train route. Enter the origin or destination places and other relevant details, then click "Search" to find the most suitable route.
Is it worth taking a train from London Kings Cross 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?
To get the best price on UK train tickets, it is essential to book as early as you can. Train operators generally release their cheapest Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of the travel date, making early booking the most effective way to secure a lower fare.

Check timetables and during the journey
Are London Kings Cross to Gatwick Airport trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
London Kings Cross 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 London Kings Cross to Gatwick Airport trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the London Kings Cross to Gatwick Airport route offer amenities like Wi-Fi, food services, and various seating options. Additional facilities may include power sockets, accessibility features, and luggage storage. Check the specific amenities offered by the train operator when booking, as these can vary.
How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?
Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by 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?
Get easy and quick access to live updates and notifications via the TrainPal app. If your phone is enabled to receive messages from us, you'll receive notifications about train cancellations on your screen as soon as you pick up your phone
Which train companies operate the London Kings Cross to Gatwick Airport route?
The London Kings Cross 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
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Luggage
Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
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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.
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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.
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Pets
Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
All operators offer assistance services for passengers with disabilities or additional needs. This should be booked in advance to guarantee availability.
How to buy cheap London Kings Cross to Gatwick Airport train tickets

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds

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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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