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London St. Pancras International 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
€18.24
On Sat 31
Live timetable and departures
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
17:03 London St. Pancras International | 55m, 1 change | 17:58 Gatwick Airport | Gatwick Express | Find tickets |
17:15 London St. Pancras International | 1h 1m, Direct | 18:16 Gatwick Airport | Thameslink | Find tickets |
17:20 London St. Pancras International | 45m, Direct | 18:05 Gatwick Airport | Thameslink | Find tickets |
17:30 London St. Pancras International | 44m, Direct | 18:14 Gatwick Airport | Thameslink | Find tickets |
17:33 London St. Pancras International | 57m, 1 change | 18:30 Gatwick Airport | Gatwick Express | Find tickets |
Compare train operators from London St. Pancras International to Gatwick Airport
- Thameslink
- Southern
- Gatwick Express
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 London St. Pancras International
Address:
Pancras Road, London, N1C 4QP, United Kingdom
Public Transport Links:
London Underground: King's Cross St. Pancras station (Fare Zone 1) is on the Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Northern, Piccadilly and Victoria lines.
Bus: St Pancras is surrounded by local bus routes serving north, central and south London. Board routes from Midland Road (stops S and Z), Euston Road (stops A, C, D, E and M) and York Way (stop G).
Taxi pick-up and drop-off: Cabs stop outside Midland Road and Pancras Road on either side of the station.
Platforms:
15 in total: platforms A and B for Thameslink services; platforms 1-4 for East Midlands Railway (EMR) trains; 5-10 for international Eurostar services; and 11-13 for Southeastern routes.
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"The station's facilities and coffee shops on the ground floor get really busy, and I've often been surrounded by crowds lining up for the Eurostar. Searcys St Pancras Bar & Brasserie on the upper level is a lovely spot for a caffeinated beverage, soft drink or something stronger. It's also one of the only eateries with its own toilets, so there's no need to queue for one of the busy facilities on the main concourse."
FAQs about London St. Pancras International Station
What area of London is St Pancras station in?
London St Pancras International is in the London Borough of Camden in central London.
What's the difference between Kings Cross and St Pancras station?
London Kings Cross and London St Pancras International are two separate stations on either side of Pancras Road. They serve different rail networks and operators but share the same London Underground station: King's Cross St. Pancras.
What facilities are available at St Pancras station?
St Pancras International has plenty of shopping outlets and luxury boutiques, toilet and baby changing facilities, free Wi-Fi, ticket offices and information points.
Can you leave bags at St Pancras station?
Yes, St Pancras International has a staffed left luggage office rather than self-service lockers. Located on the ground floor by Boots, the office is open from 07:00 to 23:00.
How early should I arrive for the Eurostar at St Pancras?
Passengers are usually advised to arrive about 75 minutes before the scheduled departure time or 45 minutes if they have a Eurostar Premier ticket. Check the latest guidance sent to you via email.'
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.
Thameslink trains from London St. Pancras International to Gatwick Airport
Travelling between London St. Pancras International and Gatwick Airport is straightforward and efficient with Thameslink, covering roughly 26 miles in as little as 44–50 minutes. Trains run up to 6–8 times per hour during peak periods, with a consistent service throughout the day and night.
Is Thameslink First Class worth the upgrade?
What should you expect from the onboard experience?
Thameslink operates modern Class 700 trains designed for high-capacity, cross-city travel. Carriages are air-conditioned with wide aisles and open-plan seating. Passengers benefit from free Wi-Fi and digital information screens. While seating is practical rather than plush, the trains are clean, bright, and optimised for efficient boarding and alighting, especially useful for airport travellers with luggage.
Is there enough Thameslink luggage space for travellers?
Luggage provision is well thought out compared to older commuter trains. There are overhead racks suitable for smaller bags and dedicated luggage areas near doors for larger suitcases. The open carriage layout prevents bottlenecks, although space can fill quickly during peak times.
Train travel from London St. Pancras International to Gatwick Airport
This journey connects central London with one of the UK’s busiest airports through a direct, high-frequency rail corridor.
Departure from London St. Pancras International
Handling over 38 million passengers each year, St. Pancras is a major interchange where Thameslink services operate from underground platforms.
Specific transport links
- The Tube: King’s Cross St. Pancras Underground station connects six major lines, including Victoria and Piccadilly.
- Local buses: Routes such as the 73 and 214 stop along Euston Road.
- National Rail connections: Nearby King’s Cross station provides additional rail links across the UK.
Station layout
- Thameslink platforms: Located on the lower level (Platforms A and B), clearly signposted but separate from Eurostar and East Midlands Railway platforms above ground level.
- Wayfinding: Digital boards display live updates for Thameslink departures, helping passengers identify the correct platform quickly even during busy periods.
Pre-departure essentials
Before heading down to the Thameslink platforms, you will find plenty of options for a quick stop. M&S Simply Food is ideal for grabbing a meal deal, while Pret A Manger offers reliable coffee and snacks. For a more relaxed start, SOHO Coffee Co. provides seating with views of the station’s iconic ironwork roof, giving you a moment to recharge before your journey.
Onboard trains from London St. Pancras International to Gatwick Airport
These high-capacity Class 700 trains can carry over 1,700 passengers and reach speeds of up to 100 mph, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey.
The scenic side
- Sit on the left-hand side as the train crosses Blackfriars Bridge for elevated views of the River Thames and the City skyline.
- Sit on the right-hand side for closer views of South London neighbourhoods, railway hubs, and residential developments.
Key landmarks
- St Paul’s Cathedral: Visible shortly after leaving Farringdon, its iconic dome rises prominently above the skyline, offering a rare elevated viewpoint from the train.
- Blackfriars Bridge: The train runs directly over the Thames here, delivering panoramic river views framed by London’s financial district.
- London Bridge area: As you approach this major station, the surrounding urban density and rail activity highlight the scale of London’s transport network.
- The Shard: Towering above London Bridge station, this glass skyscraper dominates the view and feels impressively close as the train pulls in beneath it.
Arriving at Gatwick Airport
Gatwick Airport station has undergone a £150 million upgrade and now handles around 20 million rail passengers annually. The station is directly integrated with the airport, meaning you can reach check-in areas within five minutes of stepping off the train.
The correct exit
- South Terminal access: Follow clearly marked signs from the platform to enter directly into the South Terminal check-in hall.
- North Terminal transfers: Use the clearly signposted shuttle system, located just beyond the station exit, for a quick three-minute connection between terminals.
- Bus station: Follow signs towards the lower forecourt to access local and regional bus services, positioned a short walk from the station concourse.
Onward travel
- Local buses: Metrobus services operate frequent routes to Crawley, Horley, and surrounding areas, departing from the dedicated bus station near the South Terminal.
- Airport shuttle: A free automated shuttle runs every few minutes, 24 hours a day, linking North and South Terminals efficiently.
- Car hire: Major rental companies operate from both terminals, with desks accessible via short indoor walks from the station.
Walkability
Gatwick Airport is not connected to a traditional city centre, so walking beyond the airport complex is not practical. However, within the airport itself, everything is designed for pedestrian ease. Covered walkways, lifts, and escalators connect terminals, hotels, and transport links. This makes navigating from train to check-in, or to nearby accommodation, straightforward, even with heavy luggage.
Delay Repay & Refund Policies from London St. Pancras International 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
Apply for Gatwick Express Delay Repay
If your Gatwick Express train is delayed, you can claim compensation depending on the length of your delay:
15–29 minutes: 25% of a single ticket or 25% of the affected portion of a return ticket.
30–59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket or 50% of the affected portion of a return ticket.
60–119 minutes: 100% of a single ticket or at least 50% of a return ticket.
Over 120 minutes: 100% of a single ticket or return ticket. (Note: Two separate Advance Single tickets do not count as a return; you can only claim for the specific delayed ticket).
FAQ
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How much is a train from London St. Pancras International to Gatwick Airport?
Tickets from London St. Pancras International to Gatwick Airport typically cost €24.24, but can be as cheap as €18.24 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 London St. Pancras International to Gatwick Airport?
The journey should take, on average, 57m, though it can be as quick as 44m 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 London St. Pancras International to Gatwick Airport?
Yes, there is a direct train between London St. Pancras International and Gatwick Airport. However, you will find indirect services listed too, including where you will have to make a changeover. Check each listing for either ‘direct’ or how many stops are required when purchasing your ticket.
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How far in advance can I book my train from London St. Pancras International to Gatwick Airport?
You can typically book tickets from London St. Pancras International to Gatwick Airport up to 12 weeks before departure.
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Do London St. Pancras International to Gatwick Airport trains offer Wi-Fi?
Yes, most trains on the route from London St. Pancras International 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 London St. Pancras International from Gatwick Airport?
The distance between London St. Pancras International and Gatwick Airport is approximately 26 miles (42km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.
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How frequent are trains from London St. Pancras International to Gatwick Airport?
There is 155 train running from London St. Pancras International 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 London St. Pancras International 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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