Introduction
When it comes to flying out of London, there are several airport options to choose from. Two popular choices for travellers are Gatwick and Luton airports. But which one is easier to get to from London? In this article, I will compare the accessibility of Gatwick and Luton airports, taking into account factors such as transportation options, distance from the city, and overall convenience.
Distance from London
Gatwick Airport is located approximately 30 miles south of central London, while Luton Airport is situated about 35 miles north of the city. This makes Gatwick slightly closer to London than Luton, which can be a deciding factor for travellers looking to minimize travel time to the airport.
Transportation Options
Both Gatwick and Luton airports are well-connected to London through various transportation options. Gatwick Airport has the advantage of being served by the Gatwick Express, a fast and direct train service that takes passengers from London Victoria to the airport in just 30 minutes. Additionally, there are frequent bus services and taxi options available for travellers.
On the other hand, Luton Airport can be reached by train from St Pancras International station in London, with a journey time of around 45 minutes. There are also shuttle bus services and taxis that can transport passengers to the airport. While Luton may have slightly longer travel times compared to Gatwick, the transportation options are still convenient and accessible.
Overall Convenience
In terms of overall convenience, Gatwick Airport is often seen as the more traveller-friendly option. With its modern facilities, efficient check-in and security procedures, and a wide range of shops and restaurants, Gatwick provides a comfortable and stress-free experience for passengers.
Luton Airport, while smaller in size, still offers amenities such as duty-free shops, lounges, and dining options. However, some travellers may find the layout of the airport to be slightly less intuitive compared to Gatwick, leading to potential confusion or longer walking distances between terminals.
Conclusion
After weighing the factors of distance from London, transportation options, and overall convenience, it is clear that Gatwick Airport is the easier choice to get to from the city. With its closer proximity, faster train services, and traveller-friendly amenities, Gatwick provides a smoother airport experience for passengers.
FAQs
1. Which airport is closer to London, Gatwick or Luton?
Gatwick Airport is closer to London, approximately 30 miles south of the city, compared to Luton Airport which is about 35 miles north of London.
2. How long does it take to travel from London to Gatwick Airport?
The Gatwick Express train service takes around 30 minutes to transport passengers from London Victoria to Gatwick Airport.
3. Are there direct train services from London to Luton Airport?
Yes, passengers can take a train from St Pancras International station in London to reach Luton Airport, with a journey time of approximately 45 minutes.
4. What amenities are available at Gatwick Airport?
Gatwick Airport offers a wide range of shops, restaurants, lounges, and duty-free stores for passengers to enjoy while waiting for their flights.
5. Is Gatwick or Luton Airport more traveller-friendly?
Gatwick Airport is considered more traveller-friendly due to its efficient check-in and security procedures, as well as its modern facilities and amenities.