Expert: David Stewart White - 4/19/2004

Question
Dear David,

 I know that this is a very simple question, but websites seem to be giving me various answers.  I am flying into London Heathrow but need to get to Gatwick.  What is the cheapest way to do this?  One site mentioned Jetlink coaches for 12 pounds.  Is this accurate?  Thanks so much for your time and help.

Sincerely,
Pearl Chan

Answer
Dear Pearl,

Yes, the coach/bus service that connects Heathrow and Gatwick is probably the most direct, although not the least expensive, manner to connect between airports.  Be aware that this is a fairly long trip--over an hour depending upon traffic--and the minimum connection time between flights is 3 hours.  In other words, your flight arrival time at Heathrow and flight departure time at Gatwick must be at least 3 hours apart to make the connection.

The fare for this journey is currently £17.  For more information, check the nationalexpress.com website (click on "Airports").

An alternative manner to connect between airports, that is slightly less expensive (but more complex), is to take the Underground from Heathrow Terminal 3 to Victoria Rail station (£3.80 and about 1 hour) then a non-express train from Victoria to Gatwick (£8 and about 35 minutes).  This does involve changing trains several times and also dealing with luggage in the Underground and rail stations.  For more info on the Underground, try  www.thetube.com and for rail schedules/fares try www.thetrainline.com.


I hope this is helpful.

David White
mail@KidsToLondon.com