London has six airports, but most international travellers land at Heathrow or Gatwick. Which is better for your trip? The honest answer: it depends on where you are going, who you are flying with, and how much you value your time.
Airlines and destinations
Heathrow is the UK’s biggest hub, home to British Airways’ long-haul network and most major full-service carriers. If you are flying long-haul or connecting onward, Heathrow is usually the choice.
Gatwick is the UK’s biggest base for low-cost and leisure travel, with huge easyJet, TUI and Wizz Air operations, plus long-haul leisure routes. For a cheap holiday flight, Gatwick often wins on price.
Getting into London
Heathrow wins on speed: the Heathrow Express reaches Paddington in 15 minutes, and the Elizabeth line runs direct to central London, the West End and Canary Wharf. The Piccadilly line is the budget option at around 5 pounds.
Gatwick’s main link is the Gatwick Express to Victoria (around 30 minutes) plus Thameslink and Southern trains to London Bridge, St Pancras and beyond. Journey times are longer, but off-peak fares can be cheap.
Terminals and experience
Heathrow has four terminals; Terminal 5 is BA’s flagship and Terminal 2 handles Star Alliance carriers. It is vast, so allow generous connection times.
Gatwick has two terminals (North and South) linked by a shuttle, and is generally quicker to navigate. Its new CT scanners mean the 100ml liquid rule has been scrapped there, so security is often smoother.
Costs
Heathrow’s express trains are pricey if you do not book ahead; the Elizabeth line and Tube keep costs down. Gatwick’s train fares vary widely, so book advance tickets. Parking and drop-off charges apply at both.
The verdict
- Choose Heathrow for: long-haul, connections, fastest city access, oneworld and Star Alliance flights
- Choose Gatwick for: low-cost and holiday flights, simpler navigation, no 100ml liquid rule
- Either works for: a central London stay, thanks to good rail links from both
Whichever you pick, check your terminal before you travel and allow extra time during the busy autumn period.
