Whether it’s a long layover at one of London’s many airports or a connection between two distinct airports, depending on the amount of time you have, you may be able to have a little fun in town instead of simply sitting in the airport terminal.
My husband had booked a flight to Barcelona during a very popular convention. Since he was booking at the last minute, flight options were limited and expensive. The best option included an 8-hour layover in London, arriving at Heathrow and departing from Gatwick.
First off, a black cab between London Heathrow and Gatwick can cost as much as $120 or more during rush hour traffic. Limousines with drivers can be booked in advance for about half that price. The National Express Coach Service (which take about 75 minutes, depending on traffic) is also an option, but other public transport options between airports are not direct and inevitably involve getting into town from one airport and then getting to the other with a different bus, train, or shuttle.
With 8 hours to spare I made him a short itinerary that allowed him to visit a few of his favorite London sights and make it to his connecting flight with plenty of time to spare. Further, this could also be done if you have a long layover at Heathrow. Why not go explore instead of just sitting around?
London Heathrow to Gatwick scenic connection and sightseeing itinerary
1-Arrive at Heathrow (clear customs and immigration)
Heathrow is huge and one of the busiest airports in the world. It is well marked and easy to navigate. Follow the signs to the direct link into town.
2- Take the direct link (Heathrow Express) or subway (Tube) into London
The Heathrow Express takes you to Paddington Station. Get out and take a few photos. Then transfer to the Bakerloo subway line (direction Elephant & Castle) and get off at the Piccadilly Circus Station. This takes you right into London and not far from Trafalgar Square.
Another alternative to get to Piccadilly Circus is to take the Tube (Piccadilly Tube line) from Heathrow Airport. It’s easier because it’s a direct line but it takes a bit more time to get there.
Alternatively, and if your time permits or you prefer to see Hyde Park and Kensington Palace instead of following our suggested itinerary, exit at Paddington Station. Use your time to explore the area, and then make your way to Victoria Station to catch the Gatwick Express.
3- Walk toward Trafalgar Square and continue all the way to the riverbank
Next to this you’ll find stops along the Thames River for the River Bus. If you wish, make a small detour to see Westminster Abbey. With more than 8 hours you may want to have a look at Buckingham Palace before going to the boat. But keep in mind that you cannot go inside with your luggage and that it will add an hour to your walk. Therefore, we don’t recommend going to the palace, but it’s up to you!
4- Take the River Bus at Westminster Pier (near Big Ben and the Parliament)
Enjoy the Thames River cruise for a few stops and get out at St. Katharine Pier next to Tower Bridge. A one-way river bus ticket costs about $9.
At this point depending on the time you have left you are in the middle of many of the most popular sites including the iconic Tower of London. You can also quickly get to see a few others by subway like St. Paul’s Cathedral. But you can also simply walk to London Bridge and cross over the Thames River. It’s a great vantage point to see Tower Bridge. Who knows you may just be lucky, and see it lift to let a ship go by!
5- When you’re done sightseeing, go to Victoria Station and catch the Gatwick Express to make your transfer to Gatwick Airport
If you end your self-guided sightseeing transfer itinerary tour at Tower Bridge take the Circle tube line (direction Edgware Road) from Tower Hill Station to Victoria Station. Alternatively, take the Thameslink from London Bridge Station to Gatwick.
Conclusion
My husband got to Gatwick Airport with plenty of time to spare to make his connection. He even had time to enjoy some fish and chips (the best he’s ever had!) after an enjoyable overview of some of his favorite London sights.
Of course, there are many other possible itineraries, but do keep in mind that you will be lugging around your carry-on and it might be impractical to visit some sights with it.
It may be impractical to do this tour with a large suitcase. Make sure you’ve checked it through to your destination or use my tips to travel light with a carry-on only!
How to Travel with Only a Carry-on
Most important, do keep track of time… and allow plenty of it to ensure you make your connecting flight!
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