Is Luton or Gatwick Airport Closer to London?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you planning a trip to London, but not sure which airport is closer to the city? In this article, we’ll compare the distances between London and two major airports – Luton and Gatwick. By the end of this read, you’ll have a clear understanding of which airport is more convenient for your travel plans.

Luton Airport

Luton Airport (LTN) is situated in the town of Luton, around 35 miles north of Central London. The airport has been expanding rapidly in recent years and now serves over 16 million passengers annually. It operates flights to many European destinations, including Barcelona, Amsterdam, Berlin, and Budapest.

Distance from Luton Airport to Central London

The distance between Luton Airport and Central London is approximately 35 miles (56 kilometers). Depending on traffic conditions, it takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach the city by car. You can also take a train from Luton Airport Parkway station to St Pancras International Station in less than half an hour.

Gatwick Airport

Gatwick Airport (LGW) is located in Crawley, West Sussex, around 30 miles south of Central London. It’s the second-busiest airport in the UK after Heathrow, serving over 46 million passengers every year. Gatwick offers flights to numerous destinations worldwide, including Dubai, New York City, and Orlando.

Distance from Gatwick Airport to Central London

The distance between Gatwick Airport and Central London is approximately 30 miles (48 kilometers). It takes around an hour by car or train to reach the city center. The Gatwick Express train service offers a direct link between the airport and Victoria Station in just under half an hour.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Luton and Gatwick airports are located at a similar distance from Central London. However, Gatwick Airport is slightly closer to the city, with the added advantage of a direct train service to Victoria Station. On the other hand, Luton Airport offers a fast and convenient train link to St Pancras International Station.

So, it ultimately depends on your travel plans and which part of London you need to reach. We hope this article has helped you make an informed decision about which airport is more convenient for your trip. Safe travels!