Last updated: July 30, 2026
Gatwick has two terminals — North and South — and they’re about two miles apart, so you can’t just walk between them. The good news: a free inter-terminal shuttle connects the two in about 2–3 minutes, running 24/7. Whether you’re switching terminals for a connection or you simply got dropped at the wrong one, here’s how the Gatwick North to South terminal transfer works and how much time to leave.
How to get from North to South terminal at Gatwick
Take the free inter-terminal shuttle. Follow the clear “Terminal transfer” signs from the concourse to the shuttle platform, hop on, and you’ll be at the other terminal in 2–3 minutes. It runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every few minutes, with step-free access at both stations. The same shuttle works in both directions — South to North and North to South — and it’s free for everyone, no ticket needed.
How long does the Gatwick terminal transfer take?
The shuttle ride itself is just 2–3 minutes, but plan for 5–15 minutes in total once you add walking to the platform, any short wait, and walking out at the other end. If you’re changing terminals to catch a connecting flight, that transfer time is only part of the picture — you’ll also need to check in (if not already) and clear security at your departure terminal.
Which terminal is my flight — North or South?
Always check before you travel, because airlines are split across both terminals and do occasionally move. Your boarding pass and booking confirmation will state the terminal, and it’s shown on the Gatwick website and departure boards. Don’t assume — arriving at the wrong terminal means a shuttle trip and a tighter security queue than you planned for.
Do you go through security again?
Yes. The inter-terminal shuttle is a landside transfer, so you clear security at your departure terminal after arriving. This matters most for connecting passengers: a Gatwick terminal change is not a quick airside hop like some single-terminal airports — you leave one terminal, ride across, and screen in at the other. Build the security queue into your timing.
If the shuttle isn’t running
The shuttle is occasionally out of service for maintenance. When that happens, Gatwick runs a free replacement bus between the terminals; it takes a little longer (allow around 10–15 minutes plus waiting) and departs less frequently, so leave extra time if you’re connecting. Signage and staff will direct you to the bus pick-up point.
How much time to leave for a terminal change
- Just changing terminals (no flight pressure): 15 minutes is plenty via the shuttle.
- Connecting on separate tickets (self-transfer): allow 2–3 hours — you’ll reclaim bags, transfer terminals, re-check in and clear security.
- Shuttle replaced by bus: add 15–20 minutes to whatever you’d planned.
Weighing whether a Gatwick connection is realistic? Check it with the layover calculator.
Frequently asked questions
How do you get from North to South terminal at Gatwick?
Take the free inter-terminal shuttle, which connects the two terminals in about 2–3 minutes and runs 24/7. Follow the “Terminal transfer” signs to the platform — no ticket is needed.
How long does it take to get between Gatwick terminals?
The shuttle ride is 2–3 minutes, but allow 5–15 minutes in total with walking and any short wait. If a replacement bus is running, allow 10–15 minutes plus waiting.
Is the Gatwick terminal shuttle free?
Yes, the inter-terminal shuttle is completely free for all passengers and visitors, and no ticket is required.
Do you have to go through security again when changing Gatwick terminals?
Yes. The shuttle is a landside transfer, so you clear security at your departure terminal after crossing. Factor the security queue into your timing, especially for a connection.
Can you walk between Gatwick North and South terminals?
It’s not practical — the terminals are about two miles apart with no pedestrian route, so the free shuttle (or the replacement bus when it’s not running) is the way to transfer.
Related guides and tools
- Layover Calculator — is your Gatwick connection safe, tight or risky?
- Heathrow terminal transfer times
- Heathrow to Gatwick transfer guide
- All airport connection guides
- Airport arrival time calculator
Verified July 2026 against Gatwick Airport inter-terminal shuttle information. Services can change — check Gatwick and your airline for your terminal and travel dates.
Reviewed by Muhammad Umar Khan
Founder and editor of TripBuffer. Reviewed against official airport, airline and transport-provider information. For our research standards, see the Editorial Policy.