Often overshadowed by Heathrow, Gatwick is still one of the UK’s busiest airports and a major gateway to London and the south of England. If you’re facing a layover here, you may be wondering about things to do at London Gatwick Airport beyond simply finding a place to sit and wait. The options are fairly standard for a large European hub: enough to stay fed, comfortable, and occupied for a few hours, but not designed as a destination in itself. Whether you stay inside the terminal or head out briefly, these are practical ways to pass the time during a layover at Gatwick.
1. Eat
Gatwick offers a reliable mix of British favourites and familiar international chains, making it easy to eat without much effort. For a sit-down meal, Wagamama is a popular choice for noodles and rice bowls, while the Nicholas Culpeper Pub & Dining and the airport’s Wetherspoon pubs serve classic pub food like fish and chips, pies, and full English breakfasts. These pubs are often among the better-value sit-down options in the terminals.
If you want something quick, you’ll find Costa Coffee, Caffè Nero, Starbucks, YO! Sushi, and Nando’s spread across both terminals. Marks & Spencer Simply Food is especially useful for travellers looking to sample everyday British staples, including pre-made sandwiches, sausage rolls, pastries, crisps, and sweets that are easy to take onboard. Some cafés and takeaway counters operate overnight, but options thin out late at night, so it’s best to eat earlier if you can.
2. Lounge
If you’re looking for a quieter place to sit, an airport lounge can offer some relief from the busy terminal. Gatwick has several independent lounges that accept all travellers, regardless of airline or ticket class, for a fee. These typically include snacks, drinks, WiFi, and more comfortable seating than the public areas. Some lounges also offer shower facilities, which can be especially welcome on longer layovers. Entry is usually easiest if you pre-book or use a lounge membership program. See our London Gatwick Airport Guide for locations and details.
3. Shop
Shopping at Gatwick is typical of a large UK airport, with a focus on travel essentials, gifts, and duty-free items rather than unique retail experiences. British brands such as Harrods and Hamleys have airside locations, offering souvenirs, toys, and gift items that reflect London’s retail scene. Clothing and outdoor brands like Superdry, FatFace, and Snow + Rock are also available if you need layers, casual wear, or travel gear.
Duty-free stores carry the usual range of perfumes, cosmetics, chocolates, and alcohol, with a strong emphasis on Scotch whisky, gin, and British confectionery that visitors often take home. Bookshops and newsagents are handy for picking up reading material for the next flight. Most shops follow flight schedules rather than staying open 24 hours, so late-night browsing may be limited.
4. Stroll the trails
If you want some fresh air, there are public footpaths and cycling routes in the areas surrounding the airport, though access requires leaving the terminal and navigating local roads. These routes pass through suburban and semi-rural areas rather than dedicated airport walking trails, so they’re best suited to travellers with extra time, good weather, and a clear sense of direction.
5. Sightseeing
London Gatwick Airport is located about 30 miles south of central London. If you have at least eight hours between flights and are comfortable managing time carefully, a short trip into the city is possible. The fastest option is the Gatwick Express, which runs frequently from the South Terminal and reaches Victoria Station in around 30–35 minutes under normal conditions. Other regional trains can be cheaper but may take longer.
With limited time, it’s best to focus on one compact area rather than trying to see too much. A stroll around Covent Garden offers shops, cafés, and street performers, while nearby attractions like the London Eye provide quick city views. History-minded travellers might prefer a brief visit to Westminster Abbey or a walk near St. Paul’s Cathedral.
If you’d rather stay closer to the airport, nearby countryside areas in Surrey or small local attractions can work for longer layovers, but they require more planning and are less straightforward than a direct train into London. Visit Tripadvisor for more things to do in London.
6. WiFi
Free WiFi is available throughout Gatwick Airport and is generally sufficient for browsing, messaging, and basic streaming. Higher-speed options may be available through the airport’s network or app, but speeds and access conditions can change.
7. Sleep
Overnight stays inside the terminal are generally tolerated, and staff are unlikely to disturb quiet sleepers. That said, comfortable sleep is hard to come by. Seating with armrests is common, lights stay bright, announcements continue overnight, and temperatures can feel chilly. Some travellers find better luck landside in quieter corners, but truly restful sleep is limited.
For proper rest, Gatwick has a wide range of on-site and nearby hotels. Bloc Gatwick offers compact rooms connected to the South Terminal, while YOTELair rents rooms in short time blocks, which can work well for long layovers. Several full-service hotels are also located within walking distance or a short shuttle ride. See our London Gatwick Airport Guide for current hotel options.
Updated 13 January 2026
These are just a few things to do on a layover at London Gatwick Airport. Visit our London Gatwick Airport Guide for more information about services and facilities, such as food, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, nearby airport hotels, and much more.