Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) train with Thameslink

Mon, May 18
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Thameslink
Southern
Southern
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Thameslink
Southern
Southern
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE)

Showing times and prices for May 18

Cheapest price

$32

Average price

$32

Fastest journey

43 m

Average duration

44 m

Trains per day

4

Distance

39 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) will cost around $32 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $32.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) without transferring at least once.

  • ThameslinkW45565+SoutheasternP87263
    12:06 PM0h44
    Gatwick Airport (GTW)
    12:50 PMLondon Waterloo East (WAE)
    $321One-way
    1 transfer
  • ThameslinkW45435+SoutheasternP85531
    8:16 AM0h43
    Gatwick Airport (GTW)
    8:59 AMLondon Waterloo East (WAE)
    $321One-way
    1 transfer
  • ThameslinkW45434+SoutheasternP85579
    12:16 PM0h43
    Gatwick Airport (GTW)
    12:59 PMLondon Waterloo East (WAE)
    $321One-way
    1 transfer
  • ThameslinkW45602+SoutheasternP87034
    8:06 AM0h45
    Gatwick Airport (GTW)
    8:51 AMLondon Waterloo East (WAE)
    $321One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE)

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $14. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 37m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $14, and a train costs an average of $23.

Distance: 24 miles (39 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$29

Average price

$15

Average price

Cheapest

$55

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 7m

Average total duration

Fastest

37m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 25m

Average total duration

2h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 24m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Thameslink

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) is a bus with an average price of $15 (€12).

This is compared to other travel options from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE):

A bus is $14 (€11) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) costing on average $29 (€23).

The fastest way to travel from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) is by train with an average journey time of 37m.

Other travel options to London Waterloo East (WAE) take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 55m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Gatwick Airport (GTW) and London Waterloo East (WAE) including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 47m faster (37m by train vs 1h 24m by car) and roughly $26 (€21) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($29 (€23) vs $55 (€44)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) train times

The table below shows live departures for Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) trains for today, Sunday, May 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
ThameslinkW45814+SoutheasternP87421
On time
6:32 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
0h58
7:30 AM London Waterloo East (WAE)		1 transfer
ThameslinkW45820+SoutheasternP90215
On time
6:58 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
0h56
7:54 AM London Waterloo East (WAE)		1 transfer
ThameslinkW45452+SoutheasternP87011
On time
7:07 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
1h13
8:20 AM London Waterloo East (WAE)		1 transfer
ThameslinkW45446+SoutheasternP87062
On time
8:07 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
1h13
9:20 AM London Waterloo East (WAE)		1 transfer
ThameslinkW45460 · C22676+TubeTube from Elephant & Castle to London Waterloo East
On time
8:24 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
1h35
9:59 AM London Waterloo East (WAE)		2 transfers
ThameslinkW45821+SoutheasternP85540
On time
8:26 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
1h03
9:29 AM London Waterloo East (WAE)		1 transfer
ThameslinkX36333 · TL093600+TubeTube from Elephant & Castle to London Waterloo East
On time
9:57 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
1h38
11:35 PM London Waterloo East (WAE)		2 transfers
ThameslinkW45450+SoutheasternP87226
On time
10:00 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
1h20
11:20 PM London Waterloo East (WAE)		1 transfer
ThameslinkW45503+SoutheasternP87257
On time
10:32 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
1h18
11:50 PM London Waterloo East (WAE)		1 transfer
ThameslinkX36331+SouthernX38698+SoutheasternP87632
On time
10:59 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
1h16
12:15 AM London Waterloo East (WAE)		2 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) by train or bus

Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Mon
May 18
Tue
May 19
Wed
May 20
Thu
May 21
Fri
May 22
Sat
May 23
Sun
May 24

Why should you book Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) trains with Omio?

Thameslink as well as Southern or Southern offer trains services from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE).
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE).

Why book with Omio vs Thameslink?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Thameslink, but also compare tickets for the likes of Southern or Southern to find the best option for your trip from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE).
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Thameslink with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE).

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Southern or Southern to find the best option for your trip from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE).
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE).

Journey information

Overview: Train from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE)

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) run on average 11 times per day, taking around 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $23 (€19) but you can travel from only $14 (€12) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:19, the last at 17:49. The fastest train covers the 24 miles (39 km) distance in 43m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $14 (€12)
Distance
24 miles (39 km)
Average train duration
37m
Cheapest ticket price
$23 (€19)
Trains per day
11
Fastest train
43m
First train
4:19 AM
Last train
5:49 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Mon
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $14 (€12)

Train companies: Thameslink, Southern from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) trainsThameslink, Southern trains will get you between Gatwick Airport (GTW) and London Waterloo East (WAE) from $14 (€12). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Southern

About
Southern Rail is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local commuter services. Its trains include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, and Class 444 and 450. It also offers a variety of ticket types, such as Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Southern Rail are London to Brighton, London to Southampton, and London to Portsmouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
56m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€26)
Southern frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require a ticket
Quiet zone
Learn more about Southern

Thameslink

About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
43m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€19)
Thameslink frequency
11 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Learn more about Thameslink

FAQs: Trains from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE)

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at London Waterloo East (WAE), this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $23 (€19), while the average price is around $29 (€23).
The train from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) takes 43m and runs 11 per day.
The distance by train from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) is 24 miles (39 km).
The first train from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) leaves at 4:19 AM.
The last train from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) leaves at 5:49 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE).
There is no direct train service currently available from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE).
The cheapest way to get from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) is by bus, with a cost of around $14 (€12).
The train journey from Gatwick Airport to London Waterloo East offers views of the English countryside, urban landscapes, and occasionally the River Thames, but it is not typically considered one of the most scenic routes in the UK.
Yes, a day trip from Gatwick Airport to London Waterloo East is feasible. The journey takes 43m, and trains run frequently with 10 trips per day, covering a distance of 24 miles (39 km).
Yes, you can take the train from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE).
Since neither Gatwick Airport (GTW) nor London Waterloo East (WAE) are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from London Waterloo East (WAE) include Tonbridge, Marden, Dartford, Sevenoaks, Chatham.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

More options for your journey from Gatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE)

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Tickets and more information for trains to Gatwick Airport (GTW)

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HomeTrainsTrains in United KingdomGatwick Airport (GTW) to London Waterloo East (WAE) train

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