London Gatwick Airport to Brighton train with Thameslink

Wed, Jul 08
+ Add return
Thameslink
Gatwick Express
Southern
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Thameslink
Gatwick Express
Southern
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton

Showing times and prices for Jul 08

Cheapest price

$15

Average price

$19

Fastest journey

26 m

Average duration

26 m

Trains per day

21

Distance

37 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton will cost around $19 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $15.

Fast trains

Of the 21 trains that leave London Gatwick Airport for Brighton on Wed, Jul 08, 19 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Jul 08 the direct trains cover the 37 km distance in an average of 26 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 26 m .

On Wed, Jul 08 the slowest trains will take 26 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • SouthernG26395 · G88594
    10:52 AM0h43
    Gatwick Airport (GTW)
    11:35 AMBrighton station (BTN)
    $151One-way
    1 transfer
  • ThameslinkW45427
    8:15 AM0h33
    Gatwick Airport (GTW)
    8:48 AMBrighton station (BTN)
    $171One-way
    0 transfers
  • ThameslinkG28268
    8:45 AM0h33
    Gatwick Airport (GTW)
    9:18 AMBrighton station (BTN)
    $171One-way
    0 transfers
  • ThameslinkW45522
    8:35 AM0h38
    Gatwick Airport (GTW)
    9:13 AMBrighton station (BTN)
    $171One-way
    0 transfers
  • ThameslinkW45418
    8:05 AM0h38
    Gatwick Airport (GTW)
    8:43 AMBrighton station (BTN)
    $171One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for London Gatwick Airport to Brighton

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $5. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 35m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $5, and a train costs an average of $10.

Distance: 22 miles (37 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$16

Average price

$8

Average price

Cheapest

$10

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 5m

Average total duration

Fastest

35m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 23m

Average total duration

53m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

41m

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 London Gatwick Airport to Brighton is a bus with an average price of $8 (€7).

This is compared to other travel options from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton:

A bus is $8 (€6) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton costing on average $16 (€13).

The fastest way to travel from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton is by train with an average journey time of 35m.

Other travel options to Brighton take longer:

Bus takes on average 53m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between London Gatwick Airport and Brighton including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 6m sooner (35m by train vs 41m by car). Tickets start at around $16 (€13) compared to roughly $10 (€8) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Direct services run with Thameslink, Gatwick Express, Southern.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

London Gatwick Airport to Brighton train times

The table below shows live departures for London Gatwick Airport to Brighton trains for today, Tuesday, July 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Gatwick ExpressG772748:01 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
0h29
8:30 AM Brighton station (BTN)0 transfersDirect
ThameslinkW454188:05 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
0h38
8:43 AM Brighton station (BTN)0 transfersDirect
ThameslinkW454278:15 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
0h33
8:48 AM Brighton station (BTN)0 transfersDirect
Gatwick ExpressG772798:31 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
0h26
8:57 AM Brighton station (BTN)0 transfersDirect
ThameslinkW455228:35 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
0h38
9:13 AM Brighton station (BTN)0 transfersDirect
ThameslinkG282688:45 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
0h33
9:18 AM Brighton station (BTN)0 transfersDirect
Gatwick ExpressG773775:01 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
0h34
5:35 PM Brighton station (BTN)0 transfersDirect
ThameslinkW454165:05 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
0h39
5:44 PM Brighton station (BTN)0 transfersDirect
ThameslinkW454105:15 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
0h36
5:51 PM Brighton station (BTN)0 transfersDirect
Gatwick ExpressG772435:29 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
0h35
6:04 PM Brighton station (BTN)0 transfersDirect
ThameslinkW455765:36 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
0h39
6:15 PM Brighton station (BTN)0 transfersDirect
ThameslinkW454805:45 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
0h36
6:21 PM Brighton station (BTN)0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets London Gatwick Airport to Brighton 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.

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Why should you book London Gatwick Airport to Brighton trains with Omio?

Thameslink as well as Gatwick Express or Southern offer trains services from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton.

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 Gatwick Express or Southern to find the best option for your trip from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton.
  • 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 London Gatwick Airport to Brighton.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Rome2rio?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton run on average 11 times per day, taking around 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $10 (€8) but you can travel from only $5 (€4) by bus.

There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:05, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 22 miles (37 km) distance in 31m.

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 $5 (€4)
Distance
22 miles (37 km)
Average train duration
35m
Cheapest ticket price
$10 (€8)
Trains per day
11
Direct trains
10
Fastest train
31m
First train
6:05 AM
Last train
11:50 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Fri
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 $5 (€4)

Train companies: Thameslink, Gatwick Express, Southern from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton trainsThameslink, Gatwick Express, Southern trains will get you between London Gatwick Airport and Brighton from $5 (€4). 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
34m
Cheapest Price
$12 (€10)
Southern frequency
4 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

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
31m
Cheapest Price
$10 (€8)
Thameslink frequency
7 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

Gatwick Express

About
Gatwick Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates between London Victoria and Gatwick Airport, with trains running every 15 minutes throughout the day. The trains are modern and comfortable, with air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi. There are two types of trains: the Gatwick Express and the Southern service. The Gatwick Express is the fastest service, taking just 30 minutes to reach the airport. The Southern service takes a few minutes longer but offers more stops along the way.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
26m
Cheapest Price
$26 (€21)
Gatwick Express frequency
4 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
Refunds available according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack trolley service available on some services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, staff assistance for boarding and alighting
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead.

Complete guide to Brighton

Things to do in Brighton

Discover the best of Brighton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Brighton trip today.

  • Must visit

Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

Major city museum in the Royal Pavilion Estate with art, fashion, local history, and design collections.

  • Recommended

Hove Museum of Creativity

Family-friendly museum in a Victorian villa, known for toys, film exhibits, craft, and local design displays.

  • Recommended

Booth Museum of Natural History

Compact natural history museum with Victorian displays, bird collections, fossils, and educational exhibits.

Pound Sterling

Prices are high by UK standards, especially for hotels and dining in central seafront areas, though pubs, cafés, and takeaway spots can still be reasonable.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
GBP 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service charge may be added in restaurants; if not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up in taxis. Small tips are optional in cafés, bars, hotels, and for delivery.

FAQs: Trains from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton 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 Brighton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $10 (€8), while the average price is around $16 (€13).
The train from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton takes 31m and runs 11 per day.
The first train from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton leaves at 6:05 AM.
The distance by train from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton is 22 miles (37 km).
The last train from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton leaves at 11:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton.
Yes, there is a direct train from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton. This service operates 10 times per day, provided by Thameslink, Gatwick Express, Southern.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton.
The cheapest way to get from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton is by bus, with a cost of around $5 (€4).
The train journey from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton offers a pleasant view with glimpses of the English countryside, including rolling hills, fields, and charming villages, making it a moderately scenic route.
Yes, a day trip from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton is feasible. The journey takes 31m, covering a distance of 22 miles (37 km), with trains running 11 times per day.
In Brighton, you can explore the vibrant street art scene with guided tours to discover murals and graffiti, visit the British Airways i360 for panoramic views, and enjoy performances at the Brighton Dome. Take a scenic walk along the Undercliff Walk, experience the nightlife in lively bars and clubs, and visit sights like the Royal Pavilion, Brighton Pier, and Brighton Beach. Don't miss The Lanes for unique shopping and the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery for cultural exhibits.
For a fulfilling visit to Brighton, spending 2 to 3 days is ideal. This allows you to explore the vibrant pier, enjoy the beach, visit the Royal Pavilion, and experience the local shops and restaurants.
Yes, you can take the train from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton.
Since neither London Gatwick Airport nor Brighton 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 Brighton include London, Lewes, Haywards Heath, Worthing, Burgess Hill.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton 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.
In Brighton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the pier, the Lanes, and busy streets. Scams involving overcharging in taxis and unlicensed cabs are reported, so it’s advisable to use licensed services or pre-book transportation. Additionally, travelers should be wary of fake charity collectors and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. Staying vigilant and securing personal belongings can help ensure a safe visit.
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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton

Most London Gatwick Airport to Brighton trains use the London Bridge to Brighton station pair, with some services arriving at Hove. Use this guide to compare London Gatwick Airport and Brighton train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in London
Arrival train stations in Brighton
BrightonBrighton Station, Queens Rd, Brighton BN1 3XP, United Kingdom+44 345 127 2920WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Brighton from Brighton city centre

Bus37, 52 · 4m · $1 · every ~6 min

Brighton train station facilities and services

Brighton has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: The Grand Central, The Cyclist

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Brighton. Information desks are located in the main concourse.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Brighton. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Brighton: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Brighton: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Brighton: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Jurys Inn Brighton, Ibis Brighton City Centre, My Brighton Hotel.

HoveHove station, Goldstone Villas, Hove, East Sussex, BN3 3RUShoppingParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Hove from Brighton city centre

Hove is 2 km from Brighton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainBrighton - Southampton Central, Brighton - Chichester, Brighton - Portsmouth & Southsea, Brighton - West Worthing, Brighton - Hove, Brighton - Angmering, Brighton - Portsmouth Harbour, Brighton - Bognor Regis, Brighton - Worthing, London Victoria - Worthing, Brighton - Havant, Brighton - Littlehampton, Brighton - London Victoria, Brighton - Haywards Heath, Brighton - Barnham · 3m · $1 · every ~8 min
Bus7, 3X, N7 · 12m · $2 · every ~40 min
47, 52 · 14m · $2 · every ~4 min

Hove train station facilities and services

Hove has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Hove.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Hove.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Hove: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Hove: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Hove: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office. This station doesn't have tactile surfaces along all platform edges. Please pay attention to where the platform surface changes from smooth to paved or contact us for assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Southern ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

Preston ParkPreston Park station, Clermont Road, Preston Park, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 6SGParkingDiningAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Preston Park from Brighton city centre

Preston Park is 2 km from Brighton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainBrighton - Bedford, Brighton - London Bridge, Brighton - West Hampstead Thameslink, Brighton - Cambridge, Brighton - Luton, Brighton - Mill Hill Broadway · 3m · $1 · every ~6 min
BusUk998, Uk066 · 11m · $1 · every ~1 min
025 · 16m · $1 · every ~4 min

Preston Park train station facilities and services

Preston Park has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Preston Park.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Preston Park.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Preston Park: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Preston Park: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Preston Park: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: This is a Category C station: This station does not have step-free access. Assistance Meeting Point is outside the ticket office on platforms 1 and 2, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Southern ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: No, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

More options for your journey from London Gatwick Airport to Brighton

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

Most popular trains to and from Brighton and London Gatwick Airport

HomeTrainsTrains in United KingdomLondon Gatwick Airport to Brighton train

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