Short Stay Car Parks at London Gatwick: A Complete Guide

London Gatwick Airport is one of the busiest international airports in the UK, welcoming millions of passengers each year. Whether you are taking a short trip for business, leisure, or picking someone up, finding the right parking solution can significantly impact the convenience and cost of your trip. Short-stay car parks at London Gatwick are a popular choice for travellers who need quick and convenient parking for a few hours or a day. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about short-stay parking at Gatwick, including the benefits, available options, booking tips, and more.

Glasgow Taxi and Getting to London Gatwick Airport

When planning your trip to London Gatwick, it's essential to figure out how you’ll get to the airport. If you're travelling from Glasgow, a Glasgow taxi is a popular and comfortable option. Taxis offer door-to-door service, and although the journey from Glasgow to Gatwick can take about 7-8 hours depending on traffic, it provides a stress-free way to travel.

Alternatively, travellers can opt for Glasgow Airport transfers. These services offer a seamless, pre-arranged transportation method to Gatwick Airport. Glasgow Airport transfers are a convenient option for those who prefer to avoid the stress of driving long distances and navigating busy roads, especially when time is of the essence or heavy luggage is involved. Once you've arrived at Gatwick, securing the right parking solution will be the next step.

Why Choose Short Stay Parking at London Gatwick?

Short-stay parking at London Gatwick is ideal for travellers who need to park for a few hours or a day. This type of parking is most often used for quick trips, such as dropping off passengers, picking someone up, or even for short business trips. The main appeal of short-stay parking is its proximity to the terminal, meaning you can park your car and be at your gate in no time.

Short-stay car parks are designed to accommodate passengers who don't want to spend time navigating large parking areas or waiting for shuttle buses. You can easily park and walk directly to the terminal, making this an extremely convenient option for those in a rush or simply looking for hassle-free access.

Benefits of Short Stay Parking at Gatwick Airport:

1. Convenience: Short-stay car parks are located close to the terminals, minimizing the time you spend walking or waiting for transport.

2. Time-Saving: With no need to wait for shuttle buses, short-stay parking saves you time, which is especially beneficial for those who are catching a quick flight or need to pick up someone at the airport.

3. Flexible: Short-stay parking is available for a few hours or an entire day, giving you the flexibility to park for exactly the amount of time you need.

4. Secure: Like all parking at Gatwick, short-stay car parks are well-secured, with 24/7 surveillance, lighting, and regular patrols to keep your vehicle safe.

5. Cost-Effective for Short-Term Parking: Although short-stay parking can be more expensive per hour than long-term parking, it’s very affordable if you're only parking for a short amount of time.

Types of Short Stay Parking at Gatwick

London Gatwick offers several different short-stay car parks, each designed to suit varying needs. Here’s an overview of the most common options:

1. Short Stay Parking at North Terminal

The North Terminal Short Stay Car Park is perfect for travellers flying from Gatwick’s North Terminal. It’s located right next to the terminal, offering maximum convenience for passengers with limited time. With this parking option, you simply park your vehicle and walk directly into the terminal.

Key Features of North Terminal Short Stay Parking:

• Proximity to Terminal: Located just a short walk away from the North Terminal, making it ideal for those who need to get to their flight quickly.
• Affordable for Short Stays: Ideal for those staying for a few hours or one day, as pricing is structured by the hour.
• Security: Fully secure with CCTV surveillance and regular patrols.

Booking in advance can save you money, especially during busy times, so consider reserving a space online to ensure availability and the best rates.

2. Short Stay Parking at South Terminal

If you’re flying from Gatwick’s South Terminal, the South Terminal Short Stay Car Park is the option for you. Like its North Terminal counterpart, this parking area is situated very close to the terminal, offering easy access to your departure gate.

Key Features of South Terminal Short Stay Parking:

• Close to South Terminal: Just a short walk from the terminal, ensuring that you’re never far from check-in.
• Convenience: The closest car park option for passengers flying from the South Terminal, saving you time on your departure day.
• Affordable Rates for Short-Term Parking: It’s a cost-effective choice if you need to park for only a few hours or a day.
• Security: Equipped with 24-hour CCTV surveillance and regular security patrols to ensure your car remains safe.

The South Terminal Short Stay Car Park is perfect for travellers who need quick access to the terminal without the hassle of a long walk or shuttle ride.

3. Valet Parking Services

For those looking for maximum convenience, Valet Parking at Gatwick is the ultimate solution. With valet parking, you simply drive up to the terminal, where a professional valet will meet you, take your keys, and park your car in the designated car park. Valet parking is especially popular for bus travellers or passengers with limited time, as it eliminates the need to find a parking spot or take a shuttle bus.

Key Features of Valet Parking:

• No Walking: You won’t need to park your car yourself, and there are no shuttle buses to wait for.
• Time-Saving: This is the quickest and most efficient parking option, as the valet will handle everything for you.
• Secure: Your vehicle will be parked in a secure area, monitored by CCTV cameras and security patrols.
• Premium Service: Valet parking is ideal for those who want a seamless, stress-free airport experience.

Although valet parking is more expensive than traditional stay options, its convenience and ease of use make it a popular choice for many passengers.

4. Long Stay Parking for Short-Term Use

If you don’t mind a slightly longer walk but want to save a bit of money, the Long Stay Parking Gatwick is also available for short-term use. Located a bit further from the terminal, it offers more affordable rates than the designated short-stay car parks. The long stay lot operates with a regular shuttle bus service that takes passengers to both the North and South terminals in just a few minutes.

Key Features of Long Stay Parking for Short-Term Use:

• Affordable Option: Cheaper than the short-stay car parks, especially for those who are not in a rush and are looking for cost savings.
• Shuttle Service: A regular shuttle bus runs every 10-15 minutes to transport you to the terminal.
• Security: The long-stay parking lot is highly secure with CCTV and 24/7 monitoring.

Long-stay parking is an excellent option for travellers who are looking for an affordable alternative and don’t mind the short shuttle ride to the terminal.

How to Book Short Stay Parking at Gatwick

Booking short-stay parking at Gatwick is easy and can be done in just a few steps:

1. Visit the Official Gatwick Website: The best place to begin is the official Gatwick website, where you can find detailed information about the different parking options and availability.

2. Select Your Parking Option: Choose the short-stay parking service that best suits your needs. Make sure to select the correct terminal (North or South) depending on your flight’s departure.

3. Enter Your Dates and Times: Input your travel dates and the estimated duration of your parking. This will give you a precise quote.

4. Compare Prices: Check for discounts or deals by booking in advance. The earlier you book, the more likely you are to find better rates.

5. Complete Your Payment: Once you’ve selected your parking option, proceed to payment. Most websites accept major credit and debit cards.

6. Confirmation and Instructions: After booking, you will receive a confirmation email with booking details and instructions on how to access the car park. Follow these instructions on the day of your flight.

Places to Visit in Glasgow

After your time at Gatwick, if you find yourself in Glasgow, you’re in for a treat. This vibrant city offers a wealth of attractions, from its rich cultural history to its modern, buzzing city life. Some of the places to visit in Glasgow include:

• The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: A world-class museum and art gallery with diverse collections, from fine art to natural history.
• Glasgow Cathedral: A beautiful medieval cathedral with an impressive history and architecture.
• Buchanan Street: Glasgow’s prime shopping destination, offering everything from high-end brands to local boutiques.
• The Glasgow Science Centre: A fascinating and interactive destination for science lovers, with engaging exhibits and an IMAX cinema.
• The Glasgow Botanic Gardens: A tranquil and picturesque spot, perfect for a stroll among nature and glasshouses.

Glasgow offers a little something for every traveller, whether you're into art, history, shopping, or nature.

Conclusion

Short-stay car parks at Gatwick Airport provide a convenient and efficient parking option for travellers needing quick access to the terminals. Whether you choose the North Terminal Short Stay, South Terminal Short Stay, or opt for the premium valet service, short stay parking ensures you’re never far from your flight. Book your parking in advance to save money and guarantee your spot, and rest assured that your vehicle will be secure. If you have time to spare, don’t forget to check out the places to visit in Glasgow and enjoy all that this dynamic city has to offer!