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A Gatwick lounge is worth paying for when you expect a long wait, want a guaranteed seat and a quiet space, or would otherwise spend a similar amount on food and drink in the terminal. It is usually not worth it for a short, early, hand luggage only trip where you will reach the gate with time to spare. This guide explains how Gatwick lounges work, what to check before you book and how to decide.
Lounge operators, prices and opening hours change often, so treat everything here as general guidance and check the official Gatwick Airport website and each lounge provider for current details before you pay.
How much does a Gatwick lounge cost?
There is no single price. Pay-in lounges at UK airports normally charge per person, and the price can vary depending on the lounge, the time of day, how far ahead you book and whether you book online or on the day. Children are often priced differently from adults, and very young children may be free, but rules differ between providers.
As a rule, booking in advance online tends to be cheaper than turning up at the door, and some lounges raise prices at busy times such as school holidays. Prices at the door can also be higher if the lounge is close to capacity, and some will turn you away when full. Always check the exact price per adult and per child, the length of stay allowed and what is included, because a cheaper lounge with a strict time limit can end up worse value than a slightly dearer one.
Before paying, work out your break-even. If two adults would normally spend a substantial amount on breakfast, a drink and a snack airside, a lounge that includes unlimited food and drink can be reasonable value. If you only want a coffee, it rarely is.
Which lounge is best in the North Terminal?
Gatwick has two terminals, North and South, and lounge availability has changed over the years, including during and after the pandemic. Because of that, we cannot name a single best lounge that will still be right when you read this. Instead, compare the lounges that are open for your terminal using these points.
- Location: check whether it is airside after security, and how close it is to your gate area. Gatwick can have a long walk to some gates, so a lounge near the main departure area is more useful than one at the far end.
- Seating and space: look at recent guest reviews for comments about crowding, especially at peak departure times.
- Food and drink: buffet only, a small hot food menu or table service make a big difference to value.
- Showers and extras: some lounges offer showers, work areas or quiet zones, but not all do.
- Views and facilities for families: family friendly lounges can make a long wait with children far easier.
Check the official Gatwick lounge listing for your terminal, then read the most recent reviews rather than older ones. If the North Terminal lounge you want is closed or full, a South Terminal alternative is not an option unless you fly from that terminal, so confirm your terminal first on your airline booking.
Can you book a lounge on the day?
Usually yes, if there is space, but it is a gamble at busy times. Many lounges accept walk-ups, and a few reserve space for online bookings first. If you travel in school holidays, on a Friday or on an early morning departure, book ahead so you are not left paying more or being refused entry.
Booking ahead also lets you check the cancellation and change terms. Flights get delayed, so see what happens if you arrive later than your booked slot, and whether you can extend your stay if your flight is held up.
Do lounges include food and drink?
Most pay-in lounges include some food and drink, but the detail varies a great deal. Typical inclusions are self service snacks, hot and soft drinks, and often alcoholic drinks such as beer, wine or house spirits. Some also include a hot buffet, while others charge extra for premium items.
Read the description carefully. Phrases such as “selected drinks” or “continental breakfast” can mean a limited offer. If you have dietary needs, check whether allergen information and suitable options are available. Do not assume everything is included, and ask on arrival what is covered so you do not get a surprise bill.
Who should pay for a lounge, and who should not
A lounge tends to suit:
- Travellers with a long wait, for example a delayed flight or an early check-in.
- People travelling with children who need a calm space and easy food.
- Anyone who wants to work, charge devices or relax before a long flight.
- Travellers who would spend similar money on food and drink airside anyway.
You can probably skip a lounge if you are flying on a short budget trip, only arrive shortly before boarding, or are happy to buy a coffee and wait at the gate. For more ideas on saving money on trips, see our cheap holidays guide.
Ways to get lounge access without paying full price
- Pre-book online: usually cheaper than the door price.
- Check your bank account or credit card: some premium accounts offer lounge access. Check the terms, as there may be limits on visits and guests.
- Look at airline status or ticket class: some fares include lounge access, so check your booking.
- Compare bundles: some parking and lounge packages are cheaper together. Compare against buying separately.
If you are driving, our guide to the Gatwick drop off charge explains how to avoid unnecessary fees, and Travelodge near Gatwick stay and park packages may help if you have an early flight. If you travel by train, see Gatwick Express vs Southern vs Thameslink.
How early should you arrive to use a lounge?
Arrive in good time. A common mistake is paying for a lounge and then not having time to enjoy it. Check the airline check-in and bag drop deadlines, allow for security queues, and remember that airside walks to the lounge and then to your gate also take time. Many lounges let you stay for a limited number of hours before departure, so confirm the maximum stay in the terms.
If you are flying from Gatwick often, our holidays from Gatwick guide covers wider planning tips, and our travel insurance guide explains cover for delays, which is useful if you expect a long wait.
What if your flight is delayed?
If your flight is delayed, a lounge can make the wait much easier, especially if you have children. Airlines sometimes give meal vouchers after long delays, but this is not the same as lounge access. If you are entitled to compensation, see our UK flight delay compensation guide. Keep your receipts and boarding passes in case you need them later.
A simple checklist before you book
- Confirm which terminal your flight departs from.
- Check the lounge is open at your departure time.
- Compare the advance price with the door price.
- Read what food and drink are actually included.
- Check the maximum stay, so a delay or early arrival does not cost you extra.
- Look at cancellation and change terms.
- Decide whether a lounge adds more value than spending the same money elsewhere in the terminal.
Working through this list takes a few minutes, and it avoids the two most common disappointments: paying for a lounge that is full, and paying for one you barely have time to use. If you are still unsure, think about how you want to spend your airport time. Some travellers love the calm of a lounge, while others prefer to wander the shops and keep the money for the holiday itself. Neither choice is wrong, and the best option depends on your trip, your budget and who you are travelling with.
Frequently asked questions
Are Gatwick lounges open all day?
Opening hours vary. Some open early for first departures and close in the evening, so check the times against your flight on the lounge provider website.
Can children use Gatwick lounges?
Usually, yes, but age limits and pricing differ. Some lounges have restrictions on children at certain times, so check before booking.
Is lounge entry refundable?
It depends on the provider and when you cancel. Read the terms at booking, especially for non-refundable promotional prices.
Can you take food out of a lounge?
Rules vary. Many lounges ask that you consume food inside, so do not count on packing a meal for the flight.
Do you need a boarding pass to enter?
Yes, you will normally need to show a boarding pass for a flight departing the same day.
Is there a quiet lounge at Gatwick?
Some lounges promote quieter areas, but busy periods can still be noisy. Read recent reviews for the time of day you plan to fly.
Is it cheaper to book a lounge online?
Often, yes, but not always. Compare the advance price with the door price when you have a choice.
Final thoughts
A Gatwick lounge can turn a stressful airport morning into a relaxed start to your holiday, but only if the price, location and inclusions suit your trip. Decide your budget, check the terminal and opening hours, book in advance for busy periods and read recent reviews. For more advice on planning a trip from Gatwick, see our weekend breaks from Brighton ideas, our city breaks guide and our car hire guide if you need to hire a car at the other end.