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Premier Inn has several hotels in and around Gatwick Airport, and for many travellers they are the default choice for a night before an early flight. The best one for you depends on which terminal you fly from, whether you are driving or taking the train, and whether you want a stay and park deal. This guide explains how to choose, what to check before you book, and how to avoid the common mistakes. Hotel names, locations, prices and package details change, so use the Premier Inn website for current information and treat this page as planning advice.
Which Premier Inn is closest to Gatwick?
Gatwick has two terminals, North and South, which are linked by a short transit between them. Premier Inn has hotels at the airport and in nearby towns, and the closest options are generally the ones within walking distance or a short shuttle ride of a terminal. Hotels in Crawley, Horley and surrounding areas are further away but can be cheaper.
When you compare locations, look at these points rather than just the name of the hotel:
- Which terminal the hotel is closest to, since North and South are not the same walk
- Whether the hotel is walkable from the terminal or needs a shuttle or taxi
- How long the journey takes at the time you need to travel, including early morning
- Whether there is a covered or well lit walking route if you arrive late
Check your airline’s terminal on your booking or on the Gatwick website before you choose. The terminal for your flight can change, so check again a few days before travel. Our holidays from Gatwick guide covers the basics of using the airport.
Which is best for early flights?
For an early morning departure, the aim is to minimise stress. That usually means choosing the hotel that is closest to your terminal and has the simplest route, either on foot or by a reliable shuttle. A cheaper hotel further away can end up costing more once you add taxis, and it leaves less margin if something goes wrong.
A sensible checklist for an early flight:
- Choose a hotel you can reach from the terminal quickly, ideally with a short walk or direct transfer.
- Check the first shuttle or taxi times and plan to leave earlier than you think you need to.
- Ask whether you can check in late if your flight lands in the evening.
- Pack your bag the night before and keep passports and boarding passes together.
- Set two alarms, one on your phone and one on a second device or the hotel wake up call.
Security queues at Gatwick can vary through the day, and early morning can be busy because many flights depart at similar times. Allow the time your airline recommends and check the airport’s live information on the day. If you are worried about delays, our guide to flight delay compensation explains your rights.
Do they have parking and shuttle deals?
Many airport hotels offer packages that combine a room with car parking for the duration of your trip. These are often called stay and park deals. They can be good value if you are flying out early and want to leave your car somewhere safe, but the details matter.
Questions to ask before you book a stay and park package:
- How many days of parking are included, and what does extra time cost?
- Is the car park at the hotel or at a separate site, and is there a transfer to the terminal?
- How often does the shuttle run, and does it run early enough for your flight?
- Are there height or vehicle size restrictions?
- What are the rules if you return late or your flight is delayed?
- Is the car park secure and is any security or insurance cover explained?
If you do not need a hotel, compare the package with standalone airport parking, and with arriving by train. Our guide to the Gatwick drop off charge explains another way to avoid parking costs. If you are staying with a different chain, see our guides to the Travelodge near Gatwick and the Hilton London Gatwick for comparison.
Is breakfast worth adding?
Breakfast is usually an optional extra at budget and mid range chains, and whether it is worth it depends on your plans. For a very early flight you may be leaving before breakfast service begins, in which case you would be paying for something you cannot use.
- Worth adding if you have a later departure, travel with children, or want a proper meal before a long day.
- Not worth it if you are leaving before service starts, or if you plan to eat at the airport.
- Check the price at booking against the cost of food at the airport, which can be high.
- Look at whether any breakfast to go or early option is available.
Many people find it better to buy snacks and drinks at the airport after security, or to pack something from the supermarket the day before. Check what you can take through security, because liquids have restrictions.
How early should I arrive at the airport?
Airlines and airports publish recommended arrival times, and these vary by airline, destination and time of year. As a general approach, aim to be at the terminal comfortably before the bag drop closes, which is usually earlier than the departure time suggests. Hotels near the airport make this easier, because you are not relying on a long journey on the morning. If you have checked in online and only have hand luggage, you can usually go straight to security, but still check your airline’s rules for the latest guidance.
- Check your airline’s bag drop and gate closing times in your booking confirmation.
- Allow extra time in busy periods such as school holidays and bank holiday weekends.
- Keep liquids in a clear bag and electronics accessible to speed up security.
- Have your passport and boarding pass ready before you reach the front of the queue.
Flexible rates and cancellation
Hotels often offer a cheaper non flexible rate and a more expensive flexible one. Flights are the thing that tends to change, so consider whether the cheaper rate is worth the risk. If your flight could be cancelled or retimed, a flexible rate gives you more peace of mind. Check whether cancellation is free up to a particular time before your stay. If you have booked a package holiday, check your travel insurance too. Our travel insurance guide explains what to look for.
Getting to the hotel by train and taxi
Gatwick has its own railway station, with services from London and the south coast. If you are travelling from Brighton and Sussex, the train is often the simplest option, and our Gatwick train comparison explains how the services differ. After you arrive, check whether the hotel is walkable, shuttle served or best reached by taxi.
If you are driving, plan the route in advance and check traffic at the time you will travel, because roads around the airport can be busy. If you need a hire car on your return, our car hire guide explains how to compare prices.
Who should choose a different hotel?
- If you want a leisurely start and are not worried about early flights, a hotel further out in Crawley or Horley can offer more choice and lower prices.
- If you want a more luxurious experience, consider a hotel with a spa, bar and restaurant.
- If you are staying more than one night, think about whether a town centre hotel gives you more to do.
If you are planning a longer trip from Gatwick, see our guides to last minute holidays, cheap holidays and city breaks for ideas on where to go.
Frequently asked questions
Can I walk from a Premier Inn to Gatwick?
Some hotels are within walking distance of a terminal and others need a shuttle or taxi. Check the walking route and time on the hotel page before you book.
What time can I check in?
Check in times vary by hotel and are listed on your booking. If you are arriving late, tell the hotel in advance.
Can I leave my car at the hotel after checking out?
Only if your booking includes parking for that period, so check the terms of any stay and park package.
Do I need to book in advance?
Airport hotels can sell out, especially at busy times of year and around school holidays, so it is wise to book early.
Is there a shuttle bus?
Some airport hotels offer a transfer, and others rely on taxis or a walk. The schedule can change, so confirm times for your travel date.
What if my flight is cancelled?
Contact your airline first, and then the hotel. A flexible rate or travel insurance can help with costs.
This article is general guidance. Check the official Premier Inn and Gatwick Airport websites for current locations, prices and policies.