The short answer: Bloc is inside the terminal and the Hilton is next to it. Bloc is the shortest walk, and the Hilton is the larger hotel at the lowest rates we sampled. The Courtyard has no shuttle, so it suits a later flight.
3 stays · Last checked · How we checkThree stays for an early flight from the South Terminal, compared on the walk and the price.
| Stay | How you reach S | Hotel to check-in | Room, typical | Transfer | Typical total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Our pickBloc Hotel London Gatwick | Inside the terminal buildingReception is opposite security. Time is our estimate | 3 min | £110–£117 | £0 | £110–£117 |
| Best valueLowest totalHilton London Gatwick Airport | Covered walkway to the South TerminalHilton: connected to the South Terminal by a covered walkway. The 3 minutes is from Holiday Extras only | 3 min | £98–£122 | £0 | £98–£122 |
| Also considerCourtyard by Marriott London Gatwick Airport | Gatwick Hoppa bus, taxi or carMarriott says about a 2 minute drive and no hotel shuttle. The Hoppa bus is GBP 5.25 per person. No bus times given. Door to check-in is our estimate | 15 min | £111–£136 | £5.50 | £117–£142 |
Prices are the lowest room we found on Booking.com across eight dates from November 2026 to April 2027, for two adults, one night, in Australian dollars. Walk times come from Booking.com, the hotels or Gatwick, and the stay page says where we estimated one. Checked November 2026; your dates may cost more or less.
The right stay changes with the situation and the terminal.
Get from the gate to a bed without waiting on a shuttle that has stopped.
Late arrival staysConnect 9hDecide whether to stay inside the terminal, next to it, or head out.
Connection staysFamily × 4Rooms that fit everyone, and a transfer that works with bags and a buggy.
Family staysLayover 7hA day room, a shower or a few hours out. What is realistic in the time you have.
Layover optionsStep-freeA short, calm route from the room to check-in, with as few steps, waits and transfers as possible.
Stays for older travellersLowest totalThe lowest total for the night, with the room and the trip to the terminal added up.
Budget stays