Taxis at Gatwick Airport North Terminal

taxis and airport minicabs

At Gatwick Airport’s North Terminal, taxis are readily available 24/7. The airport is well-served by licensed taxis, and there are dedicated taxi ranks just outside the terminal building. Here’s what you need to know about using taxis at the North Terminal:

Taxi Services at Gatwick North Terminal

  1. Licensed Airport Taxis
    • Location: The taxi rank is located directly outside the arrivals area at the North Terminal. You can easily find it by following the signs for “Taxis” upon exiting the baggage claim area.
    • Type of Taxis: All taxis at Gatwick are licensed and metered. Most of these are traditional London-style black cabs or similar vehicles that are authorized to pick up passengers at the airport.
    • Payment Options: You can pay by cash, credit/debit card, or contactless payment. Most taxis also accept mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay.
    • Accessibility: Taxis at the rank include accessible vehicles for passengers with disabilities. Wheelchair-accessible taxis are available on request.
    • Fares: The fare to Central London is typically around £100-£120, depending on traffic, time of day, and the specific destination. All taxis use meters to calculate the fare, and additional charges may apply for things like extra luggage, late-night journeys, or waiting time.
  2. Pre-Booked Taxis and Private Hire
    • Private Hire Services: There are various private hire taxi services that you can pre-book for pick-up at Gatwick North Terminal. These services often provide fixed fares to destinations, which can sometimes be more economical than metered taxis, especially for longer journeys.
    • Booking Desks: Some private hire companies have booking desks inside the terminal, or you can book online or via phone in advance. Some popular private hire companies operating at Gatwick include:
    • Airport Cars Gatwick: The official Gatwick Airport taxi service that can be pre-booked. They offer a range of vehicles, including standard cars, executive cars, and larger vehicles for groups.
    • : A popular private hire service offering fixed rates and various vehicle options.
    • Local Taxi Operators: Several local taxi companies operate around Gatwick and can be pre-booked for pick-up.
  3. Ride-Hailing Services
    • Uber, Bolt, and Ola: Ride-hailing apps like Uber, Bolt, and Ola operate at Gatwick Airport. You can book a ride via the app, and the pick-up point is located in the designated area at the North Terminal’s forecourt.
    • Pick-Up Area: Follow the signs for “Ride App Pick-Up” or check the app for precise directions to the designated pick-up point.

Location of Taxi Ranks

  • Taxi Rank Location: The main taxi rank for the is located directly outside the arrivals area. Clear signage within the terminal will guide you to the taxi pick-up point, making it easy to find.

Types of Taxis

  • Licensed Taxis: The taxis at Gatwick are all licensed, meaning they are regulated and safe. These are typically black cabs or other official vehicles, all of which use meters to calculate the fare.
  • Private Hire Vehicles: Besides the standard black cabs, there are also private hire vehicles (minicabs) available through various companies. These usually need to be booked in advance, as they cannot be hailed from the street like traditional taxis.

Fares and Payments

  • Fare to Central London: A typical fare to Central London from Gatwick North Terminal is approximately £100-£120, depending on the exact destination and traffic conditions.
  • Metered Fares: All licensed taxis use meters to determine the fare, which is based on distance and time.
  • Payment Options: Most taxis accept cash and credit/debit cards. Some might also accept contactless payments or payments via mobile apps.

Pre-Booking and Meet & Greet Services

  • Pre-Book Taxis: While you can get a taxi on the spot, pre-booking a taxi might be more convenient, especially during peak times or if you have specific requirements. Several companies offer this service.
  • Meet & Greet: Some taxi companies offer a “meet and greet” service where the driver will meet you inside the terminal, assist with luggage, and escort you to the vehicle. This service usually comes at an additional cost.

Taxi Alternatives

  • Ride-Hailing Services: Ride-hailing apps like Uber, Bolt, and Ola also operate from . The designated pickup points for these services are usually in the short-stay car park, and you will need to follow signs or check the app for the exact location.
  • Minicab Services: Various private hire minicab companies operate in and around . These can often be a cheaper option than traditional black cabs, especially for longer journeys. However, they must be booked in advance as they are not allowed to pick up passengers without a prior booking.

Travel Tips

  • Queue Times: During peak travel times, such as early mornings, late evenings, or during holidays, there may be a queue for taxis. However, the ranks are generally well-managed to keep wait times to a minimum.
  • Traffic Conditions: Traffic in and around London can be heavy, especially during rush hours. When planning your journey, consider travel times.

Tips for Using Taxis at Gatwick North Terminal

  • Avoid Queues: During peak times, there may be a queue at the taxi rank. Pre-booking a taxi can save time and ensure that a vehicle is waiting for you when you arrive.
  • Confirm the Fare: Always confirm the approximate fare before starting your journey, especially for longer trips. For metered taxis, check if there are any additional charges.
  • Use Reputable Services: Stick to licensed taxis or reputable private hire companies for safety and reliability.
  • Check for Accessibility Needs: If you require a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, it’s best to inform the taxi company or ride-hailing service in advance.

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