Living in Gatwick
Looking to move to Gatwick? Learn all about what life here is like, from the local schools and transport options to things to do around town and, of course, find out about property prices in the area.
Your guide to moving and living in Gatwick
Why Gatwick is a great place to live
Gatwick is a unique locality in Surrey, most famous for being home to Gatwick Airport—one of the UK’s largest and busiest airports. The area is situated to the north of Crawley and serves as a vital transport hub for the South East, with borderland links between Surrey and West Sussex. Despite the dominance of aviation infrastructure, Gatwick and its surroundings offer a mix of residential, commercial, and leisure spaces that appeal to a wide variety of residents, including airport staff, frequent travellers, and families seeking convenient commuting options.
The neighbourhoods surrounding Gatwick include Horley to the north and Crawley to the south, both of which add residential character and access to essential amenities. Living in Gatwick is defined by a balance of accessibility, modern facilities, and proximity to business parks, hotels, and green spaces—an appealing prospect for professionals, commuters, and those working in aviation industries. While the airport is the area’s defining feature, wider Gatwick also retains a charm characteristic of Surrey villages and the scenic North Downs beyond.
Historically, the area was rural, made up of farmlands and small settlements. However, the arrival and growth of Gatwick Airport rapidly transformed the locality into a transport-driven hub. Today, Gatwick blends the dynamic energy of an international gateway with pockets of tranquil residential living, giving residents opportunities for both convenience and relaxation. The lifestyle is shaped by the ease of travel and access to London, coupled with plenty of local recreational options.
Community & Local Life
Gatwick’s community is shaped by its role as a transport gateway and by the quieter residential life in surrounding villages and suburbs. The area offers a cosmopolitan environment thanks to the airport, with residents and workers from across the globe contributing to a diverse social scene.
Local life is predominantly practical and community-minded, with active resident groups in Horley, and well-attended community centres and churches fostering a supportive atmosphere. Events such as the Horley Carnival and Crawley Festival attract families and provide a sense of local identity.
Outdoor options are plentiful, with the nearby Riverside Garden Park and the vast Tilgate Park in Crawley offering green spaces for walking, picnics, and play. While Gatwick itself may feel busy, pockets of tranquility and community spirit are readily found in neighbouring districts.
Safety & Crime Rates in Gatwick
Safety and crime rates in Gatwick are generally in line with those seen in similarly busy transport hubs. The presence of Gatwick Airport means that security levels are notably high around the terminal and common travel zones, with extensive surveillance and a constant police presence managed by Sussex Police and the airport’s own security teams.
Residential areas surrounding Gatwick, such as Horley and parts of Crawley, tend to be regarded as safe and community-focused. Like any area with significant footfall, there can be incidents of petty theft or anti-social behaviour in transport terminals, but regeneration and ongoing security initiatives have contributed to steady improvements over recent years.
Community policing initiatives, Neighbourhood Watch schemes, and dedicated airport police make safety a priority for those living and working in the area. Residents benefit from the generally safe ambience of semi-rural Surrey combined with the well-organised oversight typical of an airport environment.
Parking & Road Access
Parking in Gatwick is synonymous with airport parking, as the area hosts a multitude of long-term and short-term parking options for travellers. For residents, on-street parking is available in some residential streets in Horley and nearby communities, though these can sometimes require permits or be limited during peak times due to airport traffic.
Access to main roads is excellent, with both the M23 and A23 passing close by, linking Gatwick efficiently to Surrey, Sussex, and London. The M25 London orbital motorway can be reached within around 10 minutes, enhancing road connectivity.
Traffic volumes can be high, especially around peak airport times, but local knowledge allows many residents to avoid congestion hotspots. Signage and infrastructure around the airport are well developed to manage the flow of vehicles.
Nearby towns and cities by road:
- London – approx. 60 minutes via M23/M25 (28 miles)
- Brighton – approx. 40 minutes via M23/A23 (27 miles)
- Guildford – approx. 45 minutes via A281 (32 miles)
- Crawley – approx. 10 minutes via A23 (4 miles)
- Redhill – approx. 15 minutes via A23 (7 miles)
Food, Pubs & Nightlife
The food scene in Gatwick is heavily influenced by its status as an international airport, with a diverse range of dining options available within the terminal itself, including well-known chains, specialist cafés, and international cuisine suited to all tastes and schedules. Just outside the airport, there are several hotels and restaurants such as the Gatwick Manor and Ye Olde 6 Bells, both offering traditional fare in a relaxed setting.
Nearby Horley and Crawley expand the options further, providing a mix of gastropubs, country inns, independent coffee shops, and global eateries. The nearby Black Horse and The Farmhouse are favourites with locals and commuters alike. Takeaways and fast food outlets are plentiful, catering to the busy footfall from the airport and the local business parks.
While Gatwick itself is not known for a bustling nightlife scene, the proximity to Crawley means that bars, pubs, and clubs are readily accessible. The Hawth Theatre in Crawley is a popular regional arts and entertainment venue for music, comedy, and drama. Overall, the food, pub, and nightlife offerings in Gatwick suit both travellers on the go and residents seeking a casual evening out.
Is Gatwick Family Friendly
School quality: The proximity to a range of primary and secondary schools in Horley and Crawley makes Gatwick suitable for families seeking quality education. Schools such as Manorfield Primary and Hazelwick Secondary are well-rated.
Parks and green space: Access to community parks like Riverside Garden Park and Tilgate Park ensures families have plenty of outdoor options for leisure and recreation.
Childcare: Numerous nurseries and pre-schools operate in the Gatwick, Horley, and Crawley areas, supporting busy working parents.
Safety: The area benefits from high security standards and a family-friendly atmosphere in residential streets, while proximity to the airport ensures round-the-clock services and fast emergency response times.
Family activities: The region abounds with child-friendly day trips such as the British Wildlife Centre, family farms, local leisure centres, and play parks. Regular local events add to family appeal.
Pet Friendly Living
Gatwick and its neighbouring areas offer several options for pet owners. Local parks in Horley and nearby countryside provide excellent routes for dog-walking, with paths along the River Mole proving especially popular. The proximity to outdoor spaces like Tilgate Park further enhances the appeal for those with active pets.
Veterinary clinics and pet stores are readily available in Horley, Crawley, and surrounding villages, ensuring residents have access to all necessary services. Community attitudes towards pets are positive, and many rental properties in the broader area are pet-friendly, though always subject to landlord approval.
Dog-friendly pubs and cafés can be found in both urban fringes and the wider Surrey countryside, making Gatwick a practical choice for those seeking pet-friendly living without sacrificing access to transport and amenities.
Transport & Accessibility
Transport in Gatwick is a major feature, with Gatwick Airport Railway Station being one of the UK’s best-served non-city rail terminals. Frequent trains connect passengers directly to key destinations across London, Surrey, and the South Coast, making the area an attractive base for commuters and travellers alike.
Gatwick offers excellent access to the M23 and M25 motorways, as well as a comprehensive local bus network that links to Horley, Crawley, Redhill, and Reigate. In addition, National Express and other coach services provide direct routes to cities further afield.
Typical journey times from Gatwick (train):
- London Victoria – approx. 30 minutes
- Brighton – approx. 35 minutes
- Redhill – approx. 10 minutes
- East Croydon – approx. 15 minutes
- Clapham Junction – approx. 25 minutes
The proximity to Gatwick Airport means direct flights to hundreds of destinations, and the area offers easy road access to Heathrow Airport in roughly 45 minutes via the M25. Public transport provision is comprehensive, with regular 24-hour services supporting both local journeys and international travel needs.
Schools & Education in Gatwick
The areas immediately around Gatwick itself do not host many schools, but there is an excellent selection of educational institutions in nearby towns such as Horley and Crawley. These schools serve the families living and working in the Gatwick area, offering a range of educational options from primary to further education.
Primary Schools:
Manorfield Primary and Nursery School (Horley): A popular choice close to Gatwick, rated “Good” by Ofsted in 2023.
Langshott Primary School (Horley): Another strong performer in the local community, rated “Good” by Ofsted in 2019.
Gossops Green Primary School (Crawley): Known for its inclusive ethos, last rated “Good” by Ofsted in 2022.
Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Primary School (Crawley): Highly regarded, with a “Good” Ofsted rating in 2020.
Secondary Schools:
Oakwood School (Horley): Serving north of Gatwick with comprehensive facilities, rated “Good” by Ofsted in 2022.
Hazelwick School (Crawley): Noted for its strong academic performance; rated “Good” in 2023.
St Wilfrid’s Catholic School (Crawley): A long-standing secondary, Ofsted “Good” in 2021.
Thomas Bennett Community College (Crawley): Provides a broad curriculum with diverse facilities.
Colleges and Sixth Forms:
East Surrey College (Redhill): A well-respected further education provider offering A-levels, vocational training, and apprenticeships.
Crawley College: Known for its broad curriculum and partnerships with local businesses; ideal for those seeking practical qualifications or adult learning.
Universities:
While Gatwick itself does not have a university, the University of Sussex and University of Surrey are within an accessible commute and are popular with students living in the wider area.