Parking Overview
Valet Parking at London Gatwick (LGW) is the airport’s premium “Meet and Greet” style option for both the North Terminal and South Terminal. You drive to the designated drop-off area, hand your keys to the valet team, and walk straight into the terminal—no searching for a bay or waiting for a shuttle.
This option is best for time-sensitive departures, families with lots of luggage, business travelers, and anyone who values convenience over the lowest price. For budget travelers or long trips, Gatwick’s Long Stay or off-site park-and-ride providers (e.g., Purple Parking, APH, Cophall) are typically much cheaper, but they add transfer time.
Pricing
- Daily/weekly rates: Gatwick’s official data does not publish a fixed daily rate for Valet Parking (prices vary by date and demand). Expect Valet to cost more than on-site Long Stay and off-site park-and-ride, especially for week-long trips.
- Airport comparisons: On-gate Long Stay pricing is around £38 for 2–24 hours and £32 per additional day (and includes 2 hours free), while off-site park-and-ride can start from roughly £4–£6/day when pre-booked. Short Stay is the most expensive for longer durations (e.g., up to £70 for 12–24 hours in published examples).
- Discounts: Pre-booking online is the biggest money-saver and also helps guarantee space. Some third-party booking sites may offer flexible cancellation or promotional discounts.
- Payment: Most travelers pay online at booking; on the day, follow the provider’s instructions for any balance due. Keep your booking confirmation handy.
Getting to Your Terminal
- Transfer method: No shuttle needed—after check-in with the valet team, it’s typically a short walk to the terminal.
- Estimated time: Official guidance indicates about a 2 minute walk from Valet Parking to the terminal area once you’ve handed over the vehicle.
- Weather exposure: Valet parking is listed as covered, reducing exposure when loading/unloading. Allow extra time in bad weather for slower forecourt traffic.
- Terminal choice: Book the correct product for North Terminal Valet or South Terminal Valet (often marketed as “Meet and Greet North/South”).
Features & Security
- Covered parking: Yes (helps protect your car from the elements).
- Security: As an official on-airport service, expect monitored facilities, good lighting, and controlled access typical of airport parking. Always remove valuables and lock the vehicle at handover.
- EV charging: Available for Valet Parking per official data (availability can be limited—confirm requirements at booking or on arrival).
- Extras: Some valet services may offer add-ons (such as cleaning), but availability varies—check during booking.
- Accessibility: Meet-and-greet is ideal for reduced mobility because it minimizes walking and eliminates shuttle transfers; ask staff for assistance at drop-off if needed.
Booking Tips
- Reserve online early: Valet is capacity-limited and can sell out during school holidays and peak weekends.
- Build in handover time: Even though the walk is short, allow extra minutes for check-in, photos/inspection, and busy approach roads.
- Know your cancellation terms: Policies differ by channel (official vs aggregator). Choose flexible cancellation if plans might change.
- If Valet is full: Consider Short Stay for maximum proximity (higher cost), Long Stay for value with a free shuttle, or off-site park-and-ride for the lowest rates.