Gatwick (north terminal) to Victoria Station
Traveling from Gatwick Airport (North Terminal) to Victoria Station
Is this the best route to take from Gatwick Airport (North Terminal) to Victoria Station (where I’ll be staying at the Clermont Victoria)?
- Take the shuttle tram from North Terminal to South Terminal.
- Use my contactless credit card to board the Southern train to Victoria Station.
- Tap out with the same contactless card when exiting the tube?
Also, am I right that the tube fare is around £9, while the Gatwick Express costs about £20 and only saves about 5 minutes of travel time?
Do we need a separate contactless card for our 12-year-old?
Your proposed route is generally correct, but let’s clarify a few points:
Tram from North Terminal to South Terminal: Instead of taking a tram, you can simply take the Gatwick Airport train, which goes directly to Victoria Station without the need to change at the South Terminal. There are no trams between the North and South terminals; the Gatwick Express and other trains depart from the South Terminal.
Southern Train to Victoria Station: Yes, you can use your contactless credit card to purchase a ticket for the Southern train from Gatwick Airport to Victoria Station. It’s important to note that you can also simply tap on the gate barrier with the contactless card for entry (instead of buying a separate ticket), and it will automatically calculate the fare.
Contactless Visa for Tube: If you plan on using the Tube after arriving at Victoria Station, you can use the same contactless card to tap out at the Tube station. Make sure to tap in when you enter the Tube station as well.
Regarding pricing, yes, the contactless fare for the train from Gatwick to Victoria is generally cheaper than the Gatwick Express (which is around £20), and the journey time difference is minimal.
As for the 12-year-old, children under 11 can travel free on trains and the Tube when accompanied by an adult. If your child is 12, they will need a separate ticket. You can also use a contactless card for them, or purchase a child ticket if eligible for any discounts.
So, in summary:
1. Take the direct train from Gatwick Airport (North Terminal) to Victoria Station.
2. Use a contactless card for everyone, except if they’re under 11 years old.
3. Tap in and out for both the train and Tube.
Have a great trip!