If you’re flying into London for the TCS London Marathon, Gatwick Airport is one of the easiest and most convenient entry points, and surprisingly, one of the calmest places to spend the night before race day.
Every April, thousands of international runners arrive here on Friday, check into one of the nearby hotels, and travel into the city on Saturday to collect their race bibs at the ExCeL Centre. It’s a smooth start to the weekend , no rush, no stress, just time to settle in and adjust to the new time zone.
I remember doing something similar before the Berlin Marathon a few years ago: staying near the airport gave me a full night’s rest and a clear head before the race. Sometimes that quiet evening before the big day makes all the difference.
Below you’ll find our handpicked selection of Gatwick hotels, the best ways to travel into central London, and a few practical tips for marathon runners arriving from abroad.
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Best Hotels near Gatwick Airport for Marathon Runners
1. Sofitel London Gatwick ★★★★
Directly Connected to North Terminal
You can literally walk from the arrivals hall to your room. The Sofitel is the top pick for runners who value both comfort and convenience. Spacious, soundproof rooms and early breakfast options from 5 AM make it perfect for jet-lagged runners who need a quiet night’s rest before heading into central London.
note: At the Sofitel, runners often gather in the lobby around 5:30 AM on race day to catch the first trains to Victoria. The atmosphere is calm but quietly electric.
2. Hampton by Hilton London Gatwick Airport ★★★
Easy Access + Free Breakfast
Connected directly to the North Terminal, the Hampton by Hilton is a favorite among runners who prefer a simple, all-inclusive stay. Rooms are clean and comfortable, and the complimentary hot breakfast starts early, handy if you’re catching the train into London before sunrise. Soundproofing and blackout curtains ensure a solid night’s sleep.
note: the Hampton’s breakfast room gets lively early on marathon weekend so best to grab a seat quickly..
3. Courtyard by Marriott Gatwick Airport ★★★★
Reliable Comfort Close to South Terminal
Just a 5–10 minute walk from the South Terminal, the Courtyard by Marriott offers a balanced mix of comfort and convenience. Rooms are quiet and modern, and the on-site restaurant, The Cow at the Airport, serves pasta and light meals, great for pre-race carb-loading. The hotel also has a 24-hour gym and shuttle service to both terminals.
note: On Saturday evening, it’s common to see runners enjoying an early dinner at The Cow. Pasta dishes and bottled water all around before turning in for a good night’s rest.
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How to Get from Gatwick to the London Marathon Start Line
Once you’ve rested, getting from Gatwick to central London is simple, even if you’re carrying your race bag and nerves are starting to kick in.
Gatwick Express: The fastest way into London — non-stop to London Victoria Station in about 30 minutes. Perfect if you’re staying in Westminster or near the finish line.
Thameslink Trains: A cheaper alternative that takes you directly to London Bridge, Blackfriars, or St Pancras. Ideal if you’re staying in Southwark, Greenwich, or Canary Wharf — close to marathon start areas.
Coaches & Taxis: If you prefer door-to-door comfort or have lots of luggage, National Express coaches and private transfers are reliable. Journey times average 60–80 minutes, depending on traffic.
💡 Tip: On race weekend, check for early-morning train schedules or temporary service changes. Many Gatwick hotels post updates for marathon participants at reception.
From Gatwick to the Marathon: Quick Overview
| Destination | Distance | Travel Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central London | ~45 km | 30–40 minutes | Hotels near the finish line |
| Greenwich Park | ~55 km | 50–60 minutes | Marathon start area |
| Victoria Station | — | About 30 minutes | Gatwick Express service |
| London Bridge | — | Around 35 minutes | Thameslink train connection |
You can check current train schedules and ticket prices on NationalRail.co.uk.
Why Stay Near Gatwick Before the Marathon
Staying near the airport the night before the London Marathon can make your weekend a lot smoother. After a long flight, the last thing you need is another hour of transfers across the city, a quiet night near Gatwick lets you rest, refuel, and get organized before race day.
Here are a few simple tips that make a big difference:
- Book a flexible rate. Flights get delayed and bib pick-up times sometimes change. Having a refundable room at a hotel like Hampton by Hilton Gatwick or Courtyard by Marriott can save you a lot of stress.
- Keep your race gear in your hand luggage. Shoes, bib, GPS watch, don’t risk them in a checked bag.
- Plan your transfer early. Trains from Gatwick to central London take around 30 minutes, but schedules can shift on weekends.
- Stay hydrated. Most airport hotels have refill stations or 24-hour shops for water and snacks.
- Arrive two days before, if possible. It gives you time to pick up your bib, visit the Expo, and adjust to the local time zone.
For many runners flying in from overseas, Gatwick is the perfect place to shake off the jet lag and start race weekend feeling calm and ready.
Why Many International Runners Choose Gatwick
For marathoners coming from Europe or farther abroad, Gatwick often feels like the easiest entry point into London. The direct trains, runner-friendly hotels, and quieter terminals make arrival simple, no chaos, no rush.
It’s especially popular among runners who like to arrive a day early, stretch their legs with an easy jog, or pick up their race packet at the Expo before the crowds.
You’ll often spot people wearing London Marathon jackets in the hotel lobbies on Friday night, a little reminder that the race energy starts here.
Fuel & Recovery Tips
Most hotels around Gatwick serve early breakfast buffets. Check for oats, bananas, and toast rather than full English.
The Gatwick South Terminal Pret a Manger opens from 4:30 AM, great for coffee before heading into the city.
After the race, consider staying another night at Gatwick before flying home, your legs will thank you.
Runner’s Tip
“I stayed at the Sofitel last year — being able to walk from my flight straight into a quiet room was perfect before race day.” — Lena, 2024 London Marathon finisher
Related Guides
Planning your London Marathon weekend? You might also like:
👉 Where to Stay for the London Marathon
👉 Hotels for London Marathon – Top Picks Near Start & Finish Lines
👉 Travel Planning for Marathon Runners
👉 Best Hotels Near Heathrow Airport London
Conclusion
Flying into Gatwick Airport is one of the most relaxed ways to begin your London Marathon journey. Whether you’re arriving from Europe or overseas, staying near the airport means less stress, better rest, and more focus on your race.
With easy train links to London and plenty of comfortable hotels, Gatwick is a smart first stop for runners ready to make the most of marathon weekend.
Author’s Note
This guide was created using feedback from marathon runners, official London Marathon resources, and traveler experiences. While I haven’t personally stayed at every hotel listed, all information has been reviewed and verified with updated race-week travel data.
