The best Gatwick Airport hotels

The Gatwick outpost of the world-renowned Hilton empire has a lot going for it. Firstly, it’s (unsurprisingly) the largest hotel at Gatwick, with over 800 guest rooms, so bagging a bed won't be an issue. Secondly, there are eating and drinking options galore, including a coffee shop and two restaurants and bars, where you can get morning and evening buffets.

Where is it? It's connected to the South Terminal by a covered walkway, so you wont have to drag your suitcase in the London drizzle.

Which room? Naturally, this a good choice for big broods – the Hilton family rooms can accommodate up to two adults and four children. Plus, if you're saving your pennies for holiday activities, it's free for under-10s to dine alongside adults in the restaurant.

Time Out tip: There are two bars, two restaurants and 24-hour room service – so you won't go hungry, no matter what time your flight arrives/departs.

Bloc provides great value for your money. You can easily get a room here for little more than a ton. It won't be huge and it may be windowless, but it'll be comfy, with Swedish design and innovative technology built-in all over the place. There really couldn't be a less stressful pre- or post-flight way to stay.

Where is it? Literally inside the South Terminal, near endless shops and restaurants.

Which room? Plane nerds should plump for Bloc’s Runway Suite – you'll get some great views.

Time Out tip: There's a coffee and tea room where guests can help themselves to a warming cuppa.

This four-star overnighter is the Gatwick branch of Parisian hotel chain Sofitel. It's just as sleek and luxurious as you'd imagine a business from Paris to be, with two onsite restaurants, two bars and a well-equipped gym. You're also just 20 minutes from Brighton, if you fancy popping down for a dip in the sea.

Where is it? Adjacent to the North Terminal and a fantastic array of restaurants.

Which room? Travelling in a group? Book the Family room. It's double the price of a standard Classic room, but sleeps five.

Time Out tip: Feeling peckish? Head to Le Ciel, the terrace-style bar where you can relax and sip a cocktail whilst watching all of the holiday hustle and bustle in the foyer below. Parfait!

If the four-star Hilton is a little out of your price range, opt for the Hampton instead. It comes with slightly fewer luxury amenities, but still provides all the same high quality service, including free hot breakfast served daily. There's a 24-hour reception, so no worries about booking those obscure 3am flights here. There's a bar and restaurant too.

Where is it? Connected to the North Terminal by a covered walkway.

Which room? Three of you travelling? Save some pennies on the Queen Corner room. There's a sofabed for to accommodate you all, but also dual aspect views. Nice.

Time Out tip: Want to zap yourself back to life after a particularly gruelling long-haul flight? Head to the fitness centre, which is open 24/7 (or maybe just catch some z's, beauty sleep is a real thing, you know).

If the name looks familiar, it's because Yotelair is owned by the Yo Sushi crew. Don't let that put you off, though, this is a great and affordable capsule hotel. It was created with the help of one of the designers of BA's first class cabins, so everything you’ll encounter here is of the small-but-well-thought-out variety. There's unlimited hot drinks and a 24-hour service menu too, so peckishness won't be a problem.

Where is it? The entrance is inside the South Terminal and just 15 minutes' walk from the North Terminal.

Which room? All the 'cabins' are tiny, but comfortable. The key thing to note is that you can book them for a minimum of four hours. Perfect for layovers.

Time Out tip: Loan a Lumie for free from reception. These little lights help combat jetlag by mimicking the natural rising and setting of the sun.

Give those large-scale hotels a miss and go for something with a bit more of a personal touch; you'll feel right at home at the family-run Corner House, with its friendly atmosphere and cosy vibes. Guests are welcome to try out the bar and restaurant, and make their judgments on the homemade breakfast – which can be included in the price of your stay. 

Where is it? Under a five-minute drive to Gatwick airport and central London is easily accessible by train. 

Which room? Most rooms come with the choice of an extra large bed or two singles. 

Time Out tip: Make use of the 24-hour airport transfer and pick-up service. Holiday parking is available. 

Why should the fact you've got a flight in the morning mean your standards slip? Ditch the basic airport hotels for Langshott Manor and make the most of its luxurious rooms, award-winning restaurant and stunning natural surroundings spanning across three acres. Feel like royalty with rooms featuring four-poster beds and freestanding baths. 

Where is it? Gatwick is an eight-minute drive away, and you can get to central London within 30 minutes by train. 

Which room? There are many options, from practical to lavish. The King Suite is where to rest your head if you want the ultimate royal treatment. 

Time Out tip: The original period features of this 16th-century manor house extend to the elegant terraces and lounges with open fires.