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. Amy's Bar is an all-day affair dishing up snacks and light lunches before breaking out the big guns in the form of tasty tapas come the evening. Charlie Fry's is on hand for all your sporting needs; catch the latest games in this newly refurbished hangout serving drinks and eats late into the evening. There's even a Japanese steakhouse for a more refined dining experience. 

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. The wide range of room types means there's a stay to suit every budget, from compact-yet-cosy pod-style pads to the luxe Runway suite with a living area. Whichever room you choose, expect Swedish design, a monsoon shower and innovative technology built into pretty much everything for optimum ease. The sophisticated climate control system and Egyptian cotton linen will also contribute to the high-level comfort of your stay. Depending on your provider, guests can even check in bags the night before their flight. 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 a timeless colour palette and modern materials that give a high-end feel throughout. There are multiple onsite restaurants serving Pan-Asian, Mediterranean comfort food and gourmet British fare inspired by French gastronomy. There's a well-equipped gym for fitness fanatics that can't go a day without working out. And for relaxed evening drink, head to the terrace bar. You're also just 20 minutes from Brighton, if you fancy popping down for a casual 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 has a modern look and 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. The lobby bar is a great social space, with a wide range of hot and cold drinks on offer. A late-ish check-out time of 12pm is also a pretty nice perk, and London is just a 30-minute train ride away if you're planning on seeing the capital before you leave. 

Where is it? Connected to the North Terminal by a covered walkway. There's also a free 24-hour transit to the South Terminal. 

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 Japanese-style 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. Each room comes with a jukebox music system, mood lighting, monsoon shower, flat screen TV, luxury bedding and workstation. There's unlimited hot drinks at The Galley and a 24-hour service menu with light meals and snacks, 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. The standard of service is second to none, with staff setting out to make every guests' experience the best it can be – made possible by the limited capacity. The rooms are simple but thoughtfully furnished, with Egyptian cotton bedding, hot drink machines and high-quality en suites. It's also home to a highly rated cream tea set in the bright conservatory, and the lounge area offers an idyllic backdrop for reading by the fire.

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 have to slip? Ditch the basic airport hotels for the four-star Langshott Manor and make the most of its luxurious rooms, award-winning restaurant and stunning natural surroundings spanning across three acres. The quaint country home is a vision inside and out, with original historic features blended with a modern yet charmingly timeless design. Feel like royalty with rooms featuring four-poster beds and freestanding baths. If you have time, settle in for a traditional afternoon tea or Sunday roast at The Mulberry. 

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.