First Class

Q: What are the main benefits of First Class?

First Class provides more spacious seating, quieter carriages, and a more comfortable travel experience.

Q: Is First Class available on all Gatwick Express trains?

No, not all Gatwick Express services offer First Class seating. Please check your specific route before travelling. Our timetables display which services have First Class accommodation.

Q: Can I use a Railcard for First Class tickets?

Yes, most Railcards offer discounts of up to 1/3 off First Class fares.

Q: How can I store my First Class ticket digitally?

You can store your First Class ticket as an eTicket on the Gatwick Express app .

Q: What happens if I sit in First Class without a valid ticket?

If you travel in First Class without a valid ticket, you may be charged a Penalty Fare . Please ensure you have the correct ticket before boarding.

Q: Can I also buy First Class tickets at the station?

Yes, you can purchase First Class tickets from self-service machines or ticket offices at Gatwick Express stations.

Q: Are there wheelchair spaces within the First Class areas?

The wheelchair spaces on our trains are only within standard class carriages.

Upgrade your journey with First Class for extra space and comfort, offering a more peaceful and premium travel experience.

A man walking through a railway station with luggage

Ticket overview

Upgrade your journey with First Class for extra space and comfort, offering a more peaceful and premium travel experience.

Benefits

Quieter carriages: Travel in a calmer, less crowded space. Ideal for working, unwinding, or simply enjoying the journey.
More space: First Class seating provides extra room and a more exclusive travel experience.
Convenient digital tickets: Store and use your First Class ticket easily via the Gatwick Express app.

When can I use this ticket type?

First Class tickets are valid on most Gatwick Express services that offer First Class seating. They can be used during both Peak and Off-Peak hours, depending on the ticket type purchased.

Things to remember

Availability: Not all Gatwick Express trains have First Class seating, so it’s best to check before you travel. Wheelchair spaces are available within Standard Class only.
Ticket inspection: You must hold a valid First Class ticket or upgrade when travelling in First Class.
Non-transferable: Tickets are only valid for the person named on the booking.
Additional restrictions: Some discounts and Railcards may have restrictions on First Class tickets. Please check National Rail for more information.

How can I save more, and what discounts are available?

Railcards: Many Railcards can be used on First Class tickets, offering up to 1/3 off fares.

Reasons to buy direct

No booking fees: Unlike third-party retailers, we charge no booking fees. We think it’s only fair, that you only pay the fare.
Free Fast Track Security – When you buy a First Class Adult ticket to Gatwick Airport through Gatwick Express, you can enjoy complimentary Fast Track Security at the airport. Terms and conditions apply. Details on how to redeem this offer at the airport will be included in your booking confirmation email after you purchase.
If your plans change: direct bookings mean you may be eligible to apply for a refund online (in-line with the National Rail Conditions of Travel), through the same account you’ve purchased.

Buy First Class tickets

Frequently asked questions

What are the main benefits of First Class?

Is First Class available on all Gatwick Express trains?

Can I use a Railcard for First Class tickets?

How can I store my First Class ticket digitally?

What happens if I sit in First Class without a valid ticket?

Can I also buy First Class tickets at the station?

Can I upgrade my ticket to use in First Class?

You can choose to upgrade to First Class on eligible tickets, even after purchase. You can upgrade to First Class from your Standard Class ticket by visiting the ticket office in the station. It’s important to remember you must do this before you board one of our trains as the staff on the train cannot upgrade your ticket.

If you are using Pay As You Go (PAYG) with Oyster, contactless bank card or mobile device then you cannot purchase an upgrade to sit in First Class.

If you sit in First Class with a Standard Class ticket, you may be liable to a Penalty Fare.

Are there wheelchair spaces within the First Class areas?

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