London Gatwick Sofitel Hotel Review: Luxury Room with Runway View
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Ready for your holidays?
Save the faffing and stress. Why not indulge in pre-holiday comfort and convenience at the Sofitel Hotel at Gatwick Airport? It’s connected to the North terminal and only a few minutes on the monorail from the South, making it the perfect spot before your trip.
If you upgrade, the perks include the Millesime Lounge on the 8th floor, which offers sweeping airport views, complimentary cocktails, and cánepes, among other extras.
And the food? That’s pretty decent too!
Let’s go check out the Sofitel in Gatwick, where we stayed on the 8th floor in a luxury room with a runway view.
5 Sofitel Gatwick Tips
1. Get to South Terminal within 5 minutes via free monorail | 6 minutes from the train station
2. Check-in 2 pm | Check-Out 11 am
3. Petrol Station 1 minute walk away for cheaper snacks & drinks
4. Mcdonalds & KFC Nearby
5. Online check-in up to 24 hours before for grab & go check-in
Check-In Upto 24 Hours Before Arrival For Convenience
Stepping through the iconic revolving doors at Sofitel feels like a triumphant moment, signalling the start of your holiday.
You can’t help but grin like a Cheshire cat, realising you’ve arrived.
As you take in the changes over the years, the friendly receptionist greets you with a warm “Bonjour, welcome to Sofitel Gatwick.”
Check-in is a breeze, and you’re eager to hit the bar…or rather, check out your room.
You can check in up to 24 hours before your arrival, so you can grab your key and go upon reaching the hotel. You don’t want to be faffing… not now.
Checking out is the same process… drop your key in the dropbox and get on that plane.
Let the holiday adventures begin!
Upgrade to a Luxury Room with a Breathtaking Runway View
We recommend upgrading to a luxury room if you’re celebrating a special occasion or just fancy a splurge.
There’s also a prestige suite if you’re pushing the boat out.
Honestly, it didn’t take a lot to sell it to me! I’m a bit of an aviation geek, the world had stood still with covid, and my birthday was coming up.
Even the airport activity was enough to satisfy me drinking my complimentary beer.
Upgrading from a basic room to this luxurious option cost us only around £80 more, making it incredible value for money, especially for two people.
Looking at prices for our next booking in 2025, an upgrade is around £100.
Not only will you get a swanky room with a complimentary mini-bar, but you will also get exclusive Millesime Access, and let’s not forget the stunning views from the 8th floor. It was a no-brainer for us, especially if you enjoy airport drinks and nibbles.
More on Millesime Access further in this post.
Sofitel Luxury Room: Our Verdict
Sofitel Gatwick’s luxury rooms boast all the expected 5-star amenities. The complimentary mini-bar was well-stocked with beers, wines, water, soft drinks, and snacks.
The bed exceeded our expectations, prompting us to set extra alarms.
Just in case…
The bathroom had ample toiletries, perfect for the souvenir collection. USB and plug sockets on both sides of the bed made charging devices easy, and the TV had Freeview.
We were impressed, but the coffee machine and telephones could use updating.
The telephone looked straight out of the 1970s, reminiscent of visits with my parents in the 90s, with a lingering smell of nicotine on the yellow relics.
Seriously, they are the same telephones!
With an incredible view, a well-stocked complimentary mini-bar, and music channels on the TV, we didn’t feel the need to venture into the airport to find a generic pub with artisan prices.
I’m looking at you, Spoons!
The hotel bars and cosy rooms provided everything we needed in a vibrant atmosphere away from the crowds. There are nooks and crannies so you can comfortably work, people-watch or dive into a book.
Don’t forget the free Millesime Access later in the evening!
What is Millesime Access & what do you get?
This is where your upgrade packs a punch!
From 17.00 to 20.00, you can enjoy complimentary drinks & canapes on the 8th floor.
From 06.00, you can also enjoy complimentary breakfast pastries, coffee & tea served in Brassiere restaurant.
Weigh up your options.
Will you splurge on a few airport drinks, a sandwich or McDonald’s? Are you going to be hungry in the morning and buy an overpriced croissant for £4?
“Bonjour, welcome to the Millesime Lounge. What can I get for you to drink?”
Canapes and snacks ranged from calamari and chicken nibbles to fruits, nuts, crisps, etc.
This wasn’t just a one-time thing. New additions and freshly topped-up snacks kept coming from the kitchen as and when needed.
It’s nothing mega-fancy, but it’s still good!
Top Tip: Try the calamari
Notably, we’re not the only ones in holiday mode, relaxing, having a quiet conversation, sipping their vino, and living in the moment.
Restaurants & Bars at Sofitel Gatwick
There are two restaurants at Sofitel and an Urban Cafe. However, a little on the pricier side, the quality of the two restaurants is exceptional.
Remember to check out Holiday Extras for combination deals if you’re considering adding any extras.
All these costs add up, so if you can save a few quid, it’s totally worth it.
- La Brasserie: 2 Rosetta Restaurant serves modern European cuisine.
- Vanda Oriental: Infuses taste buds, providing southeastern Asian cuisine.
- Urban Cafe: Bistro Restaurant serves pizzas, ramen, fish & chips and other classics with a modern twist.
- La Terrace Bar: Relax with a good book & enjoy the atmosphere
- La Ceil Bar: Cocktails & Jazz
Park And Stay Sofitel Gatwick
If you want to book car parking with your hotel room at the Sofitel together as package, we believe the only to do this is through Holiday Extras. Prices can vary so always double-check, but it’s generally cheaper than booking separately.
Awkward and more adulting, I know!
This way, you can book your parking, hotel and anything else you might want, like airport lounges, in one go. Be sure to check you haven’t already got free lounges before booking. You can get them with credit cards, bank accounts, certain tour operators and travel insurance, etc.
Where to Book Sofitel Gatwick
Due to price matching, you’re unlikely to find many deals for the Sofitel Gatwick. It’s always worth looking out for, particularly if you Park & Stay at Gatwick Airport.
Booking.Com price matches, and you can collect points, rewards and extra discounts the more you use it. You can also cancel and amend for free.
Holiday Extras often has a few excellent deals if you combine parking, meals or any other extra with your hotel stay.
You can also book directly on the All Accor website. Cancel anytime + 10% off if you sign up to All Accor.
We recommend Direct or Booking as you’ll earn rewards for discounts and free breakfast.
Sofitel Throughout The Years
- Did you know that the Sofitel used to have a swimming pool and sauna? It was why my parents always picked this hotel to start our holidays.
- The 8th floor was exclusive to mostly BA, and a cool fountain was also in the lobby.
I remember this hotel being called a few names: the Forte Crest and the Le Meridien.
Much has changed, but phones from the 70s are still thriving and wiring worldwide.
Gatwick Sofitel FAQs
Can you walk from Sofitel to Gatwick North Terminal?
Yes! Gatwick Sofitel Hotel has its own covered walkway directly connected to Gatwick North Terminal.
How far is Sofitel from Gatwick North Terminal?
Gatwick North Terminal is only a 2-minute walk from Gatwick Sofitel hotel. The hotel has its own covered walkway directly connected to the North Terminal.
Which Terminal at Gatwick is the Sofitel?
Gatwick Sofitel Hotel is located in Gatwick’s North Terminal. The Hotel has its own walkway, which directly connects to the North Terminal & there is a free monorail connecting the North & South Terminals.
What time is breakfast at Sofitel Gatwick?
Breakfast is served in La Brasserie between 5 am and 10.30 am.
Gatwick Sofitel Hotel
Experience luxury and convenience at Gatwick Sofitel Hotel. An indulgent retreat at the airport for discerning travellers.
4.5
Pros
- Has its own walkway that is connected directly to Gatwick North Terminal.
- Less than 5 minutes away from Gatwick South Terminal via a free monorail from the North Terminal.
- Luxury rooms are available with a runway view & exclusive access to Club Millesime.
Cons
- The coffee machine in the upgraded room we paid for wasn't as advertised.
Final Thoughts on Sofitel Hotel Gatwick North Terminal
Sofitel hits the bit of a wow factor if you’re looking for the perfect treat or celebrating a special occasion.
The perfect start to an awesome holiday, if you like!
Looking for a cheaper alternative in a great location? Check the Premier Inn North Terminal or read our Best Gatwick Airport Hotels post.
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