I LOVE an airport lounge. I’ve been using Priority Pass for lounge access for years now, and I don’t think I could go back to not using a lounge (if you know, you know ;) )
BUT not all airport lounges are equal! I use the No1 Lounge in Gatwick North a LOT. I’ve probably been in it about 15 times so far…
Why? Well, I live in England, but I’m from Ireland, so I tend to use Gatwick North a good few times a year to fly back home, and the No1 Lounge at Gatwick north is my lounge of choice.
I’ve tried other paid lounges in the North Terminal, such as the My Lounge (by Easyjet), which isn’t too bad, but I keep going back to No 1 Lounges!
Again why?...well, No1 knows how to do a lounge pretty well!
I thought I’d give you an overview of what to expect if you’re thinking of visiting.
I’ve included some pictures that I’ve taken, and I’ll make a point to get more and update the post, but I never took a lot of pictures because firstly, I wasn’t planning to write a review (but then figured since my Glasgow Airport Lounge Review did quite well, then I may as well do this one too!), and secondly, I find it slightly awkward trying too take pictures in a lounge when it’s busy, and I don’t want to get other people in the picture!
The entrance into the No1 Lounge in Gatwick North is lovely!
The No 1 lounge at Gatwick North is located where *all* the lounges are. Head towards the Boots and keep going right and you’ll find the entrance to all the lounges! Follow the signage too, it’s not complicated.
Anyway, the No1 Lounge is located at the back, so walk past the My Lounge on your left and your next lounge will be the No 1 Lounge!
There is a little seating area outside the lounge, where you can sit and wait if there is a queue, and if it is busy, there will be two staff members putting people into the lounge, if not there is one.
Staff are friendly, and it’s a great first impression.
Something to note, if you’re on a lounge key card, such as Priority Pass, or Dragon Pass, sometimes lounges won’t let you in at peak time, as they take priority of “paid” and pre booked customers.
I’m happy to report, I’ve never been refused entry at this lounge due to it being busy (and it has been busy sometimes!)
However if you do want to make sure you can get in, even if it's busy. No 1 Lounges allow card holders of Priority Pass, Lounge Key, Dragon Pass, to "secure" a place by paying £6.
Bit cheeky, sure, BUT if you're travelling in peak summer season in the morning, then I'd say it's probably worth doing if you want to get into a lounge at all.
The No1 Lounge at Gatwick has a wonderful layout.
They’ve got a 360 bar in the middle as soon as you enter, with seating around it, and then seating straight ahead, with lovely runway views, and there’s a “quiet” room if you want seating with no noise.
It is NOT the world's biggest lounge, but it is a nice lounge.
There have been times where I’ve entered and struggled to find a seat, so I’d typically sit at the bar first, and when a space opens up on the comfy chairs, I’d move over.
There are plenty of plug sockets, which makes it a great lounge to work at.
The WiFi is decent! It’s strong enough to download episodes or movies on Netflix (or your choice of streaming service) before your flight.
The lounge is styled well, lots of purple themes. It’s classy and a great atmosphere.
The bar as well is efficient and the staff are always friendly!
The bar can get super busy, but just be patient and you’ll always get a drink.
That moves me onto food and drink!
Food offered at the No1 Lounge in Gatwick is great.
There is a buffet food area that will have a few different hot options (always a vegetarian option), and there will be some cold options too.
I love having breakfast in the lounge, as you can basically build a full english breakfast at the buffet AND the do vegan sausages if you ask for them (an elite offering!)
Lunch and dinner options tend to be some sort of curry or pasta dish, and they’re always pretty decent!
There are two coffee machines, water, juices and there’s a fountain machine where you can pour your own fizzy drinks (so you don’t need to wait at the bar).
One con of the food is that there are limited snacks and desert options!
I like when a lounge offers cookies or crisps, and then I can grab a few to bring on my flight ;)
In terms of drink offerings, I love that the No 1 Lounge in Gatwick offers prosecco (both normal and rose) as standard. Lots of lounges now charge for that, which is a bit cheap.
But it’s nice to be able to toast to the start of a trip!
They do upsell Champagne, which is fair enough.
In terms of other alcohol offerings you’re spoilt for choice, they have a wide selection of wine and spirits and even will do the odd cocktail if you ask! (Like an aperol spritz).
They also offer alcohol free options for those who want an alcohol free beer!
You’ve got access to newspapers and magazines, and there is internet access of course, and there are two private shower rooms with towels and REN toiletries; first‑come, first‑served, no extra charge.
There is also a compact TV snug with cartoons on loop and high chairs in the dining area; baby‑changing in the main washrooms.
Good time to mention that I love the toilets too. They’re all individual bathrooms, which I appreciate before a flight!
The No 1 lounges operate a smart‑casual dress policy.
They may refuse entry to guests whose attire they consider inappropriate—this covers fancy‑dress or themed costumes, garments with offensive wording or images, sports jerseys, beach flip‑flops, vests, and outfits that leave midriffs or upper thighs uncovered.
The policy is strictly applied; anyone unwilling to comply will be turned away and no refund will be given.
The official advance‑purchase rate for the No 1 Lounge in Gatwick’s North Terminal is “from £38 per adult” for a three‑hour stay when you book online direct with No 1 Lounges. Walk‑up entry—if space is left—tends to sit a few pounds higher (typically £40‑£42). Children aged 2–11 are usually a couple of pounds cheaper, and infants under 2 go in free
You can enter the No1 Lounge at Gatwick North 3 hours before your flight.
No1 Lounges are included with Priority Pass.
But you can book your lounge here on the No1 Lounge website.
If you’re paying for the Lounge experience out of your own pocket, then yes I do think it’s worth it.
Especially for a treat before going on a holiday!
It’s also a lounge worth using via your Priority Pass!
Anyway, there you have it, my 100% honest review of the No 1 Lounge at Gatwick North!
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