how much times for customs ??
 

arriving LGW 9am..I have a to depart from LHR take a bus ,etc could be a tight connection (my flight leaves LHR at 1pm)...just wondering how much time to allow for customs,etc

Customs ..just walk right out thru the Green Lane.

Immigration and Passport control is another matter..It could take up to a half hour if the lines for non-EU passengers are long and there are not enough officers. But at least by that time your baggage should have arrived.

Hi danny,

In my experience, four hours is OK. Figure an hour to get your luggage, an hour on the bus and 3/4 hr to get through Customs and Immigration.

I think ira's times are very reasonable allowances but baggage/passport control depends on how many other international flights land the same time your's does.

4 hours should be enough time to make the connection but the real unknown variable is the bus trip from Gatwick to Heathrow. It ought to take an hour but if the M25 is jammed it can easily take double that or more.

If you're travelling on a Sat or Sun your odds are probably better than on a weekday.

Bottom line, you should be fine but don't dally at Gatwick!

PS
This link might be helpful
http://www.passrider.com/cities/london_gb.htm