Leading innovation-led hotelier BLOC has today opened its first airport hotel, situated in the heart of London Gatwick’s South Terminal, right next to the main departures security area.

On the doorstep of Gatwick’s restaurants before security for a leisurely evening meal the night before travel, BLOC’s location is just seconds away from the departure lounge making it particularly practical for passengers with early flights.

Central to BLOC’s appeal for modern travellers is the cutting-edge technology it offers, including the ability to control almost every element of a stay through a smartphone or tablet if a guest chooses to. From unlocking your door, to customising the room’s lighting and temperature, operating the state-of-the-art TV and checking-out, everything is at your fingertips. There is also free super-fast Wi-Fi available throughout the hotel.

BLOC’s cool credentials don’t end there. Its 245 high-spec rooms offer a luxurious space to relax at an affordable price. Rates start at just £59 per night and guests can expect some serious pampering – from Egyptian cotton linen, monsoon showers and Zenology shower products to BLOC’s huge beds and Samsung HD LED TVs. Many of the rooms also offer spectacular views of the busiest single runway in the world.

Once on their way to catch a flight, BLOC guests can make the most of South Terminal’s revamped departure lounge – a £40 million project which now boasts more than 20 new or refreshed stores. This now includes a 6,000 sq ft Harrods fashion store, the biggest airport Zara in the UK and a number of airport firsts including Aspinal of London and Snow+Rock. Gatwick’s retail makeover is part of a wider transformation of the airport, which has seen over £1 billion invested in enhancing facilities and the passenger experience over the last four years.

Rob Morgan, Managing Director of BLOC Hotels and the person who conceived the idea for the pioneering hotel model, said: “Our vision is for a stress-free and very affordable start to airport travel. Location is everything and actually to be situated within Gatwick will add to the whole customer experience. Our guests will have the choice to dine at one of the many restaurants or to shop at the outlets within the airport during their stay with most offering our guests preferential rates and discounts.”

He further added “We see BLOC Gatwick to be our showcase and defining project for the BLOC brand and will set the foundations to go forward as we hope to open further hotels in city centres and transport hubs worldwide under our ambition to become a well-known international brand.”

Emma Rees, Head of Real Estate for London Gatwick, said: “BLOC brings a truly unique concept to Gatwick passengers, offering a stylish choice for a great night’s sleep within minutes of South Terminal’s departure lounge. Over the past four years, Gatwick has been completely transformed and now offers excellent choice in every area – from the destinations we serve to our hotels, shops and restaurants. BLOC will only add to the exceptional experience our passengers know and expect from Gatwick.”

While BLOC doesn’t provide food and drink within the hotel, guests can enjoy discounts at a number of the airport’s cafes, bars, restaurants and shops using its ‘Just Around the BLOC’ guide. BLOC guests can also benefit from great, Official Gatwick Valet Parking deals, allowing them to leave their car just steps away from the terminal.