I cannot believe that this hotel comes so far down the list of hotels in Gatwick as its our favourite to stay in pre flight and we are always dissapointed if we cannot get in here.
I guess this is the reason for writing this review. Yes the place is not 21st century chic but this is part of its charm. I hate smoky rooms too but it will take time to get rid of all the smoke smell from some of these older hotels which have had smokers in for years...particulary this one with its woodwork and beams.
I have stayed in others around Gatwick including the Arora, the chequers, Ibis and the the Ramada..all a little souless and very often staff who speak little English.
Another thing I like about the Copthorne is the secure parking area, Its never been an issue yet in our last stay at another hotel dont recall which one our car had a big dent in the side door as the underground parking spaces were too close together.
I also love the cosy bar area.
Drinks are a little steep but we have a few and then usually get burgers or sandwiches on roomservice and get an early night.
Have to agree the shuttle buses could be a little more frequent and have at times waited for late scheduled buses in the morning but this is trivia.
I dont agree with previous reviews that this hotel is expensive, we have paid more at others for not half as good and this is a London airport!!
One last thing which you dont see very often is feedback from the management..good to see they are listening and acting on negative feedback, well done you!!
P.S. (will expect a good rate on my next stay) Only joking!!!!!

We stayed here for a dinner dance run by our social club and the event, meal and venue were really good although they need to organise somewhere else for the smokers to stand other than just outside the door.

The room and the bathroom were ok, but smelled of old smoke which was vaguely nasty. Otherwise it was clean, pleasant and comfortable.

Breakfast was a complete shambles and they seemed to be unaware of the numbers of people who were staying at the hotel which was odd. We had to collar someone and ask for tea and coffee after waiting quite a while - and then there was no breakfast on the buffet.

Breakfast, along with the strange man who kept knocking on our door and trying to clean our room well before our checkout time made this a disappointing experience in all!!

Charming hotel that also has plenty of function.

Old English grounds and outer facade, yet maintains modern rooms and conveniences such as: TV with clock, High speed internet (xtra fee, but fast), room service, quality bathroom and spacious room.

Bus transportation on regular schedule to/from Gatwick airport (2.50 pounds each way).

My stay was for a 2 night business trip and I was quite comfortable at this hotel. Would stay again if in same area!!

Stayed at this hotel for a one night 'stay and fly' package. The hotel room was undoubtabley one of the most run down I ever stayed in. Smelt of smoke, dirty bathrom and very cramped - also took a good 5 minute walk to get to the lobby!

The general impression was that this room was in need of a revamp and quickly.

The rest of the hotel was fine, good breakfast and communial area and
parking straightforward.Be warned though that the airport buses back to the hotel only run once an hour in the evening so can end up waiting a long time to get back to your car.