Scheduling LGW style:- (in a nutshell and in no particular order)
11 days off a month min, Longer tours can be up to 6 days long, though they are very rare. Most tours these days have 3 sectors on first and last day with either 0/2/4 in the middle days. 3 day tours are very common. Flip side of the coin is that is carmen (scheduling computer) has day trips left over they you will get those and just because you bid for something doesn't mean that you are going to get it. When you start at Gatwick your target (note not min!) roster satisfaction will be 40% (how you calculate satisfaction is a long story and I have a beer!). This rises to 80% at the top, you will be near to the top of the list in 4 years getting what you pretty much want.
Most pilots that do commute either have their own pad local to the airport, or a place to stay with their mates on the odd night.