Not possible to check bags through either way. We have to go landslide to get our bags. On way back we hope to use Gatwick Connects service, but we have to claim bags before we can do this, and that means clearing passport control and going to the baggage hall. I don't think you can get back airside from there.
As one of us has a non-EU Passport we can't both use the EU lines or e-gates. I’m trying to minimise slings and arrows. I just hope that I’m not wasting my money.