Cheap Car Hire London Gatwick Airport (LGW) England
Welcome to London Gatwick Airport!
Planning a trip to London or the surrounding areas? As one of the busiest airports in the United Kingdom, London Gatwick Airport offers a convenient starting point for visitors looking to explore the British capital and beyond. Known for its vibrant arts scene, historical landmarks, and iconic attractions, London is an exciting city to visit. But London isn't just about big-city thrills—hire a car from Gatwick and you'll have easy access to picturesque countryside, charming villages, and coastal beauty. From the buzz of London to the serene landscapes of the South Downs, there's so much to discover. Upon landing at London Gatwick Airport (LGW), you'll find a wide variety of car hire options, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure. Whether you’re planning to explore London’s famous museums, theatres, and shopping districts, or embark on a day trip to places like Brighton, Oxford, or even the beautiful Kent coast, a hire car allows you the flexibility to go where you want, when you want. An alternative airport option is London Heathrow Airport (LHR), located around 45 kilometres (28 miles) west of Gatwick, while London Stansted (STN) and London Luton (LTN) are also nearby for international travellers. London Southend Airport (SEN) is smaller and around 64 kilometres (40 miles) east of central London while business-focused London City Airport (LCY) is a central London airport offering quick access to the city’s financial districts.
You'll find various types of vehicles available for hire at London airports, depending on your travel needs. If you're planning to stay within the city, a small compact car is ideal for navigating busy streets and finding parking. However, for day trips to destinations like the picturesque town of Bath or the historic university city of Oxford, a mid-size car or SUV may be more comfortable, offering extra space for luggage or passengers. For a longer road trip, why not try a luxury vehicle or even a convertible for an extra special experience as you cruise through the English countryside? Driving in London comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. The city is known for its busy roads, particularly around the famous landmarks, so be prepared for heavy traffic during peak hours. Major roads like the M25 and the A23 are key routes connecting the airport to London and beyond. The congestion charge zone in Central London also applies to certain areas, so be sure to check your route before you drive in. Parking in London can be tricky and expensive, especially in the central districts. Many attractions offer parking facilities, but be ready for parking charges. It’s advisable to pre-book parking if you're heading to popular destinations like the British Museum or Buckingham Palace. With a hire car from Gatwick, you can easily access a variety of exciting destinations within a short drive such as central London (43 km / 27 miles) with its treasure trove of cultural, historical, and entertainment options. Visit Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and the Houses of Parliament, or take in a West End show in the UK’s historic capital city.
The pebbled beaches of Brighton (46 km / 29 miles) is famous for its iconic Brighton Pier, fish and chips, and vibrant south coast arts and music scene. The handsome city of Oxford (98 km / 61 miles) is home to the world-renowned University of Oxford and boasts stunning historic architecture, museums, and beautiful leafy parks. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the city of Bath (156 km / 97 miles) is known for its ancient Roman baths, Georgian architecture, and stunning countryside views. Historic Canterbury (103 km / 64 miles) is home to the famous Canterbury Cathedral, medieval streets, and charming shops and cafés. The Cotswolds (143 km / 89 miles) are famous for picturesque villages of honey-coloured stone cottages, charming old pubs, and rolling hills. Windsor, famous as home to the oldest inhabited castle in the world, is a beautiful town and its riverside walks are lovely to explore (61 km / 38 miles). One of the most iconic prehistoric sites in the world, Stonehenge (151 km / 94 miles) is a must-see for history buffs and anyone interested in ancient mysteries. With its beautiful walking trails, the South Downs National Park (24 km / 15 miles) offers scenic drives and a glimpse into rural England, including the famous Seven Sisters cliffs.
Tips and FAQs
When driving on the roads, remember that in the UK, vehicles drive on the left-hand side. Speed limits are generally set at 30 mph (48 km/h) in urban areas, 60 mph (97 km/h) on single carriageways, and 70 mph (113 km/h) on motorways unless stated otherwise. Booking your rental car ahead of time can save you money, especially during peak travel periods. Gatwick is a major international hub, so rental demand can be high. Secure your vehicle early to ensure you get the best rate.
London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
Number of terminals: 2 (North & South)
Location of car rental desks: Both terminals (North and South)
Distance to fuel station: Approximately 1 mile
Nearest city: London
Major roads: M23, M25, A23
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