Top reasons to visit Gatwick
- Family-Friendly Attractions: Gatwick is perfect for families, featuring urban parks and leisure centres that offer fun activities for all ages.
- Cultural Experiences: Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture through historic houses and vibrant theatre scenes.
- Charming Local Shops: King Street and Guildford Road boast delightful local shops and eateries, providing a taste of Gatwick's community spirit.
- Relaxing Atmosphere: The surrounding areas offer tranquil spots to unwind after a day of exploration.
- Diverse Accommodation: A range of hotels and guesthouses cater to various preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Find great hotels near Gatwick
Discover a variety of accommodation options in Gatwick, ranging from comfortable hotels to charming guesthouses. Ideal for both business travellers and holidaymakers, many establishments offer amenities such as pet-friendly policies and a welcoming atmosphere for the LGBTQIA community. Whether you seek a Gatwick airport hotel or a nearby lodge, you'll find convenient choices that suit your needs.
- ibis London Earls Court: Situated approximately 35km from Gatwick, ibis London Earls Court is a 3-star hotel that appeals to eco-conscious travellers and pet owners alike. This property is eco-certified, ensuring a commitment to sustainability while providing a comfortable stay. The hotel is particularly welcoming to pets, with policies that allow certain pets on-site and waived fees for service animals. Guests have rated their experience highly, emphasising the balance of business-friendly amenities alongside a relaxed atmosphere, making it a great choice for both work and leisure.
- Garden View Hotel: Located about 37km from Gatwick, Garden View Hotel offers a charming and comfortable 3-star lodging experience. Guests can enjoy delightful dining options, including breakfast and a restaurant on the premises. The hotel features entertainment conveniences such as flat-screen televisions in rooms, catering to those who wish to unwind after a day of exploration. Furthermore, its proximity to local attractions—including the city centre and historical districts—ensures that visitors can easily immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and history of the area.
- Leonardo Hotel London Croydon: Just 24km from Gatwick, the Leonardo Hotel London Croydon presents a modern and eco-friendly 3.5-star accommodation option, perfect for shoppers and explorers alike. Nestled within a bustling shopping district, this hotel boasts a strong commitment to sustainability, making it appealing for environmentally conscious guests. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, it offers a combination of comfort and convenience, allowing visitors to enjoy both the local retail scene and the surrounding attractions.
Where to stay near Gatwick
Gatwick offers a delightful blend of family-friendly attractions and cultural experiences, making it a charming destination for tourists. Just a short distance from Gatwick Airport, explore the welcoming atmosphere of King Street and Guildford Road, where you can enjoy local shops and eateries. The surrounding areas provide a relaxing vibe, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Whether you seek business or leisure, Gatwick's friendly community ensures a memorable stay.
- Horley: Located a mere 1km from Gatwick, Horley is a bustling town that offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. With a steady flow of visitors, particularly in April, July, and September, Horley is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy urban parks and recreational areas, while culture seekers can explore local theatres and shopping venues. Key attractions include the historic castle and beautifully landscaped parks, making Horley a charming destination for all types of travellers.
- Hookwood: Just 2km from Gatwick, Hookwood is a quaint village that attracts visitors year-round, especially in January, April, and September. Ideal for sports fans and outdoor lovers, Hookwood features a golf course and various running trails. The village is not only a hub for sports activities but also offers cultural experiences with its sports facilities and event venues. Its picturesque bridges and serene surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for a relaxing visit, making it an appealing stop for those seeking a peaceful retreat close to the airport.
- Lowfield Heath: Located 2km from Gatwick, Lowfield Heath is a charming village that welcomes families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Peak visitor times are during the summer months of July and August, as well as in October. The village offers access to recreational areas, theatres, and entertainment facilities, ensuring a fun-filled experience. Local attractions include urban parks and vibrant streets, perfect for leisurely strolls. With its blend of city amenities and outdoor adventures, Lowfield Heath is a fantastic destination for a day out or a relaxed holiday.
Things to do near Gatwick
Shopping
For a quick shopping experience, Gatwick Airport offers a variety of duty-free shops. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby Crawley Town Centre, where you can explore the County Mall, or visit the charming shops at the historic Horsham market.
Recreation
At the Gatwick Hilton's LivingWell Health Club, enjoy a serene atmosphere with a gym, swimming pool, and spa treatments designed to rejuvenate your body and mind. Nearby, the Crowne Plaza offers a tranquil spa experience, featuring massages and beauty therapies that provide relaxation amidst your travels.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of the IFS Cloud Greenwich Peninsula Station cable car, offering stunning views as you soar above the Thames. For adrenaline-fueled excitement, visit Mercedes-Benz World and Brands Hatch Circuit, where you can immerse yourself in the world of motorsport and racing.
Nightlife
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Crown on High Street, where you can enjoy a range of ales and live music. For a more laid-back vibe, visit The Red Lion on the corner of Bell Lane, offering a selection of wines and a cosy atmosphere to unwind.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Gatwick
To enjoy Gatwick on a budget, take advantage of the free attractions such as the London England Temple and Box Hill. For transport, consider using the bus or train, which are cost-effective options. The best time to visit is from January to March when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia, especially on Sundays for the best rates. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities in a package can yield further savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Gatwick are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Gatwick about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Gatwick is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Gatwick is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel booking at Gatwick with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Gatwick
Gatwick is an excellent destination for family and culture-themed holidays, offering a variety of attractions such as urban parks, historic houses, and leisure centres. Visitors can immerse themselves in cultural experiences, enjoy outdoor activities, and create memorable family moments. Whether you're exploring the rich history or enjoying the scenic landscapes, Gatwick has something for everyone to enjoy.
- Chessington World of Adventures: A thrilling amusement park located 23km from Gatwick, Chessington World of Adventures offers a delightful mix of roller coasters, animal encounters, and themed attractions. It's an ideal spot for families seeking excitement and adventure amidst beautifully landscaped grounds.
- Hever Castle: Situated 24km from Gatwick, Hever Castle is the enchanting childhood home of Anne Boleyn. Visitors can explore its stunning gardens, historic rooms, and rich Tudor history, all while enjoying a romantic atmosphere that echoes centuries of heritage.
- Brooklands Museum: Located 29km from Gatwick, Brooklands Museum is a fascinating transport museum celebrating the history of motorsport and aviation. Families can engage with interactive exhibits and marvel at vintage cars and aircraft, making it a captivating experience for all ages.
Best time to go to Gatwick
The best time to visit Gatwick can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Gatwick falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Gatwick falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Gatwick
Flying into Gatwick, you have several options. London Heathrow (LHR) is situated 40km away, with luxurious hotels like Sofitel London Heathrow, just 3km from the airport, and Great Fosters, 10km away. The nearest airport, London Gatwick (LGW), is only 644m from central Gatwick, featuring hotels such as the 5-star Alexander House And Utopia Spa, 8km away. For those considering London Luton (LTN), it's located 80km from Gatwick, with the Luton Hoo Hotel, 3km from Luton Airport. Each hotel offers convenient access to their respective airports, ensuring a seamless travel experience.