Car Rental London Gatwick Airport

Gatwick is well-connected for onward travel almost anywhere in the UK. Situated just off the major M23 route in Surrey, you can follow the highway northwards to join the A3 or M25, both of which will take you into London. The M25 is one of the most famous freeways - or 'motorways' - in the UK, stretching more than 100 miles around the capital.

When driving your rental car into London, you should be aware that a congestion charge is payable in some central areas within the city on weekdays. Rental cars are not exempt, but you can pay the charge quickly and easily online. Our local team will be happy to advise you about that. 

It’s also worth planning ahead if you wish to park in central London. You’ll also find many car lots located around the city and some on-street metered parking too. For more information, visit the official City of London site. 

As well as its easy connections to London, Gatwick also offers excellent road links to many areas in the south east of England. You can join the M23 southbound which joins the A23 to Brighton, or the A22 which takes you in the direction of Eastbourne or Hastings. If you’re driving north of London, you can circumnavigate the city via the M25 to join the M1, which will lead you to areas including Watford, St Albans, Milton Keynes and Northampton, or all the way north to cities such as Sheffield and Leeds. 

One big difference in the UK in that driving is on the left-hand side of the road, with overtaking on the right. Speed limits are still given in miles per hour, however. In towns and cities, these are clearly signed and are typically 20mph and 30mph, while motorways usually have a maximum speed limit of 70mph. Always check the signs for the route that you are on, however, as these can vary. 

Whether you’re heading into the heart of the capital, to nearby destinations or to attractions in the countryside and on the coast, car rental at London Gatwick Airport offers a great way to enhance your journey.

There’s so much on offer in and around London.

Bright lights, big city

The UK capital is one of the world’s most popular destinations, and it’s easy to see why. From an eclectic food scene to world-class museums and galleries, London really does have it all.

There’s so much to see that you could never fit it all into a single visit, but a great starting point is the South Bank of the Thames. Here, you can take a spin on the iconic London Eye and enjoy views of landmarks from Big Ben to Westminster Abbey and Tower Bridge.

Not far from the South Bank you’ll find the Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe, two cultural giants that are well worth a visit. Cross the Thames and you’ll reach the Tower of London, where you can learn about the city’s most famous fortress, see the Crown Jewels and the tower’s famed ravens. Legend has it that if they ever leave, both the tower and kingdom will fall.

From here, hop on the nearest ‘tube’ – the city’s subway – to Covent Garden, with its markets, fashion stores and boutiques. Covent Garden is also home to the Royal Opera House, hosting world famous performers from the world of music and ballet.

For culture lovers, a trip to South Kensington is also a must – here you’ll find the Victoria and Albert Museum, Natural History Museum, Science Museum and much more all in one wonderful stretch.

On the beach

London might be the biggest city near Gatwick, but it’s not the only great attraction you can access with a rental car. Just a 30-mile drive away you’ll find Brighton, a creative and fun seaside resort with a thriving arts scene.

Brighton offers all you’d expect from a traditional British seaside town with its promenade, long sandy beach and scenic pier, but there’s much more to discover besides the seafront. If you wander around the city you’re sure to spot some of its famous street art, including the ‘Music Mural’ adorning the Prince Albert Pub.

For the adventurous, there’s a range of activities including power boat riding at the beach or, if being a spectator sounds more appealing, you can drive a short distance from the waterfront to the racecourse, which hosts dozens of events between April and October.

If all that wasn’t enough, visitors in May might be lucky enough to experience Brighton Fringe, the largest arts festival in England.

Harmonious Hampshire

If you’re planning to experience some of south-east England’s famous scenery, it’s an easy drive from Gatwick via the M23 and A23 to the South Downs National Park.

With its western tip in the heart of Winchester and its eastern edge stretching down to Eastbourne, this landscape includes the Seven Sisters cliffs and the iconic White Cliffs of Dover next to the English Channel.

Its lively market towns and charming villages are filled with cozy hotels, B&Bs and self-catering cottages.

With Hertz car rental at London Gatwick Airport you can really make the most of your trip. Reserve direct online now.