Car Hire Gatwick Airport
"As London's second busiest, car hire at Gatwick airport should be booked in advance from either North or South Terminal."
Gatwick Airport (LGW) is the second biggest airport in the United Kingdom and one of the busiest airports in the world with more than 30 million passengers. It offers an array of domestic and European services as well as long haul and transatlantic flights.
There are currently eight different airlines which have bases at Gatwick airport including Aer Lingus, British Airways, easyJet, Flybe, Monarch Airlines, Thomas Cook Airlines, Thomson Airways and Virgin Atlantic. Whichever flight you are arriving on there is cheap car hire available at Gatwick Airport.
Gatwick Airport Car Hire - Did You Know?
- BAA was forced to sell Gatwick Airport after a report by the Competition Committee.
- Now Gatwick is owned by Global Infrastructure Partners.
- Gatwick tends to be a preferred destination for charter airlines.
- US Airways and Delta are currently the only US Airlines which serve Gatwick Airport.
- Gatwick Airport has two terminals – North and South.
Gatwick Airport Mini Guide
Welcome to Gatwick Airport
Home today to the busiest single use runway in the world it’s hard to believe that Gatwick Airport started life as a small flying club in the 1930’s. Located approximately 45 kilometres from London’s city centre and situated on the site of a former manor house, Gatwick provides a perfect entry to the south of England.
How do I get There?
Drive, Park and ride, Coach, Bus, Taxi or Hackney (the latter if you’re feeling flush). Gatwick is easily accessible from central London. There are more than 11 trains per hour that can deliver you to the airport directly from the city centre. Over 150 coaches connect the airport to cities nationwide.
Gifts at Gatwick
Whether shopping for yourself or for loved ones back home there are shops to satisfy all tastes and budgets at Gatwick. For a beautiful selection of typically British souvenirs head to Glorious Britain and for the perfect gift for any whiskey lover you have got to check out the range at the World of Whiskies store. It’s an amazing trove, stocking almost 350 different malts including rare bottles to ensure you won’t be disappointed.
For the young and young at heart in your life, a visit to the world famous Hamley’s toy store is a must, whether you choose from their own classic range or the latest modern themes, quality is assured. Another British institution making an appearance at Gatwick is Harrods. A must visit even if it’s just to browse, this store as expected exudes luxury and guarantees an exclusive shopping experience.
Help for Your Family Trips
Traveling with little ones can add a little stress to your trip but be assured that Gatwick Airport is one of the most child friendly airports you can find. From the thoughtful provision of dedicated family lanes for passing through security and immigration to Kid Zones in the departure lounges, Gatwick strives to make travel for families a pleasant experience. Offering fantastic kids play areas that provide comfy seating for parents the Kids Zones are free of charge and well worth a visit allowing children to burn up some energy and giving parents a chance to relax.
If you’ve got a lot of time to kill or just need a nap time the YOTEL Hotel one of the three onsite hotels at Gatwick is payable by the hour, perfect for repairing frayed nerves. Each capsule has its own private shower and toilet, comfy bed, TV and free Wi-Fi facilities. There are special travellers lounges available also, some having designated family areas with separate niches providing video games and computers as well as traditional games rooms. Lounge access is bookable in advance form the airport's website.
Sticky fingers will be the only problem when it comes to food for kids at Gatwick. You’ll find a wide range of food options and child friendly dining available throughout the airport. Many offer deals and promotions for kids so check around before you order. Baby milk and other essentials may be pre booked at the Boots branch in the departures area allowing you to pack most of your supplies in your check in baggage.
I’m Hungry!
Breakfast, lunch, dinner or just a snack, no matter what you fancy you’ll find it at Gatwick. For a great start to your day in a cosy 50’s themed restaurant, drop in to Frankie & Benny’s, featuring an open plan kitchen and amazingly welcoming atmosphere you’ll find yourself almost transported to little Italy and the Big Apple.
For lunch step it up a notch and head over to the Armadillo Cafe and Grill, a fun American style restaurant with a Santa Fe twist. If you’ve got something to celebrate or need a little luxury look no further than the Caviar House and Prunier Seafood Bar. An exceptional range of caviar, perfectly smoked salmon and sea food selection with an outstanding wine list so good you’ll forget you’re at an airport.
Require Special Assistance?
Security assistance lanes are in use at Gatwick to assist persons who require a little extra time or assistance through security. Help points are available throughout the airport though it is recommended that you inform your airline at the time of booking if you will require assistance for mobility or other needs.
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