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Travel guide Gatwick

One of the busiest airports in the UK and the eighth busiest in Europe, Gatwick offers flights to a huge choice of destinations around the world. The airport is a major hub for both low-cost airlines and national carriers, giving you a wide selection of flights to choose from when jetting off on holiday.

The land on which the airport now stands was first developed as an aerodrome in the 1920s. Commercial flights began using the airport in 1933 and the first terminal was built in 1935. Between 1955 and 1988 the airport was greatly expanded and many of the buildings we see today were completed.

Most of the people who travel to Gatwick are there to jet off from one of the airport’s two terminals. However, there is more in the area than just the air hub. The countryside around Gatwick is home to picturesque villages, rolling hills, great walking routes and traditional country pubs. The area is also a good base from which to explore the south of England, with both London and Brighton within easy reach of the airport.

Where to stay in Gatwick

If you’re catching an early departure from Gatwick or arriving on a late flight, you’ll probably want to stay as close to the airport as possible. Luckily, there is a good choice of Gatwick hotels within easy reach of both terminals, making it easy to travel to and from the airport. To make life even more convenient, many of the Gatwick hotels with parking offer free shuttle services to the airport. This makes travelling to Gatwick that little bit easier and takes some of the worry out of travelling.

Gatwick airport hotels are perfect for visitors who only want to stay in the area for a night on their way in or out of the country. However, if you’re planning on exploring the local region you may want a hotel with a little more character. Nearby East Grinstead is a good choice if you want to see more of Sussex, but still want to be within easy reach of the terminal.

Alternatively, as both London and Brighton are around half an hour from Gatwick by train, they’re also convenient for the airport. Book a hotel in Brighton and you can experience the city’s legendary nightlife, browse its independent shops and drink in one of its many characterful pubs before travelling to the airport. If you opt for a London hotel, book a room close to London Victoria or London Bridge for easiest access to Gatwick.

Hotels in Gatwick

Most of the hotels in Gatwick have been designed to cater to passengers travelling to and from the airport. This makes it easy to find a Gatwick airport hotel and ensures a smooth transfer between your hotel and the airport. Many of the hotels in the area offer free shuttles to the nearby terminals. However, if you’re looking for both a Gatwick hotel and parking it’s a good idea to contact the hotel in advance to check you can leave your car at their premises for the duration of your trip.

As most Gatwick hotels serve the airport, they’re generally clean, comfortable and affordable. If you’re looking for a Gatwick hotel with a touch of luxury, you’ll find a number of high-end country hotels in the area close to Gatwick. Offering a good range of amenities and often set in beautifully restored country homes, these hotels are the perfect choice if you want to relax and unwind before your flight.

For a wider choice of hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs and self-catering accommodation, look for places to stay in London or Brighton, both of which are within easy reach of the airport.

What to do during your stay in Gatwick

If you have some time before your flight, or if you’re staying in the area on business or for pleasure, you’ll find plenty in the region around Gatwick to keep you busy. The High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is just a stone’s throw from the airport, offering you the chance to get out into the beautiful English countryside, stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh air before you board. Alternatively you could head to the nearby towns Crawley or East Grinstead for shopping, dining and entertainment or visit some of the picturesque villages that dot the area.

Further afield, London and Brighton boast a fantastic variety of sights and attractions. In Brighton, you’ll find a wealth of independent shops and boutiques, great nightlife, a busy beach and an action-packed pier. Things to do in London include the theatre, museums, galleries, shopping, dining and sightseeing. As the train from Gatwick goes direct to both London Bridge and London Victoria, you’ll find it easy to see some of the city’s most famous landmarks before catching your flight.

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