With one of the greatest cities in the world just north of the airport, reaching London by road from Gatwick is simple. Follow the M23 northbound and join the A23 to drive into the city. The traffic in London can be busy, so be sure to allow enough time for your journey and plan your route in advance.

Driving in some areas of the city carries a congestion charge which is enforced between the hours of 7am and 6pm, Monday to Friday. You can pay in advance, which may be worth considering as you could face a fine if the original charge is not paid. London also has some toll roads to look out for if you’re driving around the capital so it’s a good idea to check this prior to travel.

Make sure to plan ahead if you’re wanting to park in London. There are a number of car parks available around the centre, and it may be worth booking a space in advance if you can.

If you’re hiring a car from Gatwick Airport and want to get out and explore the surrounding area, there are plenty of places worth visiting in all directions. You could take the M23 southbound and head towards the bright lights of Brighton, or travel on the M26 to the east and head towards the historic city of Canterbury, or the seaside town of Margate.

Taking the M25 and then the A3 would take you to the port city Portsmouth, while you can find the beautiful South Downs National Park along the A272 to the south-west. Travelling along the A264 transports you to the picturesque town of Royal Tunbridge Wells.

Located in the south-east of the country, Gatwick Airport opens up a wide range of great places to see and brilliant ways to spend your time. From the 25-mile journey into the heart of the capital to the beauty of the English coastline, Gatwick is an ideal place to start your time in the UK, whether you’re travelling for business purposes or planning a quintessentially British holiday.

Capital gains

Home of the Crown Jewels, the Tower of London proves a popular tourist attraction year after year. But the entire country’s history is told through many of London’s famous landmarks. Take advantage of photo opportunities at Buckingham Palace, London Bridge and the Houses of Parliament to really get a feel for the capital’s story.

Castles, Canterbury and Brighton

The intriguing history of England doesn’t begin and end with London. Arrange car hire from Gatwick Airport and head to Leeds Castle along the M26. Referred to as ‘the loveliest castle in the world’, the Kent landmark has over 500 acres of parkland to explore, as well as falconry displays and the impressive fortified structure itself.

If you continue past the castle and along the M2, you can enjoy the sights of the famous city of Canterbury. The Heritage Museum will take you through Canterbury’s story in one of the country’s finest medieval buildings. The imposing cathedral proudly overlooks the area –along with St Augustine’s Abbey and St Martin’s Church, all of which are recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

For a break by the sea, head south from Gatwick Airport to the iconic town of Brighton. With its diverse and lively atmosphere and the incredible Brighton Pier as its backdrop, this place is truly unique. From the heritage of the Royal Pavilion to the Victorian aquariums and the famous pebbled beach, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in Brighton.

The Sussex countryside and beyond

If you’ve got time to explore after a business meeting, or your whole trip is about uncovering the region’s treasure trove of attractions and sights, you’ll not want to miss the rolling hills of Sussex. Escape the hustle and bustle of city life with a visit to South Downs National Park, or explore the traditional Sussex Weald for quaint villages and the Ashdown Forest, known around the globe as the home of Winnie-the-Pooh.

For rest and relaxation and to make the most of the summer months, head to Eastbourne and sample some of its award-winning beaches, as well as enjoying the breath-taking views from the UK’s highest chalk sea cliff at Beachy Head.

You might be hiring a car from London Gatwick Airport, but 20 minutes’ drive in any direction will bring you to a great range of activities, attractions and picturesque countryside.