Lois Larson
Gatwick Airport is conveniently located in the South of London, providing easy access to several attractions in South East England. From manor houses and castles to vineyards and villages, there is something for everyone to explore across the neighbouring counties of Surrey, Sussex and Kent. Whether you're looking for a quick change of scenery, a bite to eat, or a relaxing massage, there are plenty of worthwhile attractions to visit during a layover at Gatwick Airport.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Distance from London | 30 minutes via the Gatwick Express train to London Victoria station |
| Distance from Brighton | 23-40 minutes via train |
| Towns and cities | London, Brighton, Eastbourne, Crawley, Horley, Tunbridge Wells, Arundel |
| Attractions | Manor houses, castles, vineyards, villages, award-winning vineyards, historic houses, gardens, boutiques, museums, galleries, cafes, restaurants, pubs, spas, playgrounds, golf courses |
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What You'll Learn
London is 30 minutes away by train
London is just 30 minutes away from Gatwick Airport by train. The Gatwick Express train will take you to London Victoria station in half an hour, giving you easy access to the heart of the city and famous landmarks. If you're looking for a quick change of scenery, there are plenty of options nearby.
For those travelling with children, the Treasure Chest indoor play centre is just a 10-minute bus or car journey from the airport. Parents can enjoy a coffee while their kids play. FootGolf, a combination of football and golf, is another family-friendly option located just 5 miles from the airport and is accessible by a quick 9-minute taxi ride.
If you're looking to unwind, the luxury Alexander House and Utopia Spa is a 15-minute drive from the airport, offering a magnificent countryside retreat. The Gatwick Aviation Museum is also a great option, just 7 minutes away by car, where you can see historic planes and artefacts, as well as watch airport activity from the viewing area.
For those who enjoy exploring nature, there are several beautiful destinations nearby. Worth Park, a short distance from the airport, boasts a lake, formal gardens, an arboretum, and a Victorian fountain. The 90-acre farm in Sussex offers footpaths through grassland, along the River Arun, and through ancient hedgerows. Cranleigh Arts, located in the village of Cranleigh in the Surrey Hills, provides year-round entertainment and is surrounded by natural beauty.
With its convenient location, Gatwick Airport offers easy access to London and a variety of attractions, ensuring that you can make the most of your time, whether you're looking for city exploration or a quick break between flights.
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Visit Brighton's Royal Pavilion
Gatwick Airport is conveniently located in the south of London, providing easy access to several attractions in the south-east of England. One such attraction is the iconic Royal Pavilion in Brighton, a must-see for anyone visiting the area.
The Royal Pavilion, also known as the Brighton Pavilion, is a Grade I-listed former royal residence located in the heart of Brighton, England. Its unique Indo-Islamic exterior, featuring domes and minarets, is a striking sight in the middle of the city. The pavilion was built in three stages, beginning in 1787, as a seaside retreat for George, Prince of Wales, who later became King George IV. The current appearance of the pavilion is largely due to the work of architect John Nash, who redesigned and extended the building between 1815 and 1822.
The interior design of the pavilion is just as impressive as its exterior, with a fanciful blend of Chinese and Indian fashion, including Mughal and Islamic architectural elements. The banqueting hall, with its 30-foot-tall chandelier, is a highlight for many visitors. The building's history is also fascinating, with stories of private liaisons and secret marriages.
The Royal Pavilion is located in the vibrant and inclusive city of Brighton, known for its blend of modern culture and exotic architecture. Brighton offers majestic Regency squares and crescents, famous piers, and a welcoming and diverse atmosphere. The city is easily accessible from Gatwick Airport, with a train ride of less than 30 minutes.
When visiting the Royal Pavilion, be sure to check out the adjacent Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, which features permanent and temporary exhibitions of decorative art collections, including Art Deco objects and the Surrealist Mae West Lips sofa by Salvador Dali and Edward James. An audioguide is available for just £2 extra, providing fascinating insights into the history of the palace and its royal occupants.
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Explore the South Downs
The South Downs is a glorious expanse of countryside overlooking Sussex, just 8 miles from Brighton and 30 minutes from London. The area is dotted with idyllic villages, vibrant market towns, vineyards, and historic houses.
One such village is Cranleigh, in the heart of the Surrey Hills. Here, you'll find Cranleigh Arts, a community hub offering year-round entertainment for locals and visitors alike. If you're looking for a more active adventure, there's FootGolf, a fun combination of football and golf located just 5 miles from the airport.
For a more relaxed experience, sample award-winning wines at a vineyard such as Roebuck Estates, perched atop the South Downs. Or, explore the 3000-acre Titsey Place and Gardens, one of the largest surviving historic estates in the country, featuring a historical formal garden, woodlands, lakes, and an adventure playground.
If you're seeking a quiet retreat, the Alexander House and Utopia Spa is a luxurious countryside escape just 15 minutes from the airport, offering the ultimate rejuvenation before your onward journey.
With its convenient location near Gatwick Airport, the South Downs offers a blend of natural beauty, culture, and history, providing a diverse range of experiences to suit every traveller's interests.
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See the 13th-century moated castle, Anne Boleyn's childhood home
If you're looking for attractions near Gatwick Airport, one suggestion is to visit Hever Castle, a romantic double-moated 13th-century castle that was Anne Boleyn's childhood home. Located in the quintessential English village of Hever, the castle is a short journey southeast of London and just thirty minutes away from Gatwick Airport.
Hever Castle has a rich history spanning over seven hundred years and has been the backdrop for several key events in British history. The castle is a huge attraction for history buffs and architectural enthusiasts alike. In 2019, it attracted over 415,000 visitors, a six per cent increase from the previous year.
The castle features grand panelled rooms adorned with antique furnishings, dazzling tapestries, and an impressive collection of Tudor portraits, second only to the National Portrait Gallery. The oldest working portcullis in the country and a reinstated working drawbridge from the early 20th century add to the castle's allure.
The grounds of Hever Castle span 125 acres and include award-winning gardens. Visitors can enjoy a picnic or take advantage of the catering facilities, including cafes, restaurants, and kiosks. The Tudor Suite Dining Room and Sitting Room offer a unique setting for afternoon tea on select weekends.
With its proximity to Gatwick Airport and its historical and architectural significance, Hever Castle, Anne Boleyn's childhood home, is definitely worth considering when planning a trip to the area.
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Relax at the Alexander House and Utopia Spa
If you're looking for a place to relax near Gatwick Airport, the Alexander House and Utopia Spa is a great option. This boutique 5-star hotel is located just 6 miles from the airport, in Turners Hill, and is surrounded by 120 acres of parkland.
The hotel offers luxurious rooms with large beds and marble bathrooms, many featuring Victorian baths, double showers, or oversized baths for two. Guests can also enjoy designer toiletries, bathrobes, and slippers during their stay. The on-site Utopia Spa provides the perfect opportunity to unwind, with plunge pools, a yoga studio, and a range of beauty treatments available (subject to a surcharge).
For those looking to stay active, the hotel also has a gym, fitness suite, and tennis courts. When it comes to dining, the AG's 3-Rosette restaurant offers fine dining from Thursday to Sunday, while the Reflections Restaurant is open daily and overlooks the courtyard, complete with its own champagne bar.
Getting to the Alexander House and Utopia Spa from Gatwick Airport is easy and affordable. The quickest way takes just 12 minutes by taxi or town car, costing around $23-$28. Alternatively, you can take the train from Gatwick Airport to Three Bridges and then catch a bus to the hotel, which takes around 1 hour and 4 minutes and costs between $3 and $10.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many attractions near Gatwick Airport, including the Gatwick Aviation Museum, Worth Park, Treasure Chest indoor play centre, and FootGolf. London and Brighton are also easily accessible from the airport, with trains taking around 30 minutes to reach either city.
London is approximately 30 minutes from Gatwick Airport via the Gatwick Express train, which arrives at London Victoria station.
Yes, there are several historical sites near Gatwick Airport, including the 13th-century sandstone church, Chanctonbury Ring, and Anne Boleyn's childhood home, a romantic 13th-century moated castle.
There are several natural areas near Gatwick Airport, including the South Downs, the Surrey Hills, and the Ouse Valley Viaduct.
Yes, there are several vineyards and wineries near Gatwick Airport, including Roebuck Estates and the vineyard in Cranleigh, which offer wine tastings.
