One of London’s great blessings is also one of its curses. Filled to the brim with people playing and with a purpose, its three key airports are always busy and located some distance from the city’s landmarks. This means that an idyllic walk along the banks of the historic Thames is not marred by the sound of planes, but it also means that getting in and out of the city can be a hassle if not planned properly.

Many choose public transportation in an effort to save a few pounds. But you can arrange transportation in such a way that it really adds to your overall experience and gives you a “mini tour” of the city and its surroundings.

Victoria Station and London’s Core

Most people don’t immediately jump for joy when they fly into Gatwick Airport. Taxi, train or bus: Regardless of the mode of transportation to and from this busy hub, it adds quite a bit of time to the already time-consuming process of going through customs and immigration control. But getting private transport, whether by bus or taxi, means you can be picked up and dropped off anywhere from Victoria Station, Piccadilly Square or anywhere in central London. Whether on the way to your accommodation from the airport, or on the way back to catch a flight home, there are plenty of opportunities to simply look out the window and watch the city unfold. Your driver will be more than happy to point out landmarks as you pass and this is a great way to get to know the terrain before exploring on foot.

over the thames

Imagine piling into a busy train or bus with your luggage and wondering if this is the best way to enjoy the Thames as it passes you on its way to or from Gatwick Airport. Taxi rides and private transport rides give you the best chance to enjoy your first (or last) glimpse of the length of the mighty Thames in comfort.

Woods and hills of South London

Mitcham, Leatherhead and Salford – these are not prestigious names and certainly don’t come to mind along with Wembley, Westminster and Camden Town as famous Greater London suburbs and regions. But on Gatwick Airport taxi rides, the opportunity to drive across the South London Downs and through the woods will give you a unique insight into the smaller worlds that make up this immense metropolis.

Stately homes and cabins

One of the great benefits of the distance between your flight and the sights of London is not so apparent until you book a Gatwick airport taxi. Once on the road, brief but picturesque glimpses of mansions and cottages, as well as larger, restored hotels, can open your eyes to a lifestyle that has its roots in the London of days gone by. Many visitors to the UK capital don’t even leave the busy embrace of the city, but it’s interesting to note that within half an hour in any direction, a whole different world awaits.