Minibus Hire Gatwick Airport

Gatwick Airport, located in West Sussex, is more than just a transit hub. While it might not be a traditional tourist destination, its location puts it within easy reach of some fantastic attractions. The airport itself is well-connected by road and rail, making it a convenient starting point for group outings.

When it comes to making your way around, you’ve got options aplenty. The airport has excellent public transport links, like the public bus to nearby Crawley, Horley and other places in the area, but for groups, a minibus or coach might be your best bet. It gives you the flexibility to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. Just remember, you’re in the bustling Southeast of England, so traffic can be a factor – plan your journeys accordingly!

Experience The Buzz At London Gatwick Airport

First up, let’s not overlook Gatwick Airport itself. It’s the UK’s second-busiest airport and a fascinating place to explore. While security restrictions mean you can’t go everywhere, there’s still plenty to see. Visitors from Copthorne often come just to watch the planes take off and land. The airport has a variety of shops and restaurants if you need to kill some time. For aviation enthusiasts, you can book tours of the airport that give you behind-the-scenes access. And if you’re feeling fancy, why not treat your group to a meal at one of the airport’s premium lounges?

Explore The Charming Town Of Crawley

Just a stone’s throw from Gatwick, you’ll find Crawley. It’s a modern town with a rich history, perfect for a day trip. The town centre has great shopping, with a mix of high street brands and independent stores. Don’t miss Tilgate Park – it’s got beautiful gardens, a nature centre, and even a Go Ape treetop adventure course. The Hawth Theatre is another highlight, offering a range of performances from comedy to drama. And if you’re into history, check out the Crawley Museum to learn about the area’s past.

Wander Through The Enchanting Ashdown Forest

Ashdown Forest is a bit further out, but well worth the trip. It’s the real-life inspiration for the Hundred Acre Wood in Winnie the Pooh. The forest is beautiful for walks, with a mix of heathland and woodland. Visitors from Balcombe often make a day of it here. There are several marked trails, including a Pooh Walk that takes you to some of the locations mentioned in A.A. Milne’s stories. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife – you might spot deer, rabbits, or even a rare Dartford warbler. After your walk, pop into one of the nearby villages for a traditional cream tea.

Discover Botanical Wonders At Wakehurst Place

Wakehurst Place, also known as Kew in the Country, is a botanical wonderland. It’s home to diverse gardens, woodlands, and the Millennium Seed Bank. Plant lovers from East Grinstead frequently visit to explore the gardens. The Seed Bank is particularly fascinating – it’s a global conservation project aiming to safeguard the world’s plant life. The gardens are beautiful year-round, from spring flowers to autumn colours. There’s also a great café serving seasonal, locally sourced food. If you’re visiting in winter, don’t miss their Glow Wild light trail – it’s magical!

Experience The Charm Of Horsham

Horsham is a market town with a lovely mix of history and modern amenities. The town centre has some great shopping, with a mix of high street brands and independent stores. People from Ardingly often come for a day out. Don’t miss the Horsham Museum and Art Gallery – it’s free to enter and has some fascinating exhibits about local history. The town also has some lovely parks, including Horsham Park with its Human Nature Garden. If you’re there on a Saturday, check out the local farmers’ market for some tasty treats.

Step Back In Time At Gatwick Aviation Museum

For aviation enthusiasts, the Gatwick Aviation Museum is a must-visit. It’s a small museum, but it’s packed with interesting exhibits about the history of aviation in the area. Visitors from Haywards Heath often pop in when they’re near the airport. The museum has a collection of vintage aircraft, many of which you can get up close to. The volunteers who run the place are incredibly knowledgeable and always happy to chat. They often have special open cockpit days where you can sit in some of the planes – a great photo opportunity!

Remember, if you’re coming from places like Horsham or Ansty, you’re not far at all. It’s easy to make a day trip or even a half-day excursion to these attractions. Just be sure to check opening times and book in advance where necessary, especially if you’re coming as a larger group. Happy exploring!