Things to do Near Gatwick Airport

For many of us, we associate Gatwick Airport with jetting off on our summer holidays. But with COVID-19 still hovering over us, many people will be opting for staycations this year.

With this in mind, it is a little known fact that there are a whole host of great tourist attractions and things to do near Gatwick Airport. More than just a transport hub, there’s plenty to see and do- so let’s take a look at the very best things to do near Gatwick Airport.

Nature and wildlife near Gatwick Airport 

While Gatwick Airport is regarded as one of the UK’s biggest airports, away from the tarmac there is actually plenty of green space that can be enjoyed. 

Perhaps the best place to start is the British Wildlife Centre. Less than ten miles from Gatwick, the centre is nestled in Surrey’s countryside and is home to a whole host of animals. This includes red deer, badgers, otters and all kinds of birds. 

It is also home to Britain’s first-ever walk-through squirrel enclosure, which allows guests to get up close and personal with the UK’s iconic red squirrels. Every half an hour, keepers at the centre give fascinating talks on the different species who live there- ideal if you have little ones who want to learn more about the animals. 

Sticking with the wildlife theme, the award-winning Fishers Adventure Farm Park is always a great family day out. As well as the animal enclosures that include pigs, sheep, cows and more, there are a whole host of rides and attractions that kids and adults alike can enjoy. 

Stately homes and gardens near Gatwick Airport

If you’re on the lookout for a stunning backdrop to spend the summer months, then there are plenty of stately homes, castles and gardens that fit the bill. 

Hever Castle combines stunning architecture with a real slice of history. The childhood home of Anne Boylen, you can walk the grounds that she and King Henry VIII did centuries ago. 

Whether you want to explore the castle’s mazes, take a boat out on the beautiful lake or simply have a picnic, the castle’s garden is among Kent’s most idyllic spots. There’s also a military museum on-site for those who want to brush up on their history. 

The Elizabethan grounds of Penshurst Place is a great place to while away the hours, with a variety of different gardens to choose from all separated by luscious yew hedges. Depending on the season there’s also a number of fun-filled events and activities taking place, too.    

Discover the story of Winnie the Pooh near Gatwick Airport 

Just half an hour away from Gatwick Airport, you can find the origins of one of the world’s most famous bears. 

Ashdown Forest is just outside Crawley and is famous for being the home (known as Hundred Acre Wood in the stories) of Winnie Pooh and his friends. Many of the iconic literary figures’ adventures took place here, with author A.A Milne taking inspiration from the leafy surroundings.   

Now, you can explore the woods at your leisure. Why not play a game of Poohsticks with your little ones on the famous bridge that can be found in the woods? 

If you’d like some guidance on where to look, then the Pooh Corner gift shop includes maps that can take you to many of the books’ famous locations. Additionally, you can check out and buy all the Winne the Pooh memorabilia you could ever wish to set eyes on. 

If you require a car or van rental for your day getting out and about near Gatwick Airport, Gatwick Car & Van Rental are here to help. We’re home to an entire fleet of vehicles including cars, vans and minibuses that are ideal for you whatever your requirements. Contact a member of our team for more information.