We’ve been using British Airport Transfers for a number of years and are happy with the service they provide: http://www.british-airport-transfers.co.uk/
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I used to do early morning airport runs on a regular basis. Handy, the original minicab firm, have never let me down. They are now known also as Data Cars and have a pretty good app too.
Thanks for the replies, everyone. Gives me some options.
I once had a very bad experience with Forest Hill Cars. I booked in advance for two adults and a toddler and some luggage. I was told it would be £40. The driver arrived at 4am in the middle of winter and decided to argue with me about whether it was an ‘estate job’ or not. He had a great big people carrier, so it wasn’t as if he couldn’t take us (and we could easily have fit the luggage and people in a saloon car), but he insisted on a £20 (50%) extra to take us to Heathrow which the office backed him up for at the time. At 4am in the middle of winter with a toddler. I later complained to the office and got nowhere. Suffice to say, I haven’t used them since despite them being five minutes walk from home.
Last time we went to Gatwick, we used the parking facilities there which was roughly £70 for a week. When travelling for work, I usually get the train as it’s normally a change at East Croydon and then you’re pretty much there.
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I’ve used Uber the last few times I’ve needed to go to the airport – they have a fixed price (£40 to Heathrow from memory). Not sure about getting one of the bigger ones at a fixed price though.
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I believe that Uber have recently removed any fixed rates for airports … and I’m not sure how you can ensure you get a car that is big enough
There are different car options with Uber that you choose via the app.
UberXL seats six.
More details here: https://www.uber.com/cities/london/
Ah that’s a real shame.
I too use British Airport Transfers. In fact I’m in one now returning home from LHR.
Like AddLee you can chose vehicle type to suit. Drivers ar very polite and helpful. But a fraction of the price and compatible with lical car firms. They have an app too.
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Just gone to pick up a parcel and the driver of a white FH Car was stood watering the plants in the Post Office car park. Not hidden in a corner, oh no. Slap bang in the middle.
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Sock puppet alert!
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Sorted. Thanks for the flags.
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If you have an early-morning departure, we’ve often found a good deal for staying overnight the previous night at (I think) the Gatwick Holiday Inn and getting a parking deal thrown in. Works out very well and avoids the stress of worrying about the M23 first thing in the morning.
Alternatively, Forest Hill platform 2 to East Croydon, then change platforms for the service to Gatport Airwick. Easier with less luggage and fewer kids, admittedly, but it’s another option!
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@Bolgerp is a fan of this route. But I’ve heard this connection won’t be possible with the proposed Southern route/timetable changes?
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Oh wow. Didn’t know!
Agree… if you’re travelling outside of rush hour with minimal luggage, this is really easy… and much faster than getting a taxi/driving…
You would have to change at Norwood Junction instead which has no step free access. But I think also in the consultation some Thameslink trains would stop at Norwood Junction so it’s still 1 change. Or 2 changes if you want to go to East Croydon.
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Word is that Southern won’t go ahead with that proposal anyway.
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