The south of London contains many underrated gems that are within easy reach from Gatwick Airport, whether you’re a nature lover, history buff or gourmet. Here are some great additions to your itinerary when you fly into London through Gatwick:
For wine enthusiasts
1. Sip on a glass of summer bubbles or learn how to mix the perfect cocktail
Bolney Wine Estate, a pioneering family-run vineyard that has been around for over five decades, is just an 18-minute drive from Gatwick Airport. Three generations are currently involved in the daily business, dedicated to making some of Britain’s finest wines. Sample the award-winning Bolney Bubbly, their most popular sparkling wine with floral and zesty notes, or the Bolney Bubbly Rosé, a perfect summer drink that tastes of strawberries, cherry and redcurrant.
Join their three-hour tasting tour which features a behind-the-scenes glimpse of running a vineyard, and a tasting of five wines over a seasonal mezze board. And it’s not just about the grapes here: they also make their own gins and run Sip & Create tablescaping workshops.
2. Taste award-winning British wines in a sustainable vineyard
Ridgeview Wine Estate, about half an hour’s drive south from Gatwick Airport, opened its doors nearly 30 years ago and has won multiple awards since. The vineyard is equally known for its high-quality wines and its efforts in setting new sustainability standards in the industry. Some of the estate’s key measures include crop rotation, reducing herbicides and cooling their wine cellars by natural, ambient temperature control rather than using energy.
When visiting Ridgeview Wine Estate, you can choose between a classic vineyard tour with wine and cheese tastings or book your own private wine experience. The slick Rows & Vine Restaurant, overlooking the almost endless rows of vines, is the perfect place to indulge in some British grub – like their roast beef sirloin – over fine wines or cocktails.
For history buffs
1. Visit a picturesque historic bridge
Even if you’ve never heard its name, chances are you have already seen pictures of Ouse Valley Viaduct. This ornate bridge in West Sussex, just 15 minutes by car from Gatwick Airport, ranks among Britain’s most popular photo-taking hotspots.
Originally built as a river crossing for the trains from London to Brighton in 1838, it is still in use to date. The real gem, however, are the archways underneath the train tracks. Built with around 11 million bricks, they create the famous optical illusions photographers and influencers from all over the world travel here for. Arrive early if possible to avoid having to stand in line for your snaps!
2. Watch a medieval tournament at a Tudor castle
Next, drive about 45 minutes northeast for Hever Castle, a stunning 14th century estate and the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, mother of the late Queen Elizabeth I. Marvel at the Tudor portraits on the walls and explore the Astor Suite, created by American millionaire William Waldorf Astor who restored the castle at the beginning of the 20th century. Afterwards, make your way to the castle’s stunning gardens, get lost in the Yew Maze and Water Maze and enjoy the scent of 5,000 rose bushes in the English Rose Garden.
If you truly want to travel back in time, visit from July to September when the annual Summer Jousting Tournaments see the Knights of Royal England (a team of trained riders in medieval costumery) compete in various disciplines just as they would have in the past.
Or get up close with weaponry and watch actors re-enact landmark historical events from the Middle Ages onwards, during Hever in History on the last weekend of August – you’ll even be able to try on suits of armour then.
For nature lovers
1. Spot Britain’s native animals in their natural habitat
Did you know that Britain’s only wildlife park solely dedicated to native species is just 13 minutes by car from Gatwick? The British Wildlife Centre opened in 1998 and is the permanent home of more than 40 different animals, including red deer, red foxes, otters, pine martens, Scottish wildcats and British owls.
You can tour the park on your own, but we’d highly recommend joining at least one keeper talk. These 15-minute presentations run every half hour and each one is dedicated to a particular species. You’ll get to learn about a wide variety of animals including mustelids, hedgehogs and owls while having a chance to see them up close.
2. Marvel at perfectly manicured gardens
Mark the Riverhill Himalayan Gardens on your map, just half an hour’s drive from both Gatwick Airport and the British Wildlife Centre. Opened from March to October yearly, these family-owned manicured gardens spanning almost five hectares are some of the finest in the country: think classic flower gardens, woodlands and modern sculptures all in one place, with stunning views over Kent and plenty of benches to enjoy them from.
A highlight not to be missed is the Walled Garden, with amphitheatre-style grass terraces dotted with idyllic water fountains and a glittering public sculpture by British artist Julian Wild at its centre. The Rose Walk welcomes visitors with the scent of hundreds of blooming roses filling the air, while the Mini Everest viewpoint invites you to put your puzzle solving skills to the test with the hedge maze at its base.
For countryside explorers
1. Stay at a charming local inn and dine on hearty pub fare
A brisk 50-min drive from Gatwick Airport lies a charming traditional village inn called The Merry Harriers in Hambledon. It dates back to the 16th century, boasts 15 overnight accommodations and is also the starting point of many walks and biking tours around the area.
Dig into pub classics like venison loin and scotch eggs, or the popular roast platter to share (Sundays only) and try their local ale. The Merry Harriers has its very own farm and pride themselves on sourcing from the many local producers in the Surrey Hills region – so you can be sure of fresh, quality food on your plate.
2. Explore the woodlands and try woodworking
Wilderness Wood, about an hour south from Gatwick by car in East Sussex, is a family-run working woodland with paths to explore and activities to enjoy. Here, you can take your children on a leisurely stroll through the trails and try hands-on activities such as woodworking and woodblock-printing.
Rain or shine, an ongoing hit with families is the Mud-Kitchen Disco on Friday mornings. Here, kids and adults alike are welcome for a light-hearted outdoor dance. It’s best to pack your own lunch if you’ll need a substantial meal – otherwise, you can look forward to hot drinks and cake from their kitchen.
For our full list of things to try and places to see in London, check out our London City Guide.
Singapore Airlines’ flights to Gatwick will commence from 21 June 2024. For more information, visit the official website.
