Heathrow is the UK’s largest airport and car rental is a great way to quickly access the always lively centre of London to see iconic palaces, museums and attractions. Exploring the south-east and south-west of England will reward you with idyllic villages, family activities and pretty university cities.
Things to do in London
In central London the options are almost limitless. Take in a West End theatre matinee; dine in a Michelin-starred restaurant or hip Soho bistro; explore the ancient treasures of the British Museum; or try and spot the Queen at Buckingham Palace.
Take in a game of soccer at Wembley or laugh it up at a comedy club, while the city also offers brilliant entertainment for children and families. A highlight is the Tower of London, where its famous resident ravens circle over buildings where the nation’s history was shaped over hundreds of years. Learn the mysteries and stories with a Beefeater tour, then ogle the crown jewels and Henry VIII’s vast battle armour.
Harry Potter studio tour
With medieval turrets, craggy crenulations and thick stone walls, Windsor Castle is everything you want a castle to be. From its construction in the 11th century to its survival through the turmoil of the English Civil War, the walls of this royal home whisper history. For family days out, there are activities to keep kids happy like building your own castle or an organised treasure hunt.
Another great attraction is LEGOLAND Windsor. This theme park is dotted with giant Lego brick masterpieces at every turn. Watch a swashbuckling pirate show in between hair-raising roller coasters and LEGO-themed rides. Younger visitors will enjoy the Duplo-themed Splash Park – if you’re bringing toddlers, pack some swimwear.
You’ll feel like a wizard with a trip to Hogwarts at the Warner Bros Studios near Watford. This is a Harry Potter fan’s dream with interactive props, sets, costumes and creatures from the films. Step down Diagon Alley or into the Great Hall. You'll get the chance to learn how on-screen magic was made with a behind-the-scenes look at the special effects used in the Harry Potter movies.
The Cotswolds
Just an hour and a half’s drive away is the beautiful Cotswolds. Thatch-roof cottages and colourful village gardens bursting with flowers characterise the small towns in this rural retreat. Driving through the Cotswolds can sometimes feel like entering the past, far away from the hue and cry of city life.
Oxford
Oxford’s dreamy spires and grand university buildings are within easy reach. Wander the narrow, cobbled streets and spend hours perusing cozy bookstores. A free walking tour of the ivy-clad colleges and atmospheric quad lawns is available through Oxford Walking Tour, with a focus on the colleges as filming locations for Harry Potter and the halls that inspired CS Lewis, author of the Narnia books.
Whether you’re heading straight into London for business or leisure, you’re in search of somewhere to spend quality family time, or you want to escape it all in the English countryside, car rental from Heathrow Airport is the perfect way to start your trip to the UK.
