We will be renting a car from Heathrow and going directly to country areas west of London before returing to stay in town near Kensington-Earls Court area. I thought it would be best to drive back into London area hotel, drop off all luggage for our party of 3 and then one of us take car back to airport. We are now wondering if driving in London and dealing with traffic, congestion zones (?) and possible tickets is worth it. Should we just all return to Heathrow and take a cab into town?
Posted by
Boscombe, Dorset, UK
964 posts
I think that's what I would do- drop the car off and then maybe get a cab or the Heathrow Express into the city.
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
32875 posts
Well, Ken/Earls Court is outside the Congestion Zone; if mid day and well away from early or late rush hours, especially if Sunday or Saturday (unless a big show is on at Earls Court or Olympia), I'd not immediately rule out your plan to drop off the bags and your fellow travelers before returning the car. Will you be coming into London by M40/A40, M4/A4/Cromwell Road, or M3/A3? If you don't double park, park in absence of payment, park over the white line, park on a yellow line, speed, run a red light, drive in a bus lane, or park on a red line or on an Urban Clearway you are unlikely to receive a ticket. If driving in London you do need to be well familiar with the Highway Code, especially the signage. I drive all the time into London, generally north of the River, so it doesn't faze me - and I've never had a ticket - but only you know how you will cope. I certainly would not attempt it in AM peak (0600-1000) or PM peak (sort of 1530-1900) on a work day. Is there a place near your digs where you could drop the car to save the trip to and from Heathrow? I wouldn't suggest Heathrow Express to Paddington if you are at Earls Court when a simple ride on the Piccadilly Line would get you there so much faster and more cheaply