Ground Transport in England

Hi - we are planning a trip to England and are looking for any advise on ground transport. Renting a car is an option... but what are folks experiences with trains or hiring a driver? We will be a bit all over the place: Arriving into London Gatwick to Bath to a wedding in Burford then back to London and departing from Gatwick.

In looking at the trains from London to Gatwick, thes seem to be over $60 USD - is this correct? Which seems to be the most economical car rental?

Appreciate all responses!

I'd hire a car, especially if there are two or more of you travelling.

BUT not for London where a car is expensive to have once you've added on things like parking and the hassle of driving

$60 is the return (ie there and back) fare for the Gatwick Express but you can get from most of Central London to Gatwick for $17 one way by using non-GEX services - see Nationalrail for details

This is supposed to be the cheapest way from Gatwick to London. If you are prepared to name your departure times in advance the megatrain/megabus websites are worth a look. National Express also has some bus bargains. The Trainline allows you to buy in advance and pick up the ticket from a fasticket machine at your station.

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Haven't done this myself, but our Queen does it all the time. I imagine its quite expensive, but if you want the train to stop and let you look around a place at your leisure, its probably the way to go.

You might also get to ride on the footplate or take over the train controls.

Britrail passes can be a good value if you plan to travel alot.