"Mike" wrote:

Heading from Gatwick Airport to Liverpool in a few weeks. Not renting a
car. Followed by a week in London. What's the [ quickest / easiest /
cheapest ] way of getting from Gatwick to Liverpool?


If you're serious about flying part of the way, you'd be far better off
getting a plane from Gatwick to Manchester. Both British Airways and Jet2
fly on this route; there are hourly direct trains from Manchester Airport to
Liverpool city centre.

Personally, I think that train all the way would be a much more pleasant
option - especially if you decide to change at Watford Junction. Many train
operators offer good deals for longer journeys, provided that you book in
advance and buy a ticket that is only valid for use on their services.
Hence, it is often cheaper to book each leg of the journey separately,
rather than buy a (more-flexible, any-operator) through ticket.

Booking at least 14 days in advance means that you should be able to buy a
single from London (or Watford Junction) to Liverpool for less than US$20.
See www.virgintrains.co.uk for details. You can then just buy your ticket
for the short Gatwick to London / Watford Junction leg on the day.

Be warned, though - invariably, the bargain fares that rail, airline and
coach companies offer require you to book in advance to travel at set times,
and to keep to those times. Should your flight from the US be delayed, you
may have to pay again - and be charged a much higher "walk-on" fare
(although you may find that your travel insurance covers this).



Enjoy your stay!

MetroGnome