In message of Mon, 29 Jan
2007 15:00:59 in uk.transport.london, AstraVanMan
writes
"David F" wrote:
Think I'd prefer to either go for the driving option, or find a cheapo
hotel near the airport and travel the night before.Jeez, why? It's only
50min from Kings Cross to Gatwick by Thameslink.

The sheer quantity of bags my lovely wife will bring.

I take it from you mentioning that the large amount of bags is going to be
on the return leg that she's abroad already and you'll be returning with
her, or something similar?

In which case, then surely Thameslink from either Farringdon, King's Cross
or London Bridge (depending on exactly where you are in Islington and the
nearest mainline/tube station to you), just going on foot, and then return
from London Bridge via taxi, would be far easier than the hassle and cost of
driving and parking at Gatwick.


I agree with those who say "Don't go by car". I only know the route via
the A23 and Croydon to work for cars early on Saturday morning. If you
must, I suggest you go via the Blackwall Tunnel, A20 (I think there are
still works at the A2/M25 junction) and M25. If M25 seizes at 5 to 6,
use the A25 on which you can average nearly 40.
Radio traffic information is very useful for finding such seizures. If
there is a speed restriction on the approach to Junction 5, get off and
use the A25. It takes several minutes longer than the clear motorway
route but the motorway is rarely clear. I am mystified by the extreme
tendency of 5-6 to seize. It even seizes sometimes near Clackett Lane
Services. I would budget 90 minutes from N1 to Gatwick.

By train, I would avoid the peak and get off at London Bridge. Ramps off
platforms 1-6 leads to a good taxi rank. Sadly, you will find neither
luggage trollies nor porters unless you supply your own. There are many
steps up at both Farringdon and Kings Cross Thameslink. I don't know
Kentish Town or points further north.
--
Walter Briscoe