Gatwick North Terminal
Hampton by HILTON: I was pleasantly surprised to find that a hotel – literally adjoining the North Terminal airport at Gatwick on level 1 – could be so affordable, quiet and comfortable. We had some problems initially as the first accessible room (103) was not suitable for someone using the left hand side of the bed; it was so close to the wall that exiting the bed was impossible. However the hotel staff were most understanding and showed us room 525. Perfect. Clean, plenty of space and an excellent accessible bathroom. Firm bed but not too hard. Well done Hilton! This room is now a double bedroom again so be sure to explain your needs to the helpful staff at reception.
Update: Now that British Airways has moved to the South Terminal, in order to access the above hotel you will need to take the free commuter shuttle train that operates every few minutes to the North Terminal.
Heathrow Terminal 5: Last year we stayed overnight at the Sofitel Hotel at Heathrow Terminal 5 as British Airways are currently flying from Jersey directly to Heathrow. We wanted to be able to walk to a hotel and the covered pathway was perfect – although not well sign posted. It involved going outside, turning right towards the carpark and then we found the entrance to the hotel.
We had booked online and requested an accessible shower/bathroom. On arrival we found the receptionist behind glass and wearing a mask – and as English wasn’t his first language, communications were extremely difficult. We were offered an upgrade – and not realising what this entailed – discovered that the accessible bathroom had disappeared. So we trekked back down and asked for the original booking requirements. We got there eventually but it was a bit of a trial!! The Duty Manager came to our assistance and all went smoothly. The restaurant service is excellent as was the breakfast and evening meal.