So you’ve landed at London’s Stansted Airport and picked up your hire car, the question is “where to next?” Before hitting the bright lights of the big city, you’ll find the greater London area offers plenty of attractions-from beautiful wildlife parks and stately homes, you’ll never be stuck for somewhere to go or something to see in the area. Car hire allows you to enjoy all of these national treasures at a pace that suits you. Avoid the hassle of public transport and stick to your own timetable! The following is a list of some of the most popular attractions located within easy reach of Stansted Airport.

1. Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace is situated close to the River Thames in southwest London. The palace is accessible from a number of routes including the M25, M3 and M4. Historic Hampton Court Palace is one of Britain’s national treasures and offers visitors the chance to experience a number of exciting attractions including guided tours of Henry VIII’s State Apartments, period costume displays and the challenging Hampton Court Maze. Admission fees can be pricey and depend on the number of attractions you intend on visiting. Discount rates are available for students, families,OAPs and larger groups.

2. Mole Hall Wildlife Park

Mole Hall Wildlife Park is located in the pretty village of Widdington, which is situated close to Saffron Waldron, just a short drive to the south of the village of Newport. Mole Hall Wildlife Park is a 20-acr
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e animal reserve, which is home to a range of furry and feathered friends including flamingos, sarus cranes, wallabies, owls and chimpanzees.. Mole Hall Wildlife Park boasts a number of unique features including deer feeding, a maze and a Butterfly Pavilion. Admission to the park costs £6.50 for adults and £4.50 for children. Special discounts apply to students OAPs and people with disabilities.


3. Hatfield Forest

Hatfield Forest is situated between Little Hallingbury in the south and Takely in the north and can be reached by following exit 8 of the M11 and then taking the B1256 to Takely. Follow the signposts for Hatfield Forest from the B1256. Hatfield Forest is a National Trust site and boasts a number of natural attractions including a scenic lake, where you’ll find low cost snacks and refreshments on sale-perfect for picnics! The forest itself is of great historical importance and has been a royal hunting forest since Norman times. Hatfield Forest Park lends itself to a range of outdoor pursuits including fishing and nature trail walks.

4. Mountfitchet Castle
Mountfitchet Castle is located in the village of Stansted Mountfitchet, in Essex. The castle prides itself on being an ‘all-in-one’ heritage site which displays pre-historic and medieval history in an interactive fun environment. The complex includes an impressive reconstructed Norman castle. The park encourages visitors to explore the Norman village and wander freely through the specially constructed farms and forts. Admission to Mountfitchet Castle is reasonably cheap and special discount prices apply to larger groups.