I would suggest that it is madness not to hire a car from Heathrow Airport. As one of the busiest airports in the world, certainly the busiest airport in Britain, I can’t see why anyone would choose to rely on the taxis that lurk just outside the exits from the airport and who often over charge people who do not know the streets and don’t realise that they are being taken the long way to their destination (although, admittedly, there aren’t as many as could be said a few years ago!). On top of this, everyone wants the London experience so they can’t do without a ride in a black London cab, so you are unlikely to be able to beat the queues to get one! And don’t think that you could rely on public transport because if you’re used to continental service then you’ll be shocked!

If you decide to one thing, make sure you hire a car from Heathrow. With so many different types of car for every eventuality, there is not a reason to decide not to hire a car when it makes things so easy and convenient. You can be in and out much faster without fussing about train or bus timetables and without having to wait for the transport services to get their act together. You also have the benefit of security and convenience because you can use the car instead of having to work out the transport schedules and have your journeys limited by public transport!