Gatwick is not a zoo, IMHO - it's a lot less frenetic than Heathrow and you are lucky to be stopping at the former, I would say.

Yes, there are showers. Also, some decent shops. Can't think of anywhere particularly spectacular to eat though. If you were brave enough to leave the terminal how about nipping down to Brighton which is less than 30 mins and has loads of fab restaurants.

I would probably just play everything by ear when I arrived. Gatwick when we were there but certainly not a zoo. I'm assuming you won't have to pick up your luggage since this appears to be a connecting flight. In this case, I wouldn't think that it would take you too long to get out of the airport. If your flight arrives on time and you get off the plane quickly then I don't see why going to London for a few hour visit would be that bad.

I personally would have a hard time passing up the opportunity if I had never been to London before. Even a quick glimpse would be more fun than hanging around an airport, which I despise. We've went into Amsterdam with an even shorter 4 hour layover and had no problems at all.

Just my .02.

Tracy

Thanks to all. I think we will play it by ear. It is certainly tempting to try to see something of London.But, as Venice is the ultimate goal here, we may not take the chance...