We'll be arriving from Malaga into Gatwick via easyjet. We will hire a car and head north of London for a week.

After our week in the country, we'll return to car and then spend 2-3 days in London and likely depart from Heathrow to come home to the U.S.

Do we return the car at Gatwick and then head to the city? Do we return it elsewhere? Do we have to return it to Gatwick and then take a train?

These logistics are making my head hurt! I need advice, please, from you seasoned travelers.

Where north of London - that could make a significant difference. But in general - If you arrive at LGW and finish up in London, I'd collect a car at LGW and drop it off at LHR. From Heathrow into London is easy via various transport (Tube, Car service, Train, etc.)

Now - If you said you were going south (Kent/ East Sussex etc) then I'd arrange to drop the car at LGW. But my guess is, where you are going is more convenient to LHR.

Or even Stansted - depending on where you mean by "north of London"

I wouldn't drop off at STN - it's expensive to get into London unless you want to spend time on coaches

If you are coming from the north or west then drop off at Heathrow. Coming from the east or south then drop at at Gatwick.

I doubt if it will cost any more as there won't be a surcharge for a different drop off point

We'll be staying in Oakham. It looks like it would be more convenient to drop off a LHR. I was concerned about charges for dropping off at a different location.

Thanks, everyone!