If costs are similar, which airport to fly into from the States? We are heading to a London hotel--not sure which yet.

Also, different country but we are planning to fly home from Edinburgh. Is it easy to get around in Scotland in a rental car for strangers to the area? Thanks!

There isn't a simple answer to the choice of airport.

Onward journeys to your hotel may be easier or more laborious from either airport, depending on where your hotel is.

Gatwick is much further out of London, but has train services to Victoria, and to London Bridge/Blackfriars/Kings Cross/St Pancras, which can make the journey easier and quicker than from Heathrow - depending on where you're trying to get to.

six of one / half dozen of the other. There are pros and cons to each airport. Both are convenient to central London - though by completely different transport options.

Take which ever one gets you the best fare, or schedule, or miles/points or whatever.

Are these different airlines? If so, I'd look into the comfort level of the aircrafts and make my choice instead of which airport.

Also, if you're a truly budget traveler, you can get into London by tube, which is cheaper by a few £ than any of the options from Gatwick.