Going on a cruise from London/Southampton. Staying in London on our own for 3 days before the cruise. Can anyone suggest the most economical, yet convenient way to get to hotel (city center) in London from Heathrow and from hotel to Southampton? How much for just hiring a taxi for 4 people with luggage can cost? Cruise company provides transfers only from – to airport. Any advise on exploring London for 2.5 days on our own: couple in mid-50th with elderly parents.

ttt

justairports.com is a reliable car service that costs less than a taxi. The cheapest way would be to take the train, but I'm not familiar with that, although I know others hewre are.

We also used justairports.com for a private car transfer from Heathrow to our London hotel. Very convenient, hassle free, and cheaper than a taxi if you choose the cash payment option. You might also want to inquire if they can provide you with transportation from London to Southhampton.

There are at least 2 trains an hour from London Waterloo station to Southampton, a journey of about 90 minutes. The train fare is likely to be around the £100 for 4 adults, and you would still need a taxi to the ship. I would recommend you look into the possibility of a taxi, or the airportcar company suggested by others.

Tim, Southampton, UK

How spry are your elderly parents and can they easily handle all of their own luggage? If not (I assume not) don;t consider anything except a car service into London.

For the trip to Southhampton - don;t know what options the cruise provides. If its easy direct from the airport to the ship with them handling the luggage it may be simplest just to go back and meet that at the airport than to make yuor own way to Southhampton.

From London to Southampton , the cheapest option is by bus (with senior discount), then take taxi to the terminal. However, with luggage, perhaps it would be more convenient by mini cab.

Lat October, my parents and I took private car hire from London Charing Cross to Southampton cruise terminal for 75 pounds total, from cruise terminal to Heathrow for 90 pounds. That was including waiting time at the terminal.

I discovered justairports.com from the fodors threads and it was marvelous. If you have several travelling together is much cheaper and easier than a taxi. Our plane was delayed 2.5 hours and the gentleman who was the contracted driver was kind and polite anyway.

We are doing the pre-cruise visit to London also, before going to S'hampton for our departure. In August. Will be sailing back to Boston. Just wondering about your dates/destination?

JudyC... who did you use for the London to Southampton transfer? We are looking for transfer from Southampton to London and I can't find any car service for less than 135 pounds.

Londontown.com also is a good service for car into town. NO hassle, and very convenient - but not cheap espeically considering the exchange rate these days. Londontown.com has a few options - private car or van. We used them in May and also got our theatre tickets thru them. Saw Billy Elliot. If it is still there, I hihgly recommend it. it is an Elton John musical based on the movie Billy Elliot. Good show with very talented kids.