Where to stay near Gatwick.

[Lastandfirst]

So I’m looking at holidays next year.
We live in Ireland and my husband can work from central London.

I’d love to combine a work trip with a holiday with the kids 6 and 11. Maybe find an air b&b. Flying to Gatwick would be preferable.

So somewhere with an easy commute into London but don’t think we can stretch to staying in London for a week.
I was looking at the coast towards Brighton?

Has anyone got any ideas? Open to all suggestions. No really budget yet as no real idea of how much this will likely cost.

Thanks

Wimbledon is nice. Easy to get from Gatwick via train/tram (you have to change once). Premier Inn on the Broadway is not expensive (assuming you don't go at tennis time) and has everything you need. 20 mins into Waterloo, also on the District Line so easy access to central London. Wimbledon Village and Common are good for a trip too.