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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
United Kingdom
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
United Kingdom
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
United Kingdom
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Rent a Car in the United Kingdom?
The United Kingdom, a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and stunning landscapes, beckons travellers with its timeless charm and diverse attractions. From the rolling hills of the Cotswolds to the dramatic Scottish Highlands, the UK offers a wealth of experiences best explored at your own pace. While public transport provides connectivity, renting a car unlocks unparalleled freedom to discover hidden gems and create unforgettable memories.
Unleash Freedom and Flexibility. Public transport adheres to fixed schedules, restricting spontaneity. A rental car empowers you to travel on your own terms, exploring at your leisure without the constraints of timetables.
Access Remote and Scenic Locations. Many of the UK's most breathtaking destinations lie beyond the reach of public transport. A rental car grants access to the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, the serene landscapes of the Lake District, and the dramatic coastlines of Cornwall.
Enjoy Comfort and Convenience. Navigating public transport with luggage can be cumbersome and stressful. A rental car provides a comfortable and convenient travel solution, ideal for families, groups, or solo travellers seeking a hassle-free experience.
Cost-Effective for Group Travel. For families or groups, renting a car can prove more economical than purchasing individual train or bus tickets. Sharing fuel costs further enhances affordability, making road trips a budget-friendly option.
Driving in the United Kingdom: Rules, Tips & Local Regulations
Drive on
Left hand side
Speed limit within city centre
30 mph or 48 km/h
Languages
English, Welsh, Gaelic, Cornish
Average petrol price
£1.45 per litre or £5.49 per gallon
Speed limit outside the city
70 mph or 112 km/h (motorways), 60 mph or 96 km/h (single carriageways)
Currency
Pound Sterling (£)
Acceptable limit of BAC
0.08%
Score
8.5/10
Dialling Code
+44
Driving in the United Kingdom offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern infrastructure. Navigating UK roads requires understanding local regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Here's a guide to help you prepare for your UK road trip.
1. General Speed Limits Speed limits are typically indicated in miles per hour (mph). Built-up areas usually have a 30 mph limit, while rural roads may vary. Motorways have a national speed limit of 70 mph.
- Motorways
- Rural Roads
2. Seatbelt Laws Wearing seatbelts is mandatory for all passengers in the front and rear seats. Children must use appropriate child seats or booster cushions.
- Front Seats
- Rear Seats
3. Traffic Signs Road signs generally follow international standards, but some may be unique to the UK. Familiarise yourself with common signs, including those for roundabouts, speed limits, and parking restrictions.
- Roundabouts
- Parking Restrictions
4. Congestion Charge and Low Emission Zones London has a Congestion Charge Zone and an Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). Check if your vehicle meets the emission standards and be aware of the charges if you drive within these zones.
- Congestion Charge Zone
- Ultra Low Emission Zone
5. Parking Regulations Pay attention to parking signs and restrictions. Yellow lines indicate parking restrictions, and double yellow lines mean no parking at any time. Use designated parking areas or pay-and-display zones where available.
- Yellow Lines
- Pay-and-Display Zones
Top drives in the United Kingdom:
The United Kingdom, with its diverse landscapes and rich history, offers a plethora of scenic drives that cater to every traveller's taste. From dramatic coastlines to rolling hills and charming villages, the UK's road network provides access to some of the world's most stunning scenery.
Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, a road trip in the UK promises unforgettable experiences. Renting a car allows you to explore at your own pace, discovering hidden gems and creating lasting memories along the way.
Car Rental Prices in United Kingdom – Cost Breakdown
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45
Electric:
from £30 / $38 / €34
Classic:
from £20 / $25 / €23
Executive:
from £50 / $63 / €57
7 Seater:
from £60 / $75 / €68
Automatic:
from £35 / $44 / €40
SUV:
from £45 / $57 / €51
Hire price
Average price for hiring a car per day in the United Kingdom
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Prices start at approximately £50 / $63 / €58 per day* during the summer months, driven by high tourist demand. Popular destinations experience increased car rental costs.
Low season (November to February): Discounts available from around £30 / $38 / €35 per day* during the winter months. Fewer tourists and seasonal promotions contribute to lower prices.
*Please note that these prices are approximate and can vary based on factors such as vehicle type, rental duration, and location.
Tips for saving money when renting a car in United Kingdom
Renting a car in the United Kingdom can be an economical way to explore, but costs can quickly add up. Here are some practical tips to help you save money on your next car rental.
1. Book Early for the Best Deals.: Car rental prices tend to increase closer to your travel dates. Booking several weeks or months in advance can secure significantly lower rates. Early booking also provides a wider selection of vehicles.
2. Compare Prices & Look for Discounts.: Use comparison websites to check prices from multiple rental companies. Look for discounts for AAA members, military personnel, or through travel reward programs. Also, check the rental company’s own website for exclusive offers.
3. Choose the Right Car for Your Needs.: Opt for a smaller, fuel-efficient car if you don’t need a large vehicle. Compact and economy cars are cheaper to rent and consume less fuel, reducing your overall costs. Consider the size of your travel party and luggage requirements when selecting a vehicle.
4. Check Insurance Options Carefully.: Assess your existing insurance coverage before purchasing additional insurance from the rental company. Your credit card or personal auto insurance policy may already provide adequate coverage. If not, consider purchasing a standalone rental car insurance policy.
5. Stick to a Single Driver.: Adding additional drivers can increase the rental cost. If possible, designate one driver for the duration of the rental to avoid extra charges. Additional driver fees can add up quickly, especially for longer rentals.
6. Refuel Before Returning.: Avoid expensive refuelling charges by filling up the gas tank before returning the car. Rental companies often charge exorbitant rates for refuelling. Find a local gas station near the rental location and refuel the car before drop-off.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in the United Kingdom?
Renting a car in the United Kingdom is generally straightforward, but it's essential to have the necessary documents and meet the minimum requirements. Here's what you need to rent a car in the UK.
Valid Driver’s License. You'll need a valid driver's licence from your country of residence. If your licence is not in English, you may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Check with the rental company for specific requirements.
Minimum Age Requirement. Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, and some may have restrictions or additional fees for drivers under 25. Check the rental company's age policies before booking.
Credit or Debit Card. You'll need a valid credit or debit card in the main driver's name to pay for the rental and provide a security deposit. Some rental companies may require a credit card for the deposit, so check the terms and conditions.
Proof of Identity. You'll need to provide proof of identity, such as a passport or national ID card. This is particularly important for international renters. Make sure your identification documents are valid and up-to-date.
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Every piece of information on this page has gone through our Content Quality Assurance (CQA) process — a multi-step review that includes human editing, localisation accuracy checks, and expert travel validation.
Learn more about our Content Quality Standards
This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as United Kingdom as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Pretty chill, actually.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 14.10.2024
Pretty decent, really.
Maya Jones
Reviewed: 08.05.2025
Exploring the UK by car was brilliant! The countryside was stunning, but honestly, finding decent vegetarian food in some smaller towns was a bit of a challenge.
Isabelle Garcia
Reviewed: 01.06.2025
Pretty good, really.
Olivia Brown
Reviewed: 27.04.2025
Family road trip through the UK was amazing! Beautiful scenery and so much to see.
Ava Wilson
Reviewed: 22.08.2024
Great UK road trip this summer! The weather was a bit unpredictable, but overall a fantastic experience.
Alice Smith
Reviewed: 12.05.2025