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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Carlisle
Carlisle
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Carlisle
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Carlisle
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Carlisle
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 Carlisle?
Carlisle, a historic city near the Scottish border, offers a wealth of attractions and scenic routes best explored with the flexibility of a rental car. While public transport is available, a car provides the freedom to venture beyond the city limits and discover the hidden gems of Cumbria and southern Scotland.
Explore Hadrian's Wall. Renting a car allows easy access to various points along Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Drive to different Roman forts, museums, and walking trails at your own pace.
Discover the Lake District. Carlisle serves as a convenient base for exploring the Lake District National Park. A car enables you to reach remote lakes, charming villages, and scenic viewpoints that are difficult to access by public transport.
Visit Gretna Green. Just a short drive from Carlisle, Gretna Green is famous for its historic wedding venue. A rental car makes it simple to visit this iconic location and explore the surrounding area.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Carlisle
Before renting a car in Carlisle, ensure you understand the rental terms. Key factors include age requirements, required documentation, insurance options, and fuel policies. Being informed helps ensure a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
Area
1,040 square kilometres (402 square miles)
Population
Approximately 108,000 residents
Time Zone
GMT & BST (GMT +1) during winter time
Ideal for
Exploring the surrounding areas
Rush Hours
Expect moderate traffic 7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 6 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies in Carlisle require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge. Check with the specific rental agency for their age policies.
2. Driver’s Licence & DocumentationA valid driver’s licence is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their licence is not in English. Always carry your licence and passport during your rental period.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is typically included, but consider additional coverage like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). A security deposit is usually required and held on a credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyCheck the mileage policy; unlimited mileage is often available. Fuel policies vary, but full-to-full is common, requiring you to return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesBe aware of potential extra charges for additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or optional extras like GPS or child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Carlisle – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
Classic:
from £8 / $10 / €9 per day
Executive:
from £26 / $33 / €31 per day
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35 per day
Automatic:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
SUV:
from £9 / $11 / €10 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Experiences higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (November to February): Often offers discounts
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Carlisle?
Booking a car in Carlisle involves a few simple steps. Compare prices, select the right car, and carefully review the rental terms. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure the best rates. Don’t forget to bring your licence, credit card, and ID for pickup.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison websites to find the best deals based on your travel dates and vehicle needs.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your travel plans, whether it’s an economy car for city driving or a larger vehicle for exploring the countryside.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid unexpected charges.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and ensure vehicle availability by booking well in advance, especially during peak travel periods.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s licence, credit card, and identification when collecting your rental vehicle.
General Information About Carlisle
Carlisle is a city rich in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes. Renting a car is ideal for exploring beyond the city centre, but familiarise yourself with local traffic regulations, parking options, and fuel availability.
Carlisle, located in Cumbria, England, is a historic city offering a blend of cultural attractions and natural beauty. Renting a car provides the best way to explore the surrounding areas, including Hadrian's Wall and the Lake District. While driving within Carlisle is generally straightforward, being aware of local regulations and traffic patterns ensures a smooth experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Carlisle Castle
A historic castle with a rich history, offering tours and exhibitions.
Hadrian's Wall
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, easily accessible by car from Carlisle.
Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery
Features local history, art exhibitions, and interactive displays.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several public parking garages are available in the city centre.
On-Street Parking
Limited on-street parking is available, often with time restrictions and payment requirements.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride services to avoid city centre traffic and parking fees.
Gas Stations in Carlisle
Conveniently Located
Fuel stations are available on the outskirts of Carlisle and along major roads.
Major Brands
Look for brands like BP, Shell, and Esso for refuelling.
Plan Ahead
Plan refuelling stops in advance, especially if driving long distances in rural areas.
Useful Tips for Visiting Carlisle
Plan Your Route
Use a GPS or navigation app to plan your route and avoid traffic.
Allow Extra Time
Allow extra time for travel during peak hours or events.
Be Aware of Speed Limits
Adhere to speed limits, especially in residential areas and on rural roads.
Check Weather Conditions
Check weather conditions before travelling, especially during winter months, as roads can be affected by snow and ice.
Key Transportation Hubs in Carlisle
Railway Stations
Carlisle Railway Station
The main railway station in Carlisle, providing connections to major cities in the UK.
Airports
Carlisle Lake District Airport
Offers limited domestic flights. The nearest major airports are Newcastle and Manchester.
Bus Stations
Carlisle Bus Station
Provides local and regional bus services.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Carlisle?
Renting a car in Carlisle requires a few essential documents and qualifications. Ensure you meet these requirements for a smooth rental experience.
A full, valid driver’s licence is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their home country licence.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with potential surcharges for those under 25.
A credit or debit card in the renter’s name is necessary for the security deposit.
A passport or other form of identification may be required.
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Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Carlisle 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.
Getting around was easy thanks to having a car. Carlisle itself was pleasant, though the Tullie House Museum was a bit smaller than I expected. Spent some lovely relaxing days at the coast.
David Lee
Reviewed: 30.12.2024
Wonderful weekend in Carlisle! Having a car made exploring so convenient. Highly recommend.
Oliver Brown
Reviewed: 13.08.2025
Pretty chill, overall.
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 16.10.2024
Pretty relaxed vibe.
Jessica Wilson
Reviewed: 30.07.2025
Carlisle was lovely in the summer! Having a car made exploring the area so easy. Beautiful scenery and friendly people.
Sarah Jones
Reviewed: 11.08.2025
Carlisle was a great base for a relaxing coastal break. Exploring with my rental car was effortless.
Amelia Garcia
Reviewed: 29.07.2025