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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Dorchester
Dorchester
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Dorchester
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Dorchester
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Dorchester
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 Dorchester?
Dorchester, a historic town nestled in the heart of Dorset, is a gateway to stunning landscapes and ancient landmarks. While local transport is available, renting a car offers unparalleled freedom to explore at your own pace.
Uncover Hidden Gems. With a rental car, you can easily venture off the beaten path to discover charming villages, scenic viewpoints, and secluded beaches that are inaccessible by public transport.
Visit Iconic Landmarks. Stonehenge, Durdle Door, and the Jurassic Coast are all within easy driving distance of Dorchester. A car allows you to visit these world-renowned sites without the constraints of tour schedules.
Flexibility and Convenience. Whether you're travelling with family, carrying luggage, or simply prefer a more comfortable journey, a rental car provides the flexibility and convenience you need.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Dorchester
Before booking a rental car in Dorchester, be sure to check the minimum age requirements, necessary driving documents, and insurance coverage. Familiarise yourself with the rental agreement to ensure a smooth and worry-free experience.
Area
Approximately 7 square miles
Population
Approximately 20,000 residents
Time Zone
GMT (GMT+1 during British Summer Time)
Ideal for
Exploring the Jurassic Coast
Rush Hours
Expect moderate traffic during peak commuting times
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with potential surcharges for those under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driving licence is essential, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required for non-[COUNTRY PLACE] residents.
3. Insurance & DepositsStandard insurance is usually included, but consider additional coverage options. A security deposit is typically required.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyCheck for mileage restrictions and understand the fuel policy (full-to-full is common) to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesBe aware of potential fees for extra drivers, one-way rentals, or optional extras like GPS or child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Dorchester – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
Classic:
from £9 / $11 / €10 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): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to higher demand.
Low season (November to February): Often offers discounts to attract customers.
*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 Dorchester?
To ensure a smooth rental experience in Dorchester, compare prices from various providers, select the appropriate vehicle for your needs, and carefully review the rental conditions before finalising your booking.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison tools to find the best deals from different rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your travel needs, considering factors like size and fuel efficiency.
3. Check Rental Terms - Thoroughly review the rental agreement, including mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Reserve your car well in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure the best rates and availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Have your driver’s licence, credit card, and any required identification ready when collecting your rental.
General Information About Dorchester
Dorchester offers a blend of history and rural charm, making it an ideal base for exploring Dorset. Understanding local driving conditions and parking regulations will enhance your experience.
As the county town of Dorset, Dorchester boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times. Today, it is a bustling market town surrounded by stunning countryside. While the town centre is easily walkable, renting a car provides access to the wider region, including the Jurassic Coast and other attractions.
Top Attractions to Discover
Durdle Door
A natural limestone arch on the Jurassic Coast, offering breathtaking coastal views.
Stonehenge
A prehistoric monument located a short drive from Dorchester.
Lulworth Cove
A picturesque cove with clear turquoise waters and stunning geological formations.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Utilise the town's public car parks for secure and convenient parking.
On-Street Parking
Pay-and-display bays are available but can be limited, especially during peak hours.
Park & Ride
Consider using the park-and-ride service to access the town centre without navigating traffic.
Gas Stations in Dorchester
Conveniently Located
Fuel stations are readily available on the outskirts of town.
Major Brands
Look for well-known brands like Shell, BP, and Esso.
Plan Ahead
Refuel before venturing into more remote areas.
Useful Tips for Visiting Dorchester
Plan for Traffic
Be aware of potential delays during rush hour.
Use Navigation Apps
Utilise GPS navigation to find the most efficient routes.
Watch for Pedestrians
Exercise caution and be mindful of pedestrians, especially in the town centre.
Key Transportation Hubs in Dorchester
Major Bus Stations
Dorchester South
Serves as a main hub for local and regional bus routes.
Railway Stations
Dorchester South
Provides direct rail connections to London Waterloo and Weymouth.
Dorchester West
Offers services to Bristol and other western destinations.
Airports
Bournemouth Airport (BOH)
Located approximately 35 miles east of Dorchester, offering domestic and European flights.
Exeter Airport (EXT)
Situated around 50 miles west of Dorchester, serving a variety of destinations.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Dorchester?
Renting a car in Dorchester requires a few essential documents and qualifications. Ensure you meet the requirements for a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
A full, valid driver's licence is required. Non-[COUNTRY PLACE] residents may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with potential surcharges for younger drivers.
A valid credit or debit card in the renter's name is necessary for the security deposit.
A passport or other form of photo identification may be required.
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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 Dorchester 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.
Charming Dorchester! Road trip made easy; loved exploring.
Evelyn Reed
Reviewed: 31.03.2025
Exploring Dorchester was a delight! Having a car made it so easy to visit the charming villages nearby. Highly recommend!
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 05.10.2024
Pretty chill vibe
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 03.04.2025
Quiet, pleasant enough.
Jessica Garcia
Reviewed: 18.01.2025
First time in Dorchester, and having a car made exploring so easy. The museum was a bit underwhelming, but otherwise a great trip.
Olivia Brown
Reviewed: 31.12.2024
So great being back in Dorchester after all these years! Having a car made exploring so much easier.
Katherine Wilson
Reviewed: 22.07.2025
Pretty laid-back place
Brianna Lee
Reviewed: 03.11.2024
Dorchester was perfect for a relaxing getaway! Having a car let me easily explore the beautiful coastline and charming towns nearby. Highly recommend!
Maya Rodriguez
Reviewed: 25.10.2024
Lovely weekend in Dorchester! Getting around with a rental car was a breeze, and catching up with friends made it perfect.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 20.01.2025