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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Harrogate
Harrogate
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Harrogate
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Harrogate
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Harrogate
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 Harrogate?
Harrogate is a charming spa town with elegant architecture, beautiful gardens, and a gateway to the stunning Yorkshire Dales. While the town centre is easily walkable, renting a car offers the freedom to explore the surrounding countryside and attractions at your own pace.
Explore the Yorkshire Dales. With a rental car, you can easily access the breathtaking landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, including picturesque villages, hiking trails, and scenic drives.
Visit Nearby Attractions. Discover historic sites like Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, or venture to the vibrant city of Leeds, all within easy driving distance of Harrogate.
Enjoy Flexibility and Convenience. A rental car allows you to create your own itinerary, stop at charming tea rooms, and explore hidden gems without being tied to public transport schedules.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Harrogate
Before booking a rental car in Harrogate, be aware of key requirements and regulations. These include age restrictions, licence requirements, insurance options, and fuel policies to ensure a smooth and worry-free rental experience.
Area
Approximately 160 square kilometres (62 square miles)
Population
Approximately 75,000 residents
Time Zone
GMT & BST (GMT +1) during summer time
Ideal for
Exploring the Yorkshire Dales and surrounding areas
Rush Hours
Expect heavier traffic 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Harrogate require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may incur additional young driver surcharges.
2. Driver’s License & 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 passport or ID for verification.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is typically included in the rental price, but you can opt for additional coverage like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or theft protection. A security deposit is usually required, held on a credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyCheck the mileage policy – some rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others have daily limits. Fuel policies vary, but many require 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 navigation and child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Harrogate – How Much Does It Cost?
The average daily rate for an economy-class car rental in Harrogate is from £25 / $31 / €30 per day. Prices can fluctuate depending on the time of year and availability.
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €48 per day
Electric:
from £30 / $38 / €36 per day
Classic:
from £20 / $25 / €24 per day
Executive:
from £55 / $69 / €66 per day
7 Seater:
from £65 / $82 / €78 per day
Automatic:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
SUV:
from £45 / $57 / €54 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to higher demand during the summer months.
Low season (November to February): You can often find discounts and lower rates during the off-season.
*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 Harrogate?
Renting a car in Harrogate is easy when you follow these steps. Compare prices, choose the right vehicle, and review rental terms. Booking early ensures the best rates, especially during peak seasons. Don’t forget your licence, credit card, and ID when picking up the car.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison sites like rentycars.com to find the best deals on car rentals in Harrogate.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, whether it's a compact car for city driving or an SUV for exploring the Dales.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental terms, including mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements, to avoid any surprises.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and ensure vehicle availability by booking your rental car well in advance, particularly during peak season.
5. Pick Up Your Car - When collecting your rental car, remember to bring your driver’s licence, credit card, and a valid form of identification.
General Information About Harrogate
Harrogate is a charming town known for its elegant architecture, spa history, and proximity to the Yorkshire Dales. Driving in Harrogate is generally straightforward, but it's important to be aware of local traffic regulations, parking options, and fuel availability.
As a historic spa town, Harrogate offers a blend of culture, gardens, and scenic beauty. While the town centre is walkable, renting a car provides the best way to explore the surrounding Yorkshire countryside. Before setting off, familiarise yourself with local traffic laws, fuel station locations, and parking regulations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience during your visit.
Top Attractions to Discover
Valley Gardens
A beautiful Victorian garden with floral displays, walking paths, and a spa history.
Royal Pump Room Museum
Discover Harrogate's spa heritage in this historic building.
Bettys Tea Room
Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea experience at this famous tea room.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Use car parks such as the Victoria Car Park or Jubilee Car Park for secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Pay-and-display bays are available, but can be limited in the town centre.
Park & Ride
Consider using the park-and-ride service from the Great Yorkshire Showground for easy access to the town centre.
Gas Stations in Harrogate
Convenient Locations
Find fuel stations on the outskirts of town and along major roads.
Major Brands
Look for BP, Shell, and Esso stations around Harrogate.
Use Navigation Apps
Use apps like Google Maps or Waze to locate nearby fuel stations.
Useful Tips for Visiting Harrogate
Plan for Traffic
Be aware of traffic congestion during peak hours, especially on weekdays.
Respect Pedestrians
Watch out for pedestrians, particularly in the town centre.
Use Contactless Payment
Many parking meters and shops accept contactless payment.
Explore the Countryside
Take advantage of your rental car to explore the stunning Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Key Transportation Hubs in Harrogate
Railway Stations
Harrogate Railway Station
The main railway station in Harrogate, providing services to Leeds, York, and other destinations.
Airports
Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA)
Located approximately 10 miles southwest of Harrogate, serving domestic and international flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Harrogate?
Renting a car in Harrogate is straightforward, but you’ll need to meet a few key requirements before hitting the road. Here’s what you’ll need:
If you're from the UK, your standard licence is sufficient. Visitors from most countries can use their home-country licence for up to 12 months, but some may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, though some may charge extra fees for drivers under 25.
A valid card in the main driver’s name is required for the security deposit. Some rental companies only accept credit cards for deposits.
A passport or another form of identification may be required for international renters.
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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 Harrogate 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.
Pleasant enough, really
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 16.04.2025
Harrogate was fantastic! Family loved exploring the area, so convenient having a car.
Eleanor Davies
Reviewed: 28.05.2025
So glad I returned to Harrogate! Getting around was a breeze.
Sarah Jones
Reviewed: 29.11.2024
Relaxing, quite nice.
Megan Taylor
Reviewed: 09.10.2024
Such a charming town! Exploring Harrogate and the surrounding countryside during the summer holidays was a real treat, so easy with a car.
Jessica Wilson
Reviewed: 24.03.2025
Pretty chilled vibe
Olivia Brown
Reviewed: 04.03.2025
Harrogate was delightful; the nearby coast was perfect for relaxation. The Bettys cafe was a bit pricey though.
Amelia Garcia
Reviewed: 08.07.2025
Perfect spontaneous weekend! Harrogate was charming, and having a car made exploring so easy.
Isabelle Moore
Reviewed: 19.02.2025
After years away, Harrogate still charmed. Exploring the Dales was a breeze, though the selection at the antique shops felt a bit limited this time. A lovely trip overall.
Sophia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 08.06.2025
Pretty chill, liked it
Grace Thompson
Reviewed: 01.08.2025
Harrogate was lovely, exploring the town was easy with a car. The shops were a bit underwhelming though.
Alice Smith
Reviewed: 27.04.2025