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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in South Lakes
South Lakes
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
South Lakes
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
South Lakes
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
South Lakes
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 South Lakes?
South Lakes is a stunning region, characterised by its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and tranquil lakes. While some public transportation options are available, renting a car offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility to explore this diverse landscape at your own pace.
Discover Hidden Gems. Many of South Lakes' most beautiful spots are off the beaten path, accessible only by car. A rental allows you to explore charming villages and scenic viewpoints that you might otherwise miss.
Enjoy Unrestricted Exploration. With a car, you can effortlessly hop between lakes, visit historic sites, and explore the region's numerous walking trails without being tied to bus schedules.
Maximise Your Time. Public transportation in rural areas can be infrequent. Renting a car ensures you can see and do more during your visit, making the most of your time in South Lakes.
Rental Terms and Conditions in South Lakes
Before booking a rental car in South Lakes, it's crucial to understand the standard terms and conditions. Here’s what you need to know to ensure a smooth rental experience.
Area
Approximately 1,016 square miles (2,632 square kilometres)
Population
Around 105,000 residents
Time Zone
Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) during winter, British Summer Time (BST) during summer
Ideal for
Exploring natural landscapes and rural areas
Rush Hours
Expect moderate traffic during peak commuting hours in larger towns
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies in South Lakes require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some providers may have higher age limits for certain vehicle types, and young driver surcharges may apply for renters under 25.
2. Driver’s License and DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English. Ensure your license is valid for the entire rental period.
3. Insurance and DepositsBasic insurance is usually included, but consider additional coverage options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or theft protection. A security deposit will be held on your credit card and refunded upon the car’s return, provided there is no damage.
4. Mileage and Fuel PolicyCheck the mileage policy, as some rentals may have restrictions. Fuel policies vary, so be aware of whether you need to return the car with a full tank or not to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for extra drivers, GPS, child seats, or out-of-hours pickup or drop-off. Review these potential charges carefully.
Car Rental Prices in South Lakes – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20
Classic:
from £9 / $11 / €10
Executive:
from £26 / $33 / €31
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35
Automatic:
from £17 / $21 / €20
SUV:
from £9 / $12 / €11
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Sees higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (November to February): Often come with 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 South Lakes?
Booking a car in South Lakes involves a few straightforward steps to ensure you get the best deal and the right vehicle for your needs. Here’s how to do it.
1. Compare Prices - Use a car rental comparison website to find the best deals from various rental companies in South Lakes. Consider factors like price, vehicle type, and customer reviews.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs. If you're exploring the countryside, an SUV might be ideal, while a smaller car is suitable for navigating towns and villages.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental terms, including mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies, to avoid any surprises.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and guarantee vehicle availability by booking your rental car well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - When collecting your rental car, bring your driver’s license, credit card, and any other required identification documents to ensure a smooth pickup process.
General Information About South Lakes
South Lakes, known for its stunning landscapes and picturesque towns, is best explored with a car, allowing you to discover its hidden gems at your own pace.
South Lakes offers a unique blend of natural beauty and quaint villages, making it a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and outdoor adventures. While generally easy to navigate, being aware of local driving conditions can enhance your experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Lake Windermere
The largest natural lake in the [COUNTRY PLACE], offering boat trips and watersports.
Hill Top, Beatrix Potter's House
The former home of Beatrix Potter, preserved as it was during her lifetime.
Grizedale Forest
A large forest with walking trails, sculptures, and Go Ape adventure courses.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Look for designated car parks in towns like Windermere and Ambleside. These often charge hourly or daily rates.
On-Street Parking
On-street parking is available in some areas but can be limited and may require payment. Check for parking signs and restrictions.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of popular towns to avoid congestion and parking difficulties.
Gas Stations in South Lakes
Main Fuel Chains
Major fuel brands like BP, Shell, and Texaco are available in larger towns and along major roads.
Rural Locations
Gas stations may be less frequent in more rural areas, so plan your refueling stops accordingly.
Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to locate nearby gas stations in real time.
Useful Tips for Visiting South Lakes
Plan for Narrow Roads
Many rural roads are narrow and winding, so drive cautiously and be prepared to yield to oncoming traffic.
Check Weather Conditions
The weather in South Lakes can change quickly, so check the forecast before setting out and be prepared for rain or fog.
Allow Extra Time
Allow extra time for travel, especially during peak seasons, as traffic can be heavy in popular areas.
Use Local Maps
Carry a local map in addition to GPS, as mobile signal can be unreliable in some areas.
Key Transportation Hubs in South Lakes
Railway Stations
Oxenholme Lake District Station
The main rail gateway to the Lake District, connecting to major cities.
Windermere Station
A branch line from Oxenholme, serving the popular town of Windermere.
Airports
Manchester Airport (MAN)
The nearest major airport, located approximately 90 miles from South Lakes.
Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LPL)
Another nearby airport, about 80 miles from South Lakes.
Bus Stations
Kendal Bus Station
A central hub for local and regional bus services in South Lakes.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in South Lakes?
Renting a car in South Lakes is relatively straightforward, but it's essential to have the necessary documents and meet certain requirements.
You'll need a valid driver’s license. If you're visiting from another country, an International Driving Permit (IDP) might be required if your license isn't in English.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some may charge additional fees for drivers under 25.
A credit or debit card in the main driver’s name is necessary for the security deposit. Ensure the card has sufficient funds to cover the deposit amount.
A passport or another form of identification might be required, especially if you're an international renter.
Our Content Quality
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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 South Lakes 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.
Relaxing, good drives.
Mia Garcia
Reviewed: 28.10.2024
South Lakes was amazing! Having a car made exploring with the family so easy. Beautiful scenery and charming towns.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 08.03.2025
Family vacation in South Lakes was perfect! Exploring by car was so convenient, and the views were breathtaking.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 14.11.2024
Stunning scenery! First time visiting South Lakes, and having a car made it effortless to discover hidden gems. Highly recommend.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 10.10.2024
Pretty chill vibe
Jessica Brown
Reviewed: 15.08.2024
Pretty laid-back, actually.
Ava Rodriguez
Reviewed: 06.04.2025
South Lakes exceeded expectations! Renting a car was a great decision, making it easy to explore. The only downside? That one cafe we tried had disappointingly bland scones.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 18.04.2025
Pretty mellow, really.
Noah Lee
Reviewed: 23.02.2025
Beautiful scenery and charming towns! Having a car was perfect for exploring the South Lakes during our summer holiday. So much to see!
Caleb Martinez
Reviewed: 16.02.2025
Peaceful, quite lovely.
Ethan Harris
Reviewed: 21.08.2024
Summer in South Lakes was idyllic! Having a car made exploring the stunning scenery so straightforward. Charming villages and breathtaking views everywhere.
Isabelle Clark
Reviewed: 27.12.2024
So glad I returned to South Lakes after all these years! Getting around by car was a breeze, and the scenery was breathtaking.
Olivia Wilson
Reviewed: 01.05.2025