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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Bedford
Bedford
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Bedford
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Bedford
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Bedford
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 Bedford?
Bedford is a charming market town located in the heart of Bedfordshire, England. While public transport is available, renting a car offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the town and its surrounding areas at your own pace.
Explore Local Attractions. With a rental car, you can easily visit Bedford's historical landmarks, beautiful parks, and the River Great Ouse, without the constraints of public transport schedules.
Discover the Bedfordshire Countryside. Bedford is a gateway to picturesque villages and stunning rural landscapes. A car allows you to explore beyond the town, discovering hidden gems and enjoying the scenic countryside drives.
Convenient for Families and Groups. If you're travelling with family or a group, a rental car provides ample space and comfort for everyone, making trips to nearby attractions and events hassle-free.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Bedford
Before renting a car in Bedford, it's important to understand the terms and conditions. These generally include age requirements, licence stipulations, insurance details, and fuel policies.
Area
73.25 square kilometres (28.28 square miles)
Population
Approximately 92,000 residents
Time Zone
GMT & BST (GMT +1) during summer time
Ideal for
Exploring Bedfordshire
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies in Bedford require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some companies may have additional surcharges for drivers under 25.
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.
3. Insurance & DepositsRental agreements typically include basic insurance. You'll likely need to provide a security deposit, often held on a credit card, which is refunded upon the safe return of the vehicle.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyCheck the mileage policy to avoid extra charges. Fuel policies vary; some require you to return the car with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesBe aware of potential extra charges, such as fees for additional drivers, late returns, or optional add-ons like GPS or child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Bedford – 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): Demand is higher in summer, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (November to February): Discounts are often available 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 Bedford?
Booking a car in Bedford involves a few key steps to ensure a smooth rental experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison websites to find the best deals from different rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, whether it’s a compact car for city driving or a larger vehicle for family trips.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement for mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements.
4. Book in Advance - Booking early can help you secure better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Remember to bring your driver’s licence, credit card, and any other required documents when collecting your rental.
General Information About Bedford
Bedford is a bustling town with a mix of historical charm and modern amenities. To make the most of your visit, especially when driving, it’s helpful to understand local traffic rules and parking regulations.
Bedford, situated on the River Great Ouse, is a vibrant town with numerous attractions and activities. While the town is relatively easy to navigate, having a car can enhance your exploration, particularly if you plan to visit surrounding villages and countryside.
Top Attractions to Discover
Bedford Park
A beautiful Victorian park offering a range of activities and events.
The Higgins Bedford
A museum showcasing local history, art, and culture.
River Great Ouse
Enjoy scenic walks along the river or take a boat trip.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Convenient parking options are available at several locations throughout the town centre.
On-Street Parking
Pay-and-display bays are available, but check time limits and restrictions.
Park & Ride
Consider using the Park & Ride service to avoid city centre traffic and parking fees.
Gas Stations in Bedford
Major Brands Available
Find BP, Shell, and Esso stations in and around Bedford.
Plan Ahead
It's wise to refuel before venturing into more rural areas where stations may be less frequent.
Use Navigation Apps
Use apps like Google Maps or Waze to locate nearby stations.
Useful Tips for Visiting Bedford
Check Traffic Conditions
Be aware of rush-hour traffic, especially in the mornings and late afternoons.
Use Contactless Payment
Many places accept contactless payments for convenience.
Allow Extra Time
Factor in extra travel time, especially during peak hours.
Watch for Cyclists and Pedestrians
Be mindful of cyclists and pedestrians, particularly in the town centre.
Key Transportation Hubs in Bedford
Major Bus Stations
Bedford Bus Station
Located in the town centre, providing local and regional bus services.
Railway Stations
Bedford Railway Station
Offers frequent services to London, Brighton, and other major destinations.
Airports
London Luton Airport (LTN)
Located approximately 30 miles from Bedford, serving domestic and international flights.
London Stansted Airport (STN)
Situated around 60 miles from Bedford, offering various European destinations.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Bedford?
Renting a car in Bedford is straightforward, but you’ll need to meet certain requirements.
You'll need a valid driver's licence. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, and some may charge extra for drivers under 25.
A valid credit or debit card in the driver's name is required 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 Bedford 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.
Having a car in Bedford was perfect! So easy to get around and see all the lovely parks and charming streets. I'll definitely return.
David Lee
Reviewed: 18.03.2025
Family vacation in Bedford was fantastic! Easy to get around.
Jessica Brown
Reviewed: 16.06.2025
Pretty chill vibe
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 20.09.2024
Impulsive Bedford weekend; charming, but the cafe options felt limited.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 16.05.2025
Quick business trip to Bedford. Getting around was easy. The town itself was pleasant enough, though the selection of lunch spots near the station was a bit underwhelming.
Alice Wilson
Reviewed: 27.06.2025
Bedford was even better than I'd heard! Exploring the town with my rental car was a breeze. Highly recommend!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 10.02.2025