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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 town with plenty to offer, but its surrounding areas are even more enticing. While public transport is available, renting a car provides the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems that are often missed.
Explore the Bedfordshire Countryside. With a rental car, you can easily visit picturesque villages, historical sites, and nature reserves that are scattered throughout the Bedfordshire countryside. Destinations like Woburn Abbey and the Shuttleworth Collection are easily accessible by car.
Flexibility and Convenience. A rental car allows you to create your own itinerary and travel on your own schedule. Whether you're interested in visiting nearby towns or attending local events, having a car gives you the freedom to do so without relying on public transport timetables.
Ideal for Families and Groups. If you're travelling with family or a group of friends, renting a car provides a comfortable and convenient way to travel together. You can avoid the hassle of coordinating multiple taxis or relying on public transport, making your trip more enjoyable.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Bedford
Before booking a rental car in Bedford, it's essential to understand the rental terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Key aspects to consider include age requirements, licensing, insurance, and fuel policies.
Area
31.27 square miles (80.99 square kilometres)
Population
Approximately 92,000 residents
Time Zone
GMT (GMT+1 during British Summer Time)
Ideal for
Exploring the Bedfordshire countryside
Rush Hours
Expect traffic congestion during peak hours: 7 AM - 9 AM and 4 PM - 6 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Bedford require drivers to be at least 21 years old. However, some providers may have a minimum age of 25 for certain vehicle categories. Young driver surcharges may apply for renters under 25.
2. Driver's License & DocumentationA valid driver's license is required for all rentals. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English. A passport and credit or debit card in the driver's name are also typically required.
3. Insurance & DepositsStandard rentals include basic insurance, but additional coverage options, such as collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft protection, are available. A security deposit is usually held on the renter's credit card and refunded upon vehicle return, provided the car is returned in good condition.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicySome rentals come with unlimited mileage, while others may have restrictions. Fuel policies vary—many require returning the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges. It's important to check the specific policy of your rental agreement.
5. Additional FeesExtra charges may apply for additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or optional add-ons like GPS and child seats. Be sure to clarify all potential fees before finalising your booking.
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): 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 Bedford?
Booking a car in Bedford is a straightforward process. By following a few simple steps, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use a car rental comparison site to find the best deals based on your travel dates and vehicle preferences. Consider factors like included insurance and mileage limits when comparing prices.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, whether it’s an economy car for city driving or a larger vehicle for family trips. Ensure the car has enough space for passengers and luggage.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid surprises. Pay attention to cancellation policies and any potential extra fees.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better vehicle availability by booking early, especially during peak seasons. Booking a few weeks or months in advance can save you money.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and identification when collecting your rental. Inspect the car for any existing damage and document it before driving off.
General Information About Bedford
Bedford is a historic market town located in Bedfordshire, England. It's known for its picturesque riverside setting and vibrant cultural scene. Exploring Bedford and its surrounding areas is best done with an understanding of local traffic rules and parking regulations.
As a bustling town in Bedfordshire, Bedford offers a blend of historical charm and modern amenities. It provides easy access to the beautiful countryside and nearby attractions. Whether you're visiting for leisure or business, having a car can significantly enhance your experience. However, driving within Bedford requires awareness of local traffic laws, parking regulations, and potential congestion.
Top Attractions to Discover
The Embankment
A scenic riverside walk along the River Great Ouse, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Higgins Bedford
A museum and art gallery housed in a Victorian brewery, showcasing local history and art.
Priory Country Park
A large park with lakes, woodlands, and meadows, ideal for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Use services like Bedford Borough Council car parks for secure parking options in the town centre.
On-Street Parking
Pay-and-display bays are available, but they can be limited and time-restricted, especially in central areas.
Park & Ride
Consider using the park-and-ride service to avoid traffic congestion and parking fees in the town centre.
Gas Stations in Bedford
Availability in the Area
Fuel stations are readily available throughout Bedford and its surrounding areas. Major brands and independent stations can be found along main roads and highways.
Major Brands
Look for BP, Shell, Esso, and Texaco stations in and around Bedford. These stations typically offer a range of fuel types and services.
Use Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to locate nearby fuel stations in real time and check their operating hours.
Useful Tips for Visiting Bedford
Use Contactless Payment
Pay for parking and other services with a contactless bank card or mobile payment for convenience.
Watch for Pedestrians & Cyclists
Stay alert for pedestrians and cyclists, especially in the town centre and along the Embankment.
Plan for Traffic Delays
Avoid driving during rush hours (7:00–9:00 / 16:00–18:00) when roads are often heavily congested.
Key Transportation Hubs in Bedford
Major Bus Stations
Bedford Bus Station
Located in the town centre, it serves as the primary hub for local and regional bus services, connecting Bedford to surrounding towns and villages.
Railway Stations
Bedford Railway Station
Provides frequent services to London, Brighton, and other major cities in England. It's a key transport hub for commuters and travellers.
Airports
London Luton Airport (LTN)
Located approximately 30 miles south of Bedford, it serves numerous domestic and European flights, offering convenient access to Bedford.
London Stansted Airport (STN)
Situated about 50 miles east of Bedford, serving various European destinations and providing an alternative airport option.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Bedford?
Renting a car in Bedford is a straightforward process, but you'll need to meet a few key requirements before hitting the road.
If you're from the United Kingdom, 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, so check in advance.
A passport or another form of identification may be required for international renters to verify their identity and residency.
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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.
Quick trip to Bedford to see friends was perfect! Getting around with a rental car was a breeze. The town is lovely and easily explored.
David Lee
Reviewed: 16.08.2024
Loved exploring Bedford! Getting a car was the best decision; it made sightseeing so much easier. The town is delightful.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 23.01.2025
Pretty chill vibe
Jessica Brown
Reviewed: 25.03.2025
Bedford surprised me! Easy to get around with my rental, so much to see.
Olivia Evans
Reviewed: 18.11.2024
Nice seeing friends in Bedford! The town centre felt a bit underwhelming, but it was easy to get around.
Katherine Wilson
Reviewed: 16.08.2025
Bedford was a pleasant detour on our road trip. Having a car made exploring so convenient. Highly recommend!
Ava Rodriguez
Reviewed: 01.01.2025
Quiet, pretty town.
Chloe Garcia
Reviewed: 27.09.2024
Peaceful Bedford escape! Having a car made exploring the nearby coast so relaxing. Highly recommend.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 09.11.2024
Such a smooth drive through Bedford! Having a car made exploring so effortless. Lovely town.
Maria Garcia
Reviewed: 16.04.2025
Bedford was a fantastic last-minute getaway! Having a car made exploring so easy. Charming town, beautiful scenery – highly recommend!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 04.04.2025