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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Chelmsford
Chelmsford
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Chelmsford
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Chelmsford
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Chelmsford
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car rental is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average rental duration of 6 days
Why Rent a Car in Chelmsford?
Chelmsford, the county town of Essex, offers a blend of historical charm and modern attractions. While public transport is available, renting a car provides the freedom to explore Chelmsford and its surrounding areas at your own pace. Discover the picturesque countryside, visit nearby coastal towns, and enjoy the flexibility that comes with having your own vehicle.
Explore the Essex Countryside. With a rental car, you can easily visit charming villages, historic sites, and scenic landscapes that are just a short drive from Chelmsford.
Visit Coastal Towns. Head to the coast and enjoy the seaside atmosphere, explore beaches, and indulge in fresh seafood, all within easy reach with your own vehicle.
Flexibility and Convenience. A rental car allows you to travel on your own schedule, without being restricted by public transport timetables or routes.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Chelmsford
Before booking a rental car in Chelmsford, be aware of the terms and conditions. These typically cover age requirements, driving license stipulations, insurance, deposit policies, mileage details, and potential additional fees. Understanding these conditions helps ensure a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
Area
342.46 square kilometers (132.22 square miles)
Population
Approximately 112,000 residents
Time Zone
GMT & BST (GMT +1) during summer time
Ideal for
Exploring the region at your own pace
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 6 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies in Chelmsford 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 license is essential. International visitors might need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their domestic license.
3. Insurance & DepositsRentals usually include basic insurance. Additional coverage options like collision damage waiver (CDW) are available. A security deposit is held on a credit card and refunded upon safe return of the vehicle.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicySome rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others have restrictions. Fuel policies typically require returning the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesExtra charges can apply for additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or optional extras like GPS and child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Chelmsford – How Much Does It Cost?
Understanding car rental costs in Chelmsford is essential for budget planning. Daily rates vary based on the vehicle type, rental duration, and time of year. Booking in advance and comparing prices can help you secure the best deals.
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Electric:
from £20 / $25 / €24 per day
Classic:
from £10 / $13 / €12 per day
Executive:
from £28 / $35 / €34 per day
7 Seater:
from £30 / $38 / €36 per day
Automatic:
from £22 / $28 / €26 per day
SUV:
from £12 / $15 / €14 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Expect prices to increase by 20-30%
Low season (November to February): Often comes with discounts
Car rental prices in Chelmsford are influenced by seasonal demand. Prices tend to increase during peak tourist seasons, so booking in advance is recommended.
How to Book a Car in Chelmsford?
Booking a rental car in Chelmsford involves several key steps to ensure a smooth and satisfactory experience. From comparing prices to understanding the rental terms, careful planning can help you find the best deal and vehicle for your needs.
1. Compare Prices - Use car rental comparison websites to find the best deals based on your travel dates and vehicle preferences.
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 - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid unexpected charges.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better vehicle availability by booking early, especially during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and identification when collecting your rental.
General Information About Chelmsford
Chelmsford is a vibrant town with a rich history and a modern outlook. Understanding local traffic conditions, parking regulations, and fuel access is essential for a smooth driving experience, especially if you plan to explore beyond the town center.
Chelmsford is a great place to visit and explore. However, driving within Chelmsford requires an understanding of local traffic rules, parking options, and fuel station locations. While the town has public transportation, renting a car is ideal for exploring the surrounding Essex countryside and nearby coastal areas. Be prepared for potential congestion during peak hours and familiarize yourself with local parking regulations to avoid any inconveniences during your visit.
Top Attractions to Discover
Chelmsford Cathedral
A beautiful cathedral with a rich history and stunning architecture.
Hylands Park
A large park with a historic house, gardens, and woodland.
Essex Police Museum
An interesting museum showcasing the history of policing in Essex.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Use services like Chelmsford City Council car parks for secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Pay-and-display bays are available, but often time-limited, especially in central areas.
Park & Ride
Leave your car outside the town center and use the park-and-ride service to access central Chelmsford.
Gas Stations in Chelmsford
Major Brands Available
Look for BP, Shell, Esso, and Texaco stations around Chelmsford.
Convenient Locations
Fuel stations are readily available on main roads and in the town center.
Use Navigation Apps
Tools like Google Maps or Waze can help locate nearby fuel stations.
Useful Tips for Visiting Chelmsford
Watch for Pedestrians & Cyclists
Stay alert! Chelmsford has a lot of foot and bike traffic, especially in the town center.
Plan for Traffic Delays
Avoid driving during rush hours (07:00–09:00 / 16:00–18:00) when roads are often heavily congested.
Familiarize Yourself with Local Traffic Laws
Be aware of speed limits and traffic regulations.
Use Contactless Payment
Pay for parking with a contactless bank card or parking apps.
Key Transportation Hubs in Chelmsford
Railway Stations
Chelmsford Railway Station
The main railway station, providing frequent services to London Liverpool Street and other destinations.
Airports
Stansted Airport (STN)
Located approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Chelmsford, serving various European destinations.
Southend Airport (SEN)
Situated around 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Chelmsford, serving select European destinations.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Chelmsford?
Renting a car in the UK is a straightforward process, 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 license is sufficient. Visitors from most countries can use their home-country license 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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Our Customers Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Chelmsford as
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic.
Chelmsford was a great base for exploring the coast! Having a car made getting around so easy. Relaxing getaway, highly recommend.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 19.09.2024
Renting a car in Chelmsford was a smooth process, making my short trip to see friends much easier. The town itself was pleasant, although the selection of cafes was a bit limited. Overall, a good experience.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 12.06.2025
Lovely spontaneous weekend in Chelmsford! Getting around was easy, and the town itself is delightful.
Jessica Brown
Reviewed: 11.11.2024
Chelmsford was a delightful surprise! Having a car made exploring so easy and convenient. I'll definitely return.
Thomas Wilson
Reviewed: 13.09.2024
Pretty chill vibe.
Kevin Garcia
Reviewed: 15.05.2025
Pleasant enough, really
Olivia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 08.03.2025
Chelmsford exceeded expectations! Exploring the charming town and surrounding areas was a breeze with my rental car. So convenient and enjoyable!
David Lee
Reviewed: 12.12.2024