Car Hire in the United Kingdom

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500+ Trusted Suppliers:

Cheapest Car Hire Rates

City Centre
Mini
Fiat 500 or comparable
Fiat 500
  • 4
  • 2
  • 3
  • A/C
  • Man.
Drivalia
£ 14.62 / per day
Birmingham Airport
Economy
Kia Rio or comparable
Kia Rio
  • 5
  • 1
  • 4
  • A/C
  • Man.
GreenMotion
£ 16.05 / per day
Manchester Airport
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or comparable
Volkswagen Golf
  • 5
  • 2
  • 5
  • A/C
  • Man.
Surprice
£ 18.45 / per day
City Centre
Intermediate Commercial Van/Truck
Renault Kangoo or comparable
Renault Kangoo
  • 2
  • 6
  • 2
  • Man.
Enterprise
£ 22.73 / per day

Most Popular Car Hire Deals

London Heathrow Airport
Economy Elite
Vauxhall Corsa or comparable
Vauxhall Corsa
  • 5
  • 2
  • 4
  • A/C
  • Auto.
Hertz
£ 23.75 / per day
Bristol Airport
Standard SUV
Kia Sportage or comparable
Kia Sportage
  • 5
  • 3
  • 5
  • A/C
  • Man.
Keddy
£ 25.84 / per day
Southampton Railway Station
Compact Elite
Mercedes Benz A Class or comparable
Mercedes Benz A Class
  • 5
  • 2
  • 5
  • A/C
  • Man.
Alamo
£ 29.11 / per day
Manchester Airport
Full-size
Ford Mondeo or comparable
Ford Mondeo
  • 5
  • 3
  • 4
  • A/C
  • Man.
Ace Rent a car
£ 34.25 / per day
These prices are approximate and depend on the dates of the booking, hire length and type of car. This information was last updated at 01:44 on 2024-03-27.

Travel Information

Languages
English
Currency
GBP
Drive on
Left-hand side
Dialing code
+44
Average car hire price
£ 23 per day
Average car hire length
7 days
Speed limit within city centre
48 km/h or 30 mph
Speed limit out of city centre
96 - 112 km/h or 60 - 70 mph
Acceptable limit of BAC
0.08%
Score
9.0 / 10
Average gasoline price
£ 1.51 per litre or £ 5.72 / 1 gallon
Lowest gasoline price
£ 1.42 per litre or £ 5.38 / 1 gallon
Highest gasoline price
£ 1.70 per litre or £ 6.44 / 1 gallon

Why hire a car in the United Kingdom?

Large, historical, and diverse, is it any wonder that the United Kingdom is one of the most visited countries on the planet? Landmark-rich cities like London, Edinburgh, and Liverpool account for a large number of those visitors, but the country is also rich in scenic nature and bucolic countryside. Hiring a car is arguably the best way to see everything that the United Kingdom has to offer.

United Kingdom

One-way Car Hire in the United Kingdom

Here are the most popular one-way car hire options for pickup in the United Kingdom and drop off in another country:

  • From United Kingdom to Ireland - 194 offers from £ 28.66 per day

Top ways to enter United Kingdom

  • London. The capital of the United Kingdom has no fewer than six international airports in and near it. Heathrow is the largest and most famous one, but many travellers, especially those coming from other European countries, sometimes prefer Stansted or Luton, as they are popular with low-cost carriers (although you find some of these companies serving each of the six). The total number of passengers served by the airport in the London area every year is a whopping 177 million.
  • Glasgow and Edinburgh. The two largest cities of Scotland are only 47 miles (76 km) apart, and there are three international airports in their area. Edinburgh Airport is the busiest, but Glasgow and Prestwick airports also get a notable number of travellers. Flying to one of these three is the most popular way to get to Scotland, although there are also international airports in Aberdeen and Inverness.
  • Other airports. Despite its relatively small size, the UK has close to 40 international airports, so all parts of the British isles can be easily accessed from abroad. Some of the most notable ones are Manchester and Liverpool airports in the north of England, Bristol and Cardiff airports in the west, Birmingham and East Midlands airports in the centre of the country, and Belfast and Belfast City airports in Northern Ireland.

Top cities and places to visit

  • London. The capital of the United Kingdom is arguably one of the most famous cities on the planet — and, consequently, one of its prime tourism destinations. From Buckingham Palace to Tate Britain, there’s a frankly dizzying array of world-famous landmarks, but make sure to also make time and simply roam the streets of this grand city’s diverse neighbourhoods.
  • Edinburgh. The capital of Scotland is one of the most picturesque cities in Europe, and, consequently, the main tourist destination of the United Kingdom outside of London. Known for its historical atmosphere, it draws visitors with attractions like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile.
  • Liverpool. The home of The Beatles and the former European Capital of Culture, Liverpool is a joy to explore. Known for its docks and historical architecture, strong Irish influences and distinct accent, it is a culturally unique place that has all the ingredients for a memorable trip.

Most popular hire car

The most hired car in the United Kingdom is the Hyundai i30, although many travellers also go for the Ford Fiesta and the Volkswagen Jetta. The most popular car types are compact, economy, and intermediate.

Driving licence requirements

  • The United Kingdom only recognizes foreign driving licences that are printed in a Latin script and if you are visiting as a tourist on a trip that’s shorter than 12 months. If you’re staying in the country for a longer period or are residing there permanently, you need to obtain a local licence instead.
  • If your driving licence is printed in another alphabet than Latin (e.g., Cyrillic or Arabic), you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) too.
  • Similarly, if your driving licence doesn’t show your photograph, you might be required to have an IDP.
  • Even if you have an IDP, you also need to keep your original licence on you as you will be required to provide both.
  • You must carry your driving licence, not a copy, with you at all times. 
  • You need to have had your driving licence for at least two years.
  • Some car suppliers charge a young driver fee for drivers between the ages of 22 and 25 and a senior driver fee for drivers over the age of 65.
  • There may be additional requirements depending on the car supplier and category, so make sure to check the car hire conditions before booking.

Crossing Borders

The United Kingdom only has a land border with the Republic of Ireland via Northern Ireland. As of June 2021, both countries are part of the Common Travel Area, and border control is not enforced. Citizens of the member states of the European Economic Area, as well as many other western countries, can enter both countries without a visa.

Citizens of some other countries may be permitted to visit the United Kingdom but might need a separate visa to visit the Republic of Ireland or vice versa. We advise you to get in touch with your Ministry of Foreign Affairs to find out whether you need a visa to visit either the Republic of Ireland or the United Kingdom.

Citizens of China and India are an exception and can use their short-term British visa to also visit the Republic of Ireland.

Some car hire providers allow you to take the car between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland (it’s common to travel between Belfast and Dublin with a hired car). You can find those providers that allow one-way deals by entering your car pick-up and drop-off locations on our search. Alternatively, check the car hire conditions to see which suppliers allow crossing the border (but returning to Northern Ireland afterwards)

Similarly, some companies permit car trips between continental Europe and the United Kingdom via the Eurotunnel (e.g., from Paris, Brussels, or Amsterdam to London). Keep in mind, though, that the United Kingdom is no longer a part of the European Union and has never been a part of the Schengen Agreement. This can be especially relevant for foreign visitors of the European Union as, depending on their citizenship, many of them will need a separate visa to visit the United Kingdom. Be sure to get in touch with your Ministry of Foreign Affairs in advance to learn more about the entry requirements for your nationality.

Top driving routes

  • The Highlands. Taking up the northern portion of mainland Scotland, this wild region is made for memorable road trips. The capital, Inverness, is a nice enough place to visit, but the real joy of the Highlands lies in its magnificent nature that’s exemplified by Cairngorms National Park and the region's many lochs.
  • Northern Ireland. Physically separate and culturally distinct, Northern Ireland is an underrated part of the United Kingdom. The conflict of the 80s and 90s, known as The Troubles, has left the capital, Belfast, with some scars, but nowadays it is a safe, innovative and hospitable destination that’s perfect for the weekend getaway. Elsewhere, Northern Ireland is characterized by its magnificent landscapes and sites like the Giant’s Causeway.
  • North Wales. Although just a stone’s throw from Manchester and Liverpool, North Wales is one of the most sparsely populated parts of the UK, which only makes it more interesting to explore. The region is characterized by old resort towns like Colwyn Bay and Llandudno that have lost some of their popularity (but none of the charm), as well as stunning natural attractions like Snowdonia National Park and the Isle of Anglesey.

Car Hire Prices

  • Station wagons - starting at £ 20 per day
  • Large cars - starting at £ 19 per day
  • Medium cars - starting at £ 16 per day
  • People Carriers - starting at £ 43 per day
  • Premium cars - starting at £ 37 per day
  • Small cars - starting at £ 15 per day
  • SUVs - starting at £ 18 per day

How can I save money on my hire car?

There are several good methods to find a cheaper car for hire:

  • Compare rates of different car hire providers
  • Book your vehicle well in advance
  • Plan your route before you go
  • Know your fuel and mileage requirements
  • Visit in the month when the prices are the cheapest. According to our data, visiting the United Kingdom is the cheapest in February when hiring a car is about 28% cheaper than the yearly average and a whole 50% cheaper than hiring a car in December.
This information was written, fact-checked, and/or translated by our content creators.

Learn more about our Editorial Policy.

Map of Car Hire Destinations

In which month is car hire in the United Kingdom the most affordable?

Our data shows how prices for hiring a car in the United Kingdom fluctuate depending on the season. This graph can help you find the best bargain.
Average price for hiring a car per day in the United Kingdom
£ 26.69
January
£ 47.02
February
£ 47.20
March
£ 55.50
April
£ 59.71
May
£ 58.52
June
£ 65.34
July
£ 55.79
August
£ 40.86
September
£ 34.49
October
£ 27.41
November
£ 37.17
December
The best month to hire a car in the United Kingdom is January — when the average price for a hire is £ 26.69 per day. This is 42% less than the yearly average and 59% less than hiring a car in July (when the average price is £ 65.34 per day).

This information can help you determine the low season. But note that these prices are only averages. The cost of your hire is determined by the type of car you select, the length of time you hire it for and how much in advance you book. Simply type in your dates in the form at the top of the page in order to find out the exact prices.

How many days do people keep their hire cars, on average, in the United Kingdom?

Car hire lengths can vary according to the time of year. Longer periods of car hire are more common in April with an average of 7 days. Shorter periods of car hire are more common in February with an average of 4 days.
Average number of hire days in the United Kingdom
5
January
4
February
5
March
7
April
7
May
7
June
7
July
7
August
7
September
6
October
6
November
7
December

Which month is the most favoured for hiring a car in the United Kingdom?

Given the number of customers searching for a car in the United Kingdom, the month in which the highest number of people search for a hire car is August, while November is the month that sees the lowest demand for them.
Monthly Car Hire Searches in the United Kingdom Compared to the Yearly Average
88%
January
87%
February
93%
March
88%
April
102%
May
102%
June
120%
July
130%
August
115%
September
117%
October
69%
November
90%
December

Car Hire Information

Car hire locations 377
Airport locations 37
Popular suppliers Drivalia, Arnold Clark, Keddy, Alamo, GreenMotion
Popular car categories Small cars, Medium cars, SUVs, People Carriers
Lowest price £ 15 per day
Cheapest supplier Drivalia

Most Popular Car Hire Models

Hire Agency Model Doors Luggage Type
Drivalia Volkswagen Polo 5 1 Small cars
Drivalia Fiat 500 3 1 Small cars
Drivalia Renault Captur 5 2 Medium cars
Arnold Clark Ford Fiesta 5 2 Small cars
Keddy Ford Focus 5 2 Medium cars
Drivalia Ford Focus 5 2 Medium cars
Arnold Clark Peugeot 3008 5 3 SUVs
Arnold Clark Kia Ceed 5 2 Medium cars
Keddy Vauxhall Crossland 5 2 SUVs
Keddy Kia Picanto 3 1 Small cars

Our Customers' Reviews

Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have an 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, verified, and trustworthy.

United Kingdom
Fiat 500
17 March 2024
Was visiting family so much easier to have the car
United Kingdom
Fiat 500
19 January 2024
Travelled around the coast and Northern Ireland in the time I had
United Kingdom
Fiat 500
13 January 2024
Picking up family. Ice hockey matches for travelling.
United Kingdom
Toyota Aygo
9 January 2024
Visiting family
United Kingdom
Ford Kuga
8 January 2024
We were travelling for a funeral.
United Kingdom
Nissan Juke
8 January 2024
Family time
China
Ford Fiesta
2 January 2024
Stirling - great views of the hills & castle. Crail - great sea views.
Australia
Renault Clio
7 November 2023
Travelled out of London via Stonehenge, down to Cornwall which was beautiful. The roads and lanes are very narrow, so if going don’t get a big vehicle! Stunning scenery and towns.
United Kingdom
Ford Fiesta
5 November 2023
We were over visiting our daughter who is studying. We plan to make this a monthly visit.
United Kingdom
Ford Fiesta
30 October 2023
The drive was very easy and comfortable, with no issues. There were great views of the Lake District as part of my journey and the drive through the Scottish Borders was scenic.
United Kingdom
Ford Fiesta
20 October 2023
Lindesfarne, Bamburgh Castle, Alnwick castle and gardens. Stunning coast-line.
United Kingdom
Fiat 500
18 October 2023
Went to St Andrews to see the golf.. sadly rained off but gave us the opportunity to see some sights
Canada
Peugeot 3008
16 October 2023
I was able to drive over a thousand miles exploring mainly the highlands. My rental took my through Stirling, Fort William, around the isle of Skye, Applecross, Pittentrail, Inverness, Aberdeen, Perth, and so much more! Very happy and positive experience.
United Kingdom
Vauxhall Astra
21 September 2023
Climbed Ben Nevis!
United Kingdom
Vauxhall Corsa
19 September 2023
Seeing the sites at Loch Lomund.
United Kingdom
Fiat 500
5 September 2023
Went to Cullen. Had lunch at the Sea Field Arms Hotel. With my Daughter and granddaughter. Went to Banff. Seen my son and daughter in law and 3 other grandchildren. Went to Braemar gathering. Seen King Charles and Camila the Queen. And Princess Ann. Went to the Fyfe Arms Hotel in Braemar. Then went to Church on the Sunday at St Peters Catholic Church, in Aberdeen. Fantastic.!!
United Kingdom
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Aut.
3 September 2023
Best service
United Kingdom
Fiat 500
2 September 2023
Attended Leeds Festival 2023 on the 25th and 27th August. A great musical experience but frankly avoid the day parking and take the shuttle bus service from Leeds City Centre !
United States of America (USA)
Ford Fiesta
2 September 2023
Loved the Scottish isles!
United Kingdom
Vauxhall Crossland
2 September 2023
cruden bay is wonderful
United Kingdom
Vauxhall Astra
30 August 2023
Car amazing but traffic horrendous.
United Kingdom
Ford Focus
19 August 2023
Going to a wedding in Kent. Used car for 4 days. Travelled to Canterbury, Dover, Thorpe Park and Bluewater. Car wasn’t very powerful but there was plenty of space for four adults and two large suitcases and four rucksacks.
United Kingdom
Kia Picanto
15 August 2023
Went to Doonies Farm with my daughter and grandchildren. Great day out. Also went to Stonehaven and had lunch at the Harbour very busy, as the weather was lovely. But really enjoyed having the car to get about. Plus went to Braemar. Fantastic.!!
United Kingdom
Fiat 500
9 August 2023
Flew in from France for a funeral. So not a great experience but nice to catch up with family members.
United Kingdom
Ford Fiesta
8 August 2023
Because of delay with being picked up I was given an upgrade, that was a very nice little Audi
United Kingdom
Vauxhall Crossland
4 August 2023
Beautiful scenery and fun activities
United Kingdom
Ford Focus
15 July 2023
Trip was primarily for a funeral which was sad but a lovely celebration. Visited some nice restaurants and saw some sights too.
United States of America (USA)
Fiat 500
28 June 2023
We drove around the highlands of Scotland and loved the ease of choosing our own path and stops. We took many trails and if one seemed too busy, we just found another one. The Fiat 500 was easy to get around, even with small parking spaces.
United Kingdom
Fiat 500
3 June 2023
Nice trip to the countryside
United Kingdom
Kia Rio
1 June 2023
Loch Lomond was stunning, especially in the sunshine!
United Kingdom
Fiat 500
13 April 2023
Knaresborough town
United Kingdom
Ford Focus
8 April 2023
Business trip visiting clients though managed a few hours in Frinton ............ seems a nice town
United Kingdom
BMW 1 Series Aut.
28 March 2023
Lovely time exploring raasay from the luxury hotel there
United Kingdom
Ford Focus
18 February 2023
I visited exeter
United Kingdom
Fiat 500
30 January 2023
The car was perfect for visiting family and relatives.
United Kingdom
Ford Fiesta
27 January 2023
Car was clean, ready on time, the car hire people made the stress of going to a funeral easier.
United Kingdom
Ford Fiesta
1 November 2022
Quick collection, car was ready and better than I expected. Very happy with the overall experience.
United Kingdom
Fiat 500
14 October 2022
Just a family visit
United Kingdom
Vauxhall Astra
28 September 2022
We spent most of our time between Ullapool and Loch Inver. Fantastic scenery, and would strongly recommend the hike up Suilven from Loch Inver. Pie shop in Loch Inver also worth a visit, we went twice!
Australia
Ford Fiesta
26 September 2022
I had an amazing time in Scotland. Went to the Isle of Skye, Fort William. National parks, Hiking, castles, waterfalls, and Inverness. Very beautiful country!! Next time would love to see the south, east-coast, the islands and more of the highlands.
United Kingdom
Ford Fiesta
13 September 2022
We were staying at Torcroft lodges, Drumnadrochit, perfect location and lovely well equipped lodge.. We visited Loch Ness exhibition centre, Fort Augustus where we joined a cruise on Loch Ness, Urquart Castle, Nairn (not much there) and Inverness
United Kingdom
Fiat 500
3 September 2022
Had the best time away, amazing scenery along the Causeway Coastal Route, Giants Causeway is a must see! Had a fantastic road trip around Northern Ireland. Black Cab Taxi tour is a must in Belfast!
United Kingdom
Seat Arona
26 August 2022
Very good car enjoy our holiday many thanks
United Kingdom
Fiat 500
18 August 2022
Check in online to avoid delays when collecting cars.
Jersey
Honda CR-V
5 May 2022
Visiting family so this doesn’t really apply.
United Kingdom
Vauxhall Corsa
23 April 2022
Stunning scenery, amazing beaches especially Strathy Beach on the North coast, Dunnet Head, Dunnet Bay. The Printers Press in Wick for fantastic pizza and coffees and Whickers World at the harbour for all day breakfasts. Fantastic boat from Wick down to Whalligoe Steps. And Sarclet. Beautiful inlet. And bot forgetting Lybster Harbour.
United Kingdom
Opel Crossland X
17 April 2022
The area of Portrush is a summer resort and in visiting before the season starts we found a lot of places closed. The Giants Causeway is worth visiting
United Kingdom
Fiat 500
2 March 2022
Loch Lomand. Gleniffer Braes, Paisley.
United Kingdom
Ford Focus
15 February 2022
Very good overall experience far cheaper than other rental companies. I will use them for any future rentals.
United Kingdom
Ford Focus
6 February 2022
Was unsure what to expect, but all ok
United Kingdom
Vauxhall Corsa
4 November 2021
Would have to try and book much earlier next time to try and get a better deal
United Kingdom
Vauxhall Crossland
26 August 2021
It is difficult to imagine a more efficient, convenient or friendly service. Excellent in all respects.
United Kingdom
Toyota Yaris
23 August 2021
Visiting family but enjoyed every place we visited
United Kingdom
Ford Focus
18 May 2021
Travelling from Edinburgh to Stoke to see a friend after lockdown, so didn't see any sites.
United Kingdom
Fiat 500
8 April 2021
Good, easy, convenience, competitive price.
Portugal
Ford Fiesta
10 January 2020
Liverpool is a vibrant city with lots going on. The people are

Car Hire Statistics

Highest rated company
Arnold Clark
9.2 / 10
)
Lowest rated company
Ace Rent a car
6.9 / 10
)
Total number of reviews
275
Total rental companies
19
Average daily price
£ 23.10
Lowest daily price
£ 14.62
Total cars available
9324

Top 19 Hire Companies in the United Kingdom in 2024

Arnold Clark
Arnold Clark
Exceptional 9.2 / 1 173 reviews
41 location
£ 42 - £ 291
Enterprise
Enterprise
Very good 8.8 / 591 review
274 locations
£ 23 - £ 282
Alamo
Alamo
Very good 8.6 / 1 003 reviews
34 locations
£ 22 - £ 403
Keddy
Keddy
Very good 8.4 / 689 reviews
109 locations
£ 19 - £ 99
Hertz
Hertz
Very good 8.2 / 316 reviews
64 locations
£ 23 - £ 272
Avis
Avis
Very good 8.2 / 168 reviews
49 locations
£ 18 - £ 448
Drivalia
Drivalia
Good 7.9 / 1 434 reviews
27 locations
£ 15 - £ 778
Europcar
Europcar
Good 7.9 / 323 reviews
108 locations
£ 25 - £ 136
SIXT
SIXT
Good 7.8 / 470 reviews
50 locations
£ 24 - £ 213
National
National
Good 7.8 / 118 reviews
32 locations
£ 20 - £ 441
Dollar
Dollar
Good 7.7 / 1 review
18 locations
£ 23 - £ 293
Thrifty
Thrifty
Good 7.7
1 location
Goldcar
Goldcar
Good 7.6 / 1 review
1 location
Budget
Budget
Good 7.5 / 45 reviews
31 location
£ 20 - £ 238
Interrent
Interrent
Good 7.2 / 6 reviews
18 locations
Easirent
Easirent
Satisfactory 6.9 / 2 675 reviews
20 locations
GreenMotion
GreenMotion
Satisfactory 6.9 / 1 402 reviews
35 locations
£ 15 - £ 1083
Ace Rent a car
Ace Rent a car
Satisfactory 6.9 / 469 reviews
1 location
£ 25 - £ 181
Surprice
Surprice
Satisfactory 6.9 / 295 reviews
2 locations
£ 18 - £ 378
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