$127 Car Rental Barnstaple

Search and Compare from Car Companies in Barnstaple

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car rentals
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save 10% or more on over 1 million car rentals
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers and package your flight, hotel, and car to save

Top Car Deals in Barnstaple

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car rentals in Barnstaple
View all cars
Lowest prices found within the past 11 hours. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What you need to know for your Barnstaple car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Barnstaple

Renting a car in Barnstaple offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it a popular choice for tourists. You can visit key attractions such as Arlington Court, a historic building that provides a glimpse into local culture, or spend a relaxing day at Heddon's Mouth Beach, perfect for beach experiences. For scenic views and outdoor activities, Croyde Bay Beach is just 9 miles away, ideal for enjoying the coastline.

A rental car also allows you to explore nearby cities like Bideford, located 8 miles from Barnstaple, where you can discover Clovelly Village and Instow Beach. Braunton, only 5 miles away, features stunning spots like Saunton Sands and Woolacombe Beach. Even Fremington, located in the Barnstaple area, offers great outdoor experiences. Whether you're traveling with family or seeking adventure, having a car ensures you can make the most of your time in this beautiful region.

Most popular car rental in Barnstaple

  • Mini: The most booked car option in Barnstaple, the Mini is perfect for solo travelers or couples. It comfortably accommodates up to 4 travelers and has space for up to 2 small suitcases. This compact car is ideal for navigating the charming streets of Barnstaple while providing the freedom to explore attractions at your own pace. With its easy luggage management, the Mini allows for flexible travel plans, making it an excellent choice for your rental experience.

Top rated car suppliers in Barnstaple

  • Enterprise: Known for its convenience, Enterprise has one rental location in Barnstaple, making it easy for travelers to access their vehicles. The most booked cars with this supplier are Economy and Midsize SUVs, perfect for those looking to explore the area comfortably. With a focus on customer satisfaction, renting from Enterprise allows you to manage your itinerary with ease and enjoy the flexibility that comes with having your own vehicle.

Where to stay around Barnstaple

  • Bideford: Located 8 miles from Barnstaple, Bideford offers travelers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore local attractions such as Clovelly Village and Clovelly Harbour, both of which are perfect for a picturesque vacation. Enjoy recreational areas and hiking trails, or relax at the nearby beaches including Instow Beach. Bideford also features food and drink options for those with a sweet tooth, making it a great stop for a taste of local chocolate.
  • Braunton: Just 5 miles from Barnstaple, Braunton is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience stunning scenery. Key highlights include Saunton Sands, Croyde Bay Beach, and Woolacombe Beach, all of which provide ample opportunities for beach vacations and outdoor activities. Visitors can also enjoy recreational areas and several golf courses nearby, ensuring a well-rounded experience for all types of travelers.
  • Combe Martin: Situated 9 miles from Barnstaple, Combe Martin is a charming village known for its outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes. Visitors can explore the beautiful Ilfracombe Harbour and relax at popular beaches like Woolacombe Beach and Saunton Sands. The area also features a variety of local wineries and bars, perfect for those looking to unwind after a day of exploration. Combe Martin’s proximity to national parks and nature reserves makes it ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Barnstaple

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect fit for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's wise to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come with lower rental costs and are easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size cars strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years old may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the best option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but it may be worth it for the added convenience.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Barnstaple

The best time to rent a car in and around Barnstaple is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is low, making it the best value period. June also offers slightly low prices with low demand, providing another good opportunity. However, March tends to be the most expensive month, with prices rising and demand increasing. April and May follow closely behind, as both months see higher demand and slightly elevated prices.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
February42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
March44.6°F (7.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
April47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
May52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighAverage
June57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
July60.8°F (16.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighAverage
August60.4°F (15.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
September57.9°F (14.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October53.6°F (12.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighAverage
November48.2°F (9.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December45.1°F (7.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Barnstaple

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Barnstaple into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Barnstaple and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Barnstaple

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Barnstaple. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Barnstaple

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $127.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

We all love being rewarded

One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.

Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$127
 
Our second best deal of the day
$134
 
Our third best deal of the day
$147
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Barnstaple?
You can find cheap car rentals in Barnstaple from $11 a day with Drivalia UK's economy 4-5 door cars. Budget offers compact crossover cars starting from $13 a day, while Avis provides compact crossover cars starting from $14 a day. These options offer great value for exploring Barnstaple and the surrounding areas. Compare car rental deals in Barnstaple on Expedia to find a vehicle that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Barnstaple.
What are the best luxury car companies in Barnstaple?
For luxury car rental in Barnstaple, you can find premium options through providers on Expedia like Alamo Rent A Car and Enterprise. Alamo offers premium SUVs starting from $46 a day, providing a comfortable and stylish ride. Enterprise also provides premium SUVs starting from $52 a day. These luxury vehicles offer enhanced comfort, advanced features, and a sophisticated driving experience, making them ideal for travelers seeking a higher-end option. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Barnstaple.
Can I rent a car one-way in Barnstaple?
A one-way car rental in Barnstaple is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $14 a day. This allows you to pick up your vehicle in Barnstaple and drop it off at a different location, offering flexibility for your travel plans. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise may have flexible one-way policies, making it convenient to plan your journey without needing to return to your starting point. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Barnstaple.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Barnstaple?
Barnstaple is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $11 a day. Picking up and dropping off at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it the most cost-effective option for exploring areas near Barnstaple and returning to the same spot. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise also offer wide round-trip availability, giving you plenty of choice for your car rental in Barnstaple. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Barnstaple.
What are the best car rentals in Barnstaple?
Car rentals in Barnstaple offer extensive vehicle variety to suit different travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Compact 4-5 door
  • Economy 2 or 4 door
  • Economy 4-5 door
  • Economy SUV
  • Compact elite SUV
Most vehicles come with A/C standard, and both automatic and manual transmissions are available. Families often prefer SUVs or minivans for space and comfort, while couples and solo travelers might find economy or compact cars more suitable for easy navigation and fuel efficiency. Choose based on your passenger count, luggage needs, and budget for your trip. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Barnstaple.

What are the best car rentals in Barnstaple for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Barnstaple for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $21 a day—fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact 4-5 door, starting from $16 a day—fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you are planning longer drives, consider sizing up to a compact SUV for extra highway comfort and a higher ride. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Barnstaple.

What are the best car rentals in Barnstaple for couples?
The best car rentals in Barnstaple for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $29 a day—fits up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases and offers smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, starting from $30 a day—fits up to 5 people with room for 3 medium suitcases and provides a higher ride for day trips around the region
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. These options are ideal for couples seeking a blend of comfort and practicality for their adventures in and around Barnstaple. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Barnstaple.

What are the best car rentals in Barnstaple for families?
The best car rentals in Barnstaple for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $29 a day—seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat
  • Fullsize SUV, starting from $60 a day—seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs offer ample space for the whole family, car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them a comfortable fit for trips around Barnstaple. Book 4+ weeks ahead, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during the peak months of September and June, and consider adding GPS if you are new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Barnstaple.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Barnstaple?
Yes, Barnstaple has electric vehicle options available from several car rental companies. Sixt offers electric vehicles starting from $17 a day, and Enterprise also provides electric options at the same starting price. Multiple rental companies in Barnstaple carry electric cars, which are widely available on Expedia. Opting for an electric vehicle can help you save on fuel costs, as charging is typically less expensive than purchasing gasoline.
What is the best time to book a car in Barnstaple?
From January, prices in Barnstaple are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $13 a day during this period. September tends to be the busiest month, when high demand can lead to higher prices. June also sees increased demand. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop to find a rate that fits your budget.
What is the weather like for driving in Barnstaple?
Driving conditions in Barnstaple can shift through the year. Traffic and demand tend to build around September, so planning drives for quieter periods can help you avoid congestion. For wet or slippery stretches, a compact class offers reliable grip and traction. Always check the forecast before longer trips and consider carrying an emergency kit for remote routes to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.
What are the best car companies in Barnstaple?
Car rental suppliers in Barnstaple are available from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Budget, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Sixt has compact 4-5 door and economy 2 or 4 door options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Enterprise offers midsize SUVs and fullsize SUVs with more space and stability for highways and longer journeys. Budget rounds out the choices with compact crossover and midsize SUV vehicles. Choose an SUV for more space and stability, or a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Barnstaple.
What are good day trip destinations from Barnstaple by rental car?
Exploring the beautiful surrounding region from Barnstaple is easy with a rental car, offering diverse day trip options for families, couples, and solo travelers. You can visit:
  • Saunton Sands in Braunton, a popular beach destination just 9 miles from Barnstaple, offering a scenic drive of about 20 minutes. This is ideal for families looking for a relaxing day by the sea or couples seeking coastal walks.
  • Exmoor National Park, approximately 22 miles away, which can be reached in about 40 minutes. This national park is perfect for nature lovers and hikers, with stunning landscapes and opportunities for scenic drives.
  • The North Devon Coast near Bideford, about 24 miles from Barnstaple, is a great option for a coastal drive and exploring charming towns, taking around 40 minutes to reach.
  • Dartmoor National Park, located about 43 miles away, offers rugged moorland and ancient sites, accessible in approximately 1 hour. It's an excellent choice for those interested in hiking and exploring unique natural beauty.
For these excursions, a compact SUV or midsize SUV provides ample space for luggage and passengers, while an economy or compact car offers good fuel efficiency for scenic routes. Remember to fuel up before heading out and pack essentials like water and snacks, especially for longer drives into the national parks. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Barnstaple.

Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Barnstaple?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Barnstaple. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Barnstaple?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Barnstaple?
Budget car rental in Barnstaple can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $127. To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Barnstaple?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Barnstaple. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Barnstaple car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Barnstaple?
To rent a car in Barnstaple, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Barnstaple car rental?
If you need to cancel your Barnstaple car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in Barnstaple with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia