Car Rental Shaftesbury

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Shaftesbury

Renting a car in Shaftesbury offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Gold Hill Museum and the Shaftesbury Abbey Museum and Garden, both of which provide rich cultural experiences right in the city. Additionally, you can venture 12 miles to Center Parcs Longleat Forest for outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. The convenience of a car also makes it simple to explore nearby cities like Gillingham, just 4 miles away, where you can discover Stourhead and its beautiful gardens. Nearby Motcombe and Compton Abbas also offer attractions like Salisbury Cathedral and more outdoor experiences. Renting a car allows for easy luggage management, making it ideal for families or travelers with gear for outdoor activities. Whether you seek culture, adventure, or simply wish to enjoy the stunning scenery of the surrounding countryside, having a rental car enhances your travel experience in and around Shaftesbury.

Where to stay in and around Shaftesbury

• Gillingham: Located 4 miles from Shaftesbury, Gillingham offers a vibrant mix of outdoor, culture-themed, and adventure experiences. Explore local landmarks such as historic buildings and monuments, or visit the arts center. For shopping enthusiasts, the city features a shopping center and mall. Don't miss attractions like Center Parcs Longleat Forest for outdoor adventures and Stourhead, a historic house perfect for culture lovers. Gillingham also provides a variety of dining options, from casual bars to more formal dining establishments, making it a great place to stay.
• Motcombe: Situated in the vicinity of Shaftesbury, Motcombe is a charming village ideal for those seeking culture and outdoor activities. The area is rich in history, with nearby monuments, historic houses, and buildings to explore. Key points of interest include Center Parcs Longleat Forest for adventure seekers and Stourhead for those interested in historical sites. Additionally, the stunning Salisbury Cathedral offers a cultural experience worth checking out. Motcombe's tranquil atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for a peaceful stay while still being close to attractions.
• Compton Abbas: Also located near Shaftesbury, Compton Abbas is a quaint village perfect for travelers interested in culture and adventure. Visitors can explore local attractions such as Wimborne Minster, an old town rich in history, and the renowned Salisbury Cathedral. For outdoor enthusiasts, Center Parcs Longleat Forest provides ample opportunities for adventure. Compton Abbas offers a serene environment, making it a lovely base for exploring the surrounding area and enjoying the local culture.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a nice balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. 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 car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are acceptable as well. Just remember to return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively 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 anything unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance while booking with Expedia is a simple process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Shaftesbury

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Shaftesbury

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Shaftesbury. 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 Shaftesbury

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

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.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

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

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals