England Car Rentals

I have a discount code

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
    Learn about One Key
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

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

Top destinations to rent a car in England

Two red double-decker buses on a city street with historic buildings in the background.
CarsCars

London

London

What you need to know for your England car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in England

Renting a car in England offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and avoid the hassle of public transportation, giving you more time to visit iconic attractions such as Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace, and Tower Bridge, all located in London. If you prefer a family-friendly adventure, you can drive to Kettering to enjoy Wicksteed Park or visit the beautiful beaches in Bembridge, including Whitecliff Bay Beach and Shanklin Beach. Having a car also allows you to create flexible travel plans, making it convenient to explore both urban and rural areas. Whether you are seeking outdoor experiences or cultural landmarks, renting a car enables you to discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of England on your own terms. Enjoy the comfort and convenience of a rental car during your trip, and immerse yourself in the diverse experiences that England has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in England

  • Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice for those looking to navigate England's cities and towns with ease. It comfortably accommodates up to 5 travelers and has space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families who appreciate the combination of size and efficiency, especially when dealing with urban parking and fuel costs.
  • Midsize SUV: If you're traveling with more luggage or prefer additional space, the Midsize SUV is a great option. It can accommodate 5 travelers and offers room for up to 3 large suitcases, making it perfect for families, couples, or small groups. This vehicle type provides a comfortable ride, allowing you to explore England's attractions while ensuring everyone has ample space for comfort and convenience.
  • Economy: The Economy car is an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers. It fits up to 5 travelers and allows for 2 medium suitcases. This car type is suitable for solo travelers, couples, or families, making it versatile and practical for those looking to explore England without breaking the bank. With its compact size, the Economy car is well-suited for city driving and offers fuel efficiency, ensuring you can make the most of your trip.

Where to stay in England

  • London: London, a bustling metropolis, is perfect for families and culture enthusiasts alike. With attractions such as Hyde Park, an urban park suitable for outdoor family vacations, and the historic Buckingham Palace, there are plenty of cultural experiences to enjoy. Tower Bridge, another historic landmark, adds to the city's charm. The city is also known for its shopping areas, theaters, and vibrant nightlife, making it a well-rounded destination for various interests.
  • Kettering: Kettering offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a focus on outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore Wicksteed Park, an amusement park ideal for families, or visit the historic Boughton House for a taste of culture. The city is also home to a stadium and a theme park, providing a blend of excitement and leisure. With nearby restaurants and bars, Kettering is a great choice for those seeking adventure and fun.
  • Cornwall: Cornwall is a scenic county known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor adventures. Fistral Beach is a prime destination for those looking to soak up the sun, while the Eden Project offers a unique botanical experience suitable for families and couples. St. Michael's Mount, a stunning castle, adds a cultural touch to your visit. With its breathtaking landscapes and recreational opportunities, Cornwall is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking picturesque views.

10 tips to save on your car rental in England

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by selecting specific vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify the perfect vehicle for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced combination of 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 luxury models—might be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is often the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which can also be acceptable as long as you return the vehicle empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may make it worth the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental agencies only accept credit cards as a form of payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind if any unforeseen issues arise during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, look for rental options 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.

Best time to rent a car in England

The best value period to rent a car in England is February, when both prices and demand are at their lowest. Following February, March and November are solid options, with slightly low prices and moderate demand. As summer approaches, June and July see an uptick in both prices and demand, making them busier months for rentals. Meanwhile, December stands out as the most expensive period of the year, with average demand pushing prices higher.

Find England Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next England car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in England, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in England offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your England car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in England to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our England airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many England rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your England airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in England?
You can find cheap car rentals in England from $10 a day with Greenmotion's economy 4-5 door cars. Car rentals in England can be found if you pick up in London, the region's main gateway. From there, it's an easy drive to explore towns like Whitby and York. Suppliers such as Sixt, Enterprise, and Europcar operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in England.
What are the best car rentals in England?
Car rentals across England offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car, broadly available in the region's main cities — London, Whitby, and York. The most common car classes include:
  • Compact 4-5 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Midsize elite SUV
  • Compact elite SUV
  • Compact SUV
These options cater to various travel needs, from solo adventurers and couples seeking nimble city cars to families and groups needing spacious SUVs or vans for longer road trips. Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in England.

What are the best car rental companies in England?
For car rentals across England, providers like Alamo Rent A Car, Sixt, and Enterprise offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — London, Whitby, and York. Alamo Rent A Car, for example, has received positive feedback for professional service. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from London Heathrow Airport (LHR) for exploring England?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at London Heathrow Airport (LHR) for exploring England. Providers including Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car operate at the airport, with rates from around $14 a day for a compact 4-5 door car from Sixt. LHR is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from London to Whitby and York.
Can I rent a car one-way in England?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across England — pick up in one city, such as London, and drop-off in another, like Whitby, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $12 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise often offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in England?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across England, including in London and Whitby. Enterprise and Europcar both offer hybrid plug-in options from $10 a day, while Sixt and Alamo Rent A Car provide electric vehicles from $14 a day. These eco-friendly options can help keep fuel costs low, and charging infrastructure is becoming more widespread along major routes. When planning longer regional drives, it's wise to plan your charging stops in advance. Booking a few weeks ahead is also recommended, as demand for these vehicles can be high.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in England?
For luxury car rentals across England, Sixt offers midsize elite SUVs from $19 a day (and fullsize elite SUVs from $24 a day), while Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car also provide premium categories — high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like London and Whitby. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in England.
What are the best car rentals in England for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring England, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from London to Whitby:
  • Alamo Rent A Car: midsize SUV from $14 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Enterprise: midsize passenger van from $45 a day — seats up to 9 with room for 6 large suitcases
  • Sixt: fullsize SUV from $26 a day — seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Booking a few weeks ahead is advisable, as larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in England.

What are the best car rentals in England for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in England for solo travelers are mini, economy, and compact classes — small, easy to park, and fuel-efficient for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like London and Whitby:
  • Mini car, from $11 a day (Europcar) — fits up to 4 people and 2 small suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Economy car, from $11 a day (Budget) — fits up to 5 people and 2 medium suitcases, offering great value
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. These options are ideal for navigating urban areas and taking day trips. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in England.

What are the best car rentals in England for couples?
The best car rentals in England for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like London and Whitby:
  • Compact SUV, from $11 a day (Budget) — fits up to 5 people and 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
  • Midsize SUV, from $13 a day (Europcar) — fits up to 5 people and 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. These options are great for exploring both city attractions and the scenic routes of England. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in England.

What are the closest airports to England for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across England offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
  • London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
  • Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA)
These airports provide convenient access to various parts of the region, including cities like London, York, and Whitby. Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

What are the best road trip destinations from England by rental car?
From England, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. Easy drives from the London hub include:
  • Piccadilly Circus, approximately 1 mile from there
  • Buckingham Palace, approximately 1 mile from there
These destinations offer a mix of cultural landmarks and shopping experiences. You could time your trip around events like the Notting Hill Carnival, or add activities such as the London: Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour with Transfers. With cities like York and Whitby also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in England.

Which side of the road do you drive on in England?
In England, you drive on the left-hand side of the road. This applies whether you're navigating the bustling streets of London or exploring the scenic routes to cities like Whitby and York. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust — take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region.
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 England?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in England. 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 England?
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 England?
Budget car rental in England can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . 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 England?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in England. 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 England car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in England?
To rent a car in England, 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 England car rental?
If you need to cancel your England 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.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation