Car hire in London, England, United Kingdom

As the capital of the United Kingdom, London is a global city that blends centuries of history with vibrant modern culture. From iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Tower Bridge to world-class museums, shopping districts, and theatres, the city offers endless possibilities. Hiring a car in London provides the flexibility to explore at your own pace — whether you're heading into the city centre, out to the countryside, or on a road trip across England.

With a hire car, you’re free to visit royal palaces, quaint villages, coastal towns, and national parks, all within a few hours’ drive. It’s the perfect way to experience the UK beyond the Underground map.

Choose the right vehicle for your stay in London

• Compact cars: Ideal for city driving and parking in tight spaces.
• Saloon or estate cars: Great for business travel or longer journeys outside the city.
• SUVs and people carriers: Perfect for families or groups with extra luggage.
• Electric or hybrid vehicles: Suitable for Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ) and eco-friendly city driving.

Top things to do in and around London with a hire car

• Windsor: Visit Windsor Castle and enjoy a riverside stroll just 45 minutes away.
• Stonehenge: Explore this world-famous prehistoric monument, located about 2 hours from London.
• Brighton: A seaside escape with a lively pier, great food and arts, just 1.5 hours by car.
• Oxford and Cambridge: Discover the history and charm of England’s most prestigious university cities.
• The Cotswolds: Drive through rolling hills, historic villages and countryside retreats west of London.

Driving in London: what to expect

• Drive on the left: All vehicles in the UK drive on the left-hand side of the road.
• ULEZ & Congestion Charge: Central London requires payment for entry — make sure your vehicle is compliant to avoid penalties.
• Parking: On-street parking is limited and expensive — consider using multi-storey car parks or park-and-ride options.
• Speed limits: Usually 20–30 mph in urban areas, and clearly signposted in miles per hour.
• Navigation: Use a GPS or app like Google Maps to avoid restricted areas and find efficient routes.

Why book your car hire in London with Rentcars?

With Rentcars, you can compare prices from top car hire companies across London, including airport and city centre locations. Benefit from transparent pricing, flexible options, and multilingual customer support. Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or planning a UK road trip, Rentcars makes car hire in London simple, safe and affordable.