Car Rentals in Cotswolds, GBR

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Cotswolds

Renting a car in the Cotswolds offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the picturesque region and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it an ideal choice for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. Key attractions such as Sudeley Castle, located 9 km away, and the Cotswold Countryside Collection, just 5 km from Cotswolds, are easily accessible by car. You can also visit the historic Chedworth Roman Villa, situated 6 km away.

Moreover, a rental car allows you to discover nearby destinations like Cheltenham, 13 km from Cotswolds, where you can find Gloucester Cathedral and other cultural highlights. Bourton-on-the-Water, 9 km away, offers attractions like The Model Village and the Cotswold Motoring Museum. For those looking to venture a bit further, Cirencester is 18 km away and features Arlington Row and Cotswold Country Park. Having your own vehicle ensures a comfortable and convenient journey throughout this beautiful area.

Most popular car hires around Cotswolds

• Compact: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families, the Compact car accommodates up to 5 passengers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for navigating the narrow streets and picturesque villages of Cotswolds, allowing for easy parking and fuel efficiency during your journey.
• Economy: The Economy car is another great choice for groups of up to 5 people, providing space for 2 medium suitcases. It's an excellent option for those who prioritise budget-friendly travel while exploring the charming countryside and attractions around Cotswolds. The Economy car is perfect for couples and families looking for a comfortable yet economical way to travel.
• Midsize: For couples or families needing a bit more space, the Midsize car is an exceptional choice. Accommodating up to 5 travellers and offering room for 3 large suitcases, this option ensures ample comfort and convenience for longer trips. Midsize cars are well-suited for exploring the beautiful landscapes and scenic routes of Cotswolds while providing a relaxed driving experience.

Top rated car suppliers around Cotswolds

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a popular choice among travellers for car hire in the Cotswolds, with a rental location situated 19 km away. It is renowned for its exceptional customer service and flexible rental options. Many customers appreciate the helpful staff and the smooth check-in process. The most booked vehicles include Fullsize and Economy models, making it suitable for a variety of travel needs. Enterprise provides a reliable option for those looking to explore the Cotswolds at their own pace.

Where to stay around Cotswolds

• Cheltenham: Located 13 km from the Cotswolds, Cheltenham offers a vibrant city experience with plenty of outdoor activities and scenic spots. Key attractions include the historic Sudeley Castle, the beautiful Gloucester Cathedral, and the Cotswold Countryside Collection museum. Visitors can enjoy shopping at local centres and indulge in nearby food and drink options, including distilleries and sweet treats. Cheltenham is particularly lovely in the spring when the gardens are in full bloom.
• Cirencester: Situated 18 km away from the Cotswolds, Cirencester is ideal for families seeking adventure and outdoor activities. The Cotswold Country Park and Beach is a highlight for family outings, while Arlington Row showcases charming architecture. For those interested in culture, Cirencester Church is worth a visit. The city features shopping centres and local wineries, making it a well-rounded destination. Summer is a great time to explore Cirencester, with warm weather enhancing outdoor experiences.
• Broadway: Also located 18 km from the Cotswolds, Broadway is known for its stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. The historic Snowshill Manor and Garden and Broadway Tower offer cultural insights and breathtaking views. The area is dotted with recreational spaces and golf courses, perfect for leisure activities. Visitors can enjoy local distilleries and wineries for a taste of the region. Autumn is particularly beautiful in Broadway, as the foliage transforms into vibrant colours.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Cotswolds

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your booking well ahead of your trip. By reserving early, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars come at a lower rental cost and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, 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 also applies to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the 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 charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just remember to return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring 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 Cotswolds

The best value period to rent a car in the Cotswolds is February, when both prices and demand are low. Following this, April and September offer slightly low prices with manageable demand. However, the busiest and most expensive time to hire a car tends to be in August, coinciding with high demand during the summer months. May and June also see elevated demand and average pricing, making them less ideal for budget-conscious travellers.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
February	39.9°F (4.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately Low
March	42.6°F (5.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	46.6°F (8.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately Low
May	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
June	57.6°F (14.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
July	61.5°F (16.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
August	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
September	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately Low
October	51.6°F (10.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
November	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
December	41.2°F (5.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average