Car Rentals in Barnstaple, GBR

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Barnstaple

Renting a car in Barnstaple offers you the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those looking to visit key attractions such as Arlington Court, a historic building perfect for cultural experiences, or Heddon's Mouth Beach, ideal for a relaxing day by the sea. Croyde Bay Beach, located 14 km away, provides stunning scenery and outdoor activities. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and make spontaneous travel plans, enhancing your overall experience.

In addition to local attractions, a rental car allows convenient access to nearby destinations like Bideford, just 12 km from Barnstaple, where you can explore Clovelly Village and Instow Beach. Braunton, situated 9 km away, features beautiful beaches such as Saunton Sands and Woolacombe Beach. Even the nearby city of Fremington offers more scenic beach experiences. Whether you're an adventurer seeking outdoor activities or simply looking to enjoy the beautiful scenery, having a car at your disposal makes it all effortlessly accessible.

Most popular car hire in Barnstaple

• Mini: The most booked car option in Barnstaple, the Mini accommodates up to 4 travellers and can carry 2 small suitcases. It is ideal for solo travellers or couples seeking a compact vehicle that offers ease of manoeuvrability in and around the town. With a Mini, you can explore Barnstaple's attractions at your own pace, ensuring a flexible travel experience with manageable luggage.

Top rated car suppliers in Barnstaple

• Enterprise: With one rental location in Barnstaple, Enterprise is the top choice for many travellers seeking flexibility in their car hire. Known for its excellent service, they offer a variety of vehicles, with Economy and Mini models being the most booked. This supplier provides the convenience of managing your luggage easily while allowing you to explore the attractions around Barnstaple at your own pace.

Where to stay around Barnstaple

• Bideford: Located 12 km from Barnstaple, Bideford is a charming city that offers a blend of outdoor adventure and scenic experiences. Visitors can explore the nearby national park, nature reserve, and beautiful beaches. Key points of interest include Clovelly Village, known for its picturesque charm, and Instow Beach, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. Bideford is also a great spot for indulging in local chocolate treats, adding a sweet note to your stay.
• Braunton: Situated 9 km from Barnstaple, Braunton is a vibrant city popular for its outdoor activities and stunning scenery. The area boasts access to several notable beaches, including Saunton Sands and Croyde Bay Beach, both ideal for sunbathing and water sports. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to national parks and nature reserves, making Braunton a perfect base for those looking to explore the great outdoors.
• Combe Martin: Found 14 km from Barnstaple, Combe Martin is a quaint village that invites visitors to enjoy its outdoor adventures and beautiful landscapes. With attractions such as Ilfracombe Harbour and Woolacombe Beach nearby, guests can indulge in beach outings and scenic views. Combe Martin is also home to local wineries and bars, offering a delightful selection of refreshments to complement your stay.

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

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-friendly travel, utilise filters on Expedia to assist you in finding 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 car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise 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. 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 generally the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied when collecting your rental car from airports, but the convenience may justify the additional cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.