Car Hire at Big Ben, GBR

Reasons to book a car hire around Big Ben

Renting a car around Big Ben offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the rich history and vibrant culture of London at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as Buckingham Palace and Piccadilly Circus, both located just 1 km away. This convenience is particularly beneficial for those travelling with family or managing luggage, allowing for smooth transitions between sites without the hassle of public transport. Additionally, you can venture a bit further to London Bridge, which is 3 km away, or even discover the larger metropolis of London, featuring the iconic Tower Bridge and beautiful Hyde Park. If you wish to explore beyond the immediate area, a drive to Canary Wharf—7 km from Big Ben—provides a glimpse into modern London with its impressive skyscrapers and attractions. Overall, renting a car not only enhances your sightseeing experience but also offers the comfort of flexible travel plans, making it an ideal choice for urban explorers and history enthusiasts alike.

Most popular car hires near Big Ben

• Compact: This car type accommodates up to 5 travellers with the ability to carry up to 3 medium suitcases. The Compact car is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families visiting the attractions around Big Ben. Its smaller size makes it perfect for navigating the busy streets of London while allowing for easy parking.
• Midsize SUV: Accommodating 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases, the Midsize SUV is a fantastic choice for families, couples, or small groups. This vehicle provides extra space and comfort, making it suitable for longer journeys while exploring the area around Big Ben. Its robust build offers a great balance of comfort and practicality.
• Economy: The Economy car option is designed for 5 travellers and can hold up to 2 medium suitcases. This type is perfect for solo explorers, couples, or families looking for a budget-friendly choice. With its efficient fuel consumption and manageable size, the Economy car makes it easy to navigate and park near the bustling attractions around Big Ben.

Top rated car suppliers near Big Ben

• Budget: Offering great value for money, Budget has 2 rental locations situated 2 km away from Big Ben. This supplier is particularly popular among travellers looking for Compact and Economy vehicles, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace without breaking the bank.
• Europcar: With a rental location also 2 km from Big Ben, Europcar provides a solid choice for those in search of reliable vehicles. Their most booked options include Compact cars and Midsize SUVs, catering to a variety of needs for your London adventure.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Known for its convenient proximity, Alamo features 5 rental locations, with the nearest being less than 1 km from Big Ben. This supplier is favoured for its Midsize SUV and Compact SUV options, making it an excellent choice for families or groups looking to navigate London comfortably.

Where to stay near Big Ben

• London City Centre: Positioned at the heart of London, London City Centre is a vibrant neighbourhood ideal for family, city-themed, and culture-themed experiences. Here, you'll find proximity to iconic attractions such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the expansive Hyde Park, all easily accessible within a short distance. The area offers an array of restaurants, drinking pubs, and wineries, making it a lively spot for dining and entertainment after a day of exploration.
• Canary Wharf: Located approximately 7 km from Big Ben, Canary Wharf is a bustling district known for its modern architecture and vibrant atmosphere. This neighbourhood is suitable for family, culture-themed, and entertainment-themed pursuits. With attractions like One Canada Square and the Museum of London Docklands nearby, you can immerse yourself in both leisure and culture. The variety of dining options, including restaurants and pubs, enhances the experience for travellers seeking a lively atmosphere.

10 tips to save on your car hire around Big Ben

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for those warm summer days, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary due to demand, so it is advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to secure lower rates and benefit from better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are generally more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced option in terms of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also apply to renters aged over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire agencies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unforeseen expenses and provides peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car around Big Ben

The best value period for renting a car around Big Ben is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. January also offers quieter conditions, making it a good option for budget-conscious travellers. Following these months, March through May sees average prices and demand. In contrast, July and August are typically busier and slightly more expensive, while December stands out as the most expensive month, with moderately high demand. November sees a dip in demand but prices remain average.