Car Hire at Buckingham Palace, GBR

Reasons to book a car hire around Buckingham Palace

Renting a car around Buckingham Palace provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the area and its attractions at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for those looking for an urban and historical experience. With a rental car, you can easily visit nearby sites such as Hyde Park, located 2 km away, perfect for family outings and outdoor experiences. Big Ben, a cultural landmark, is just 1 km from the palace, as is the vibrant Piccadilly Circus, ideal for city exploration.

A car also simplifies luggage management and allows for flexible travel plans, making it convenient for families or those with multiple bags. You can navigate the bustling streets of London, including the London City Centre, where you can find attractions like Tower Bridge. Additionally, if you wish to venture a bit further, Canary Wharf is only 8 km away, offering sights such as One Canada Square and the Museum of London Docklands. Overall, renting a car enhances your sightseeing experience around Buckingham Palace and its surroundings, ensuring you make the most of your visit.

Most popular car hires near Buckingham Palace

• Compact: The Compact car option is an excellent choice for those visiting Buckingham Palace, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 3 medium suitcases. This makes it ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families. The Compact provides the perfect balance of comfort and practicality, allowing you to navigate the busy streets of London with ease while enjoying the freedom to explore at your own pace.
• Midsize SUV: For those needing a bit more room, the Midsize SUV is a popular selection. It comfortably seats 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it perfect for families, couples, or small groups. This option offers extra space for luggage and provides a higher driving position, which can enhance visibility while you drive around the iconic sights near Buckingham Palace.
• Economy: The Economy car option is tailored for travellers seeking a budget-friendly solution. It accommodates up to 5 travellers and has room for 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for solo visitors, couples, and families alike. With its efficient fuel consumption, the Economy car allows you to explore the area around Buckingham Palace without breaking the bank, ensuring your journey is both economical and enjoyable.

Top rated car suppliers near Buckingham Palace

• Budget: Budget offers a reliable car hire experience with its location situated 1 km away from Buckingham Palace. Known for its economical pricing, the most booked vehicles from Budget include Compact and Economy cars, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers. With the flexibility to explore attractions at your own pace, Budget provides a convenient option for those planning to navigate the vibrant streets of London.
• Europcar: Europcar is another popular choice among travellers, also located 1 km from Buckingham Palace. Renowned for its selection of vehicles, Europcar's most frequently booked options include Compact and Midsize SUVs. This supplier is particularly appreciated for the spaciousness and comfort of its vehicles, ensuring a pleasant driving experience while you discover the majestic sights of London.
• Avis: Avis stands out with its rental location 1 km from Buckingham Palace, offering a selection that includes Compact and Premium cars. Customers often praise Avis for its quality of service and the well-maintained condition of its vehicles. Whether you are looking for a practical option or a more luxurious driving experience, Avis provides a range of choices to suit various needs, making it a great option for your London adventure.

Where to stay near Buckingham Palace

• London City Centre: This vibrant neighbourhood surrounds Buckingham Palace and is a prime location for those seeking a cultural experience. With its close proximity to significant attractions such as Hyde Park, ideal for family outings and outdoor activities, and the iconic Tower Bridge, London City Centre is perfect for exploring the city's rich heritage. The area also boasts numerous restaurants, drinking pubs, and wineries for a delightful culinary experience after a day of sightseeing.
• Canary Wharf: Located approximately 8 km from Buckingham Palace, Canary Wharf offers a blend of modernity and culture. This neighbourhood is known for its buzzing atmosphere, with theatres and shopping areas easily accessible. Highlights include the impressive One Canada Square and the Museum of London Docklands, suitable for a culture-themed experience. While slightly further out, the area features various dining options, from restaurants to pubs, making it ideal for a relaxing evening after exploring the city.

10 tips to save on your car hire around Buckingham Palace

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for those summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover 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 ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles tend to be more economical to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a solid compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require 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 economical option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, though it can be worthwhile for the added convenience.
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 if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It is straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you intend to embark on long 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 necessary to hire a car.

Best time to rent a car around Buckingham Palace

The best value period for renting a car near Buckingham Palace is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. January also offers good value, but February stands out for its lower costs. Moving into March, prices remain slightly low with average demand. However, the summer months of July and August see higher prices and moderately high demand, making them the most expensive times to rent a car. June typically maintains average pricing and demand, adding to the busyness of this season.