Why rent a car in Cambridge?
Among Cambridge’s famous university buildings and winding alleys lies a very modern city. Yes, the history is palpable, but the bars are busy and the facilities are diverse. There is a youthful buzz about this city.
Surrounded by pretty countryside and just over an hour’s drive from England’s east coast, this is perfect driving country. The views are flat and far-reaching, so enjoy the space. Get a hire car in Cambridge and set off on your travels.
How to get to and around Cambridge?
Situated on the M11, Cambridge has great road links. London and Birmingham are both a drive of an hour and a half away, while the picturesque beaches of Norfolk are about 70 miles away, or one hour 40 minutes in the car.
Flying in to London Stansted Airport is a great choice. It is a drive of one hour into Cambridge city centre, almost entirely on the M11. There are also regular trains and buses to and from the capital.
A little further out is Birmingham Airport, which is 90 miles, or one hour 30 minutes away.
What brands are available?
Budget, Hertz and Avis are among the companies that can provide a rental car in Cambridge. Firefly and Europcar are also available and most can provide airport or city centre pick-ups.
Must-sees within an easy drive of Cambridge
Once you have picked up your keys try visiting London. There are numerous park and ride services allowing you to park on the outskirts of the busy central areas and get a bus in. There are also some car parks where you can book a space in advance so do your research before you start your journey. Once you’re there the choices seem limitless. The West End, Westminster and Notting Hill are all popular choices. Or head east to the hipster hangouts of Shoreditch and Dalston. You could make the most of having a car and head away from the traditional tourist sports to some of the thriving residential areas. Stoke Newington in Hackney or Chiswick in west London are both buzzing with restaurants, bars and independent shops.
When it’s time to escape the city, head for Kent, the area known as the garden of England. About 80 miles from Cambridge, this lush county is flourishing. The seaside towns of Whitstable and Margate are both popular with London day-trippers, as well as foodies, shoppers and art buffs, or those who just want to see the sea. The well-to-do town of Tunbridge Wells is also in Kent, and about an hour and a half’s drive from Cambridge.
Head in the opposite direction and you come to the city of Nottingham, which is a 90-mile drive up the A1. This east Midlands industrial city offers a different vibe to Cambridge’s traditional prettiness. Nottingham is another university city with a lively musical scene. From rock to drum and bass, tastes are varied and all are catered for. Try Rock City or the Rescue Rooms for a noisy night out, or dine out at the gothic Pit and Pendulum pub.
Tips and tricks for driving in Cambridge
These journeys mainly use dual carriageways and motorways, all of which are well signposted and easy to follow. All UK standard driving laws apply. Children will require a car seat until they are 12 years old or 135cm tall.
Ready to plan your Cambridge city break?
So start planning your trip to Cambridge and other parts of the UK by using the Expedia search tool to help you find bargain car hire, flight and hotel deals and research the best attractions and activities.
