Car Rentals in Cotswolds, GBR

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Cotswolds

Renting a car in the Cotswolds offers excellent freedom and flexibility for exploring this picturesque region at your own pace. This choice is particularly appealing for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, allowing you to visit attractions like Sudeley Castle, located 9 km away, or the Cotswold Countryside Collection, just 5 km from your base. Additionally, the historic Chedworth Roman Villa is a mere 6 km away.

A rental car also makes it convenient to explore nearby destinations. In Cheltenham, approximately 13 km from Cotswolds, you can discover highlights such as Gloucester Cathedral and the Cotswold Countryside Collection. Alternatively, Bourton-on-the-Water, located 9 km away, features attractions like The Model Village and the Cotswold Motoring Museum. For those looking to venture further, Cirencester is 18 km from Cotswolds and offers sites like Arlington Row and Cotswold Country Park and Beach. This flexibility makes car hire an ideal option for families and adventurers alike, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

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 top choice for car hire in the Cotswolds, with a rental location situated 19 km away. This supplier is particularly popular for its Fullsize and Economy vehicles, catering to a variety of traveller needs. Customers often commend Enterprise for its excellent customer service, making the car hire experience smooth and enjoyable.

Where to stay around Cotswolds

• Cheltenham: Located 13 km from the Cotswolds, Cheltenham offers a vibrant atmosphere with beautiful outdoor spaces and adventure opportunities. Visitors can enjoy shopping at local centres and explore attractions like the historic Sudeley Castle and the impressive Gloucester Cathedral. The local cuisine features delightful options from nearby distilleries, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a mix of culture and scenery.
• Cirencester: Situated 18 km from the Cotswolds, Cirencester is perfect for families and adventurers. This charming city features the Cotswold Country Park and Beach, providing excellent outdoor activities. Don't miss the picturesque Arlington Row and the cultural Cirencester Church. The area is also home to delightful distilleries and wineries, ensuring a well-rounded stay for food and drink enthusiasts.
• Broadway: Just 18 km from the Cotswolds, Broadway is known for its stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore the historic Snowshill Manor and Garden, or take in the views from Broadway Tower. This picturesque city is also close to various national parks, offering ample opportunities for exploration. With local distilleries and wineries, Broadway is a lovely choice for those seeking both culture and relaxation.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best fit 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, 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 less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size cars offer a good 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 types of vehicles—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 prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the vehicle empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car from airports typically incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra 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 costs and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car hire insurance when reserving with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
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 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