Cumbria Car Hire

Reasons to book a car hire in Cumbria

Renting a car in Cumbria is an excellent choice for those looking to explore this beautiful county at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you gain the freedom to visit key attractions such as Lake Windermere, renowned for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities, or Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England, perfect for adventure seekers. Additionally, the World of Beatrix Potter offers a delightful cultural experience for families and literature enthusiasts alike.

A car hire also makes it convenient to navigate between popular destinations such as Windermere, where you can enjoy Bowness Pier, and Carnforth, with highlights like The Ingleton Waterfalls Trail and Ribblehead Viaduct. The Lake District National Park, featuring both Lake Windermere and Grasmere Lake, is easily accessible by car, allowing you to appreciate the region’s breathtaking landscapes. Overall, having a rental car enhances your flexibility, making it easier to manage luggage and follow your own travel plans while discovering the outdoor adventures and scenic beauty that Cumbria has to offer.

Most popular car hires in Cumbria

• Compact SUV: This vehicle accommodates up to 5 travellers and has space for up to 3 medium suitcases. A Compact SUV is an excellent choice for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for versatility while exploring Cumbria. Its size offers a good balance of comfort and efficiency, making it suitable for both city driving and rural adventures.
• Economy: Perfect for groups of up to 5 travellers, the Economy car option allows for 2 medium suitcases. This choice is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families who want to keep their travel costs low while enjoying the flexibility of having their own vehicle. Economy cars are designed for fuel efficiency, making them a smart option for navigating the scenic routes of Cumbria.
• Midsize SUV: This spacious vehicle can accommodate 5 travellers and holds up to 3 large suitcases, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, or small groups. The Midsize SUV provides ample space for passengers and luggage, ensuring a comfortable journey as you explore the beautiful landscapes of Cumbria. Its larger size also adds a sense of security on the road.

Where to stay in Cumbria

• Windermere: A charming city known for its stunning outdoor scenery and romantic atmosphere, Windermere is an excellent choice for your stay in Cumbria. Nestled near iconic attractions like Lake Windermere, perfect for outdoor and scenic experiences, and the World of Beatrix Potter for cultural exploration, you'll find plenty to do. The local area offers relaxing spa options and delightful restaurants and wineries. Additionally, Bowness Pier provides a lovely spot to enjoy the lake views, making Windermere an ideal base for adventure and relaxation.
• Carnforth: If outdoor adventure is what you're after, Carnforth is a fantastic destination. Renowned for its trails and hiking opportunities, it is home to the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, which invites exploration of breathtaking natural beauty. The historic Ribblehead Viaduct adds a cultural touch to your visit. With local eateries and pubs close by, you can easily enjoy a hearty meal after a day of adventure in the nearby national parks and lakes. Carnforth is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
• Lake District National Park: A must-visit for nature enthusiasts, Lake District National Park offers unparalleled outdoor experiences. With stunning lakes like Grasmere Lake and the towering Scafell Pike nearby, it's ideal for hiking and scenic pursuits. The park features excellent dining options, including local distilleries and breweries, allowing you to sample regional flavours. As a popular destination for outdoor activities, visiting in spring or summer enhances your experience, featuring vibrant landscapes and ideal hiking conditions.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Cumbria

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're likely to benefit from lower rates and improved availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 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 aged over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate 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 advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable, provided you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the 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 expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It is straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
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 essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in Cumbria

The best time to rent a car in Cumbria is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is also at a manageable level. January and March are similar, with average demand and prices. Moving into the summer months, June through August tend to see higher prices and demand, especially in July, which is the most expensive month for rentals. While prices remain average in September, they rise again in May as demand increases.