Car Hire at University of Cambridge, GBR

Reasons to book a car hire around University of Cambridge

Renting a car around the University of Cambridge enhances your travel experience by offering the freedom to explore at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as King's College Chapel, located less than 1 km away, and the Fitzwilliam Museum, just 1 km from the university. For those seeking outdoor scenery, the River Cam is a mere 4 km away, perfect for a relaxing day by the water. The convenience of a car allows for easy luggage management and the flexibility to create your own itinerary, whether you wish to delve into the cultural richness of Cambridge City Centre or venture into the charming neighbourhood of Newnham, which is less than 1 km from the university. This is particularly appealing for families or groups seeking a friendly and engaging experience without the constraints of public transport. With a rental car, you can comfortably explore not only the university but also popular destinations like the Imperial War Museum Duxford and Sawston Hall, enriching your visit to this historic college town.

Most popular car hires near University of Cambridge

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice for those visiting the University of Cambridge. It accommodates 5 travellers comfortably and offers space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal option for solo travellers, couples, or families looking to navigate around the university and its surroundings with ease. Its smaller size also makes parking in busy areas more manageable.
• Midsize SUV: For those requiring a bit more space, the Midsize SUV is an excellent option. It comfortably fits 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it perfect for families, couples, or small groups. This vehicle provides a higher driving position and extra room for passengers and luggage, allowing for a comfortable journey while exploring the attractions around the University of Cambridge.
• Economy: The Economy car is a practical choice for visitors who want to keep costs down while still enjoying the convenience of a rental. It accommodates 5 travellers and can hold up to 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for solo travellers, couples, or families on a budget. This option allows for easy navigation around the university while ensuring that your luggage is well managed.

Top rated car suppliers near University of Cambridge

• Sixt: Located 2 km away from the University of Cambridge, Sixt is a popular choice for travellers seeking flexibility and convenience. With a strong focus on customer service, they offer a range of vehicles, primarily Compact and Economy models, ensuring you can find the perfect fit for your journey. Their streamlined rental process makes it easy to get on the road and explore the beautiful surroundings of Cambridge.
• Greenmotion: Just 1 km from the University of Cambridge, Greenmotion stands out for its speciality in Luxury Vans, making it an excellent option for those travelling in groups or with extra luggage. Known for their commitment to environmentally friendly practices, renting from Greenmotion not only provides you with a spacious vehicle but also supports sustainable travel. Their close proximity ensures a quick and convenient pick-up.
• Hertz: Situated 3 km away from the University of Cambridge, Hertz offers a diverse selection of vehicles, including Compact and Midsize SUVs. With a reputation for reliability and quality service, they cater to a wide range of preferences and needs. Their convenient location allows for easy access, making it simple for you to begin your adventure around the historic city and its attractions.

Where to stay near University of Cambridge

• Cambridge: Staying in Cambridge places you at the heart of the University of Cambridge, surrounded by historic colleges and urban parks. This vibrant city offers a variety of cultural experiences, from theatres to shopping areas. Local attractions such as King's College Chapel and the Imperial War Museum Duxford are easily accessible, making it an ideal base for cultural enthusiasts. There are numerous dining options available, from restaurants to wineries, catering to all tastes.
• Thriplow: Located 12 km from the University, Thriplow is a charming village perfect for those seeking a quieter atmosphere while still enjoying cultural experiences. Attractions like Audley End House and the Imperial War Museum Duxford are nearby. Thriplow offers a family-friendly environment with scenic views, including the picturesque River Cam, making it a delightful choice for a relaxing stay.
• Shepreth: Situated 11 km away from the University, Shepreth is an inviting village known for its historic charm and natural beauty. Visitors can explore nearby landmarks such as Sawston Hall and the River Cam, which provides lovely outdoor scenery. This area is well-suited for those who appreciate a blend of culture and tranquility, making it a pleasant retreat from the busier city life.

10 tips to save on your car hire around University of Cambridge

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're after an SUV for extra room, a convertible for those sunny days, or an economical 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 wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to access lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, 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—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well; just remember to return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, although this could be justified by the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payments.
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’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car around University of Cambridge

The best value period to rent a car around the University of Cambridge is February, when prices tend to be slightly low and demand is average. Following closely, January also offers similar advantages with its manageable demand. April and June can be decent shoulder months, as prices remain average while demand dips slightly. However, September becomes the most expensive month, with higher demand and prices, making it a less ideal time for renting a vehicle.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	39.2°F (4.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	40.5°F (4.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	43.5°F (6.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly Low
April	47.7°F (8.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
May	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
June	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
July	63.0°F (17.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
August	63.1°F (17.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	59.2°F (15.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
December	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average