Cumbria Car Hire

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Top destinations to hire a car in Cumbria

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Windermere

Windermere

What you need to know for your Cumbria car rental

Reasons to book a car hire in Cumbria

Renting a car in Cumbria is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the county's stunning landscapes and attractions at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you have the freedom to visit iconic sites like Lake Windermere, which offers beautiful scenery and outdoor activities, or hike up Scafell Pike for an adventurous experience. The convenience of a car allows for easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families and groups.

Moreover, you can effortlessly navigate to popular destinations such as Windermere, where you can enjoy the World of Beatrix Potter and Bowness Pier, or venture to Carnforth to explore The Ingleton Waterfalls Trail and Ribblehead Viaduct. The Lake District National Park, encompassing Lake Windermere and Grasmere Lake, is also easily accessible with a rental car. This flexibility is perfect for those seeking an outdoor adventure or a scenic getaway in Cumbria, as you can stop at various sights along the way without being tied to public transport schedules.

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 in Cumbria, Windermere is ideal for those seeking a romantic escape or outdoor adventure. Its proximity to the stunning Lake Windermere offers opportunities for scenic views and outdoor activities. Notable attractions include the World of Beatrix Potter, where culture enthusiasts can delve into beloved stories, and Bowness Pier, perfect for a leisurely stroll. With various restaurants and wineries nearby, Windermere is a delightful place to unwind after a day of exploring.
  • Carnforth: Known for its adventurous spirit, Carnforth is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The Ingleton Waterfalls Trail provides breathtaking views and an exhilarating hiking experience. The historic Ribblehead Viaduct is a must-see for those interested in culture and history. With access to national and state parks, Carnforth is surrounded by natural beauty, making it a great base for exploration. Local pubs and restaurants add to the vibrant community atmosphere.
  • Lake District National Park: The Lake District National Park is a paradise for those who love nature and adventure. Here, visitors can explore stunning landscapes, including Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England, which promises breathtaking views for the adventurous traveller. Grasmere Lake & Rydal Water is also nearby, offering picturesque scenery perfect for a romantic day out. The park's various dining options, including restaurants and breweries, ensure a delightful culinary experience amidst nature.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Cumbria

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for those sunny days, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match 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 in advance, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded 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 types—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 before making your booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may have full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car hire providers exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind if something unexpected occurs during your trip. It's straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on lengthy road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
  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.

Expedia.co.uk offers car hire in Cumbria to meet every traveller's needs. Whether you are looking for cheap cars or cars fit for the stars - Expedia.co.uk has the car hire for you. So choose from car hire in Cumbria or destinations around the world and discover how easy it is to make your car hire on Expedia.co.uk.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Cumbria car reservation?
When you cancel at least six hours prior to picking up the car, most prepaid bookings offer a complete refund. However, not all are eligible for this, so it's important to familiarise yourself with your hire agreement. Check your itinerary for the details or visit our Customer Service Portal to find out more.
What types of cars can I rent in Cumbria?
Affordability, ease of parking and terrific mileage are among the reasons compact vehicles are the number one pick in Cumbria. Their smaller size makes them perfect for getting around the city. They're a great option for couples, solo adventurers and those on a budget. Of course, how you get around is your call! Go even smaller with a mini or economy, or get more legroom with a full-size or an intermediate. Looking for luxury? You'll like our premium options.
How do I find the best car hire deals in Cumbria with Expedia?
Whatever kind of ride you want, Expedia will help you find the best deal. Compare the offers from well-known hire providers and pick the option that suits you. Want to drive away with even bigger savings? Bundle your Cumbria car hire with hotel or flight bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Cumbria?
You need to be at least 21. But there are a few age-related requirements to keep in mind before locking in your wheels in Cumbria. If you're a younger driver, many rental outlets will charge an extra daily fee and limit the sorts of vehicles you're able to hire. The precise surcharge, and which ages it applies to, differs between companies. It's always a good idea to compare the requirements.
What do you need to rent a car in Cumbria?
Before you can hop behind the wheel in Cumbria, you'll need a valid driver's license and a credit card in the same name. If you decline to take out the hire company's insurance place, you may also have to provide proof of alternative coverage. Rules can vary, so read the policy terms and conditions before you select a rental supplier.
Can I hire a car for a month or longer in Cumbria?
You can hire a vehicle for a month or longer in Cumbria, so go on and extend your stay! Just enter your trip dates into our long-term car rental deals page and secure your perfect ride.
Where can I find a Cumbria hire car if I am younger than 25?
Some Cumbria providers will rent cars to drivers under 25 years old, and others won't. Age policies differ from supplier to supplier, so you'll have to do some research. Also, find out if there are any additional costs. Some outlets will apply a surcharge to customers between the ages of 21 and 24. Make sure you read through the terms and conditions so you know what to expect.
Why should I rent a Cumbria car with Expedia?
Expedia is the ideal place to book your ride. With multiple suppliers in Cumbria to choose from, we search high and low to bring you awesome deals. Enjoy savings with our exclusive offers and member prices, and earn rewards with every booking. You'll save even more when you bundle your bookings into a Cumbria holiday package. Hire cars, hotels, holiday rentals, activities, flights — Expedia has everything you need in one place. Plus, when you join our free One Key™ loyalty programme, you can earn OneKeyCash™* and use it on eligible hotels, activities, flights and more. *OneKeyCash disclaimer - OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia.

Car Hire Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation