City Guide: Renting a Car in London — Don't Do This
Every city has its own rental car quirks. Local traffic patterns, parking costs, toll systems, and airport logistics vary widely, and knowing them in advance saves you time and money.
• Check local toll and parking costs before renting
• Some cities are better explored without a car
• Off airport locations can save 15 to 25 percent
• Factor in congestion charges in European cities
Compare car rental prices now and see how much you can save.
Do Not Drive in Central London
The Congestion Charge costs 15 GBP per day to enter the central zone (roughly everything inside the Circle Line). The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) adds another 12.50 GBP/day if your car does not meet emission standards — and many rental cars do not. That is 27.50 GBP/day just for the privilege of sitting in traffic. The Tube is faster, cheaper, and less stressful.
When a Rental Makes Sense
Rent for day trips outside London: the Cotswolds, Stonehenge, Bath, Oxford, Cambridge, the South Coast. Pick up the car at Heathrow or a suburban location, avoid central London entirely, and explore the countryside. Return the car before heading back into the city.
Left-Side Driving
The UK drives on the left. Roundabouts are everywhere and flow clockwise. Book an automatic transmission — shifting left-handed while driving on the left adds unnecessary complexity. Give yourself extra time and patience for the first hour.
Heathrow vs Gatwick vs Stansted
Heathrow has the best rental selection and prices for the western routes (Cotswolds, Bath, Stonehenge). Gatwick is better for the South Coast (Brighton, Canterbury). Stansted is ideal for Cambridge and East Anglia. Choose your rental airport based on which direction you are heading, not which is cheapest.
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