Cotswolds Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Cotswolds

Renting a car in the Cotswolds provides the freedom and flexibility to explore this beautiful region at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it an ideal choice for sightseeing and adventure seekers. You will have the opportunity to visit key attractions such as Sudeley Castle, located 9 km away, and Chedworth Roman Villa, just 6 km from Cotswolds. The nearby Cotswold Countryside Collection is also a mere 5 km away, perfect for culture enthusiasts.

Moreover, a rental car allows you to explore popular destinations such as Cheltenham, 13 km away, where you can discover Gloucester Cathedral and more, or head to Bourton-on-the-Water, located 9 km away, to see The Model Village. For those interested in history, Cirencester, 18 km away, offers sites like Arlington Row and the Cotswold Country Park and Beach. Having a car makes it convenient for families or groups, ensuring you can make the most of your trip in and around the Cotswolds.

Where to stay around Cotswolds

• Cheltenham: Located 13 km from Cotswolds, Cheltenham offers a vibrant city atmosphere with opportunities for outdoor adventure and scenic experiences. Enjoy attractions such as Sudeley Castle, perfect for culture and romance, or the historic Gloucester Cathedral. The city also boasts shopping centres and is home to delightful food and drink options, including local distilleries and sweet treats, making it a fantastic base for your stay.
• Cirencester: Situated 18 km away from Cotswolds, Cirencester is an excellent choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The town features numerous shopping venues and is close to the Cotswold Country Park and Beach, ideal for family outings. Key highlights include Arlington Row, a picturesque street, and the culturally significant Cirencester Church, ensuring a rich experience during your visit.
• Broadway: Also located 18 km from Cotswolds, Broadway is known for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities. This charming town features attractions like Snowshill Manor and Garden, a historic house, and Broadway Tower, a striking landmark. With nearby recreational areas and golf courses, Broadway provides a perfect blend of culture and adventure for your stay.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economy car to keep costs down, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect 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. Booking in advance typically allows you to access lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are usually more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise 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 accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals implement 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 refuelling options, which are acceptable as well; 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 make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek out 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.