South Bank Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around South Bank

Renting a car in South Bank offers significant freedom and flexibility for exploring the neighbourhood and its surroundings at your own pace. It is particularly advantageous for families or those with luggage, as it simplifies travel logistics. You can easily visit nearby attractions like Buckingham Palace, located 2 km away, Big Ben, less than 1 km from South Bank, and Piccadilly Circus, just 1 km away, without the constraints of public transport schedules.

A car also enables convenient access to the wider London area, including the bustling London City Centre, which is less than 1 km away, and further destinations like Canary Wharf, located 6 km from South Bank. Whether you're interested in cultural experiences or city-themed adventures, having a rental car allows you to explore a variety of sights, from the iconic Tower Bridge to the serene Hyde Park. This flexibility enhances your travel experience, making it easier to tailor your itinerary to your interests and preferences while enjoying the convenience of your own vehicle.

Most popular car rentals around South Bank

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice amongst travellers, accommodating up to 5 people along with 3 medium suitcases. This option is particularly ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or small families looking for an efficient way to explore South Bank and its surroundings. With its manoeuvrability and ease of parking, the Compact car allows you to navigate the busy streets of London with ease while providing the flexibility to manage your luggage effortlessly.
• Midsize SUV: For those needing a bit more space, the Midsize SUV is an excellent option that comfortably fits 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is perfect for families, couples, or small groups who wish to enjoy the freedom of road travel while ensuring ample room for passengers and luggage. The Midsize SUV combines practicality with comfort, making it suitable for exploring South Bank and beyond.
• Fullsize SUV: The Fullsize SUV is the ideal choice for larger groups or families, accommodating up to 6 travellers with the capacity for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option provides the ultimate comfort and space, making it perfect for those who appreciate extra room during their travels. Whether you’re heading out for a day trip or simply need to transport more luggage, the Fullsize SUV is well-equipped to meet your needs while exploring South Bank.

Top rated car suppliers around South Bank

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a top choice for many travellers, boasting 5 rental locations, with the nearest being less than 1 km from South Bank. This supplier is particularly popular for its Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, making it a great option for those looking for a versatile vehicle to explore the area. With the flexibility that Alamo provides, you can manage your luggage easily and enjoy your itinerary at your own pace.
• Budget: Budget offers a convenient rental location 3 km away from South Bank, making it easily accessible for tourists. Known for its great value, Budget is favoured for its Compact SUVs and Economy vehicles, providing economical options for those looking to explore the sights without breaking the bank. With Budget, you can expect a straightforward rental experience tailored to your needs.
• Sixt: With 3 rental locations and the nearest being 2 km from South Bank, Sixt is another excellent choice for car rentals. This supplier is popular for its Compact and Midsize SUVs, catering to various travel needs. Sixt is known for its friendly service, ensuring a pleasant experience as you navigate through London and its surroundings at your leisure.

Where to stay around South Bank

• South Bank: This vibrant area is known for its cultural offerings and scenic riverside views. Staying in South Bank places you close to iconic landmarks such as the London Eye and the National Theatre. Enjoy the nearby urban parks and a variety of restaurants, offering diverse dining options suitable for families and culture lovers alike.
• London City Centre: Located less than 1 km from South Bank, the City Centre is a bustling hub for shopping, theatre, and entertainment. Attractions like Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park are within easy reach, making it ideal for family and culture-themed experiences. The area boasts numerous eateries, from fine dining to casual pubs, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
• Canary Wharf: Situated 6 km away from South Bank, Canary Wharf is a modern neighbourhood known for its skyscrapers and vibrant entertainment scene. This area offers theatre and shopping, alongside attractions like One Canada Square and the Museum of London Docklands. With various dining options available, including bars and restaurants, it's a great choice for families and culture enthusiasts looking for a lively atmosphere.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around South Bank

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economical car for budget purposes, 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 advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
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 generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the expense.
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. It's easy to include car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra charges.
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 in and around South Bank

The best value period to rent a car in and around South Bank is February, as it tends to have the lowest prices and demand. March and May can also be good options, with slightly low prices and moderate demand. June through August see average prices but higher demand, particularly in July, which is the busiest month. Meanwhile, December stands out as the most expensive time to rent, with prices rising and demand remaining moderately high.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.5°F (4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	41.7°F (5.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
April	49.5°F (9.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
June	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	64.9°F (18.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	64.6°F (18.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	60.4°F (15.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
October	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	47.1°F (8.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly High
December	42.8°F (6.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly High