Cotswolds Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Cotswolds

Renting a car in the Cotswolds offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this beautiful region at your own pace. This is ideal for those who wish to manage their luggage easily and enjoy flexible travel plans. A rental car allows you to visit key attractions such as Sudeley Castle, located 9 km away, and the Cotswold Countryside Collection, just 5 km from the central area. History enthusiasts can explore the Chedworth Roman Villa, situated 6 km away.

Additionally, having a car makes it convenient to discover nearby cities like Cheltenham, which is 13 km away and boasts attractions like Gloucester Cathedral, or Bourton-on-the-Water, 9 km away, known for The Model Village and the Cotswold Motoring Museum. For those venturing a bit further, Cirencester is 18 km away and features Arlington Row and Cotswold Country Park. Whether you are seeking outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, renting a car enhances your ability to enjoy all that the Cotswolds has to offer.

Most popular car rentals around Cotswolds

• Compact: The most popular choice for travellers in Cotswolds, the Compact car comfortably accommodates up to 5 passengers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, and families, making it perfect for navigating the charming villages and scenic drives of the area. With its efficient size, you can easily explore narrow roads while enjoying the freedom to travel at your own pace.
• Premium: For those seeking a touch of luxury, the Premium car option is highly sought after. It can accommodate up to 5 travellers and hold up to 4 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for business travellers and couples looking for extra comfort. This option provides a refined driving experience, allowing you to travel in style while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Cotswolds.
• Economy: The Economy car option is a great value for budget-conscious travellers. It can carry up to 5 passengers and has space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This type is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, and families who want to explore the Cotswolds without overspending. Its compact size makes it easy to park and manoeuvre around the lovely countryside, ensuring a hassle-free journey.

Top rated car suppliers around Cotswolds

• Enterprise: With a rental location situated 19 km away from the Cotswolds, Enterprise is a popular choice for travellers seeking flexibility during their journey. Known for its diverse range of vehicles, the most booked options include Compact and Economy cars, making it easy to navigate the picturesque landscapes of the region. Renting from Enterprise allows you to manage your luggage effortlessly and tailor your travel itinerary to your preferences.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Located 12 km from the Cotswolds, Thrifty Car Rental offers a premium experience for those looking for a touch of luxury during their trip. The most frequently booked vehicle with Thrifty is a Premium car, providing comfort and style as you explore this charming area. With a convenient location, Thrifty makes it simple to embark on your Cotswolds adventure with ease and confidence.

Where to stay around Cotswolds

• Cheltenham: Located 13 km from Cotswolds, Cheltenham offers a vibrant city experience with outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Key attractions include the historic Sudeley Castle, the magnificent Gloucester Cathedral, and the Cotswold Countryside Collection museum. Visitors can enjoy shopping at local centres and indulge in nearby food options, including distilleries and sweet treats, making it a perfect base for exploring the region.
• Cirencester: Situated 18 km from Cotswolds, Cirencester is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the charming Arlington Row street, relax at the Cotswold Country Park and Beach, or visit the historic Cirencester Church. This city also features shopping centres and delightful distilleries, ensuring a mix of adventure and relaxation for your stay.
• Broadway: Located 18 km from Cotswolds, Broadway is renowned for its scenic beauty and outdoor adventures. Discover the historic Snowshill Manor and Garden, climb the Broadway Tower for panoramic views, or visit the romantic Sudeley Castle. With various recreational areas and golf courses nearby, it’s a wonderful spot for those seeking both culture and adventure in the picturesque Cotswolds.

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 specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance often results in lower prices and better availability, particularly during peak travel 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 strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, 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 rental agreements necessitate 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. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which can be acceptable as well; just ensure you return the vehicle empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, though the added convenience might justify the extra cost.
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 provide peace of mind in case of unexpected events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on lengthy road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra fees.
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 and around Cotswolds

The best value period to rent a car in and around the Cotswolds is February, when prices are moderate and demand is low. Following closely are April and September, which also offer moderately low prices with steady demand. However, August tends to be the most expensive month, with high demand and higher rental rates. June and July also see elevated prices as demand remains strong during these months.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	39.9°F (4.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately Low
March	42.6°F (5.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	46.6°F (8.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately Low
May	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
June	57.6°F (14.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
July	61.5°F (16.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
August	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
September	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Moderately Low
October	51.6°F (10.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
November	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
December	41.2°F (5.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average