Leicester Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Leicester

Renting a car in Leicester offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those looking for entertainment-themed experiences. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the National Space Centre, which provides engaging family experiences, and Mallory Park, perfect for adventure and motorsport fans. The Leicester Cathedral also offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Additionally, having a car allows for convenient travel to nearby destinations like Wigston, located 6 km away, where you can find the same attractions, or Braunstone Town, which features the National Space Centre and more. You can navigate through Leicester City Centre seamlessly, visiting sites like the Leicester Town Hall and immersing yourself in local culture. Renting a car makes managing luggage easy and ensures that your travel plans remain flexible, allowing you to make the most of your trip without relying on public transportation.

Most popular car rentals in Leicester

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice among travellers, accommodating up to 5 passengers and offering space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or small families looking for efficiency and ease of movement. Renting a Compact car in Leicester allows for a nimble driving experience, making it easier to navigate through the city and beyond.
• Midsize SUV: For those needing a bit more space, the Midsize SUV is an excellent option. It comfortably seats 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. The added height and space of a Midsize SUV provide a versatile driving experience, perfect for exploring the attractions around Leicester while ensuring everyone travels comfortably.
• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is another great choice for groups of up to 5 people, accommodating up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle is well-suited for couples and families, providing ample room and a sense of security on the road. With its combination of comfort and functionality, the Standard SUV allows for a relaxed journey while discovering the sights in and around Leicester.

Top rated car suppliers in Leicester

• Europcar: Europcar is a popular choice for travellers in Leicester, featuring 1 rental location in the area. Known for its range of vehicles, the most booked options include Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs. Customers appreciate the flexibility and convenience of Europcar, making it an excellent option for exploring Leicester and beyond at your own pace.
• Enterprise: With 3 rental locations in Leicester, Enterprise stands out for its exceptional customer service and diverse vehicle selection. The most popular cars include Premium and Midsize SUVs, catering to both families and individuals. Travellers often highlight the helpful staff and smooth check-in process, ensuring a pleasant rental experience.
• Greenmotion: Greenmotion offers a focused selection with 1 rental location in Leicester, specializing in Compact and Mini vehicles. This supplier is ideal for those looking for economical choices while still enjoying the freedom of a rental car. Customers value the convenience of Greenmotion, making it a great option for navigating Leicester and its surroundings.

Where to stay in and around Leicester

• Leicester City Centre: The vibrant heart of Leicester, the City Centre is ideal for families and culture enthusiasts. With attractions like Leicester Cathedral, which offers a glimpse into the city's rich history, and the National Space Centre, perfect for family outings, there’s much to explore. The area is also known for its bustling theatre scene and music concerts, making it an entertainment hotspot. Numerous dining options and bars are available, making it a convenient base for your stay.
• Loughborough: Located 16 km from Leicester, Loughborough is a delightful city perfect for those seeking a mix of culture and adventure. Attractions such as the historic Loughborough Town Hall and the Great Central Railway cater to culture lovers, while the Donington Park Racing Circuit offers thrills for motor racing enthusiasts. The city's scenic national park enhances the outdoor experience, and a variety of local food and drink options await, including sweet treats and distilleries.
• Enderby: This charming village near Leicester is an excellent choice for outdoor and sports enthusiasts. With attractions like the National Space Centre and Mallory Park for motor racing, Enderby offers a range of activities for adventure seekers. Enjoy the beautiful national park and theme park nearby. The village also features dining options and bars to unwind after a day of exploration, making it a suitable spot for a relaxed stay.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by specifying vehicle type and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, 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. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more economical to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a 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 be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always confirm the age criteria before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements mandate a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which are acceptable as well, but ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but this convenience might justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies accept only credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unforeseen expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Leicester

The best value period to rent a car in and around Leicester is March, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. January also offers a good deal, with slightly low prices and average demand. However, April tends to be the most expensive month, with higher prices and lower demand as the season changes. Following that, May through July sees average prices and demand, while August is the busiest month with higher prices and demand levels.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	39.7°F (4.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
March	42.8°F (6.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	46.8°F (8.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
May	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	57.9°F (14.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
July	61.7°F (16.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
September	57.4°F (14.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
October	51.6°F (10.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
December	40.6°F (4.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly Low