We'll be visiting in February 07 and want to rent a car for one day to go out of the city (Windsor, Stonehenge, Bath etc.) Is it a crazy idea for us to do that? Have any of you (from England) rented a car in the US? :o)
2006-10-01 11:16:07 · 9 answers · asked by TAW 1 in Travel ➔ United Kingdom ➔ London
I rented a car in London a few years ago, in order to be able to take some day trips to Stonehenge, Bath, Windsor, Canterbury, Brighton and Rye.
I will NEVER do so again!!!!
On subsequent trips, I bought a BritRail pass for my day trips!
It worked out MUCH more conveniently!
Most towns/cities have train stations in their center. Of your list, the exception is Stonehenge. However, the train goes to Salisbury
Enjoy!!!
2006-10-02 00:21:42 · answer #1 · answered by catherine02116 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is easy to rent a car in UK. You do not need an International Drivers Permit (sometimes incorrectly called a licence). The IDO is just a translation of your licence.
It doesn't take long to collect the car -- especially if you have prebooked it through the web.
It is a crazy idea to think you can visit Windsor, Bath and Stonehenge in one day.
Remember the cost of fuel is considerably higher than you may in the US, that only the more expensive rental cars are automatics and that apart from Stonehenge, you'll most likley have to pay for parking. An organised coach tour -- they'll be plenty of adverts at your hotel -- may be a much better and cheaper solution.
I have rented cars in the USA many times. Why do you guys drive on the wrong side of the road?
2006-10-02 22:58:13 · answer #2 · answered by Pontac 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It is easier if you are over 25 and currently have car insurance. I agree with everone else about the whole Left side is difficult thing, also most European cars are manual, so you have to get used to shifting with your left hand. I also agree about driving in London, we picked up our car at Heathrow and then went out to the country. I also recommend knowing exact routes in and out of any cities you will be visiting Glasgow and all the 1 way streets still gives me bad memories. Although since it is only for the day England has an excelent rail system maybe that would be a possiblity, it might even be cheeper.
2006-10-01 13:19:06 · answer #3 · answered by Emily M 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
don't drive in London itself.
Rentals aren't that much different than anywhere else; many of the larger, corporate outfits may require that you have an International Driver's License, which you can get from Triple-A.
Of course, you drive on the left. It's easy, once you're in the habit - the trick to avoid is making turns, and remembering to go to the left side as you turn and staying there therafter.
2006-10-01 11:57:52 · answer #4 · answered by kent_shakespear 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just as long as you stay OUT of Central London, you will be fine driving. I strongly suggest getting an automatic, so you don't have to worry about shifting. Also, have a co-pilot prepared to keep saying LEFT LEFT in case you look like you are making a wrong decision. Watch out for roundabouts and also I advise AGAINST driving the day you arrive. You will be to jet-lagged to drive well.
2006-10-02 02:39:27 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
It is easy for foreigners to hire a car in Britain as long as you hold an International driving licence. You will have to pay for vehicle insurance when you hire. Insurance can be expensive for people under 25 or been driving less than 3 years
2006-10-01 17:54:41 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Don't rent a car! It will cause you more problems than you need on holiday. Go to http://www.londonvacationguide.com and you can get some good information and also book tours and trips there from their best deals section. Good Luck!
2006-10-02 05:40:39 · answer #7 · answered by dukedrink 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It will take too long for you to pick up the car, get used to driving on the left and then get out of London.
Much better to take a coach tour
http://www.astraltravels.co.uk/uk-london-tours/uk_day_tours.htm
http://www.premiumtours.co.uk/tours/
http://www.goldentours.co.uk/tour.php?376
2006-10-01 11:31:05 · answer #8 · answered by Philip W 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
they'd desire to comprise you as a driving force whilst they lease the motor vehicle. You sign a waiver which you are the only individual making use of the motor vehicle once you lease the vehicle. If there are different drivers,you will desire to comprise them with their call,and in specific circumstances you will desire to pay additional funds ,and in specific circumstances they require the guy's id. ,reckoning on the motor vehicle apartment enterprise. communicate on your mothers and fathers earlier they circulate lease the motor vehicle ,or call the apartment enterprise your self. have exciting !
2016-10-15 10:11:10 · answer #9 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋