how much do rental cars cost in the UK?

Question

my fiance and i want to hoenymoon in the UK, mostly scotland, but we're not sure how we'd get around! lol. i know there's public trnasportation, but i'm not sure how much it'd cost to rent a car, or to take a train places. we plan on visting ireland, england, and wales briefly during our 2 week honeymoon. any idea on the best way to get around and how much it'd cost?
don't know if this would help me much, but we're from the US.
thanks!! ^-^

Answer 1

Having your own transport would be much more convenient than relying on public transport.

There are regular train and coach services between the major towns and cities but public transport in the UK leaves a lot to be desired. It's not known for being reliable with services often late and sometimes not running at all. Local public transport is even worse and rural areas aren't at all well served. If you're going to Scotland and away from the major population centres then you definiitely need your own transport.

There's many places where you can rent a car from including the big international companies such as Hertz and Avis. These tend to be more expensive than other places but you can make reservations in advance and they have branches in the major airports. For a fairly standard, average sized family saloon you'd be looking at about £300 a week ($600), you could probably get a discount for a two week booking and perhaps be looking at about £500 ($1000). Larger vehicles such as SUV's (we call them four wheel drives over here) and people carriers could be double that price, a small compact car would be about half the price.

You can book in advance over the phone, vie websites or through your local branch. If you turn up and book in person then have your drivers license, passport and credit card to hand.

Some things to check when booking...
- Does the price include VAT (sales tax).
- Is there a mileage limit and if there is how much do you pay if you go beyond the limit.
- Are you liable for an excess and if so how much extra is it to reduce or waive it (CDW).
- Is breakdown cover included, usually it is but some companies charge extra.
- If there's a problem can you go to any branch and exchange the vehicle, normally with the big companies you can.
- Are you restricted to the UK mainland only, you may want to visit some of the islands - especially the Scottish ones.
- Do age restrictions apply, different companies set different rules with 18, 21 or 25 being the usual minimum ages.
- Are there any license restrictions, some companies require the driver(s) to have held a license for x number of years.
- Can you add additional drivers (if applicable) and does it cost extra.

If you go to this website http://www.travelsupermarket.com/travelmerge/travelsearch.aspx?package=6 you only need enter details once and it gives you the deals from lots of different companies.

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My personal recommendation - don't spend too long in any one place, there's lots to see and do in the UK and to get the most from your holiday you'll need to do quite a bit of travelling. London is excellent for history, nightlife, attractions and Scotland is perfect for getting away from it all - the Highlands and Islands are a must see. In Ireland you'll meet the friendliest people imaginable. In fact, anywhere out of the big towns and cities you'll be made warmly welcome.

Best wishes for your wedding and the honeymoon.

Answer 2

I can recommend AllDrive Vehicle Hire for a good price on car rentals.
Good luck with the traveling and congratulations!

Answer 3

www.holidaycars.com