Bath car rentals

Freedom to Explore the Countryside

Renting a car in Bath allows you to comfortably venture beyond the city limits and discover the picturesque countryside of Somerset at your leisure. With your own vehicle, you can easily reach attractions like the Cheddar Gorge, located about an hour's drive away, or the ancient site of Stonehenge, which is roughly a 50-minute journey by car. Enjoy the flexibility to create your own itinerary and explore hidden gems without the constraints of public transport schedules.

Vehicle Inspection and Rental Agreement

Upon collecting your rental car, perform a thorough check for any pre-existing damage. Document any imperfections with photographs and notify the rental agency to prevent any misunderstandings when you return the vehicle. Familiarize yourself with the rental contract, paying close attention to details such as mileage allowances, fuel policies, insurance inclusions, and any additional charges. Ensure you understand the terms for returning the car with a full tank of fuel to avoid extra fees, and always return the car on time to evade late return penalties.

Child Safety Requirements

In the UK, children must use the correct car seat until they are 12 years old or 135 centimeters tall, whichever comes first. When renting a car in Bath, check with the rental agency about the availability of appropriate child seats and whether they can be pre-installed for your convenience. It's essential to comply with these regulations to ensure the safety of young passengers and to adhere to the law.

Navigating Bath and Avoiding Traffic

Bath is a historic city with a compact center, which can be busy and challenging to navigate by car, particularly during peak tourist seasons. To avoid congestion, try to steer clear of rush hour periods in the morning and late afternoon. When driving in the city, be mindful of one-way systems and pedestrianized zones. For a stress-free experience, consider parking your vehicle at a Park and Ride location and using public transport to access the city center.

Cost-Effective Travel

Choosing to rent a car can be a more economical option compared to relying on taxis or tours, especially if you're planning multiple day trips from Bath. With a rental car, you have the convenience of traveling at your own pace and can split costs among your travel group. Most rental vehicles come equipped with navigation systems, making it easier to find your way around the region and to less accessible locations that public transport may not reach.

Convenient Pickup Locations

In Bath, you'll find car rental agencies conveniently located at or near transportation hubs such as the Bath Spa railway station and other central locations. This makes it easy to collect your vehicle upon arrival and start your journey without delay. Choose from a variety of reputable car rental companies that offer a range of vehicles to suit your needs, from compact cars for city driving to larger models for family trips.

Driving in the UK

Remember that in the UK, vehicles drive on the left side of the road, and most rental cars are manual transmission. If you're not comfortable with a stick shift, request an automatic car when making your reservation. Road signs are generally clear, and major routes are well-marked. However, rural lanes can be narrow and winding, so drive cautiously and be prepared for the occasional farm vehicle. Always adhere to the drink-driving laws, which are strictly enforced, and designate a non-drinking driver if necessary.