Car Hire in Bedfordshire | Book at Unbeatable Prices

1. How much does it cost to hire a car in Bedfordshire?

The cost of hiring a car in Bedfordshire varies depending on the model of the car and the duration of hire. On average, you could expect to pay between £30 and £70 per day. However, some hire companies offer discounted rates for longer hire periods.

2. What car model is most popular for hire in Bedfordshire?

The most popular car model for hire in Bedfordshire is often a compact hatchback like the Ford Fiesta. This is due in part to Bedfordshire's mix of urban and rural areas, making a compact and efficient car a practical choice.

3. What are the popular locations for car hire in Bedfordshire?

Popular locations for car hire in Bedfordshire include main towns like Bedford, Luton and Dunstable. Also, locations near primary Luton Airport can also be good spots to hire a car.

4. Is there a 24-hour pick-up and drop-off service?

Many car hire companies in Bedfordshire offer 24-hour pick-up and drop-off services. However, this is subject to the specific policies of the individual hire company. It's best to check in advance.

5. Is there a minimum hire period?

The minimum hire period typically depends on the specific car hire company. Some companies have a minimum hire period of one day, while others may require a longer period.

6. What is the minimum age requirement to hire a car in Bedfordshire?

The minimum age requirement to hire a car in Bedfordshire is typically 21 years old. However, drivers under the age of 25 may have to pay a young driver surcharge.

7. What documents do I need to hire or drive a car in Bedfordshire?

When hiring a car in Bedfordshire, you will need your driving licence, proof of address, and a valid credit or debit card for payments.

8. What is the best time of year to visit Bedfordshire by car?

The best time to visit Bedfordshire by car is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and the countryside is in full bloom.

9. What are the main airports in Bedfordshire?

London Luton Airport is the main airport in Bedfordshire, handling millions of passengers each year.

10. Can I pick up the car in one city in Bedfordshire and drop it off in another city?

Yes, most car hire companies in Bedfordshire allow for one-way rentals. However, there might be an additional charge for this service.

1. Luton: Vibrant, multicultural town with a rich industrial history, popular for its annual Carnival.
2. Bedford: The historic county town, with a beautiful riverside view and the famous Bedford Castle.
3. Dunstable: Known for its ancient Priory Church and the beautiful Dunstable Downs.
4. Leighton Buzzard: Charming market town boasts with scenic canal network and the boutique shopping experience.
5. Kempston: A growing town with a strong community spirit and ample recreational activities.
6. Biggleswade: Home to well-preserved Georgian buildings and the Shuttleworth Collection, a unique museum of vintage cars.
7. Houghton Regis: A blend of the old and the new, with historical landmarks juxtaposed against modern architecture.

1. Bedford to London: Approximately 99 kilometres via M1, with a typical drive time of 1.5 hours. The M1 motorway is in good condition and well signposted.
2. Luton to Birmingham: The course stretches for around 126 kilometres via M1, with a driving time of about 2 hours, the M1 route offers a straightforward journey.
3. Leighton Buzzard to Oxford: The trip is roughly 72 kilometres via A418 and Aylesbury, typically takes an hour and a half. The A418 is a quieter but scenic route.
4. Dunstable to Cambridge: Around 63 kilometres via A505, typically completed within 1 hour 20 minutes. The A505 is straightforward, providing a fast link to Cambridge.
5. Barton-le-Clay to Manchester: A distance of about 225 kilometres via M1, taking around 3 hours. The M1 provides a direct route north.
6. Shefford to Norwich: The journey spans around 157 kilometres via A11, with a driving time of approximately 2.5 hours. The A11 takes you directly into the heart of Norwich.
7. Woburn to Bristol: A total of approximately 204 kilometres via M4, usual drive time is about 2.5 hours. The M4 offers a clear, direct route.

1. Woburn Abbey: Stunning historical house featuring a fantastic art collection and serene gardens.
2. ZSL Whipsnade Zoo: Largest zoo in the UK, providing a home to over 3,500 animals.
3. Wrest Park: Beautiful mansion with magnificent landscaped grounds and gardens to explore.
4. Bedford Park: Tranquil Victorian park ideal for picnics, walks and leisure activities.
5. Stockwood Discovery Centre: Museum with interactive exhibitions and beautiful gardens, free admission.
6. Moggerhanger Park: Historic Georgian era parkland and woodland, offering peaceful walks.
7. Houghton House: Ruins of a 17th-century mansion offering picturesque views.
8. Dunstable Downs: Chalk grassland offering various outdoor activities and panoramic views.

1. Bedfordshire Loop: Commence your road journey at Bedford, touring through the quaint parishes of Kempston, Turvey, Ridgmont, and back to Bedford. A charming route of approximately 65km to soak in rural England.
2. Country Park Trail: Drive approximately 45km from Bedford to the Rushmere Country Park in Leighton Buzzard, passing the serene Priory Country Park and Wrest Park on the way.
3. Dunstable Downs Path: A short, scenic drive of around 20km from the heart of Bedfordshire to the stunning chalk grasslands of Dunstable Downs, with stops at Ampthill and Flitwick.
4. Three Counties Link: Explore Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and Hertfordshire in an approximately 110km drive. Start at Biggleswade, pass through Luton, and end in St Albans.
5. Medieval Landmarks Route: Discover the historical aura of Bedfordshire through a 50km route, taking in rich heritage sites from Eaton Bray, Totternhoe, and Luton Hoo.
6. Cathedral Circuit: A religious tour spanning approximately 55km, taking in the majestic churches in Bedfordshire including St Paul's Church in Bedford and All Saints' Church in Leighton Buzzard.
7. Zoo to Castle Track: Drive around 25km from Woburn Safari Park to the crumbling ruins of Houghton House, enjoying the Bedfordshire wildlife and history.

1. What is the speed limit on highways in Bedfordshire?

On motorways and dual carriageways the speed limit is typically 70 mph (112 km/h), while on single carriageways it’s normally 60 mph (97 km/h). In built-up/urban areas, the standard speed limit is 30 mph (48 km/h), unless specified otherwise.

2. Can an international driving licence be used?

Yes, drivers with a valid international driving licence are allowed to drive in the UK for up to 12 months from their last entry into the country.

3. Are there speed cameras in Bedfordshire?

Absolutely, Bedfordshire Police uses speed cameras to monitor and enforce speed limits on the county’s roads, so it’s important to always stick to the posted speed limit.

4. Are service stations easily accessible in Bedfordshire?

Yes, there are a number of service stations across Bedfordshire with stocked shops, petrol stations, and often, restaurants and cafes.

5. What are the rules regarding roundabouts?

At a roundabout, drivers should give way to traffic coming from the right and are expected to indicate their intended exit.

6. Should you pay tolls or dues in Bedfordshire?

No, in Bedfordshire there are no toll roads. However, some bridges and tunnels elsewhere in the UK do charge a fee.

7. What side of the road do you drive on?

In the UK, including Bedfordshire, you drive on the left side of the road.

8. Are the roads in Bedfordshire well-maintained?

Generally, yes. Major highways and roads are usually well-maintained, though some rural roads may be narrow or not in perfect condition.

9. What are the rules on using car horns in Bedfordshire?

You should only use your car horn to warn other road users of your presence in situations of unnecessary danger. It is forbidden to use your horn in a built-up area between 23.30 and 7.00, unless in immediate danger.

10. Can I drive in bus lanes in Bedfordshire?

Most bus lanes operate at peak times during the day, but can be used by cars outside of these times. The specific operating times will be signposted at each bus lane.

11. Are there parking restrictions in Bedfordshire?

Yes, some areas have parking restrictions. Always check for signage and road markings before you park your car.

12. Are there any specific regulations for motorway driving?

Aside from observing speed limits, you should always keep left unless overtaking, and never stop on the hard shoulder except in emergencies.

13. How to deal with emergency vehicles on the roads?

When an emergency vehicle approaches, you should safely move out of its way allowing them to pass, but not by running a red light, speeding or dangerous driving.

14. Is lane splitting allowed in Bedfordshire?

Lane splitting, which is when a car moves between lanes of traffic travelling in the same direction, is not legal in the UK.

15. Are there restrictions for new drivers in Bedfordshire?

New drivers are put on a two-year probation period. If they accumulate six or more penalty points within these two years, their licence will be revoked by the DVLA.