Car rental at London Heathrow Airport (LHR)

IATA code:LHR

At London Heathrow Airport

London Heathrow Airport sits 14 mi west of Central London. London Heathrow Airport has 4 terminals: T2, T3, T4 and T5. London is 15 mi away; there is also a metro and a train.

Other airports near London

London has 6 more airports: London Biggin Hill Airport (BQH), London City Airport (LCY), London Gatwick Airport (LGW), London Luton Airport (LTN), London Southend Airport (SEN) and London Stansted Airport (STN). London Biggin Hill Airport takes no scheduled flights.

Renting and driving in United Kingdom

Speed limits 30 / 60 / 70 mph. Alcohol limit 0.8 ‰. Some motorways charge at the barrier, others are free.

What kind of car do you need?

Typical capacity for the category — the exact model is confirmed by the rental company at booking.

  • Economy

    4–5 seats · 1 large bag + 1 small

    City streets and tight parking

  • Standard

    5 seats · 2 large bags + 1 small

    Long drives with full luggage

  • SUV

    5 seats · 3 large bags

    Mountain roads and winter trips

  • Estate

    5 seats · 3 large bags

    Families with a lot of luggage

  • People carrier

    7 seats · 4 large bags

    Groups of six or more

  • Luxury

    5 seats · 2 large bags + 1 small

    Business trips and long motorways

  • Convertible

    4 seats · 2 small bags

    Coastal roads in warm weather

Nearby airports

Other airports in the United Kingdom

Frequently asked questions

Where can I pick up a car in London Heathrow Airport?

At the rental desks in and around London Heathrow Airport. The address and opening hours are shown by the rental company before you book.

United Kingdom: which side of the road do they drive on?

On the left. If you are used to the right, allow yourself a little time at the start — junctions and roundabouts catch people out, not the straight roads.

Which currency will I be charged in?

Prices are usually set in GBP. The rental company sets both the price and the deposit, and shows them before you book.

Can I drive the car into another country?

Sometimes, but only if the rental company allows it, and it often costs extra. Check the terms before you book.

How far is London from the airport?

15 mi.

Do I need an International Driving Permit?

An EU or EEA licence is enough.

What are the speed limits in United Kingdom?

30 mph in towns, 60 mph on open roads, 70 mph on motorways.

Are the motorways tolled?

Some motorways charge at the barrier, others are free.