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Car rental in Bristol

Bristol by car

Bristol straddles the Avon gorge, and the ground tilts hard between the terraces of Clifton and the water below. Older vehicles now pay to enter the core, which pushes a lot of arrivals onto the park-and-ride sites at the edge.

Driving in Bristol

Bristol is reached by M4, M5, M32 and the Portway. Bristol has a low-emission zone, Clean Air Zone: check the sticker rules before driving into the centre. Parking in the centre is paid and marked by zone. Driving through the centre is restricted, so most drivers park on the edge.

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.

Within a day’s drive of Bristol

  • Bath — 18 km
  • Weston-super-Mare — 30 km
  • Cardiff — 41 km

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

Airports serving this city

Other cities in the United Kingdom

Frequently asked questions

Where can I pick up a car in Bristol?

In the city and at the airport — Bristol Airport. Which desk, and whether it sits inside the terminal or a shuttle ride away, is 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.

Is there a low-emission zone in Bristol?

Yes. Bristol has a low-emission zone covering the centre, and cars have to meet its emission rules to drive in. The zone is called Clean Air Zone.

Where do I park in the centre of Bristol?

Parking in the centre is paid and marked by zone.

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.