couple in a rental car
couple in a rental car

The best things to do with a hire car in London

 

Hiring a car in London opens a whole world of possibilities! With so much amazing countryside, attractions and scenery within driving distance of the capital, renting a car from London for the day or the weekend lets you escape the fast-paced city life and explore beyond the city – without the need for three tubes, a train and a taxi!

 

Head to the beach

expansive beach

Head to the beach

If the sun has got his hat on this weekend, make a beeline for the beach! Want to find a beach somewhere off the beaten track? Check out our guide to lesser-known beaches near London. We’ve done the research; all you need is a Zipcar and your bucket and spade!

Take a stroll in a nature reserve

Nature reserve reed bed

Take a stroll in a nature reserve

Feeling the urge to get back to nature? There are plenty of stunning parks and nature reserves within driving distance of London. We’ve compiled the best nature reserves within easy reach of north, south, east and west London, so no matter where you pick up you Zipcar, you’ll be in an idyllic naturalistic spot in no time.

Relax in a picturesque pub garden

White Swan pub

Relax in a picturesque pub garden

Beer gardens are as much a part of British culture as afternoon tea and the Queen. Our guide to the most stunning beer gardens on rooftops, beside rivers and nestled in the countryside are the perfect place to catch up with friends or family, and within easy reach of London with your car rental. 

Take the plunge and try wild swimming

wild swimming

Take the plunge and try wild swimming

Ever thought about dipping your toe into the world of wild swimming? Now you can dive right in at any of the tranquil lakes and meandering rivers within driving distance of London. Rent a car early in the morning for a refreshing dip and be back in time for lunch! What a way to start the day. Read our guide to wild swimming near London to choose your swimming spot.

Get lost in the woods

walking in a forest

Get lost in the woods

 

There’s nothing like a walk in the woods to clear the mind and feed the soul. With plenty of gorgeous woodland within driving distance of London, it’s time to lace up your walking boots and hop in a Zipcar. Our guide to the best forests and woodlands near London will tell you where to go.

Explore ancient historic ruins

berkhamsted castle

Explore ancient historic ruins

If you know London’s history inside out, it’s time to venture further to get your fix. With fascinating ancient sites in every direction, you’re only a short drive away from the medieval castles and Roman ruins in our guide.

Tick off some of the top theme parks and attractions nearby

Lions

Tick off some of the top theme parks and attractions nearby

If the dodgems at your local fairground just won’t cut it, the time has come to take on the world-class theme parks and thrilling attractions close to London. Take your pick from our list of top attractions near London, invite your daredevil friends and hop in a hire car.

Enjoy a romantic weekend break

Harpy deck view

Enjoy a romantic weekend break

Ready to get away from it all for the weekend with that special someone? A Zipcar gives you the freedom to enjoy a romantic weekend your way. If you’re searching for the perfect weekend getaway within driving distance of London, we’ve found the most unique and luxurious holiday rentals in the South East.

Wherever you’re going, get there with Zipcar

plugging in phone at the wheel of a zipcar

Wherever you’re going, get there with Zipcar

For spontaneous trips, choose Zipcar Flex, which lets you pick up and drop off anywhere in the Zipzone. If you’re planning ahead, Zipcar Roundtrip lets you pick up from a designated bay and return it again once you’re done.

Why Rent a Zipcar?

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Save money

We pay for fuel, parking, Congestion Charge and insurance – so you get access to a car without all the hassle of owning one!

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Rent a car locally

Zipcars live just around the corner. We've got the largest car sharing fleet in the UK (not that we're boasting) and you'll find us in cities across the UK. 

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Drive on-demand

Whatever you need wheels for, we’ve got them. Rent cars and vans by the minute, hour or day when and where you need them.

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Live greener

We’re the perfect addition to buses, trains and bikes for those times when you just need a car. We've also got hundreds of electric cars in our fleet.