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Seamless Edinburgh To London Car Rentals

Start your journey in Edinburgh and responsibly finish in London with a one-way rental

Document required for international visitors
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year(s).

    Notes: EU licence holders not residing in the UK must bring a domestic driving licence and either a passport or ID card. International renters must present proof of inbound travel, proof of return, two proofs of address (dated within three months, electronic copies acceptable), and a DVLA check code or a copy of the driving license (if applicable).

  • Form of ID: A valid physical United Kingdom national photo ID
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Supported credit cards include Visa, Master, AMEX, DinersClub, and Discover. XpCard and DcCard are also supported.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 21 and 80 years old. Young drivers aged 21-26 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 44.89 to US$ 64.10 per day, depending on the rental terms. Some rentals cap young driver fees at US$ 552.52 per rental.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year(s). Accepted documents include Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP), EU Driving Licence, and UK Driving License (with DVLA check code/DVLA endorsement record). An IDP is only a translation and must be accompanied by the original driving licence.

    Notes: EU licence holders not residing in the UK must bring a domestic driving licence and either a passport or ID card. Drivers from outside the EU must possess a valid domestic driving licence with an English translation. If the English translation is not available, additional documents may be required.

  • Form of ID: A valid passport
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Supported credit cards include Visa, Master, AMEX, DinersClub, and Discover. XpCard is also supported.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 21 and 80 years old. Young drivers aged 21-26 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 44.89 to US$ 64.10 per day, depending on the rental terms. Some rentals cap young driver fees at US$ 552.52 per rental.
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One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 164-265US$ 0.00-180.91US$ 267-345Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 206-241US$ 0.00-0.01US$ 433-507Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 222-363US$ 0.00-420.05US$ 294-544Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 180-272US$ 0.00-180.91US$ 279-409Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 122-1657US$ 0.00-420.05US$ 199-2382Large families, groups

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • One-Way Rental Fee: Be aware of additional fees for dropping off the car at a location different from the pickup.
  • Cross-Border Policy: Ensure that the rental allows cross-border travel if going through other countries.
  • Fuel Policy: Verify the fuel policy, ensuring clear understanding on refueling options and potential charges.
  • Rental Duration Restrictions: Understand the minimum or maximum allowed days for one-way rentals as set by the company.
  • Vehicle Return Availability: Confirm the ease of returning the vehicle at the intended location in London.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Book Early: Secure better rates and wider vehicle selection by booking your one-way rental early.
  • Plan Your Stops: Identify key stopping points and driving breaks for a smooth journey.
  • Optimal Start Time: Avoid rush hours and plan a relaxed driving schedule starting in Edinburgh.
  • Contact Rental Support: Learn about after-hours drop-off policies by talking to the support team.
  • Understand Insurance Coverage: Choose adequate coverage and clarify collision or damage waivers in your rental agreement.
  • Carry Necessary Documentation: Ensure you have your license, rental agreement, and any cross-border travel permits.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
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  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Tolls
Gas Stations near Drop-off Locations

Esso - 272 Bath Rd, Harlington, Sipson, Hayes UB3 5AY, United Kingdom

Esso - Southern Perimeter Rd, Stanwell, Hounslow TW6 3PF, United Kingdom

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to improve fuel efficiency.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the car.

Ensure tires are properly inflated.

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Edinburgh Parking

Consider using park-and-ride facilities to avoid high city center parking fees.

Parking in Edinburgh includes options like on-street parking and multi-story car parks. Rates range from £2.50 to £4.50 per hour.

London Parking

Use parking apps to find and reserve spots in advance.

Parking in London can be challenging and expensive, with rates up to £7.00 per hour in central areas.

Recommended Parking Apps

Apps like JustPark and Parkopedia can help users find or book parking in advance.

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Tolls and FasTrak

Ensure you have sufficient cash or a valid payment method for toll booths.

Consider planning your route to avoid toll roads if feasible.

The route includes toll roads such as the M6 Toll. Charges depend on vehicle type and time of travel, typically around £7.00 for cars.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Primary Routes between Edinburgh and London:
The Scenic Countryside Route
Scenic 8 hours 30 minutes

Explore scenic landscapes driving through the British countryside, passing picturesque villages and lush green fields.

York , Peak District National Park , Oxford
The Coastal Route
Historic 10 hours 15 minutes

Delight in the breathtaking views along the rugged British coastline with opportunities to visit historical landmarks.

Whitby , Norfolk Coast , Cambridge
The Direct Highway Route
Efficient 7 hours

Opt for a direct and efficient route using the M1 motorway to reach London quickly.

Leicester , Northampton , Milton Keynes
Road Trip Planning Tips

Vehicle Selection: Choose a car that suits your journey's needs. A fuel-efficient vehicle might be beneficial for long trips like this.

Navigation Preparation: Make sure to have an updated map or GPS system to guide you through the planned routes.

Cost-Effective Bookings: Book car rentals in advance to secure better deals and avoid seasonal price surges.

Time Management: Plan your stops ahead of time to both enjoy scenic locations and arrive at your destination safely.

Road Safety: Familiarize yourself with UK driving laws to ensure a safe driving experience throughout your trip.

Fuel Information: Refuel at reasonable intervals as route segments between towns might have limited facilities.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Finding the right car rental company for a one-way trip from Edinburgh to London is essential to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. Consider these key factors when selecting a provider.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$ExcellentHigh
Enterprise$$$Very GoodExcellent Flexible drop-off policies , Friendly customer service , Availability at major airports and city locations
Avis$$$GoodHigh
Sixt$$HighModerate Luxury vehicle options , Competitive pricing , Simple online reservation system
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Exclusive Features

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Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Rental Car Centers

Rental Center Operating Hours:

Most rental centers in Edinburgh and London operate between 7:00 AM and 11:00 PM.

Locations:

Located at Edinburgh Airport, city centers, and multiple convenient locations in London.

Shuttle Services:

Free shuttle services are offered between terminals and rental car centers at major airports.

Airport Accessibility:

Car rentals are available at both Edinburgh and London airports with clear signage for assistance.

Always check for online deals and use rewards programs for the best rates on one-way car rentals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What car rental companies offer a one-way rental from Edinburgh to London?

Most major car rental companies, such as Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, and Europcar, offer one-way rentals. It's best to check directly with their official websites or customer service for accurate availability.

Are there additional fees for a one-way rental?

Yes, a one-way rental typically incurs a drop-off fee in addition to the standard rental charges. This fee compensates the company for the vehicle's return arrangements.

Can I choose a specific drop-off location in London?

Yes, car rental companies often provide multiple drop-off points in various London locations, including airports and city centers. Confirm available options when booking.

Do I need to refuel the car before returning it?

Rental agreements usually require you to return the car with a full tank of fuel. Verify the fuel policy when collecting the car to avoid additional charges.

What documents are needed to rent a car for this route?

Typically, you will need a valid driver's license, a credit card in the renter's name, and identification, such as a passport. Non-UK residents may require an International Driving Permit.

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