Best value Heathrow car rental from top brands
Key facts for car rental at London Heathrow Airport
London Heathrow Airport car rental
LHR is the busiest airport in the UK.
Car rental pick up point at Heathrow Airport
Desks are located in all terminals, then you may need to get a shuttle service to collect your car. Where you return your car will depend on which supplier you use.
Petrol stations at Heathrow Airport
There are dozens of petrol stations encircling the airport, so refuelling the car will be easy.
Top car rental tip at Heathrow Airport
Heathrow is an extremely busy airport, so if you are returning a car and then flying, leave yourself extra time to account for queues and delays.
Useful knowledge for Heathrow Airport
There is FREE unlimited Wi-Fi at Heathrow airport, just look out for the “Heathrow Wi-Fi” connection.
Rent a car at London Heathrow Airport
Heathrow Airport is recognised worldwide, and its airlines fly passengers to nearly 180 destinations across the globe.
The airport employs enough people to fill the town of Guildford, and there is even a special ‘posh’ terminal which is intended for only the most important of passengers, such as the British Monarchy. In truly British style, and confirming the population’s love of the beverage, the airport sells nearly 26,000 cups of tea every day!
In a brilliant location if you intend on visiting London, Heathrow is a mere 15 miles from the centre of the city. The airport also has good motorway links to the M25, M4 and M40, so wherever
you need to go, most places are fairly accessible. Major cities like Bristol, Cardiff and Birmingham are all easily accessible by direct motorways.
Top rated suppliers at London Heathrow Airport
Enterprise
Average Rating 8.6 – “The most fabulous staff I have ever come across in a rental place. Thank you and well done to the team!”
Alamo
Average Rating 8.4 – “Their service was absolutely amazing. The staff were extremely helpful and so friendly.”
Avis
Average Rating 8.0 – “The counter staff and the returns guy were very polite and exceptionally helpful. Superb.”
Firefly
Average Rating 8.0 – “Quick, easy process. Car was new and well equipped. A great and value for money process”
Out and about
The big city
As you will probably know, London is one of the most famous cities in the world.
Recognisable through so many of its landmarks, this classy, intoxicating destination is
the second-most visited on the planet.
Centuries-old tradition and modern innovation merge here, producing a timeless place
which is constantly evolving. London’s selection of culture and the arts, green spaces
and skyscrapers will leave you ready to come back for more every time you visit.
Whatever the weather
London is a really pleasant city to visit during summertime – the weather is usually good but not unbearably hot, so it’s a great time to explore. However, the UK capital is also a beautifully picturesque winter destination. Whether there’s snow or just a frosty cloak over the city, the iconic buildings and parks are wonderful to see during the coldest time of year.
Exploring London
A village feel
Most of the time, London doesn’t feel like the largest city in the country. There are so many neighbourhoods with a small-town ambience, you can easily forget that you’re around the corner from tourist giants such as Big Ben and Buckingham Palace.
From Little Venice and Notting Hill to Stoke Newington or Dulwich, it’s really worth taking the time to wander the back streets. Even passages right beside the main tourist drags are often unpredictably quiet and pretty – you’ll be amazed at how quickly the atmosphere changes to a slower and more local vibe if you take the scenic route right behind Oxford Street. Try to find the tiny passageway on the north side that takes you to St Christopher’s Place, it’s quite unique.
Book your Heathrow car hire now
Book car rental by phone
+44 203 3186 960
Local Heathrow knowledge
Tips for renting a car at Heathrow
- Most cars in the UK are manual transmission, so if you want an automatic vehicle ensure
you check this box under ‘car specifications’ when you search. - Make sure you allocate yourself enough time to return the car. When choosing drop off
times, take city traffic into consideration. - If you are renting a car from one of the London airports, think about how much luggage
space you will require in your vehicle. - Book your car rental ahead of time to ensure you get the deal you want. It’s easy to cancel or amend the booking if you change your plans.
- Plan ahead – knowing where you’re going beforehand can mean a less stressful drive in a busy city.
Tourist treats
One of the most powerful buildings in the capital is the Tower of London. This impressive castle holds the spectacular crown jewels, and its tours are legendary. Let the veteran Beefeaters enlighten you with stories of the Tower’s enthralling and dramatic history. Then, meet the entertaining resident ravens and uncover the superstitions that have become associated with them over time. Whilst you are there you must cross the River Thames using London Bridge – an iconic London landmark.
For a frame-worthy selfie, remember to take to Westminster and meet Big Ben. Time it right, and hear it chime on the hour (midday naturally the longest!). Try visiting this area at sunset, and stroll along Westminster Bridge to approach the world renowned landmark. Admire the magnificent clock from a distance, soaring gracefully above the chaos of the city. If you have time, then anyone can seek to enter the Palace of Westminster and watch a live debate in the House of Parliament or the House of Lords for free. Simply use the entrance in Cromwell Green, but be prepared for a good old British queue at busier times.
Q&A
Question: Where do I pick up and return my rental car at Heathrow? Short answer: Car rental desks are located in all Heathrow terminals. After checking in at a desk, you may need to take a shuttle to the car collection area. Return locations vary by supplier, so follow the instructions from your chosen company—your drop-off point will depend on who you book with.
Question: How much time should I allow when returning a car before my flight? Short answer: Heathrow is extremely busy, so plan extra time for queues and possible delays, especially if you need to take a shuttle from the car park back to the terminal. Build in a buffer beyond your usual airport arrival time.
Question: Can I book an automatic car in the UK, and how do I make sure I get one? Short answer: Yes. Most UK cars are manual, so if you want an automatic, select it under “car specifications” when you search to ensure you’re shown automatic options.
Question: Is refuelling near Heathrow easy before I return the car? Short answer: Yes. There are dozens of petrol stations around the airport, making it straightforward to top up before drop-off.
Question: Which car rental companies are top rated at Heathrow? Short answer: The page highlights several well-reviewed suppliers: Enterprise (average rating 8.6), Alamo (8.4), Avis (8.0), and Firefly (8.0), each praised for helpful staff and smooth processes.