Car rental in Blackburn

Blackburn offers several convenient pickup locations for car rentals, including some near the town centre. The Blackburn town centre itself is a popular spot for guests to collect their hired cars, providing easy access to local amenities and transport links. Many hosts on Turo offer flexible pickup options, with some providing delivery to your location in Blackburn. The area around Blackburn Railway Station is another common pickup point, ideal for those arriving by train. Some hosts may also offer pickup locations near major roads like the M65, facilitating smooth starts to your journey. Remember to communicate with your host on Turo to arrange the most suitable pickup location for your car hire in Blackburn, ensuring a hassle-free start to your exploration of Lancashire and the surrounding areas.

Blackburn and its surrounding Lancashire countryside offer several scenic driving routes for car enthusiasts. The Ribble Valley, just north of Blackburn, provides a picturesque journey through rolling hills and charming villages. Consider exploring the Forest of Bowland, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where winding roads reveal stunning vistas of moorland and valleys. The Trough of Bowland, in particular, offers a dramatic drive through steep-sided valleys. For those seeking coastal views, a drive towards the Fylde Coast can be rewarding. Remember to adjust your driving to the often narrow and sometimes steep country lanes, and be prepared for changeable weather conditions typical of Lancashire.

Driving in Blackburn's variable weather requires preparation and caution. Ensure your hired car is equipped with good quality windscreen wipers and that all lights are functioning properly. It's wise to familiarise yourself with the car's controls, especially the fog lights and demister, before setting out. During rainy periods, reduce your speed and increase the distance between vehicles to allow for longer stopping distances. Be cautious of standing water on roads, which can cause aquaplaning. When visibility is poor, use dipped headlights. It's also advisable to plan your route in advance and check local weather forecasts. Remember, Blackburn's weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for sudden shifts from sunshine to heavy rain.

Blackburn's town centre can present some challenges for drivers unfamiliar with the area. The one-way system in the heart of Blackburn requires careful navigation, so it's advisable to study your route beforehand. Pay attention to bus lanes and restricted access areas, particularly around the Mall Blackburn and the railway station. The town's historic layout means some streets can be narrow, requiring extra caution when manoeuvring. During peak hours, traffic around key junctions like the Whalley Range and Barbara Castle Way can be heavy. Parking can also be tricky in the town centre, so familiarise yourself with the locations of car parks. Always be aware of pedestrians, especially in busy shopping areas and near the university campus.

For exploring Blackburn and its surrounding areas, a versatile car is ideal. A compact or mid-size car offers good manoeuvrability for navigating Blackburn's town centre and parking in potentially tight spaces. However, if you plan to venture into the Lancashire countryside, consider a car with slightly higher ground clearance to handle rural roads comfortably. An automatic transmission can make driving easier, especially if you're not used to UK roads. For longer trips or family outings, a larger vehicle might be more comfortable. If you're environmentally conscious, Blackburn and Lancashire have a growing network of charging points, making electric vehicles a viable option. Whatever your choice, ensure the car hire is equipped with air conditioning for comfort during warmer months.