Car rental in Guildford

Guildford offers several convenient pickup locations for car rentals. The town centre is a popular spot, with many hosts on Turo offering their vehicles near the High Street and Guildford Castle. Guests can also find hired cars near the University of Surrey campus, which is ideal for visitors to the university. The Guildford train station area is another prime location, perfect for those arriving by rail. To easily locate these pickup points, guests can use the Turo app or website, filtering results by location in Guildford. The app's map feature allows users to view available rental cars in specific areas of the town, making it simple to find a vehicle that suits their needs. Whether you're exploring Surrey or planning a trip to nearby attractions, Guildford's diverse range of car hire options ensures a smooth start to your journey.

Guildford's surroundings offer delightful scenic routes for exploring the Surrey countryside. The North Downs Way provides a picturesque drive through rolling hills and lush forests. Meandering through charming villages, you'll encounter breathtaking vistas of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Another enchanting option is the route along the River Wey, where you can admire historic locks and tranquil waterways. For a taste of quintessential English countryside, venture towards the Surrey Hills, passing through quaint towns like Shere and Abinger Hammer. These drives showcase the best of Surrey's natural beauty, making a hired car essential for fully appreciating the region's charm and allowing for spontaneous stops at hidden gems along the way.

Navigating Guildford's town centre during peak hours requires some strategic planning. To avoid the worst of the traffic, consider using the park and ride facilities on the outskirts of town. These allow you to park your vehicle and take a quick bus ride into the centre. If you must drive in, familiarise yourself with the one-way system and plan your route in advance. The gyratory system around the town can be confusing for newcomers, so study a map beforehand. Consider timing your trips outside of the busiest periods, typically avoiding rush hours between 7:30-9:30 AM and 4:30-6:30 PM. Utilising real-time traffic apps can help you find alternative routes when congestion builds up. Remember, patience is key when driving in Guildford's historic centre, especially during busy shopping days or events.

For touring the narrow lanes and historic sites around Guildford, compact or mid-size cars are ideal. These vehicles offer a perfect balance of manoeuvrability and comfort, essential for navigating the charming but often tight roads of Surrey. A smaller car like a Ford Fiesta or Nissan Micra would be perfect for squeezing through medieval village streets and finding parking in bustling areas. If you're planning longer trips or need more space, consider a compact SUV like a Kia Sportage, which provides additional comfort without sacrificing agility. For those interested in a touch of luxury while exploring Guildford's historic sites, a BMW 3 Series combines elegance with practicality. Whatever your choice, ensure it's a vehicle you're comfortable driving on potentially narrow, winding roads to fully enjoy your Surrey adventure.

When driving in Surrey, you'll be pleased to know that there are no toll roads within the county itself. However, it's important to be aware of potential charges if your journey takes you beyond Surrey's borders. If you plan to venture into London, you should be mindful of the Congestion Charge and Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) fees that apply in central areas. Additionally, if your travels take you towards the east, the Dartford Crossing, which connects Kent and Essex, does have a charge. It's always wise to check your planned route in advance to avoid any unexpected fees. Within Surrey and around Guildford, you can enjoy toll-free driving on well-maintained roads, allowing you to explore the beautiful countryside and historic towns without additional charges.