Car Rental London

London is circled by the M25 motorway, a 190km orbital road that loops around the city. Venture beyond the M25 to one of the connecting main roads, and navigate your way through the southern counties of England and beyond.

Unlike other European destinations, you drive on the left side of the road in the UK. Speed limits vary but are clearly signposted, and you’ll need to stick to 112km/h on motorways and dual carriageways, 96km/h on single carriageways and 48km/h in built-up areas.

London has a congestion charge in central areas, running from Euston Road in the north down to New Kent Road in the south. It’s cheaper if you pay in advance, which you can do online via the Transport for London website. The charge applies from Monday – Friday from 7am until 6pm.

Many central roads have cycle lanes or are used frequently by cyclists, so you’ll need to be extra vigilant when turning or changing lanes.

Using the M25 to loop around the city gives you another option to get from one side of London to the other, while avoiding heavy traffic and congestion. The M1 will take you north towards the Midlands and Yorkshire, while the M4 is the best route for Bristol, Bath and Cardiff.

A fast-paced city with a wealth of attractions, thriving nightlife, world-class shopping and timeless landmarks, there are plenty of reasons to keep you coming back to London again and again.

Eat like a king or queen

British cuisine has always been known for its hearty staples, but in recent years a wave of forward-thinking chefs have breathed new life into London’s food scene. You’ll find an option for every mood – from cosy gastropubs to elegant Michelin-starred restaurants.

The diverse cultural mix of London means you can eat your way around the world. Head down to Brick Lane in the east of the city to savour authentic Indian fare. Meanwhile, Camden Market’s cobblestoned street food quarter is the perfect spot for a quick bite before exploring its eclectic range of stalls.

In the evening, you can experience some fine dining at one of the city’s most luxurious and exclusive restaurants. Alain Ducasse at the Dorchester serves French cuisine with flair and finesse.

Opt for the seven-course tasting menu to enjoy dishes such as sauté gourmand of lobster and truffled chicken quenelles from one of the world’s most decorated chefs. Just be sure to make a reservation well in advance.

A mix of old and new

London is a city that knows where it’s going, and is proud of where it’s been. Heritage and history are badges of honour here, yet this vibrant capital always keeps one eye on the future.  

In exclusive South Kensington, you’ll stumble across intriguing contrasts of old and new, at the V&A – or the Victoria and Albert Museum to give the place its official title.

Marvel at multi-coloured medieval artwork, be dazzled by decadent, art deco furnishings and study the finest examples of high-fashion from renowned designers such as Alexander McQueen. With free entry and exclusive paid exhibits throughout the year – this is definitely one to add to your itinerary.

The Natural History Museum has thousands of dinosaur fossils, examples of extinct species plus a variety of other artefacts showing the spectacular diversity of the natural world.

The Science Museum covers everything from rocket technology to the industrial revolution. With exhibits throughout the year focusing on both the cutting-edge and the historic, you’ll be educated and entertained at the same time.

Park up the car, and spend the day exploring all three museums – they’re within walking distance of each other, so you can get your fill of fashion, fossils and fascinating tech.

Putting on a show

Music and theatre go hand in hand in London. Head to the historic West End to take in a show and soak up the electric atmosphere of Theatreland in one of its celebrated venues.

Award-winning classics such as Les Miserables and the Lion King rub shoulders with glittering new productions that will enchant and entertain for an unforgettable experience. Book tickets in advance or take a chance and turn up at the box office on the day for returned tickets offered at discounted rates. You’ll need to be there early to bag the big shows, though.

From Wembley Stadium to the Royal Albert Hall and vast O2 Arena, London boasts iconic music venues that attract the world’s biggest stars. But the city is also home to a wealth of smaller venues where you might just see the next big thing.

Whether it’s jazz, classical, opera, rock or pop, you’re sure to find a performance that makes it a night to remember.

Day trips

For a day trip outside the bustling capital, head for the A23 from central London to begin your adventure. Then turn on to the M23 south to Brighton, to enjoy a seaside town with a twist.

Alongside its pebbled beach and famous pier, Brighton boasts a varied art and music scene as well as a thriving independent shopping scene.

Meander down the twisting alleyways of The Lanes and uncover row after row of quirky and unique shops. After a hard day’s retail therapy, stroll down to the seafront for traditional fish and chips, then skim stones across the sea as it laps at the pebbly beach.

Head west on the M4 and experience the quaint Georgian architecture of Bath. Step inside the ancient Roman bathhouse, and marvel at the ingenuity of the city’s historical occupants.

Then, have a little “you” time and relax at one of the famous luxury spas in the heart of the city. Dive into the warm waters of the open-air pool on the roof of the Thermae Spa – Britain’s only natural thermal spa. Peek through the glass-walled sides to experience breath-taking views across the picturesque city.

Car rental in London is your key to unlocking the very best of the UK capital and beyond.