Car Hire From Lerwick

Book Cheap Car Hire in Lerwick

Exploring the rugged, breathtaking landscapes of the Shetland Islands is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and securing the right vehicle from the moment you arrive makes it incredibly straightforward. Whether you live locally in the ZE1 postcode and need a reliable runaround, you are travelling into Lerwick on business, or you have just stepped off the NorthLink ferry at Holmsgarth ready to explore ancient Viking history, arranging a car hire in Lerwick gives you absolute freedom. Instead of relying on rural bus timetables or paying for expensive taxis, a private rental lets you navigate the archipelago exactly on your own terms.

Here at 1st UK Car Rentals, we take the hassle out of finding the perfect vehicle. By comparing live rates from trusted local depots alongside major global providers based right in Lerwick—including renowned local specialists like Bolts Car Hire on North Road and Star Rent-A-Car on Commercial Road—we secure you the best possible deal. Whether you need a compact, fuel-efficient hatchback to weave through the narrow, historic streets around Fort Charlotte, or a sturdy SUV to handle weekend trips up to the dramatic cliffs of Eshaness, our extensive network guarantees a match for your itinerary.

We pride ourselves on offering fully transparent, cheap car hire with absolutely no hidden fees. The price you see when comparing options online is exactly what you pay when you collect your keys at the desk. You can bypass the long waits at the ferry terminal or airport, load up the boot after a trip to the local shops, and immediately hit the A970 with complete confidence, knowing your travel budget is fully protected.

Tailored Car Hire Options Built Around Your Needs

No Credit Card? Easy Debit Card Car Hire in Lerwick

We know that not everyone carries or wants to use a credit card, and we don't think that should stand between you and getting on the road. We can help you arrange straightforward debit card car rental with trusted local depots near the town centre and Sumburgh Airport. As long as your Visa or Mastercard debit card is registered in your name and you meet the standard ID checks, picking up your car is completely smooth. You can enjoy your journey across the Shetland Islands without worrying about credit applications or complex payment rules.

Keep Spending Funds Free with Low & No Deposit Car Hire

We understand that having a massive security deposit held on your card can put a real dent in your travel budget. That’s why we offer low and no deposit car hire options across Lerwick and the surrounding areas. By reducing or removing the heavy pre-authorisation hold at the pickup counter, you keep your hard-earned cash where it belongs—in your bank account, ready to enjoy on dining out at local seafood restaurants, visiting attractions like the Shetland Museum, and treating the family.

Total Peace of Mind with Zero Excess Car Hire

Driving along unfamiliar single-track roads and squeezing past farm vehicles in rural Shetland can sometimes feel a bit nerve-wracking. To help you relax completely behind the wheel, we offer zero excess car hire options that reduce your financial liability to zero. If you happen to pick up a minor scratch from a tight passing place or a small stone chip while exploring the coastal lanes towards Scalloway, you won't face heavy out-of-pocket repair bills. You can simply enjoy your trip with total reassurance from start to finish.

Car Hire for New & Young Drivers Under 25

Finding affordable car hire when you're under 25 or a newly qualified driver can sometimes feel like a challenge, but we are here to make it easy. We partner with rental suppliers who gladly welcome younger drivers, offering well-maintained economy and compact cars that are perfect for building road confidence. We clearly explain any young driver daily surcharges right from the start, so you can get behind the wheel safely and affordably without facing unexpected surprises at the desk.

Senior Drivers Car Hire with No Hidden Age Caps

If you're a senior driver planning a relaxing break in the Northern Isles, you can book with complete confidence through our platform. We strongly believe that age should never be a barrier to getting around, which is why we work with flexible suppliers who offer senior drivers car hire with clear terms and no hidden upper age limits. Whether you're planning scenic drives out towards St Ninian's Isle or visiting local family, you can enjoy a friendly, respectful service tailored to keep you driving comfortably.

Flying In? Nearest Airport & Flexible One-Way Car Rental

If you're arriving in Shetland by air, your primary gateway will be Sumburgh Airport (LSI), located right at the southern tip of the mainland, roughly a 40-minute drive south of Lerwick. Whether you're landing on a Loganair flight from Aberdeen or Edinburgh, picking up a car straight at the airport terminal is incredibly simple, with both Bolts and Star Rent-A-Car operating desks right inside. We also make cross-island travel completely stress-free with our flexible one-way car hire. You can pick up your vehicle at Sumburgh Airport and hand the keys back at the Holmsgarth Ferry Terminal in Lerwick—saving you from making a massive round trip just to drop off your car.

Reliable Local Van Hire in Lerwick

Need something larger than a standard car? Whether you're moving house across the ZE1 postcode, collecting heavy materials for a DIY project, clearing out garage rubbish, or moving stock for your business near Grantfield Garage, we can help you find reliable van hire in Lerwick. From short-wheelbase panel vans for quick runs to spacious commercial vehicles for major moves, we connect you with clean, practical vans that get the job done quickly and easily.

How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Car in Lerwick?

Prices around Lerwick, Scalloway, and Sumburgh go up and down depending on the time of year and what's going on locally. Summer tourists arriving for the incredible wildlife, festival-goers attending the famous Up Helly Aa in January, and local residents all push demand up at different times.

Whether you just need a car for a weekend break or you're looking for long-term car rental in Shetland for a work contract, booking early usually gets you the best monthly or weekly rates.

Lerwick Car Hire Price Guide (Seasonal Averages)

To give you an idea of what to budget, here’s a look at the average daily rates for different types of cars in the local ZE1 postcode area.

Vehicle Type	Typical Provider	Average Daily Rate (Inc. Basic Cover)	Peak Summer Rate	Low Season Estimate
Small City Car (Economy)	Bolts / Star Rent-A-Car	£38.00	£75.00	£32.00
Compact Hatchback	Avis / Europcar	£42.00	£80.00	£35.00
Family Estate Car	Bolts / Avis	£58.00	£110.00	£50.00
Crossover / SUV	Star Rent-A-Car	£78.00	£140.00	£70.00
Executive Saloon	Avis / Local Partners	£88.00	£155.00	£80.00
7-Seater People Carrier (MPV)	Bolts Car Hire	£98.00	£175.00	£90.00
Fully Electric (EV)	Avis / Europcar	£70.00	£130.00	£60.00

Just a quick note: These figures are average estimates to help you plan. Final prices will vary depending on how far in advance you book, how long you need the car for, and what vehicles are actually left on the forecourt.

When to Book Your Lerwick Car Rental for the Best Price

The Shetland Islands get incredibly busy during the peak summer months of June, July, and August when visitors flock to see the puffins and orcas. Due to the remote island location, the total number of rental vehicles available across the archipelago is naturally capped.

Popular cars like small hatchbacks, family estates, and SUVs get snapped up incredibly fast during the peak summer weeks. It’s always a good idea to book at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance. If you leave it to the last minute during the height of summer, you might end up paying a massive premium, or you might find there aren't any cars left at all at the airport or ferry terminal.

Which Hire Car is Right for the Shetland Islands?

The type of car you need really depends on where you plan to go. Squeezing into the tight historic streets of Lerwick is a lot easier in a small car, while packing the family up for a journey across the dramatic, windswept rural roads of the North Mainland might call for a sturdy SUV.

If you’re visiting from abroad or just prefer an easier drive on unfamiliar rural roads, automatic car hire in Lerwick is very popular. An automatic takes the hassle out of constantly changing gears if you find yourself navigating steep coastal hills or frequently stopping in passing places, letting you just focus on the route ahead.

Popular Car Categories and What They're Good For

Vehicle Category	Best Used For near Lerwick	Popular Examples	Why Choose This?
Small Hatchbacks	Town centre driving, navigating narrow single-track lanes.	Fiat 500, Vauxhall Corsa, Ford Fiesta	Really nimble, extremely easy to pull into small passing places, and great on fuel.
Estate Cars	Family days out, carrying camping gear or heavy luggage.	Skoda Octavia Estate, Ford Focus Estate	Loads of boot space for bags and pushchairs, and they drive really comfortably on the A970.
SUVs & Crossovers	Exploring remote rural roads, all-weather driving, feeling a bit safer.	Nissan Juke, Kia Sportage, Ford Kuga	You sit a bit higher up, which helps you see over the landscape, and the suspension handles bumpy roads well.
7-Seater People Carriers	Group trips, big family holidays, taking everyone out to Jarlshof.	Volkswagen Touran, Ford Galaxy	Massive amount of space, and you can fold the seats flat if you need to move bulky luggage.

Where to Pick Up Your Hire Car in Lerwick

Because Lerwick is the central hub for the islands, rental branches are conveniently located right where the major transport links arrive. The local providers are famously efficient, often meeting passengers straight off the ferry.

Provider / Depot	Location / Access	Best Suited For	Key Details
Bolts Car Hire	North Road (ZE1 0NT)	Local residents, town access	The main office is located right in town, offering incredibly fast paperwork and a great fleet.
Star Rent-A-Car	Commercial Road (ZE1 0LX)	City centre visitors	Situated right in the heart of Lerwick, very convenient if you are staying locally.
Holmsgarth Ferry Terminal	Meet & Greet Services	Ferry arrivals	Local firms like Bolts will frequently meet you right off the NorthLink ferry with the keys.
Sumburgh Airport (LSI)	Terminal Building	Fly-drive tourists	Major local and global providers have desks right inside the airport for immediate collection.

Getting to Your Rental Branch

If you are picking up your car in central Lerwick (ZE1):

• Walking from the Ferry: If you arrive via the NorthLink ferry at Holmsgarth, the main depots on North Road are just a short walk away. Many providers will actually meet you in the terminal car park.
• By Bus: If you are travelling from Sumburgh Airport to a town centre depot, the regular Service 6 bus runs directly from the airport terminal into the Lerwick Viking Bus Station.
• By Taxi: There are taxi ranks available at the bus station and ferry terminal. A quick cab ride across the town centre takes just a few minutes.

What Documents Do You Need to Hire a Car in the UK?

When you arrive to pick up your car, the desk staff will need to check a few details for insurance purposes. Having these ready will save you time and stop you from hanging around the rental desk:

• Valid Driving Licence: You’ll need a full, valid photocard licence that you've held for at least 12 months. They won't accept a photo of it on your phone or a photocopy, so make sure you have the physical card. If you’re visiting from abroad, bring your national driving licence (and an International Driving Permit if your licence isn't in English).
• DVLA Check Code (UK Residents): If you hold a UK licence, you need to grab a share code from the GOV.UK website within 21 days of picking up the car. The staff use this to check your penalty points. You just need your licence number, National Insurance number, and postcode to get one.
• Proof of Address: Bring a physical paper document, like a recent utility bill or a bank statement from the last 3 months. The address on it needs to match your driving licence exactly.
• Payment Card: The main driver has to bring a physical payment card in their own name so the depot can hold the security deposit. Most places ask for a credit card, but we can arrange debit card rental options if requested in advance.
• Age Limits: You generally need to be at least 25 to rent a standard car without paying a young driver surcharge.

Understanding Car Hire Insurance and Excess

Insurance jargon can be confusing, but understanding it helps keep your budget safe—especially if you're navigating tight rural single-track roads.

• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): By law, standard UK rental rates include basic CDW. This limits how much you have to pay if the car gets damaged, but you will still have to pay an excess fee.
• The Excess Amount: The excess is the absolute maximum amount you’d have to pay out of your own pocket towards repairs. Depending on the size of the car, this is usually somewhere between £1,000 and £1,500.
• Excess Protection / Super CDW: You can choose to buy extra excess protection at the desk. This lowers your liability to zero (or a very small amount). It adds to the daily cost of the rental, but it gives you total peace of mind on narrow roads.
• Independent Excess Insurance: To save money, you can buy independent excess insurance online before you even pick up the car. If you do this, the rental company will still put a hold on your card for the full excess, but if you do get charged for damage, you can claim the money back from your independent insurer later.

Straightforward Car Hire with 1st UK Car Rentals

Nobody likes turning up to a rental desk only to be hit with extra charges or pushy sales tactics when all they want to do is grab the keys and go.

We've been doing this for over thirty years in the UK, and we believe in keeping things simple. The price you see when you search online is the base price you’ll pay when you pick up the car. We don't hide costs in the fine print, so you know exactly what you're paying and can budget properly for your trip.

If you're planning a long drive across the mainland, keep an eye out for deals that include a free extra driver. It’s a brilliant way to split the driving without having to pay extra daily fees at the desk. We clearly mark these offers on our site so you can find them easily.

We partner with big global names and trusted local companies operating right here in Lerwick. This means you'll pick up a modern, well-maintained car with clear terms from start to finish.

A Few Handy Tips Before You Hit the Road in Lerwick

A few quick tips for renting a car in the Shetland Islands:

• Master the Passing Places: Outside of Lerwick, many roads are single-track. If you see a car coming, pull into a passing place on your left. If the passing place is on your right, stop opposite it and let the oncoming car drive into it. Never park in a passing place.
• Watch for Wildlife: Sheep and Shetland ponies frequently roam completely free across the rural roads. Always adhere to the 60mph limits and drive cautiously, especially around blind bends.
• Fill up before you drop it off: Most rentals require you to bring the car back with a full tank. If you are dropping off at Sumburgh Airport, local providers like Bolts actually operate their own 24/7 automated fuel station right at the airport, making it incredibly convenient to refuel before handing back the keys.

Common Questions About Hiring a Car in Lerwick

Does Lerwick have a Clean Air Zone (CAZ) or LEZ?

No. Lerwick and the Shetland Islands do not operate any Clean Air Zones or Low Emission Zones. You can drive freely across the islands without facing any emissions penalties. The air quality is pristine, and there are no toll roads anywhere on the archipelago.

Do I have to pay extra to add another driver?

Not if you book a deal through 1st UK Car Rentals that specifically includes it. If your deal does not include a free additional driver, most local providers charge a daily surcharge which must be paid at the desk.

Can I use a debit card to hire a car in Shetland?

Most of the big rental branches will ask for a physical credit card in the main driver's name to hold the security deposit. A few local places might accept a debit card, but usually only if you buy their top-tier zero-excess insurance at the desk. Always double-check the payment terms when you're booking online.

Can I hire a car if I'm under 25?

Yes, but there are some strict rules. If you're 25 or over, you can rent almost anything. If you're under 25, you can still hire smaller cars, but you will definitely have to pay a young driver fee every day, and they won't let you rent the premium cars or big SUVs.

Local Travel & Area Information

Exploring Lerwick & the Shetland Islands by Car

As the bustling capital of the Shetland Islands, Lerwick is a spectacularly picturesque port town built on a rich maritime and Norse heritage. Famous globally for its stunning waterfront, the magnificent Up Helly Aa fire festival, and its starring role in the hit TV series Shetland, the ZE1 postcode makes an absolutely brilliant base for exploring the archipelago.

While the town has public transport links connecting the main settlements, relying purely on buses to explore the wider rural county can be incredibly restrictive. Public transport is fine for commuting between Lerwick and Sumburgh, but if you want to head out to the spectacular coastal cliffs of Eshaness, drive to a quiet beach in the North Mainland, or visit the incredible historic brochs scattered across the region, having a rental car makes life a lot simpler. By picking up a car locally right here in Lerwick, you can skip the rigid bus schedules and enjoy the very best parts of Shetland on your own terms.

Why Hiring a Car in Lerwick is the Best Way to Travel

Lugging heavy bags, hiking gear, or camera equipment onto a bus isn't fun, and relying on taxis for long trips outside of the town can quickly get astronomically expensive.

If you're visiting for work and need to get between the local business hubs, the massive logistics and energy sites like Sullom Voe, or out to Scalloway, a hire car is usually the quickest and most private way to travel. It means you can tackle the local business landscape without waiting for a cab to show up.

If you've just stepped off the ferry for a family holiday, you'll probably want to explore the beautiful coastal walks, visit the famous archaeological sites on the outskirts of the town, or take a scenic drive out to St Ninian's Isle. Hiring a roomy estate car or a sturdy SUV means everyone gets a comfortable seat, with plenty of room in the boot for suitcases and waterproofs. You can just throw your gear in the back and set off whenever you’re ready.

Clean Air Zones and Driving Charges

Driving out of Lerwick means you can enjoy some of the most spectacular, uninterrupted driving in the UK.

There are no Clean Air Zones (CAZ) or Low Emission Zones anywhere in Shetland. Furthermore, the passenger cars supplied by our rental partners meet all the latest emissions standards. There are also absolutely no toll roads on the islands, allowing you to explore the local routes freely.

If you plan to visit the outer islands like Yell or Unst, you will need to pay for the inter-island ferries, so ensure you check the local ferry timetables and book your vehicle space in advance during the busy summer months.

Driving in Lerwick: A Quick Local Guide

Driving away from the town centre requires focus, as local traffic can be heavy around the harbour, but you have a massive advantage once you hit the open road.

The Main Roads Around Lerwick

• The A970: This is the massive arterial road that forms the spine of the Shetland Mainland. Heading south takes you straight to Sumburgh Airport, while heading north takes you through the central mainland towards Brae and Hillswick.
• Commercial Street: The historic, incredibly narrow main shopping street in Lerwick. It is heavily pedestrianised and driving down it is generally restricted or best avoided.
• North Road / South Road: The main distributor roads taking traffic into and out of the town centre towards the ferry terminals and the A970.

Traffic and Busy Times

Because Lerwick is the central hub for the islands, the roads around the Holmsgarth Ferry Terminal and Grantfield Garage get busy, particularly when the NorthLink ferry arrives or departs.

Give yourself plenty of extra time if you're trying to navigate through the town centre during the morning (07:30–09:00) and evening (16:30–18:00) commuter rushes. During the winter, always check the local weather forecasts, as high winds and snow can occasionally disrupt travel on the exposed rural routes.

Parking and Electric Vehicle Charging in Lerwick

You won't struggle for parking in the area, though the tight historic centre requires a bit of local knowledge.

Lerwick Parking Facilities

Car Park	Location / Access	Best For	Details
Victoria Pier Car Park	Town Centre	Shopping, dining	A highly convenient surface car park sitting right on the waterfront near the main shops.
Fort Charlotte	City access, history	Historic sites	One of the largest free public parking spaces in the town, located right next to the historic fort.
Holmsgarth Ferry Terminal	North of Town	Ferry passengers	Great if you are parking up to meet arriving passengers or dropping off your rental.

Charging Your Electric Rental Car

If you've hired an EV to reduce your carbon footprint, the charging network in Shetland is surprisingly excellent and growing rapidly.

• Town Centre: You will find fast EV charging bays scattered around the public car parks in Lerwick, including near the ferry terminal and local supermarkets.
• Rural Hubs: If you head out towards Scalloway, Brae, or Sumburgh, you will find rapid chargers located in the community hubs and leisure centres.

10 Great Places to Drive from Lerwick

Picking up your car in the town puts you in a fantastic spot to escape into the wild. Here are ten brilliant places you can drive to:

1. Clickimin Broch

1 mile | About a 5-minute drive

Just a stone's throw from the town centre, this incredible Iron Age stone tower sits beautifully on the edge of Clickimin Loch. It is one of the best-preserved brochs in the UK and completely free to explore.

2. Scalloway and Scalloway Castle

6 miles | About a 15-minute drive

Take a beautiful, short drive west to the ancient capital of Shetland. You can explore the dramatic ruins of the 17th-century castle and visit the fascinating museum dedicated to the WWII 'Shetland Bus' operation.

3. St Ninian's Isle

16 miles | About a 30-minute drive

Drive south down the A970 to witness one of the most spectacular beaches in the world. A massive, sweeping natural sand tombolo connects the mainland to the beautiful St Ninian's Isle, perfect for a dramatic coastal walk.

4. Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement

24 miles | About a 40-minute drive

Head right down to the southern tip of the mainland near Sumburgh. This breathtaking archaeological site spans over 4,000 years of human history, featuring everything from Bronze Age houses to Viking longhouses.

5. Sumburgh Head Lighthouse

25 miles | About a 45-minute drive

Just past Jarlshof sits this spectacular nature reserve. The towering cliffs are one of the most accessible places in the UK to view thousands of nesting puffins during the summer months, and a great spot to look for orcas.

6. Eshaness Cliffs

35 miles | About a 1 hour-drive

Drive north-west to the rugged Northmavine peninsula. The cliffs at Eshaness are absolutely staggering, formed by the sheer volcanic forces of an ancient volcano. The dramatic lighthouse and crashing Atlantic waves make for an unforgettable view.

7. Mousa Broch

14 miles (plus ferry) | About a 30-minute drive

Head south to Sandwick and catch the small passenger ferry over to the island of Mousa. Here you will find the tallest and best-preserved Iron Age broch in the entire world, towering at 13 metres high.

8. Meal Beach, Burra

10 miles | About a 20-minute drive

Take a drive south-west across the bridges linking the Burra isles. Meal Beach is a stunning, sheltered white sand beach boasting crystal clear turquoise waters that look like they belong in the Caribbean.

9. Old Scatness

23 miles | About a 40-minute drive

Located right near Sumburgh Airport, this incredible site was only discovered in 1975. You can walk through an Iron Age broch and village, complete with brilliant living history demonstrations during the summer.

10. Tingwall Valley

5 miles | About a 10-minute drive

Drive just north of Lerwick to the historic heart of Shetland. The Tingwall agricultural valley was once the site of the Norse parliament (the Law Ting Holm) and offers beautiful, serene loch-side scenery.

Things to See Right in Lerwick Town Centre

If you have an hour to spare before hitting the open road, take a moment to explore the sights immediately surrounding the ZE1 area:

• The Shetland Museum and Archives: Located at Hay's Dock, this world-class, free museum tells the incredibly rich story of Shetland from its geological beginnings to the present day.
• Fort Charlotte: A spectacular, five-sided artillery fort right in the middle of town, offering incredible, panoramic views out over Bressay Sound.
• Commercial Street: Known locally as 'Da Street', this winding, historic thoroughfare is packed with brilliant independent boutiques, knitwear shops, and fantastic cafes.
• The Böd of Gremista: Located just north of the town centre, this beautifully restored 18th-century fishing booth offers a fascinating look into the history of the local herring industry.

Compare live car hire deals across Lerwick, Sumburgh Airport, and the wider Shetland Islands with 1st UK Car Rentals, and book your vehicle securely online today.