Car Hire From Preston

Book Cheap Car Hire in Preston

Situated on the north bank of the River Ribble in the heart of Lancashire, the historic guild city of Preston is one of the most accessible transport hubs in North West England. Whether you live locally in the PR1, PR2, or PR5 postcodes and need a temporary replacement vehicle while yours is in the garage, you are stepping off a West Coast Main Line train for business along the M6 corridor, or you are planning a weekend exploring the Forest of Bowland, the Fylde Coast, and the Ribble Valley, hiring a car in Preston gives you the freedom to travel on your own schedule. Rather than relying on regional bus timetables or paying for expensive taxis to reach rural beauty spots, a rental car lets you explore Lancashire and the North West at your own pace.

Here at 1st UK Car Rentals, we are one of the UK's largest independent car rental providers. We make it easy to compare and find the right vehicle for your journey. By checking live rates from trusted local depots alongside national brands based right in the city—including the Enterprise branches on West Strand and Bluebell Way, as well as depots around Ashton-on-Ribble and Walton-le-Dale—we help you secure a great deal. Whether you need a compact hatchback to get around town and park easily near Fishergate, or a spacious family SUV to comfortably handle trips up the M6 towards the Lake District or west along the M55 to the coast, our partner network has options to match your plans.

We focus on clear pricing with no hidden charges. The quote you get when searching online covers what you expect to pay at pickup. You can skip the station taxi queues, load your luggage into the boot, and join the A6, A59, or M6 with confidence, knowing your travel budget is protected.

Tailored Car Hire Options Built Around Your Needs

Debit Card Car Hire in Preston

Not everyone carries or wants to use a credit card, and that shouldn't stop you from getting on the road. We can help you arrange straightforward debit card car rental with trusted local depots in and around Preston. As long as your Visa or Mastercard debit card is registered in your name and you meet standard identification checks, collecting your car is smooth. You can enjoy your journey through Lancashire without worrying about credit checks or complicated payment rules.

Low & No Deposit Car Hire in Preston

A large security deposit held on your card can tie up funds you would rather use during your trip. That is why we offer low and zero deposit car hire options across Preston and the surrounding areas. By keeping the upfront card hold to a minimum, you keep your money in your bank account, ready for dining out, visiting historic country houses, and enjoying days out with family.

Zero Excess Car Hire in Preston

Driving through unfamiliar city streets, navigating multi-lane motorway junctions on the M6, and tackling narrow country lanes across the Ribble Valley can occasionally lead to minor scrapes. Our zero excess car hire packages reduce your financial liability to zero, protecting you from unexpected bills if your rental car picks up a small scratch or stone chip during your journey.

Car Hire for New & Young Drivers Under 25 in Preston

Finding affordable car rental when you are under 25 or recently passed your driving test can sometimes be tricky. We partner with suppliers who welcome younger drivers (typically aged 21 to 24 for smaller and compact car classes). Any applicable young driver daily surcharges are clearly outlined upfront so you can budget accurately before confirming your reservation.

No upper age limits on car rental

If you are a senior driver planning a relaxing break in Lancashire or the North West, you can book through our platform with confidence. We work with flexible car rental suppliers who offer clear terms with no hidden upper age limits. Whether you are driving out to rural gastro pubs or visiting family, you can enjoy a dependable, straightforward service tailored to keep you mobile.

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

If you are arriving by air, Manchester Airport (MAN) is located roughly 45 to 50 minutes south via the M6 and M56, while Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LPL) is around 50 minutes away via the M6 and M57/M62. Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) is accessible around 1 hour 20 minutes to the east. We also provide flexible one-way rentals, letting you pick up a car in Preston and return it to an airport, a major railway terminal, or another depot elsewhere in the UK.

Reliable Local Van Hire in Preston

If you need extra cargo space, we also compare reliable van hire options across the PR1, PR2, and PR5 postcode areas. Whether you are moving house, collecting bulky goods from the trade parks on Roman Way or Millennium City Park, or transporting commercial stock for your business, you can find small panel vans, medium transit vans, and large Luton box vans with tail lifts to suit your needs.

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

Car rental prices in Preston vary based on seasonal demand, local events, and how far in advance you reserve. Summer holidays, bank holiday weekends, and university term dates typically lead to higher demand and tighter vehicle availability.

Whether you need a car for a short weekend break or are looking for long-term car rental in Lancashire, booking early is the best way to secure competitive rates.

Preston Car Hire Price Guide (Seasonal Averages)

Here is a guide to typical daily rental rates across different vehicle categories in the Preston and PR postcode area:

Vehicle Type	Typical Provider	Average Daily Rate (Inc. Basic Cover)	Peak Summer Rate	Low Season Estimate
Small City Car (Economy)	Enterprise / Europcar	£32.00	£60.00	£26.00
Compact Hatchback	Europcar / Avis	£36.00	£66.00	£30.00
Family Estate Car	Enterprise / SIXT	£54.00	£94.00	£46.00
Crossover / SUV	Hertz / Enterprise	£74.00	£126.00	£64.00
Executive Saloon	Avis / SIXT	£82.00	£140.00	£70.00
7-Seater People Carrier (MPV)	Enterprise / Europcar	£90.00	£158.00	£80.00
Fully Electric (EV)	SIXT / Europcar	£64.00	£112.00	£54.00
Large Premium SUV	Hertz / Local	£110.00	£180.00	£95.00

Note: These figures are estimated averages to assist with travel planning. Final rates will depend on booking dates, rental duration, and vehicle availability.

When to Book Your Preston Car Rental for the Best Price

Preston experiences strong demand during the summer months (July and August), bank holiday weekends, and autumn student arrivals for the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan). Because Preston serves as a strategic crossroads for both the Fylde Coast and the Lake District, popular vehicle types like automatic hatchbacks, family estates, and 7-seaters tend to sell out quickly. Booking at least 3 to 4 weeks ahead usually provides the best choice of vehicles and lower daily rates.

Which Hire Car is Right for Lancashire & the North West?

Choosing the right car depends on your planned travel routes. A small hatchback is practical for navigating city centre traffic, popping down to the docks, and parking easily, while an SUV or estate offers extra comfort, ground clearance, and boot space for family trips across the Pennines, the Forest of Bowland, or the Lake District.

If you are visiting from abroad or prefer a relaxed drive in heavier traffic, automatic car hire in Preston is a sensible choice. An automatic helps make driving along the busy M6 corridor and navigating urban ring roads much easier.

Popular Car Categories and What They're Good For

Vehicle Category	Best Used For near Preston	Popular Examples	Why Choose This?
Small Hatchbacks	City driving, station commutes, everyday errands.	Fiat 500, Vauxhall Corsa, Ford Fiesta	Easy to park, nimble in traffic, and economical on fuel.
Estate Cars	Family day trips, carrying luggage, prams, or outdoor gear.	Skoda Octavia Estate, Ford Focus Estate	Large boot capacity while retaining the easy driving feel of a standard car.
SUVs & Crossovers	Trips across Bowland, the Lake District, all-weather driving.	Nissan Juke, Kia Sportage, Ford Kuga	Higher driving position for good road visibility and extra passenger comfort.
Executive Saloons	Business trips to Manchester, Liverpool, or Leeds, corporate meetings.	BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Mercedes C-Class	Comfortable, quiet ride with a smart appearance for business meetings.
7-Seater People Carriers	Group travel, larger families, trips to coastal resorts.	Volkswagen Touran, Ford Galaxy	Practical seating with folding seats for carrying extra luggage.
Electric Vehicles (EVs)	Clean driving around Preston and regional touring.	MG4 EV, Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf	Smooth driving experience and lower running costs.

Where to Pick Up Your Hire Car in Preston

Rental branches in Preston are positioned close to main commercial routes and transport hubs, giving you direct access to the M6, M55, and A59.

Provider / Depot	Location / Access	Best Suited For	Key Details
Enterprise Rent-A-Car	West Strand / Port Way (PR1 8UY)	Docks access, local residents	Located near Preston Marina and the city centre, offering fast connections to the A59.
Enterprise Rent-A-Car	Bluebell Way (PR2 5PZ)	M6 Junction 31A / East Preston	Situated on Millennium City Park, providing immediate access to the motorway network.
Europcar / Local Depots	Ashton-on-Ribble / Blackpool Road	Fylde & M55 drivers	Positioned in the western commercial area with quick access to the A583 towards Blackpool.

Getting to Your Rental Branch

• By Train: Preston Railway Station sits in the city centre on Fishergate, offering frequent high-speed services on the West Coast Main Line between London Euston, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow, and Edinburgh. Taxis from the station rank reach the West Strand depot in about 5 minutes, or Bluebell Way in 10 to 12 minutes.
• By Bus: Preston Bus and Stagecoach Merseyside & South Lancashire operate regular services from Preston Bus Station (Tithemarn Street) connecting across the city, including routes to the Marina, Blackpool Road, and Fulwood.
• By Taxi: Dedicated taxi ranks operate outside Preston Railway Station and at the bus station, making depot collections quick and straightforward.

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

When picking up your rental vehicle, ensure you have the following items ready for the counter staff:

• Valid Driving Licence: A full photocard driving licence held for at least 12 months. Overseas visitors should present their national driving licence along with an International Driving Permit (IDP) if the licence is not in English.
• DVLA Check Code (UK Licence Holders): Generate a share code via the GOV.UK website within 21 days of your pickup date so the rental agent can verify your driving record.
• Proof of Address: A recent utility bill or bank statement dated within the last 3 months, matching the address on your licence.
• Payment Card: A credit or debit card in the main driver's name for the deposit hold and rental payment.
• Age Requirements: Drivers generally need to be at least 25 for standard vehicle categories, though younger drivers aged 21 to 24 can rent select models subject to a daily young driver fee.

Understanding Car Hire Insurance and Excess

Understanding your vehicle protection options ensures you have the right cover for your journey:

• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Standard UK rentals include basic CDW cover by default. This limits your financial liability if the car is damaged, subject to an excess fee.
• The Excess Amount: This is the maximum amount you pay out of pocket before the insurance covers the remainder, typically ranging between £1,000 and £1,500 depending on the vehicle class.
• Excess Protection / Super CDW: You can choose to purchase optional excess reduction products at the counter to lower your liability to zero.
• Independent Excess Insurance: You can buy a standalone excess insurance policy online before your trip. If you do this, the rental provider will still place a pre-authorisation hold on your card, and you can claim back any charged damage costs from your insurer.

Straightforward Car Hire with 1st UK Car Rentals

Nobody likes turning up to a rental desk only to encounter unexpected charges or high-pressure upselling when they want to get on the road.

We are one of the UK's largest independent car rental providers. We believe in keeping vehicle rental clear and simple. The price you see online covers the core cost of your booking so you can plan your travel budget with confidence.

If you are planning longer drives across Lancashire, Yorkshire, or north into Cumbria, look out for deals that include a free additional driver to share driving duties without extra daily fees.

We partner with respected national and local operators around Preston to provide clean, well-maintained cars backed by transparent rental terms.

A Few Handy Tips Before You Hit the Road in Preston

• Motorway Interchanges (M6 / M55 / M61 / M65): Preston is surrounded by major motorway junctions. The Broughton Interchange (M6 Junction 32 / M55) and the Blacow Bridge junctions (M6/M61/M65) can get very busy during morning (07:30–09:00) and evening (16:30–18:30) commuter periods and on Friday afternoons. Follow lane guidance carefully on approaches.
• City Centre Bus Lanes & Fishergate: Preston city centre has strict bus lane and bus gate enforcement, particularly along Fishergate and Corporation Street. Pay close attention to road signs and road markings to avoid camera-enforced penalty charges.
• Clean Air Zones (CAZ): Preston does not operate a Clean Air Zone. If your journey takes you south towards Greater Manchester or Merseyside, standard private passenger hire cars are not subject to daily charging zones in these areas.
• Refuelling Near Depots: Most rentals operate on a "full-to-full" fuel policy. Supermarket filling stations are situated close to the main depots, including Morrisons on Mariners Way (at the Docks), Asda on Fulwood Central, and Sainsbury's at Deepdale.
• Vehicle Condition Check: Take two minutes to walk around the car before leaving the depot. Take photos or a short video on your phone to ensure any existing marks or wheel scuffs are documented on your handover paperwork.

Common Questions About Hiring a Car in Preston

Does Preston have a Clean Air Zone or emissions charge?

No. Preston and Lancashire do not operate a charging Clean Air Zone. You can drive freely through the city centre and into the surrounding countryside without facing daily emissions penalties.

Do I have to pay extra to add another driver?

If you choose a rental deal that includes a free additional driver, there is no extra charge. Otherwise, rental providers charge a daily surcharge (typically £12 to £16 per day) to add another person to the insurance policy.

Can I use a debit card to rent a car in Preston?

Yes. Several rental branches in Preston accept Visa and Mastercard debit cards for payment and security deposit holds, provided the card is in the main driver's name and you meet the supplier's standard identification checks.

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

Yes. Drivers aged 21 to 24 can rent vehicles from economy and compact categories, though a standard daily young driver fee will apply at the rental counter.

Local Travel & Area Information

Exploring Preston, Lancashire & the North West by Car

Located at the meeting point of the coastal plains, the rolling Ribble Valley, and the Pennines, Preston serves as a practical base for exploring the North West. The PR postcodes provide immediate access to the M6, M55, M61, and M65, making it easy to travel north towards Lancaster and the Lake District, west towards the Fylde coast, east into the Ribble Valley and Yorkshire Dales, or south towards Manchester and Liverpool.

While Preston has excellent mainline rail connections, public transport into smaller villages across the Forest of Bowland, regional nature reserves, and coastal estuaries can be limited. Having your own hire car gives you the freedom to visit country pubs, historic halls, and fell walking trails without adhering to bus schedules.

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

Taking heavy luggage, outdoor clothing, or walking gear onto public transport can be inconvenient, and taxis for longer day trips outside the city quickly add up.

If you are visiting for business, a rental car provides an efficient way to travel between meetings in Preston city centre, UCLan, the BAE Systems sites at Warton and Samlesbury, and business parks across the M6 corridor. For family holidays and weekend breaks, a roomy estate or SUV ensures everyone travels comfortably with ample space for luggage and walking equipment.

Clean Air Zones and Driving Charges

Driving around Preston and Lancashire is straightforward, with no local road tolls or clean air charges.

There are no Clean Air Zones in Lancashire. The road network allows you to travel freely between the main towns, coastal resorts, and national parks without incurring road pricing charges.

Driving in Preston: A Quick Local Guide

Main Roads Around Preston

• The M6 Motorway: The primary north-south artery running along the eastern side of Preston, accessed via Junctions 29, 30, 31, 31A, and 32.
• The M55 Motorway: Starting at Junction 32 (Broughton) and heading west directly to Blackpool and the Fylde Coast.
• The M61 Motorway: Branching south-east from the M6 at Junction 30 towards Chorley, Bolton, and Manchester.
• The M65 Motorway: Originating south of Preston near Walton-le-Dale, connecting east to Blackburn, Burnley, and Colne.
• The A59: Running south-west towards Southport and north-east through the Ribble Valley towards Clitheroe and Skipton.
• The A6: The historic spine road running north through Broughton towards Lancaster and south through Bamber Bridge towards Chorley.

Traffic and Peak Travel Times

Traffic on the M6 around Junctions 30 to 32, the A59 at Tickled Trout / Brockholes, and along Ring Way and Blackpool Road can be busy during weekday morning (07:30–09:00) and evening (16:30–18:30) commuter periods. Summer Friday afternoons also see heavy traffic heading towards Blackpool on the M55. Checking live traffic updates before setting off is recommended.

Parking and Electric Vehicle Charging in Preston

Preston features a combination of multi-storey car parks, surface bays managed by Preston City Council, and retail parking.

Local Parking Facilities

Car Park	Location / Access	Best For	Details
Avenham Multi-Storey	Syke Street (PR1 3XA)	City centre, Avenham Park	Multi-storey car park situated within easy walking distance of the high street.
Preston Bus Station Car Park	Tithebarn Street (PR1 1YT)	Shopping, cultural quarter	Iconic brutalist multi-storey car park with direct access to the bus station and shops.
Fishergate Shopping Centre	Fishergate (PR1 8HJ)	Station, retail shopping	Large surface and covered car park located adjacent to Preston Railway Station.

Charging Your Electric Rental Car

If you are driving an electric rental car, charging infrastructure in and around Preston is well developed:

• City & Council Car Parks: Fast public EV chargers (part of the BP Pulse and Pod Point networks) are installed in council car parks and at Preston Bus Station.
• Retail & Trade Parks: Fast and rapid EV chargers are available at Capitol Centre Retail Park (Walton-le-Dale), Deepdale Shopping Park, and Fulwood Central.
• Motorway Services: High-power rapid charging hubs are located nearby at Charnock Richard Services (M6 south) and Lancaster Services (M6 north).

10 Great Places to Drive from Preston

Picking up a rental car in Preston places you in a great position to explore Lancashire and the North West:

1. Forest of Bowland National Landscape & Beacon Fell

12 miles | About a 20-minute drive

Drive north-east into the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Visit Beacon Fell Country Park for panoramic views across the Lancashire plain to Morecambe Bay and walking trails through woodland and moorland.

2. Samlesbury Hall

5 miles | About a 12-minute drive

Take the A59 east to visit this historic half-timbered black-and-white medieval house built in 1325. Explore the Tudor rooms, heritage grounds, and artisan craft shops.

3. Ribble Valley & Clitheroe Castle

18 miles | About a 30-minute drive

Drive north-east along the scenic A59 through the Ribble Valley to the market town of Clitheroe. Visit the 12th-century Norman castle keep, independent food shops, and local wine merchants.

4. Blackpool & The Fylde Coast

18 miles | About a 25-minute drive

Take the M55 west directly to the seaside resort of Blackpool. Explore the famous Blackpool Tower, the Pleasure Beach, three historic piers, and the Illuminations during autumn.

5. Lytham St Annes & Fairhaven Lake

15 miles | About a 25-minute drive

Head west via the A583 to the Victorian seaside town of Lytham St Annes. Walk along Lytham Green to see the restored windmill, visit the sandy beaches, or stroll around Fairhaven Lake.

6. Lancaster Castle & Historic City

22 miles | About a 30-minute drive

Drive north up the M6 to Lancaster. Explore the medieval fortress of Lancaster Castle with its rich judicial history, walk along St George's Quay, and visit Williamson Park with the Ashton Memorial.

7. WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre

16 miles | About a 30-minute drive

Take the A59 south-west towards Burscough to visit this world-renowned wetland reserve, home to thousands of migratory swans, geese, ducks, and otters.

8. Hoghton Tower

6 miles | About a 15-minute drive

Drive south-east via the A675 to this fortified 16th-century Elizabethan manor house set high on a hilltop, famous as the site where King James I reputedly knighted the loin of beef "Sir Loin."

9. The Lake District National Park (Windermere & Kendal)

45 miles | About a 45-minute drive

Follow the M6 straight north into Cumbria to reach the southern gateway of the Lake District. Enjoy scenic boat cruises on Lake Windermere, hill walking, and traditional mountain villages.

10. Manchester & Liverpool City Centres

32 to 35 miles | About a 45-minute drive

Take the M61 south to Manchester for world-class museums, shopping, and football stadiums, or the M6/M58 to Liverpool to explore the historic Royal Albert Dock and Beatles heritage.

Things to See Right in Preston

If you have some time before setting off on your drive, consider exploring these city highlights:

• Avenham and Miller Parks: Beautiful grade II* listed Victorian riverside parks sloping down to the River Ribble, featuring a Japanese rock garden, fountain, and the Pavilion cafe.
• Preston Docks & Marina: Once Europe's largest single inland dock basin, now transformed into a modern waterfront area with walking routes, cafes, and the Ribble Steam Railway.
• Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library: Located on Market Square, a monumental Grade I listed neo-classical building housing fine art, textiles, and local archaeology collections.
• Brockholes Nature Reserve: Located just off M6 Junction 31 on the River Ribble, featuring a floating visitor village, walking trails around restored quarry lakes, and birdwatching hides.

Compare live car hire deals in Preston, Lancashire, and across the North West with 1st UK Car Rentals, and book your rental vehicle securely online today.