Reserve a vehicle
Hire a car in Lancaster with Hertz
Lancaster, sitting snugly in the north-west of England, only a stone’s throw from the coast at Morecambe Bay, is a small city with a grand past. Today, its remarkably well-preserved architecture draws visitors from far and wide. Once, the Romans built a fort here, the Normans a castle and, in the 18th century, it was a major port.
Car hire in Lancaster allows you the freedom to explore the city’s centuries-old history, as well as the natural splendour that lies in each direction – the sea to the west, Forest of Bowland to the east, and the Lake District to the north. Reserve your car before arrival for the quickest getaway – our range of vehicles includes perfect cars for families, couples and solo travellers, whether you’re here for business or leisure.
Pickup locations in Lancaster
- Lancaster Airport (Private Flights Only)
Benefits from day one.
Join 
for free.
- Up to 10% off the base rate on rentals in select countries
Up to 10% discount applies to base rates in the UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and Benelux. 5% applies for the rest of the world. The discount applies to the base rate quoted (excluding taxes and any other charges). It does not apply to affiliated rates or rates that are already discounted.
- Add your spouse as a second driver without an extra fee
- Earn points redeemable toward free rental days and upgrades
Points are earned on per day time and mileage charges only. Free rental days cover base rate (time and mileage) only. Taxes, optional extras and any other fees are excluded. One-car-class upgrade applies to Compact, Intermediate, Standard & Full-size rentals with a maximum upgrade to a Premium. Additional terms and exclusions apply
- Skip the counter and go straight to your car
You can skip the counter once your membership is activated after your first rental. Available at select locations only.
Benefits from day one.
Join 
for free.
- Make travel feel golden with Hertz Gold+
Ready to get more from every drive? Hertz Gold+ is our free loyalty program that turns everyday car rental into rewards. Get instant perks and seamless pickups.
- Skip the line, choose your ride, and go
Skip the rental counter at selected locations – just head to your car and go. At selected US rental locations, you can also choose from a wider selection of cars, including exclusive vehicles for top-tier members.
- Earn points to redeem for free rental days
Earn free rental days with every booking. The more you rent, the faster you unlock elite status.* *Points are earned & redeemed on the base rental rate only. Taxes, fees, & options are excluded. Additional terms apply.
- Share the drive for free
Add your spouse or partner as an additional driver for free.
Lancaster car rental driving guide
Driving in and around Lancaster
Lancaster is a relatively simple place to navigate by car with the M6 motorway close by, which runs south to Preston, Manchester and on to the Midlands, or north to Penrith, Carlisle and the Scottish border.
The A6 main road forms a one-way a loop around the centre of Lancaster, with Lancaster University to the south, and – crossing the meandering River Lune – the Lake District to the north.
The heart of Lancaster is bound by the railway line to the west, and Lancaster Canal to the east, which runs north to south. Inside this area you’ll find Lancaster Castle and Priory Church, the City Museum and most of the main shopping and leisure areas. There is plentiful parking, with car parks handily located close to the cathedral. Charges vary for short and long stay, and you can find an official map of car parks and a tariff online.
Nature lovers are ideally located in Lancaster, with some of England’s most spectacular countryside just a short drive away. The Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty waits to the east, with breathtaking fells and beautiful villages, like Dunsop Bridge – the geographical centre of the UK.
Take the M6 north and you’ll split the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales, with routes available to take you through the heart of both. For the former, leave the M6 at junction 36 and take the A590 or junction 37 and follow the A684. You’ll pass Kendal and then cut right into the Lake District. For the Yorkshire Dales, follow the A684 east and you’ll instantly hit beautiful towns and villages, including Sedburgh, Hawes take junction you can take the A683 east and then join the A65 to skirt the southern edge. Leave the A65 to join the B6255 and you’ll plunge straight through the middle of this handsome area.
Why Hertz?
Reserve direct for our best rate guarantee
Found a lower rent? We’ll match it and give 10% off of that base rate.
Easily modify or cancel reservations
Plans change. Cancel for free up to 2 days before pick-up.
Your world 11,000 locations
Enjoy hassle-free rentals with convenient pick-up locations.
Better journeys with Hertz's premium fleet
A premium fleet for better travel each time.
Popular vehicles to rent
20 MPG 
5 
4 
A quick guide to Lancaster
Lancaster House Hotel
Green Ln, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4GJ
Just a short drive from Hanley and near the Trent & Mersey Canal, this modern hotel offerJust south of the city centre and close to Lancaster University, this upscale hotel offers spacious rooms, a health club with a pool and sauna, and a restaurant that celebrates Lancashire ingredients.
Stanley Lodge Farmhouse
Cockerham Road, Lancaster LA2 0HE
Set amidst Lancashire farmland, this traditional country B&B provides a comfortable and relaxing environment. You can enjoy modern en-suite facilities and a hearty breakfast, all within easy reach of major road networks and local attractions.
The Scarthwaite Hotel
Crook O'Lune, Caton, Lancaster LA2 9HR
Nestled near the scenic Crook O'Lune, this historic country house hotel built in 1858 offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine. You can enjoy the tranquil surroundings and easy access to the Forest of Bowland and Lake District.
Quite Simply French
27A St George’s Quay, Lancaster LA1 1RD
This riverside gem delivers elegant French-inspired cuisine using Lancashire produce. You’ll enjoy a rotating menu of fine dishes - from duck confit to delicate fish plates.
Marula Monkey
25 Sun Street, Lancaster LA1 1EW
Located in the city centre, Marula Monkey offers a unique dining experience with a focus on global cuisine. You can indulge in a variety of dishes that blend international flavours.
The Whale Tail Café
78A Penny Street, Lancaster LA1 1XN
A cosy upstairs vegetarian café tucked just off the main high street, The Whale Tail serves wholesome breakfasts, hearty mains, and fresh bakes. You’ll love the warm atmosphere and ethical focus, perfect for a quiet, satisfying meal.
Lancaster Castle
Castle Hill, Lancaster LA1 1YN
Towering over the city, this former prison and royal stronghold has over 1,000 years of history. You can take a guided tour through its medieval halls, see one of the UK’s oldest courtrooms, and enjoy panoramic views.
Williamson Park & Ashton Memorial
Quernmore Road, Lancaster LA1 1UX
Covering 54 acres, Williamson Park features woodlands, paths, and the striking Ashton Memorial — a domed Edwardian structure with views across Morecambe Bay. You can also visit the park’s butterfly house and mini zoo for a family-friendly day out.
Judges’ Lodgings Museum
Church Street, Lancaster LA1 1YS
Step into Lancaster’s Georgian past at this well-preserved house once home to circuit judges. You’ll explore period rooms, learn about the city’s legal history, and see a fascinating collection of Gillow furniture crafted in Lancaster.
FAQs about car hire
Do I need to make a reservation in advance for a Hertz car rental in Lancaster?
Do I need a driving permit to hire a car from Lancaster?
Can I pick up a rental car in Lancaster and return it to a different city in the USA?
What is the best time to book a rental car in Lancaster?
Are there any restrictions on taking a rental car outside Lancaster?
Will I be penalised for a late return on a car hire in Lancaster?
What are the age requirements for hiring a car in Lancaster?
Can I pick up my Hertz rental in Lancaster and drop it off elsewhere?
What additional insurance options does Hertz offer in Lancaster?
Does Hertz provide child seats for rentals in Lancaster?
Related articles
Tranquil travels: 5 lakeside escapes in Europe
Nothing says peaceful like a lakeside escape. The gentle lull of the lapping waters, sunbeams dancin...
Delicious drives in the UK: Central Lakes to Lancaster, via Ullswater
On day 3 of my road trip around Cumbria, it was time to think about returning my hire car to Hertz,...
Delicious drives in the UK: Cartmel Peninsula to the Lake District, via Furness
On day 2 of my Delicious Drive with Hertz, I continued along the A590 in my sporty Volvo XC60 to th...
