Car Hire in Birmingham
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        About Birmingham

        Birmingham is a city in the West Midlands region of England. With over 1.5 million people, it is the second-largest city in the United Kingdom. Birmingham is an important economic and cultural centre with a strong history in industry, commerce, education and the arts. The city is home to five universities, including the University of Birmingham and several other higher education institutions. Birmingham is also an important centre for the performing arts with a range of theatres, museums and music venues. In addition, the city has a diverse range of communities and cultures and is a significant venue for national and international events. Birmingham is a vibrant and exciting city with something for everyone.
        Birmingham is the fourth most visited city in the UK for people from other countries.

        Basic info and car hire in Birmingham

        • Location: United Kingdom
        • Population: 1.5 million (2019)
        • Official language: English
        • Currency: Pounds Sterling (GBP)
        • Weather: The weather in Birmingham is generally mild, but it can be cold in winter and hot in summer. The average temperature in January is three °C, and the average temperature in July is 22°C. Birmingham usually has about 16 rainy days per year and about 100 hours of sunshine per year. Snow is not common in Birmingham, but it does occur occasionally.
        • Internet coverage: Hotels, bars, restaurants and cafes offer Wi-Fi.
        • Road conditions: Road conditions in Birmingham can vary depending on the year. The roads can be icy in the winter, and it is essential to drive with extra care in these conditions. The streets are generally much drier during the summer but can still be slippery after rain. Overall, road conditions are good if you drive carefully. Traffic in Birmingham can be heavy at rush hour.
        • Car hire in Birmingham: When you hire a car from Orbit Car Hire at Birmingham Airport, you have many options for exploring Birmingham and the UK. With a wide range of vehicles to choose from, you can be sure to find the one that suits your needs and gives you the most benefit on your trip.

         Driving in Birmingham

        Birmingham is a great city to drive in, but there are a few things you should be aware of. First of all, the roads can get very busy during rush hour. It is essential to be mindful of your surroundings and plan your route accordingly. Secondly, finding a parking space can be difficult and quite expensive. If you are looking for a parking space, read the signs carefully and follow the instructions. Finally, remember to drive on the left side of the road! If you take these tips to heart, you should be able to drive to Birmingham without any problems. There is plenty of parking in the city centre. Traffic rules are clear, and roads are well signposted. Locals generally drive correctly and follow the traffic rules. Consider the weather when you are going and be aware of traffic during rush hours.

        • Age limits: The age limit is between 21 and 25, depending on the car rental agency. Many agencies will either charge a young driver fee if you are under this age or not allow you to rent the car.
        • International Driving Permit: Yes, if your driver's license is not identifiable as Driving License, for example, if it is written in a non-Latin alphabet (e.g. Arabic, Chinese, Cyrillic, Japanese).
        • Additional papers: Identification (passport), a valid driver's license, and valid proof of insurance. (It is advisable to take out insurance with the car rental company if your policy does not cover you when driving in the United Kingdom).
        • Additional requirements: Warning triangles, spare wheels and a hands-free kit with hearing aids are required if you are talking on the phone while driving.
        • Children in the car: All vehicle occupants must wear a seat belt. Children under twelve years of age or over 5 feet tall may ride in the front passenger seat.
        • Driving side of the road: Left.
        • Lights: Headlights must be on at all times (day and night).
        • General speed limits: 80 mph / 130 km/h on motorways, 49 mph / 80 km/h on main roads outside built-up areas and 31 mph/50 km/h inside built-up areas.
        • Parking suggestions: Almost all car parks are metered, with the average price per hour being around GBP 1.90/ € 2.20.

        Car Hire in Birmingham

        Most popular car hire at Birmingham

        The most selected hire car in Birmingham is the Fiat 500, with the Ford Fiesta and Kia Stonic also being a popular option. The most popular car types in Birmingham are Mini and Economy car categories. 

        Popular Driving Routes

        Drive your rental car beyond Birmingham

        Do you want to rent a car for a one-way trip? No problem! Orbit Car Hire offers a variety of one-way rentals in many locations outside of Birmingham. A one-way rental is ideal for travelling across town or the country and saves you time by not having to return to your original site.
        As Birmingham is a city in the middle of the UK, it is exciting to travel beyond Birmingham. There are many fascinating cities to drive to with your hired car, such as Coventry, Worcester, Wolverhampton, Derby and many more! With permission of the car hire company you work with, you can even take your rental car to other places like Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales and start your little UK trip. The possibilities are endless!
        Start your reservation with Orbit Car Hire and find excellent options for one way car hire in locations all over the UK.

        Popular day trips from Birmingham

        There are many great day trips you can take from Birmingham, UK. Whether you want to explore a nearby city or admire Birmingham's stunning countryside, there's sure to be a perfect day out. Whatever you are looking for, you will find the ideal day trip from Birmingham.

        Stow-on-the-Wold
        Stow-on-the-Wold, the highest town in the Cotswolds, perches at an impressive 800 feet on Stow Hill and is one of the most famous towns in this picturesque English region. Known for its antique shops and art galleries, Stow-on-the-Wold is the perfect place to find a unique piece for your home. It's an atmospheric market town with the market square at one end, the stocks at the other and lots of authentic stone shops and townhouses. Do not miss the iconic door of St Edward's Church, said to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien's 'Doors of Durin' in The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. The drive to Stow-on-the-Wold takes about one and a half hours.

        Stratford-upon-Avon
        If you are a theatre buff, you must visit William Shakespeare's home town of Stratford-upon-Avon. The main Shakespearean venues are the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and the Swan Theatre, two adjoining establishments on the banks of the River Avon. But there is much more to see, including the 500-year-old Cottage, Shakespeare's half-timbered birthplace, the MAD museum of kinetic artworks and the relaxing canal basin with its colourful canal boats and rowing boats. The drive to Stratford-upon-Avon takes about an hour. 

        Telford
        Telford in Shropshire should also be on your Birmingham road trip hit list. Ironbridge Gorge, south of the city, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been the cradle of the Industrial Revolution in the 18th century. Today there are ten museums here, all housed in authentic warehouses, factories and homes. The Wreckin is a stunning viewpoint five miles out of town that is well worth a hike. It is a volcanic peak older than Mount Everest and has a fantastic view of 17 English counties. The drive to Telford takes about an hour. 

        Royal Leamington Spa
        Royal Leamington Spa is an English spa town in the county of Warwickshire. It is situated on the River Leam, which flows through the town centre. Royal Leamington Spa is home to many historic buildings, including the Pump Rooms built-in 1814. The town also has several parks and gardens, including Jephson Gardens, laid out in 1853. Royal Leamington Spa is a popular tourist destination. Many visitors come to enjoy the town's spa facilities and take advantage of the excellent shopping opportunities.

        What to see in Birmingham

        Are you looking for things to do and see in Birmingham? Whether you want to explore the parks and countryside, taste the incredible range of food and drink, or unwind with a relaxing spa break. There are plenty of fun things to do in Birmingham. Guided tours and visits are always one of the best ways to explore and learn more about the place you are visiting.

        Sarehole Mill
        Sarehole Mill is a working watermill in the Hall Green area of Birmingham. It is now a public museum. The mill was initially built in 1542 but was rebuilt in 1756 and again in 1822. In 1869 the mill was owned by Matthew Boulton and was used for grinding oatmeal and wheat. The mill continued to be used commercially until 1919, when it ceased to operate. It was then used as a private residence until Birmingham City Council acquired it in 1984. The City Council carried out extensive restoration work on the building and opened it to the public in 1987.

        Castle Bromwich Historic Gardens
        Castle Bromwich Historic Gardens are a group of historic gardens in Birmingham. The gardens were laid out in the late 19th century by Charleseena Parnell, daughter of Sir Charles Parnell, as part of his estate. The gardens were laid out in an Italianate style and included several features such as an Italianate garden, a rose garden, a lily pond and a pergola. There are a series of steps and paths leading through the different levels of the garden. Castle Bromwich Historic Gardens is an excellent example of an Edwardian era garden. The gardens were opened to the public in 1896 and remained open until the outbreak of the Great War II. During the war, the gardens were used as allotments and were severely damaged. After the war, the gardens were restored and reopened to the public in 1951.

        Aston Hall
        Aston Hall is a large country house in Aston, Birmingham. The hall was built in 1618 by Sir Thomas Lyttelton. Aston Hall was created as a rural retreat for Sir Thomas Lyttelton and his family. It was also used to entertain guests and as a place for business meetings. In 1649, Aston Hall was the scene of a Royalist plot to free King Charles II from captivity in England. The story was uncovered, and the conspirators were arrested. Aston Hall remained in the Lyttelton family until 1758, when it was sold to Matthew Boulton, a Birmingham manufacturer. Boulton used Aston Hall as a summer residence and for entertaining guests. The interior of Aston Hall is lavish with a great hall, several staterooms and a stunning staircase. In 1817, Aston Hall was purchased by the Birmingham Corporation and opened to the public as a museum.

        The Birmingham Botanical Gardens
        The Birmingham Botanical Gardens are a public botanical garden in Birmingham, United Kingdom. The gardens were opened to the public in 1832 and now cover an area of 12 hectares. The gardens are home to over 11,000 different species of plants and a variety of animals and birds. Visitors to the parks can enjoy a range of activities, including walks and picnics around the beautiful grounds or taking part in one of the many educational events and programmes.

        Birmingham, UK

        Downtown Birmingham

        Where to eat, drink, and party in Birmingham

        If you are looking for an unforgettable culinary experience, Birmingham is the place! Michelin-starred restaurants, stylish independent eateries, street food, the world-famous Balti Triangle, farmers' markets and afternoon teas. The restaurants in Birmingham serve you dishes from all parts of the world. Birmingham has it all, so lick your lips and dive in!

        The Coconut Tree
        This multi-award winning, friends and family-run business brings Birmingham Sri Lankan street food dishes and cocktails. The Coconut Tree's cuisine consists of smaller tapas-style words featuring plants, fish and meat - a menu that naturally has something for everyone.

        Chapter
        The chapter is an independent restaurant whose menu is inspired by nature and seasonal and relies on quality British produce. The chapter is community-focused with all-day dining, weekend brunch and Sunday roasts - it has something for everyone. Visit the Chapter restaurant, bar and terrace for quality flavours and a relaxed atmosphere.

        Varanasi
        Take a trip to the depths of Dubai on Birmingham's Broad Street and be treated like a king or queen while dining in style! Varanasi has taken inspiration from world-famous London eateries Hakassan and Buddha Bar and the luxurious elegance of Dubai. The city's most prominent restaurant welcomes you through a hallway of dreams in a mesmerising three-storey diner with multi-purpose private rooms and three cocktail bars. The menus reflect the restaurant's upscale aura, and a selection of sumptuous dishes have been created through variations on old favourites and new seasonal additions.

        Aria Restaurant at Hyatt Regency Hotel
        Enjoy afternoon tea in the elegant surroundings of the Aria. The luxurious afternoon tea consists of three layers of freshly prepared treats. The top tier of the stall is beautifully presented with a collection of fancies made from the freshest fruits of the season. This season, blackberries take centre stage with delights such as a blackberry ricotta cheesecake and a blackberry frangipane tart. The second tier consists of a selection of open sandwiches with tasty vegetarian and non-vegetarian fillings. The final tier consists of the classic scones, fresh from the oven and generously spread with sweet jam and clotted cream.

        The Loft
        The Loft is located in the heart of Birmingham next to the Birmingham Hippodrome, the Arcadian and a stone's throw from New Street Station. The Loft specialises in premium spirits, cocktails and craft beer. It is accompanied by fresh, delicious, home-cooked food served throughout the week. The award-winning and weatherproof garden is open all year round with extra blankets for those cold winter nights.

        Pennyblacks
        Pennyblacks is a lively, modern bar serving a wide selection of wine, real ale and cider, and a whole range of imaginative cocktails. Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night, there is a live programme from 8 pm DJ, and the biggest sports games are broadcast live.

        My Booking

        What you need to know about renting a car

        faq
        What do I need to rent a car in the United Kingdom?

        credit card in the name of the main driver needs to be presented. A security deposit may be required while renting a car so the credit card must have sufficient funds. You can find details about the security deposit listed while booking the vehicle as well as on your voucher. It is important to have a valid driving license with the name of the main driver as well as additional drivers when it applies. An International Driving Permit is required in addition to a National Driving License if the National Driving License you or any of the Additional Drivers hold is not clearly identifiable as a Driving License, eg, it is in a non-Latin alphabet (eg Arabic, Chinese, Cyrillic, Japanese). It can also depend on the country or car rental company you are renting with. If you have found a car on our website, you can press the rental terms link from the supplier for more information about driving license requirements. You will need to have identification with you such as a passport and ID cards. When you pick up your rental car you need to have your voucher with you.

        How old do I need to be to rent a car in the United Kingdom?

        The minimum age to rent a car is 25 years old and with some suppliers for people over 75 years of age. Young driver surcharges may apply to many car rental companies for people under 25 years of age. This information is visible in the search engine with Orbit Car Hire.

        Do I need car insurance in the UK?

        Insurances are very important when renting a car and can be different between countries. When renting a car in the United Kingdom with Orbit Car Hire the prices will include mandatory insurances in the country.

        Do I need a credit card to rent a car in the United Kingdom?

        In most cases, a credit card is required to be presented in the name of the main driver. A security deposit may be required when renting a car so it is important to have sufficient funds on the credit card. When searching for a car at Orbit you can see credit card requirements from all our suppliers.

        Do I need an international driving license in the UK?

        An International Driving Permit is required in addition to a National Driving License if the National Driving License you or any of the Additional Drivers hold is not clearly identifiable as a Driving License, eg, it is in a non-Latin alphabet (eg Arabic, Chinese, Cyrillic, Japanese). If you have found a car on our website, you can press the rental terms link from the supplier for more information about driving license requirements.

        How do I get the cheapest car in the United Kingdom?

        You can find cheap car hire by comparing prices with all major car rentals at Orbit. A good idea can be to book in advance as the prices can increase closer to the travel period.

        What is the cheapest rental car in the UK?

        You will find the mini car category or economy cars to be the cheapest car categories. Vehicles such as Toyota Yaris and Vauxhall Corsa often provide the best prices. 

        What is the best car rental company in the United Kingdom?

        You may find excellent service provided by companies such as Enterprise Rent a Car, Alamo Rent a Car, National Car Rental, Europcar Rent a Car and Green motion.

        What types and makes of rental car deals can I find in the United Kingdom?

        You will find car types such as mini, economy, compact, Full-Size, and luxury cars. Popular rental cars are Vauxhall Corsa, Ford Focus, Volvo XC 60.

        Does my rental car have unlimited mileage when I book it for the UK?

        Most car rentals in the UK offer unlimited mileage in their offers. 

        Car Hire Locations in Birmingham 1 location(s) found

        Find The Best Car Hire Companies In Birmingham

        • Ace Rent A Car
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        • Europcar
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        • SurPrice