Hertz car hire in Chelmsford

A wonderful city that offers boutique shopping, beautiful architecture and a thriving arts and culture scene, hire a car in Chelmsford to see it all.

Sitting an hour’s drive away from London, Chelmsford has grown to become more than just part of the London commuter belt, creating a strong identity of its own that’s just waiting to be discovered.

Whether you’re visiting the serene parklands that lie to the south, historic landmarks in the centre or the bustling UK capital located to the west, there’s plenty to see and do while you’re visiting the city and surrounding areas.

Car hire in Chelmsford makes all this possible during your stay. Our selection of vehicles lets you choose the perfect hire car for your trip, whether you’re in Chelmsford for business or pleasure. Make a reservation online and pick up when you arrive to hit the road right away.

Driving in and around Chelmsford

If you’re travelling into Chelmsford by air, it’s simple to reach the city centre. London Stansted Airport is the nearest international facility to the area and is a short 30-minute journey along the A120 and B1008. There’s also London Southend Airport, situated south of the city, which takes just over 30 minutes via the A127 and A130.

Chelmsford is a popular commuter hub for people working in London, meaning traffic can build up during rush hour, so be mindful of this when planning your journeys to and from the city.

The A1016 road is the biggest major road that runs through the city, which can take you to nearby locations like Essex County Cricket Club and Central Park.

If you’re driving within the centre, it’s a good idea to park up and explore the city on foot. The council operates several long stay, short term and mixed stay car parks. They operate on a pay and display basis and are handily located next to many of the main landmarks and points of interest. On-street parking is also available, if you’re planning a short visit, for a maximum stay of two hours.

Speed limits are posted in miles per hour, as you’ll find on all UK roads. Limits within the centre are 30mph (48km/h), unless signposted otherwise. Motorways, such as the A12 that leads towards London, are 70mph (112km/h), however the A13 route that goes into the centre is 40mph (64km/h).

London is likely to be the first port of call if you’re planning a road trip. Depending on the time of day you’re travelling, it takes little over an hour to reach via the A12 and A13 roads. Take care to plan your route, as the London Congestion Charge will be in effect if you’re driving in the centre.

A quick guide to Chelmsford

It’s little wonder that Chelmsford has become such a magnet for those working in London. The relaxed atmosphere and range of cultural and leisure activities makes it a fantastic base from which to experience the city and explore the wider area. Here’s a few highlights to add to your must-see list.

Gardens by royal appointment

The sprawling Hylands Park covers a huge 574 acres of lush parkland, making for an amazing day out for all the family. Within the grounds, you’ll also find Hylands House, a neo-classical building that proudly sits as the centrepiece of the park. It’s been fully restored, and you can wander inside to marvel at the splendour of the interior.

There are equally impressive displays to be found at the RHS Garden Hyde Hall, located just a short 15-minute drive south of Chelmsford. Purchase a ticket to wander the diverse horticultural gardens that lie within the hall.

Visitors can experience everything from the lush greenery of the Robinson & Woodland gardens, the arid wilderness of the Dry Garden and the tranquillity of the Hilltop Garden. RHS shows are frequently hosted here during the spring and summer months.

Immersive city culture

In keeping with the attractive landscapes that surround the city, Chelmsford provides equally stunning views within the centre.

Chelmsford Cathedral is the centrepiece. Go on a journey through the stone staircases that serve the building, admiring the artwork and design on the walls and ceiling as you go, and visit the chapel and nearby grounds.

The city’s culture doesn’t stop there. Chelmsford’s Civic Theatre lies just a short walk away from the cathedral and hosts some familiar names from the worlds of comedy, music and theatre.

Leave the car at one of the nearby car parks and take in a show one evening. Or, if you happen to be in the city during the week, head along to one of the lunchtime concerts that take place most Wednesdays.

Dramatic action

Fancy a day at the races? Travel north to reach Chelmsford City Racecourse, a short 18-minute drive via the A131.

You can witness the heart-pounding horse racing action on selected week nights and weekends, with special events like festivals and family fun days throughout the year. Watch the races from trackside or purchase a ticket for the club to enjoy the first-class restaurant facilities.

There’s plenty of sporting drama happening south of the city too. Essex County Cricket Club play their games at the County Cricket Ground, which is less than a mile’s drive away from the city centre.

While away a summer’s evening by catching a T20 game or spend a relaxing day watching a county championship match.

Explore the best of the city and beyond with car hire in Chelmsford from Hertz. Reserve your hire car online now.