Car Rental - Preston

Rent a car in Preston to make the most of your time in a city steeped in history, heritage and tradition. Nestled in north-west England, Preston was once a major cotton-producing town at the heart of the Industrial Revolution. Today, this proud young city still has many impressive buildings from that period and is the gateway to many of Lancashire’s top attractions.

Car rental in Preston unlocks an underrated gem of the UK. Once you pick up your Preston car rental, you can easily head into town or drive out and discover the beautiful Lancashire coastline and countryside. Browse our range of vehicles to find the best one for your trip, whether you’re in Preston for business or pleasure.

There are no hidden charges and our best price guarantee also means that, in the unlikely event you find a lower Hertz price, we'll refund the difference.

Reserve Hertz car rental online and explore ‘Proud Preston’ in style.

Behind Preston’s industrial façade you’ll discover a bounty of hidden gems, from leafy Victorian parks to thriving independent restaurants. And that’s before you head out to visit some of Lancashire’s finest historic houses and the beautiful coastline in your Preston car rental.

Walk Through the City’s History

To get a feel for the city and its past, park up your Preston rental car head for the superb Harris Museum and Gallery, housed in an impressive 19th-century building in the city center. Discover collections of fine and decorative art, costumes, textiles, ceramics, glass and photography, as well as displays of local history.

Make your way down to Preston Docks to explore the Ribble Steam Railway, which exhibits a different side of the city’s history. Here you can take a three-mile heritage train ride along the River Ribble and discover 19th century industrial locomotives inside the onsite museum. Whether you’re here on holiday or business, car rentals mean you’re in charge of your own time.

About 20 minutes’ drive from Preston city center is Hoghton Tower, a wonderfully preserved 16th century baronial hall and ancestral home of the de Hoghton family. The grand estate stands high above the surrounding countryside with commanding views of Lancashire, the Lake District and North Wales.

George V, William Shakespeare and Charles Dickens are among the distinguished guests who have been entertained here and you can discover the ornate rooms and manicured gardens yourself on a guided tour.

Head Outdoors

Enjoy an afternoon stroll at Victoria-era Avenham Park, tucked away in the heart of Preston. This urban oasis and natural amphitheater, built during the 1860s, houses exotic plants and a Japanese rock garden from which you can admire views of the River Ribble. The nearby Continental is the perfect place for a pitstop where you can refuel on classic British pub grub.

More natural beauty can be found outside of the city. Take your Preston car rental north to Beacon Fell, on the edge of the Forest of Bowland, where you can amble through woodland and moorland to the summit, which offers sweeping views of Lancashire.

For a blast of sea air, head west towards the coast to visit Formby beach. Park your Preston rental car nearby and wander through a swathe of magical pine trees to reach the sand dunes that form this serene shoreline. Enjoy the views out to sea as you follow the coastal footpaths and stop off for a picnic along the way.

Enjoy a Real British Seaside Holiday

Sitting on the wild and beautiful Lancashire coast is Blackpool, Britain’s most famous seaside resort. It’s just a 30-minute drive from Preston in your rental car. Stroll along the seafront promenade with an ice cream, ride the rollercoasters at the Pleasure Beach and feel the sand between your toes on the Blue Flag beach. Visiting the iconic Blackpool Tower is another must while you’re in town – the views from the top of the 19th century structure are impressive.

For more fun by the sea, journey to Lytham just south of Blackpool. This quaint town is quieter and more upmarket than its lively neighbour, with a wealth of fine dining spots and a premium golf club that has hosted the prestigious Open Championship. Walk along Lytham Green to soak up the atmosphere and gaze at the historic windmill, as well as enjoy views out to sea.

Renting a car in Preston allows you to discover one of Lancashire’s biggest cities, as well as head out to explore the rest of the region.

Driving in and around Preston in your car rental is fairly straightforward. A number of major roads surround the city, including the A59 running from east to west and the A6 running from north to the south.

Pay and display on-street parking is available in the center, though it’s best to use one of the many car parks signposted around the city if you’re staying for more than an hour or two. The Fishergate Centre parking lot is handy if you’re planning on a shopping trip, while Market Hall is best if you’re visiting Preston Guild Hall or the Harris Museum.

Multiple motorways, the British version of freeways, connect Preston to the surrounding area – all easily accessible in your car rental. Take the M6 north to Lancaster to see its ancient castle and you’ll be there in 30 minutes. Continue along this route and you’ll eventually reach the Lake District, an adventurer’s playground with dramatic peaks, glittering lakes and quaint villages.

Whether you’re a shopping fan, soccer lover or music buff, there’s something for everyone in Manchester, which is less than an hour away via the M61. Liverpool, the city of The Beatles, is also a 60-minute journey if you take the M6 and M58.

While in the UK you’ll drive on the left-hand side of the road and all passengers must wear seatbelts. Speed limits here vary according to the road – 70mph on freeways and two-lane highways, 60mph on main roads and 30mph or lower in built-up areas. Wherever you take your Preston rental car, be sure to plan ahead for a smooth journey.