Rent a Car at Heathrow Airport (LHR)

Convenient Rental Car Pick-Up at Heathrow Airport

Heathrow Airport (IATA: LHR, ICAO: EGLL) is the UK’s busiest international airport and a prime vehicle-rental pickup location. Rental car desks are located within or adjacent to Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5. After arriving, you simply collect your baggage, follow the signs for “Car Hire” and check in at your desk. A shuttle bus will often carry you to the rental lot inside the airport perimeter. With a car rental at Heathrow, you skip waiting for taxis or public transport, and are ready to drive out into London, the countryside, or beyond.

Proximity to Key Destinations

• Central London: Approximately 25 km (about 30–45 minutes) depending on traffic via the M25/A4/M4 corridors.

• Windsor & Legoland: About 22 km (~30 minutes west of the airport) — ideal for families.

• Oxford / Cotswolds region: Roughly 70–80 km (~1.5 hours) northwest — great for scenic drives.

• South East England & Kent coast: Access via M25/M2 approx. 50-90 minutes from Heathrow.

Renting at Heathrow gives you access to London’s city center as well as major UK routes—perfect for business or leisure travel.

About Heathrow Airport (LHR)

Airport Code: IATA: LHR | ICAO: EGLL
Location: Located in Hounslow / Hillingdon, west of London centre.

Facilities & Services

• Multiple terminals (T2, T3, T4, T5) with arrival and departure halls servicing flights worldwide.

• Car hire desks, cafés, duty-free shops, free WiFi, ATMs, and accessible services.

• Clearly marked “Car Hire” signage and dedicated rental-car parking areas inside airport grounds.
  

The infrastructure supports quick transfer from plane to rental car—a major advantage for travellers seeking seamless mobility.

Car Hire at Heathrow Airport (LHR)

On arrival at Heathrow, you’ll proceed to your terminal’s car rental desk (Terminals 2-5). After signing your agreement, a shuttle bus will usually take you from the arrivals area to the rental car park inside the airport complex.

Vehicle return is well organised: you’ll follow the “Car Rental Return” signage, drive into the rental lot, park the car, drop the keys, and then take a short shuttle back to your terminal.
Fuel and toll policy differ per vehicle, so check your booking details. Plan for possible ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) or congestion charges if you drive into Central London.

Transportation Between the Airport and Local Areas

• Driving: Offers the greatest freedom and flexibility—ideal for exploring the UK beyond London.

• Public Transport: Heathrow Express, Elizabeth Line, and buses exist but may restrict luggage or journey freedom.

• Taxi/Ride-share: Convenient but can be expensive and impacted by traffic.

• Best Choice: A rental car at Heathrow is the smartest option if you plan to drive to destinations beyond the airport or around London on your schedule.

Other Features & Travel Tips

• Driving Side: In the UK, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road.

• Speed Limits: Built-up areas ~30 mph (~48 km/h); single carriageways ~60 mph (~96 km/h); motorways ~70 mph (~112 km/h).

• Road Conditions & Parking: Roads are well-maintained. Parking in London is costly and restricted

• Tolls / Charges: Be aware of London’s ULEZ/low-emission zone and Heathrow’s drop-off charges (approx. £ 6/€7).

• Seasonal Advice: Heathrow sees heavy travel demand, especially during holiday periods. Booking ahead via Final Rentals secures better rates.
  

Contact Information

Address: Heathrow Airport (LHR), Hounslow TW6, London, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 (0)344 335 1801 (Heathrow customer service)
Website: https://www.heathrow.com/

How to Book Your Rental Car at Heathrow Airport?

Step 1: Visit the Final Rentals website or mobile app. Select “Heathrow Airport (LHR)” as the pickup location, then choose your pick-up and drop-off dates and times.

Step 2: Choose your vehicle class:

• Economy/Compact Cars: Ideal for London driving or solo trips.

• Mid-Size / Sedans: More space for luggage or passengers.

• SUVs / 4×4s: Great if you plan longer journeys or need extra room.

• Vans / 7-Seaters: Perfect for families or groups.

• Luxury / Premium Cars: Upgrade for stl or business travel.

Step 3: Secure your booking with payment—a valid credit card is required in the driver’s name. Instant confirmation from Final Rentals.

Step 4: Review rental terms—check insurance (CDW, theft protection), fuel policy (full-to-full or same), age requirements (commonly 21+), and driver licence conditions.

Step 5: On arrival at LHR, go to your terminal’s “Car Hire / Car Rental” desks, show your booking confirmation, driver’s licence, and credit card. Inspect the vehicle for damage, sign the agreement, and then drive away. On return, follow return signage, refuel if needed, park in the return lot, drop keys, and proceed to the terminal.

Explore the UK from Heathrow with Ease

With a car rental starting at Heathrow Airport, you gain freedom to drive coast-to-coast, roam vibrant London, or discover countryside towns. Skip public transport constraints, luggage transfers, or taxi waits.

Book your preferred rental car at Heathrow via Final Rentals and start your UK journey from the moment you land—comfortable, flexible, and on your terms.

Ask More About Renting a Vehicle at Heathrow Airport

What documents are required to rent a car at Heathrow Airport?

When you rent a car at Heathrow Airport, you’ll need a valid driver’s licence, a credit card in the main driver’s name for the deposit, and a booking confirmation if you choose to book a car rental at Heathrow Airport online. Non-UK licences may require translation or an International Driving Permit. Always check age and licence-held-period conditions to avoid pickup issues.

Can I book a car rental at Heathrow Airport online ahead of arrival?

You can easily book your car rental at Heathrow Airport online via Final Rentals. Early booking locks in better rates, ensures vehicle availability, and lets you choose pick-up terminal and drop-off conditions. Be sure to review terms like fuel policy, age restrictions, and mileage before confirming your reservation.

Is there a minimum age to rent a car at Heathrow Airport?

For car rental at Heathrow Airport, we require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers aged 21–24 may face a “young driver” surcharge. Some vehicle classes (luxury cars or large vans) may require a minimum age of 25 or more. Check conditions when you book to ensure the vehicle class is available for your age.

Do I need a credit card to rent a car at Heathrow Airport?

A credit card in the main driver’s name is typically required for car rental at Heathrow Airport. It’s used for the security deposit and potential excess charges. We may accept debit cards, but often with restrictions or higher deposit amounts. Using a credit card offers smoother pickup and fewer complications.

Where are the car rental pickup desks at Heathrow Airport?

Car rental desks for Heathrow Airport are located in Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5 within the arrivals halls. After landing, follow the signage for “Car Hire” or “Car Rental” and head to your terminal’s desk. From there, you’ll often take a short shuttle bus to the rental lot. 

What is the fuel policy when renting a car at Heathrow Airport?

Car rental agreements at Heathrow Airport operate on a full-to-full fuel basis: you collect the vehicle with a full tank and return it full. If you don’t refill, you may face hefty refuelling charges. Always check the fuel policy when you book and locate nearby petrol stations in the UK ahead of return.

Can I drop off my rental car at a different location from Heathrow Airport?

One-way rentals are often available when you rent a car at Heathrow Airport. You can pick up at Heathrow and return at a different UK location (with an extra fee). This flexibility is ideal for one-way road trips. Check additional fee terms.

Are there hidden charges when renting a car at Heathrow Airport?

There can be extra costs with car rental at Heathrow Airport, such as young driver surcharges, fuel refilling fees, one-way drop-off costs, or congestion/ULEZ zone charges if driving into London. Always review the rental terms and total cost breakdown.

What driving rules should I know when I rent a car at Heathrow Airport?

When you pick up a rental car at Heathrow Airport, you’ll drive on the left-hand side. Speed limits: 30 mph (48 km/h) in built-up areas, 60 mph (96 km/h) on single carriageways, 70 mph (112 km/h) on motorways. Also check for London’s ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) or congestion charges if you plan to enter central London.

Can I add an additional driver when renting at Heathrow Airport?

Additional drivers can usually be added for car rental at Heathrow Airport. Each must meet the same age and licence conditions. A fee may apply for extra drivers, unless the booking fee includes a free additional driver. Specify the extra driver when booking online to ensure they are covered by the rental agreement.

What types of vehicles are available for car rental at Heathrow Airport?

Through Final Rentals, you can rent economy/compact cars ideal for city driving, midsize sedans for comfort, SUVs or 4×4s for extra space, vans/7-seaters for groups, and luxury/premium cars. Booking early (especially online) gives a better choice.

Where do I return my rental car at Heathrow Airport?

To return your car at Heathrow Airport, follow the “Car Rental Return” signage outside your terminal. Park in the designated rental car lot, hand in keys and paperwork, then take the shuttle or walkway back to your terminal. Always allow extra time, especially in busy travel periods, to avoid missing your flight.

What insurance coverage is included with car rental at Heathrow Airport?

Basic third-party liability is typically included when you rent a car at Heathrow Airport. However, it does not cover damage to the rental vehicle itself. For peace of mind, consider adding Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or theft protection when you book a car rental at Heathrow Airport online. Always check exactly what is covered before driving off.

How far ahead should I book a car rental at Heathrow Airport to get a good rate?

Booking your car rental at Heathrow Airport at least 2–4 weeks in advance is strongly recommended—earlier is better during peak travel times. Rates tend to increase closer to departure, vehicle availability shrinks, and desirable classes may sell out. Online bookings give more favourable pricing and selection.

Are there tolls or congestion charges when driving a rental from Heathrow Airport?