Car hire in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, United Kingdom

Newcastle upon Tyne, commonly referred to simply as Newcastle, is a vibrant city in the North East of England, known for its iconic bridges, rich industrial heritage, and dynamic arts and nightlife scenes. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, hiring a car in Newcastle gives you the freedom to explore the city and the stunning landscapes of Northumberland and the Scottish Borders at your own pace.

With a hire car, you can travel comfortably through the city and venture out to castles, beaches, and national parks without depending on fixed schedules or public transport.

Choose the right vehicle for your trip to Newcastle

• City cars: Perfect for navigating tight city streets and for easy parking in urban areas.
• Saloon or estate cars: Suitable for longer drives and business travel with added comfort.
• SUVs and MPVs: Ideal for family outings or group travel into rural areas like the North Pennines or the Cheviots.
• Electric or hybrid vehicles: Great for environmentally conscious travellers and urban driving.

Top places to visit in and around Newcastle with a hire car

• Hadrian’s Wall: Explore Roman Britain’s most famous monument just an hour’s drive west of the city.
• Alnwick Castle and Gardens: A stunning day trip north of Newcastle, made famous by the Harry Potter films.
• Tynemouth and Whitley Bay: Enjoy the coastal breeze, charming beaches, and seafood, just 30 minutes away.
• Durham: Visit its majestic cathedral and historic centre, located under 40 minutes from Newcastle.
• Northumberland National Park: A paradise for walkers, stargazers, and nature lovers — less than 90 minutes away.

Driving in Newcastle: what to know

• Drive on the left: As with the rest of the UK, always keep to the left-hand side of the road.
• Speed limits: Posted in miles per hour — typically 30 mph in urban areas, 60 mph on single carriageways, and 70 mph on motorways.
• Parking: The city offers on-street pay-and-display bays, multi-storey car parks, and park-and-ride options for convenience.
• Congestion: Less busy than other UK cities, though traffic may build up around the city centre and bridges during rush hours.
• Navigation: Use GPS or mobile apps to easily locate tourist sites, car parks, and scenic routes.

Why book your car hire in Newcastle with Rentcars?

With Rentcars, you can compare offers from the best car hire providers in Newcastle, all in one place. Book in advance with confidence, enjoy transparent pricing, and customise your rental with extras like GPS, child seats or full coverage. Whether you’re planning a city stay or a journey through the northern countryside, Rentcars ensures a smooth and reliable car hire experience.