Car Rental Lancaster

Lancaster is a compact city that’s easy to navigate in your rental car. It lies a short distance from the M6 motorway, a major highway connecting destinations in the west of England.

Head north along this route for the Lake District national park in Cumbria. Beyond that, you can follow the M6 all the way north to Carlisle and Gretna Green on the Scottish border.

Following the M6 south of Lancaster provides access to Preston, Warrington and Stoke-on-Trent. You can also use this route to visit Manchester and Liverpool, both just over an hour’s drive away.

The M6 and the region’s other main motorway, the M62, are both major commuter routes. So allow plenty of time for your journey, particularly if you’re travelling during the morning or evening rush hour. The M6 is also notable for being one of very few major toll roads in the UK, although this section lies much further south of Lancaster towards Birmingham.

Car rental in Lancaster also allows you to visit England’s north west coast. Morecambe, a town overlooking the Irish Sea, is easily accessible from Lancaster via Morecambe Road. The popular resort of Arnside, situated on the River Kent, is less than 30km north along the M6. Head inland and the A683 takes you east of Lancaster through the Forest of Bowland and on towards the Yorkshire Dales.

Lancaster is a quiet and friendly city, with plenty of parking spaces, so you can relax and explore all its attractions at your own pace. The local council provides several pay-and-display car parks where you will need to purchase a ticket. These can be found close to the cathedral and main shopping areas, including St Nicholas Arcades.

Many visitors to Lancaster head straight for its historic landmarks, including the cathedral, castle and its beautiful Georgian buildings housing stores, galleries and restaurants. With a rental car, you can explore all this and take day trips to the coast and countryside.

Medieval monument

No visit to Lancaster is complete without a trip to its medieval castle, situated on a hilltop overlooking the city. With foundations dating back to Roman times, the castle has played a role in historic events from the English Civil War to the 17^th century Pendle Witch Trials.

Today, guided tours offer you the chance to learn all about the dark yet fascinating history of this imposing fortress, including its role as a prison. You can still see the old dungeons where the Lancaster Martyrs and other famous inmates were once held. Tours run throughout the day, with tickets available to purchase on arrival.

Afternoon strolls

Another highlight of any visit to Lancaster is Williamson Park, a lush green space on the east side of the city. Home to a butterfly house, café and small zoo, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon.

The park’s most significant monument is the Ashton Memorial, a magnificent domed building commissioned by a local philanthropist in memory of his wife in the early 20^th century. Climb to the viewing gallery to enjoy views of the surrounding coast and countryside, including Morecambe Bay and the mountains of the Lake District to the north.

Shopping delights

Once you’ve ticked off the main historic sites, relax with some retail therapy. Lancaster’s Charter Market is held on Market Square every Wednesday and Saturday. It’s a great place to browse for food, gifts, books and more.

St Nicholas Arcades and Marketgate Shopping Centre offer big brands and high street names, while the GB Antiques Centre is the perfect spot to pick up unique souvenirs ranging from porcelain to pottery.

For coffee lovers, a trip to Atkinsons Coffee Roasters is not to be missed. Situated on China Street near Castle Hill, this historic tea shop and coffee house offers you the chance to step back in time with a warming cup of your favourite hot beverage.

Beside the seaside

One of the best things about car rental in Lancaster is the variety of day trips within easy reach. The seaside town of Morecambe is just a short drive away, with a promenade, sandy beach and ice cream shops just waiting to be explored.

If you’re travelling with kids, don’t miss Happy Mount Park, where little ones can enjoy the adventure playground. For something more relaxing, try the Midland Hotel. This historic seafront building - restored to its full 1930s glory - offers guests the chance to indulge in traditional English afternoon tea, complete with scones, sandwiches and sweet treats.

With all these attractions and more nearby, car rental in Lancaster is the perfect way to make the most of your stay.