Car Rental in Bristol South
Compare 2 providers in downtown Bristol. Grab the keys and explore.
Quick answer: At Bristol South you can compare rental cars from 2 providers. We show prices and terms upfront so you can choose wisely - not just cheaply.
About Renting a Car at Bristol South
Rent a car in South Bristol and explore Somerset, Mendip Hills, and Bristol Bay with two rental companies available. South Bristol is located near Bedminster and Knowle, 4 km south of the city center, with access to the A37 toward Wells and the A38 toward Bristol Airport. From here you can reach Cheddar Gorge in 40 minutes and Glastonbury in 50 minutes.
South Bristol includes Bedminster with its vibrant North Street and Windmill Hill offering views over the city. Ashton Court Estate, an 850-hectare park area with a mansion, is just 3 km to the west and is free to visit. Clifton Suspension Bridge can be reached in 15 minutes via the A370.
Use the A370 heading west toward the M5 for quick access to the motorway network heading south toward Weston-super-Mare. Avoid the A37 into the city center during morning rush hour - use the A4 or A38 instead. Visit Cheddar Gorge early in the morning to avoid tourist traffic which peaks between 10:00-14:00.
How far is it from South Bristol to Cheddar Gorge? Cheddar Gorge is 30 km to the south via the A38 and A371 and takes approximately 40 minutes. Park at Cox's Cave or Gough's Cave for the best access to the gorge.
Can I reach Weston-super-Mare on a day trip from South Bristol? Yes, Weston-super-Mare is 35 km to the southwest via the A370 and M5 and takes 40-50 minutes. The coastal resort features a classic English seafront promenade with an amusement park and pier.
How close is Bristol Airport from South Bristol? Bristol Airport is 13 km to the south via the A38 and takes approximately 20-25 minutes without rush hour traffic.
We compare prices from all major providers at Bristol South so you can see the total cost upfront - including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.
Picking Up a Car in Bristol South - The Essentials
🚗 1) Pick the Right Terms
- Fuel: "Full-to-full" is usually the fairest deal.
- Extra driver: can cost extra - check before booking.
- Automatic: often pricier and in shorter supply.
🪪 2) Bring the Right Documents
- Driver's license (usually held for at least 1 year)
- Passport or national ID
- Credit card in the driver's name for the deposit
📸 3) Drama-Free Pickup
- Film the car from all angles + the dashboard.
- Photograph scratches, wheels and windshield.
- Keep your fuel receipt when returning.
Rental Companies at Bristol South
Providers you can compare here (availability varies by date and season).
Essential Info for Renting at Bristol South
Practical answers and tips before you book.
✅ Quick Answers ▼
At Bristol South you can compare rentals from 2 providers on SmartCarRental. We show prices and terms upfront so you know what you're paying.
- Book 2-4 weeks ahead for better selection and prices.
- Choose "full-to-full" fuel whenever possible.
- Have a credit card in the driver's name ready for the deposit.
🚙 Driving in United Kingdom ▼
In United Kingdom you drive on the left side.
- Urban speed limit: 48 km/h
- Rural roads: 80 km/h
- Motorway: 113 km/h
- Alcohol limit: 0.8 per mille
🅿️ Parking & Tolls ▼
Parking is usually available in cities, but can be expensive.
Road tolls: Watch for signs and be prepared to pay fees.
Frequently Asked Questions - Car Rental at Bristol South
→ Read more in our guide
→ Read more in our guide
→ Read more in our guide
→ Read more in our guide
→ Read more in our guide
→ Read more in our guide
15-Day Weather Forecast for Bristol South
Other Rental Locations Near Bristol South
Rent a Car Near Bristol South
Other pickup points within driving distance.
Most Popular Pickup Points in United Kingdom
Explore United Kingdom & Europe
Ready to go?
Real prices, real terms, 2 providers. See what Bristol South has to offer.
Find your car at the best price