Global Suppliers at Bristol
Authorized partnerships with global brands stationed at BRS Car Rental Centre.
All-Inclusive BRS Protection
Drive out of Bristol with absolute confidence. Every booking automatically includes Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Third-Party Liability, and Theft Protection.
We ensure total transparency: the rate you book covers your essential insurance needs and includes 24/7 UK-wide breakdown assistance as standard.
Car Hire Desk Access
All rental providers at Bristol Airport are easily accessed via the dedicated Car Rental Centre located south of the terminal. A free shuttle bus connects the terminal and the rental village continuously.
For terminal maps and live flight information, we recommend checking the official Bristol Airport website.
What Our Bristol Customers Say
Verified reviews from travelers who rented directly from Bristol Airport.
"Fantastic service at Bristol Airport. The car rental shuttle was right outside arrivals, and we were on the A38 heading to Bath in minutes."
"Very smooth pick-up process. Used the car to drive down to Cornwall. Highly recommend an SUV for the coastal roads!"
"Best prices I found for a BRS rental. The car was ready and waiting with no hard sell at the desk."
"Returning at 5 AM was a breeze with the drop box, and the early shuttle to the terminal took 3 minutes."
"Absolutely no hidden fees. The price I saw online was exactly what I paid at the Bristol desk."
"The car broke down which was surprising as it was brand new, but I guess nothing is perfect! However, I was very happy with the support. The car change over was very quick and professional. Thank you Sarah for the great customer service."
"Very straightforward access onto the M5 straight out of the airport. The premium vehicle selection is top-notch."
"Modern fleet and efficient customer support. Got me out of the airport traffic in record time heading to Cardiff."
Essential Driving Guide out of Bristol
Landing at BRS? Familiarise yourself with these vital rules of the road before exiting the Car Hire Centre in your rental.
Navigating the A38 & M5
Leaving the Bristol rental area places you right on the A38. Heading north takes you directly into Bristol City Centre. Heading south connects you easily to the M5 motorway, your main artery for reaching Somerset, Devon, and Cornwall.
Manual vs. Automatic
Manual transmission (stick shift) is standard in the UK. If you are planning to navigate the famously narrow and steep country lanes of the West Country, we strongly recommend filtering for an automatic vehicle when you book.
South West Driving Etiquette
If you are heading into rural Somerset, Devon, or Cornwall, be prepared for single-track lanes. You must pull over into passing places to let oncoming traffic by. Never park or wait in a designated passing place.
Toll Bridges to Wales
Good news! The tolls on the Severn Bridges (M4 and M48) connecting England to Wales have been abolished, so you can cross freely. However, if you plan to drive over the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol, be aware there is a £1 toll (payable by card).
Bristol Clean Air Zone (CAZ)
Bristol city centre operates a strict Clean Air Zone (CAZ). Fortunately, most of our BRS fleet comprises modern, Euro 6 compliant vehicles that meet the CAZ standards, meaning you will not face penalty charges if driving into the city.
Returning the Car (Fuel)
If you have a 'Full-to-Full' fuel policy, there is a petrol station conveniently located on the A38 near the Airport Tavern, just a few minutes before the airport roundabout. Fill up here to avoid refuelling penalty charges.
Speed Cameras & Smart Motorways
The M5 and M4 around Bristol are heavily monitored by variable speed limits and average speed cameras. Distances and speeds are measured in Miles Per Hour (mph).
Current UK Fuel Costs
UK fuel is sold by the litre. Due to recent geopolitical events affecting global supply chains, prices are currently averaging around £1.45 upto £1.60 per litre. We advise choosing a 'Full-to-Full' fuel policy to control your own refuelling costs.
*As this is a volatile and ever-changing item, these prices were last updated on: .
Popular Drives from Bristol Airport
Because BRS is positioned perfectly in the South West, it serves as the ultimate gateway to historic sites and coastlines. Here are the top scenic drives and spots our customers visit after picking up their rental.
Bristol City Centre
Distance: 8 miles (25 mins via A38)
Head directly north into the vibrant city to explore the SS Great Britain and Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Child-Friendly? Yes! Kids will love We The Curious science centre.
Pro Tip: Use the Brislington Park & Ride if you are unsure about navigating the city centre traffic or CAZ.
Bath
Distance: 20 miles (45 mins via A39)
Drive east to the stunning UNESCO World Heritage city, famous for its Roman Baths and Georgian architecture.
Child-Friendly? Great for exploring the historic streets and enjoying a Bath Bun.
Pro Tip: Bath's historic streets were not built for cars. Use the Odd Down Park & Ride for a stress-free visit.
Cheddar Gorge & Caves
Distance: 10 miles (25 mins via A38)
A fantastic, short drive south to Britain's biggest gorge and the famous Wookey Hole caves.
Child-Friendly? Highly recommended! Exploring the caves and trying authentic Cheddar cheese is a hit with families.
Pro Tip: The road through the gorge is spectacular but winding. Drive slowly and watch for free-roaming goats and sheep.
Weston-super-Mare
Distance: 15 miles (30 mins via A38/M5)
Drive straight to the coast for a classic British seaside experience.
Child-Friendly? Perfect for The Grand Pier amusements, donkey rides, and fish & chips on the beach.
Pro Tip: You can actually park your rental car directly on the beach at Weston, but be very mindful of the rapid incoming tides!
Cardiff & South Wales
Distance: 50 miles (1 hr 10 mins via M4)
Head west across the Prince of Wales bridge to explore the Welsh capital, Cardiff Castle, and Cardiff Bay.
Child-Friendly? Great for the interactive Techniquest aquarium.
Pro Tip: The M4 bridge crossing into Wales is now completely toll-free, making this an easy and affordable day trip.
The Cotswolds
Distance: 45 miles (1 hr via M5)
Drive north into the rolling hills and honey-coloured stone villages of this famous region.
Child-Friendly? The Cotswold Wildlife Park is a fantastic family destination.
Pro Tip: The rural lanes can be extremely narrow. An automatic SUV makes navigating these country roads much more relaxing.
Stonehenge
Distance: 45 miles (1 hr 15 mins via A36)
Drive southeast into Wiltshire to see the world's most famous prehistoric stone circle.
Child-Friendly? Kids love the open space and the mystery of the stones.
Pro Tip: You must pre-book your time slot online. The A303 past Stonehenge often suffers from "rubbernecking" traffic delays.
Glastonbury
Distance: 25 miles (45 mins via A38/A39)
Explore the ancient myth and legend of King Arthur, the Glastonbury Tor, and the Abbey ruins.
Child-Friendly? The climb up the Tor is steep but short, rewarding you with incredible views across Somerset.
Pro Tip: It is a wonderfully quirky town with plenty of unique independent shops to explore.