Heathrow Airport Car Rental for London Day Trips
Quick summary: Heathrow, on London’s western edge, is the best airport for renting a car to explore west of the capital. Pickups can be booked for Terminal 5 or for the other terminals, and most companies run shuttle buses from the terminals to depots nearby. Windsor is a short drive away, and the M4, M40 and M3 lead to Oxford, the Cotswolds, Bath and Stonehenge without entering central London.
| At a glance | |
|---|---|
| Location | West of London |
| Pickups | Terminal 5 or other terminals |
| Depots | Nearby, via shuttle buses |
| Close by | Windsor |
| Motorways | M4, M40, M3 |
| Tours | Windsor Castle day trips |
Compare car rental at Heathrow Airport
How does pickup work at Heathrow?
Follow car rental signs from arrivals, then take your company’s shuttle to its depot. Book the pickup that matches your terminal.
Compare car rental at Heathrow Terminal 5
Compare car rental at Heathrow Terminals 1 to 4
Where can you drive from Heathrow?
| Destination | Tours |
|---|---|
| Windsor | Windsor Castle day trips |
| Oxford | Oxford day trips |
| Stonehenge | Stonehenge day trips |
| Bath | Bath day trips |
Should you drive into London from Heathrow?
It’s usually easier to take the train or Tube into the city, then rent when you leave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most companies use nearby depots linked by shuttle buses.
Yes, Terminal 5 pickups can be booked separately.
A short drive.
Public transport is usually easier.