Car & Van Hire in East Midlands
Welcome to the Enterprise East Midlands car rental page. Choose from a wide selection of cars ranging from smaller economy cars to larger SUVs and people carriers
Travelling to the East Midlands?
The East Midlands comprises the counties of Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Northamptonshire and Leicestershire with the tiny county of Rutland, in addition to the much larger county and coastal plain of Lincolnshire. The main cities in the area include Derby, Leicester, Lincoln and Nottingham, as well as numerous towns, such as Glossop, Buxton, Northampton and Oakham. The River Trent runs through a long valley; the Nottinghamshire economy is traditionally based on heavy industry and former heavy coal mining. In contrast, much of the Derbyshire landscape is moulded and defined by the southern end of the rugged Pennine mountain range. It is this rugged terrain that attracts visitors to see hilltop castles with spectacular views and to enjoy long, invigorating walks.
Choose from a number of conveniently located Enterprise branches that are distributed throughout the four main counties. East Midlands branch locations include Loughborough, Derby, west and central Nottingham, as well as Ilkeston, Burton upon Trent and Leicester. We are also available in Lincoln.
Our Vehicles for Hire in the East Midlands
Enterprise has your vehicle requirements covered. We offer rental options from a mini, economy or compact car, such as a Toyota Aygo, Vauxhall Corsa or Ford Focus, for zipping around the main cities of the region and parking with ease, up to intermediate models, such as the Skoda Octavia and larger saloons.
For countryside driving and touring the hills or the southern Pennines, a mini or full-size MPV, such as the Vauxhall Zafira Tourer or SEAT Alhambra, could be ideal, while a small 4x4, such as the Toyota Rav 4, will make short work of those mountainous tracks. Alternatively, for travelling long motorway distances, other East Midlands car rental options include a premium Mercedes C or E class vehicle, offering enhanced comfort for your journey. We offer a full range of new models, with rental depots in convenient locations.
Attractions in the East Midlands
In Derbyshire, the imposing ruins of the Norman fortress of Peveril Castle overlook the aptly named village of Castleton. If visiting the area, why not experience this ancient structure? Built in the 11th century, it was even mentioned in the Domesday Book. Hardwick Hall can also be found in the county of Derbyshire, while nearby Bolsover Castle is an example of Cavalier splendour.
The countryside of the Peak National Park and limestone caves of Derbyshire invite lovers of the great outdoors to come and see this natural beauty for themselves. Notably, the Eyam walking trails maintain interest and curiosity in a village that centuries ago was famous for isolating itself to prevent the plague from spreading. At Dovedale near Ashbourne, beautiful country walks invite ramblers to follow stepping stones over the river. Looking at the clear waters as they flow through limestone crags, the popularity of this lush haven is easy to understand.
In contrast, the nearby attractions of Wild Park at Brailsford include paintball, laser tag games and quad bikes. On the other hand, why not visit the Royal Crown factory in Derby and watch bone china being made? If motorsports are more your thing, you may wish to head for Castle Donington Grand Prix circuit instead.
Nottinghamshire is home to a remaining part of Sherwood Forest, and Newstead Abbey is in the north of the county, while Wollaton Hall and Park can be found near Nottingham city itself. Here, the splendid Elizabethan mansion is categorised as a Grade One example of its type, set in 500 acres of well-maintained parkland. The site offers beautiful views and has various species of wildlife. It also hosts a programme of special events, including shows, fairs, costume tours and ghost nights – not for the faint-hearted!
Alternatively, down in Northamptonshire, the Elizabethan mansion at Kirby Hall near Corby is considered one of England’s greatest. Although now partially roofless, the Great Hall and state rooms remain intact, with their rich decoration and views of the gardens.
Places to Visit Outside the East Midlands
Tranquil countryside, attractive villages and historic market towns characterise central southern England. While staying inside the immensely wide area of the East Midlands but venturing almost to its easternmost extremity, the old city of Lincoln is a destination worth exploring. Its cathedral is said by some to be one of the most beautiful buildings in Europe. The city also has an impressive castle that to this day holds one of only four remaining copies of the original Magna Carta documents. Boutique shops and cobbled streets add to the fascination, while for those with an interest in aeroplanes, there is the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre.
Airport Car Hire
With a hire car, the East Midlands airport is easily reached, just off the M1, A42 or Derby Southern Bypass near Castle Donington and within a short distance of Nottingham, Derby and Leicester. A small regional airport, East Midlands offers low-cost European flights as well as domestic departures. An Enterprise branch is available for car rental customers at this airport, so you can look forward to flying in, collecting your vehicle and getting on to your destination without delay.
Other reasonably accessible airports are Leeds Bradford, Manchester Ringway, Birmingham and Doncaster Sheffield.
Parking and Traffic Information in the East Midlands
Motorway and main road traffic information is frequently broadcast to update motorists travelling around and through the broad area covered by the East Midlands counties. On main routes, traffic information radio frequencies are often signposted at the roadside.
Cheap Van and Car Hire
Enterprise Rent-A-Car offers hassle-free, affordable car hire, with a large choice of vehicles on fleet and in stock. Enterprise guarantees cheap rates on car hire from all our East Midlands branch. Our range of modern economy cars are comfortable and reliable, but also fuel efficient, which keeps running costs low. Book online today and explore East Midlands and its surrounding areas at a price which suits any budget.
Whether you’re moving to a different city or just simply picking up some flat pack furniture, Enterprise Rent-A-Car's extensive range of new, reliable vans at our East Midlands branch will get you and your goods on the road and to your destination in safety and comfort. Choose from our large fleet of commercial and passenger vans online today.