Cheap Car Hire Shetland Islands

Car Hire Shetland Islands

Public transport can be limited and infrequent in the Shetlands so hiring a car is sometimes the best way to see the islands and the many sights they have to offer. Unlike travelling in a lot of the UK, the roads are generally quiet so you won't feel stressed out driving around. Like the rest of the UK driving is on the left and the same road and driving rules apply. The roads are rarely busy and the main A roads cross the length and breadth of Mainland. B roads tend to be mostly single track with regular passing places, so be prepared to pull over and let other travellers pass. It's a very courteous experience driving through the Shetlands as most drivers are happy to give way and will regularly wave their thanks when you do the same.

Cars can be hired from a variety of companies who have bases in the main town on Mainland Shetland, Lerwick. They will all arrange free car pick up from the airport. Star Rent-a-Car have an office in the terminal building and Bolts Car Hire have an office nearby. Some do allow you to take the car over to the other islands on the ferries but check the terms before booking as not all allow this. A range of different sized cars are available at daily rates or are sometimes cheaper by booking for a week or more or at weekends. You can even hire camper vans for exploring the islands which is popular as there are lots of locations where you can park up near white sandy beaches with fantastic views.

Most companies have good websites and you can get a quote and book car hire online. Alternatively give them a call for friendly advice and service. Check the terms as to whether you're expected to bring the car back with a full tank of petrol or an empty one as different companies have different arrangements and you don't want to fill it up then not have it reimbursed.

Being an island you'll find the process a lot friendlier and relaxed which makes picking your car up a quick process without onerous amounts of paperwork.

Car Hire Companies Shetlands

Bolts Car Hire 26 North Road, Lerwick, Shetland, ZE1 OPE. Tel: 01595 693636. Fax: 01595 694646. Email: info@boltscarhire.co.uk.

Bolts have offices at Sumburgh, Tingwall and Scatsta Airports and in Lerwick. Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm. Sat: 9am-4pm (9am-1pm during winter). Sunday closed - unless by prior arrangement. Bolts Car Hire at Sumburgh Airport: Wilsness Terminal, Sumburgh Airport, Virkie Shetland ZE1 9JP. Tel: 01950 460777. Fax: 01950 460666. E-mail: info@boltscarhire.co.uk. Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 8.30am-4.30am (Early morning and late flights by prior booking).

Star Rent-a-Car Limited, 22 Commercial Road, Lerwick, Shetland ZE1 0LX. Tel: 01595 692075. Fax: 01595 693964. Email: info@starcar.co.uk. Star also have an office at Sumburgh Airport: Sumburgh Airport, Sumburgh, Shetland. Tel: 01950 460444. Fax: 01950 460084.

Grantfield Garage Ltd, North Road, Lerwick, Shetland Islands, ZE1 0NT. Tel: 01595 692709 Fax: 01595 695017. Email: admin@grantfieldgarage.co.uk. Grantfield Garage offer self dive car hire, van hire and cycle hire.

More Car Rental Companies

John Leask and Son, Esplanade, Lerwick, Shetland, ZE1 OLL. Tel: 01595 693 162. Fax: 01595 693 171. Email: info@leaskstravel.co.uk

Allan Stronach, Island Campers, Port Business Park, Lerwick, Shetland Islands ZE1 0TW. Tel: 01595 693718. Mobile: 44 (0)7843 158211. Email: info@islandcampers.co.uk