If you are planning to spend your entire UK holiday in London you won't need a car to get around. Even if you plan to visit major cities such as Edinburgh, Cardiff and Glasgow in the UK you won't necessarily need a car as you can easily travel around the country by train.

Deciding to rent a car in the UK depends entirely on your itinerary. If you are spending your time in London, Edinburgh, or Manchester, a car is a significant liability due to extreme traffic, expensive "Congestion Charges," and very limited, high-cost parking. The UK has an excellent rail network that connects almost all major cities efficiently. However, if your goal is to explore the Cotswolds, the Scottish Highlands, or the Lake District, a rental car is essential. Public transport in rural areas can be infrequent or non-existent, and a car gives you the freedom to stop at remote stone circles or hidden pubs. You must be prepared for "driving on the left," navigating very narrow country lanes, and the fact that most rental cars are manual transmission (automatics are available but cost significantly more). If you are comfortable with these factors, a car provides an unparalleled way to see the "authentic" British countryside at your own pace.