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Hire a car in Plymouth with Hertz
Hire a car in Plymouth to explore the delights of this beautiful city on the South Coast, a gateway to the English Channel and the county of Devon. Britain’s Ocean City blends seafaring history, magnificent coastal viewpoints and an enviable location close by several National Trust sites.
Delve into the area’s maritime past at the Mayflower Museum and explore the amazing cuisine served up in the many restaurants on the Barbican & Sutton Harbour while you’re here. There's also fantastic links to other nearby cities, including Exeter and Truro – both less than 90 minutes away.
You’ll find a wide range of vehicles to suit any trip in our range. Simply browse our collection online and choose the one that’s right for you and roam this port city to your hearts’ content.
Book your hire car in Plymouth online with Hertz today.
Pickup locations in Plymouth
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Up to 10% discount applies to base rates in the UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and Benelux. 5% applies for the rest of the world. The discount applies to the base rate quoted (excluding taxes and any other charges). It does not apply to affiliated rates or rates that are already discounted.
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Points are earned on per day time and mileage charges only. Free rental days cover base rate (time and mileage) only. Taxes, optional extras and any other fees are excluded. One-car-class upgrade applies to Compact, Intermediate, Standard & Full-size rentals with a maximum upgrade to a Premium. Additional terms and exclusions apply
- Skip the counter and go straight to your car
You can skip the counter once your membership is activated after your first rental. Available at select locations only.
Benefits from day one.
Join 
for free.
- Make travel feel golden with Hertz Gold+
Ready to get more from every drive? Hertz Gold+ is our free loyalty program that turns everyday car rental into rewards. Get instant perks and seamless pickups.
- Skip the line, choose your ride, and go
Skip the rental counter at selected locations – just head to your car and go. At selected US rental locations, you can also choose from a wider selection of cars, including exclusive vehicles for top-tier members.
- Earn points to redeem for free rental days
Earn free rental days with every booking. The more you rent, the faster you unlock elite status.* *Points are earned & redeemed on the base rental rate only. Taxes, fees, & options are excluded. Additional terms apply.
- Share the drive for free
Add your spouse or partner as an additional driver for free.
Plymouth car rental driving guide
Parking in Plymouth
- Drake Circus (PL1 1EA) multi-storey garage contains more than 1,250 spaces, on the Drake Circus shopping complex. It can be found just off Charles Street.
- Mayflower Street East (PL1 1QJ) has over 275 parking spots and is situated close to Jigsaw Garden and Plymouth University.
- Elphinstone (PL1 2NU) is a small car park with around 75 spaces, situated near The Plymouth Barbican and Plymouth Hoe. The perfect parking spot by the coast.
Key roads in Plymouth
- A38 travels through the centre of Plymouth and connects the city to Saltash and Bodmin, Cornwall to the west. To the east, it becomes the Devon Expressway and travels to Exeter.
- A386 heads north out of Plymouth and passes the Tamar Valley AONB. It passes Tavistock and Oakhampton, before reaching Bideford.
- A388 A road runs northwest from Plymouth and can take you to Launceston, where it meets the A30 that can take out into Cornwall and Penzance.
How to get from Plymouth to Exeter
It takes just over an hour to drive the 46 miles from Plymouth to Exeter.
- Leave the city centre via Cobourg Street and Charles Street.
- Turn onto Beaumont Road.
- Take a right onto Heathfield Road and left onto Lanhydrock Road.
- Turn left onto Embankment Road/A374 and follow for a mile and a half.
- At the roundabout, turn right onto the A38/Devon Expressway and follow for 36 miles.
- Use the A379 exit and stay on this route for three miles.
Turn left at the roundabout onto Topsham Road/A3015 and follow into the city.
How to get from Plymouth to Penzance
Penzance is less than two hours from Plymouth. Simply take the A38/Devon Expressway out of the city centre and follow for 28 miles. Merge onto the Bodmin Bypass/A30 and stay on this for 48 miles until you reach Penzance.
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A quick guide to Plymouth
Boringdon Hall Hotel and Spa
Boringdon Hall Hotel, Plymouth PL7 4DP
Nestled just outside Dartmoor National Park, this elegant Elizabethan manor offers luxurious rooms and a full spa with steam rooms, saunas, and an indoor pool. You’ll find a Michelin-starred restaurant on-site and can enjoy country-style tranquillity while being a short drive from central Plymouth.
Residence One Rooms by Bistrot Pierre
Residence One Royal William Yard, Plymouth PL1 3RP
Housed in a Georgian building within the rejuvenated Royal William Yard, this boutique hotel features contemporary suites and a gourmet restaurant. You’ll be staying steps from the waterfront in a stylish historic setting.
The Duke of Cornwall Hotel
Millbay Rd, Plymouth PL1 3LG
This grand Victorian Gothic landmark sits overlooking the harbour, offering individually decorated rooms with harbour views. Its elegant ambiance makes it the perfect choice if you want to soak in the heritage of central Plymouth.
Fletcher’s Restaurant
Gill Akaster House, 27 Princess St, Plymouth PL1 2EX
A Michelin‑recommended fine dining gem where seasonal, locally sourced ingredients take centre stage. You’ll enjoy the cozy, refined atmosphere and expertly crafted tasting menus.
Durnford St, Stonehouse, Plymouth PL1 3QR
For a memorable meal with stunning sea views, this fine dining restaurant uses fresh, artisan produce. You’ll appreciate the combination of impeccable cooking and its unique waterfront setting.
The Barbican Kitchen
Black Friars Distillery, 60 Southside St, Plymouth PL1 2LQ
This internationally inspired eatery in the historic Barbican district offers a varied menu in a warm, inviting space. You’ll enjoy its creative dishes and cosy ambience.
Plymouth Hoe & Smeaton’s Tower
W Hoe Rd, Plymouth PL1 2NZ
Perched atop dramatic cliffs overlooking the Sound, the Hoe offers sweeping sea views. You can climb Smeaton’s Tower - an iconic 18th‑century lighthouse - for panoramic vistas over the water./p>
Mayflower Steps Memorial
The Barbican, Plymouth PL1 2LR
You’ll wander through atmospheric cobbled streets lined with Tudor buildings, shops, galleries, and the historic site where the Pilgrim Fathers are believed to have set sail. It’s rich in maritime history and charm.
The Box Plymouth
Tavistock Pl, Plymouth PL4 8AX
This modern museum and gallery houses historical artifacts, contemporary art, and interactive exhibits in a striking new building. You can explore local archaeology, maritime heritage, and rotating cultural showcases—many of which are free to enter.
FAQs about car hire
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