Compare cheap car hire at Leeds Bradford Airport with Ireland flight options, rental desk locations, pickup advice, prices and Yorkshire driving tips.
Leeds Bradford Airport is well placed for exploring Yorkshire, with easy access to Leeds, Bradford, Harrogate, York and the Yorkshire Dales. Hiring a car here is often the most practical option, especially if you plan to visit rural areas, national parks or smaller towns that are harder to reach by public transport.
The airport is compact, so collecting your car is usually straightforward, with a short walk from arrivals to the rental desks and vehicle pickup area.
Flights from Ireland to Leeds Bradford
There are regular direct flights from Ireland to Leeds Bradford Airport, particularly from Dublin. Additional seasonal routes may operate depending on demand.
Car Hire Companies at Leeds Bradford Airport
The main rental desks are located inside the terminal building. Vehicles are collected from the nearby car hire parking area just outside.
- Hertz: Desk in arrivals with cars collected from the nearby car park.
- Avis / Budget: Shared terminal desk with clearly marked pickup bays outside.
- Europcar: Located in the terminal with short walk to vehicle collection.
- Enterprise: Airport branch with vehicles in the adjacent parking area.
- Sixt: Available on-site or via nearby airport office depending on booking.
- Arnold Clark: Off-airport provider with short transfer or pre-arranged collection.
Collecting Your Rental Car
- Exit baggage reclaim into the arrivals hall.
- Follow signs for Car Hire.
- Complete your booking at the desk.
- Walk to the nearby car hire parking area.
- Inspect the vehicle before leaving.
Best Cars to Rent at Leeds Bradford Airport
| Car Type | Best For | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Compact | City trips | Easy to park in Leeds, York and smaller towns. |
| Automatic Hatchback | General travel | Comfortable for mixed city and motorway driving. |
| Estate Car | Family travel | Extra luggage space for longer stays. |
| SUV | Rural routes | Useful for countryside and national park driving. |
| Premium | Business travel | More comfort on longer motorway journeys. |
Typical Daily Prices
| Season | Small Car | Family Car | SUV / Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan–Mar | £20–£38 | £38–£65 | £65–£120 |
| Apr–Jun | £28–£50 | £50–£85 | £85–£150 |
| Jul–Aug | £45–£85 | £85–£140 | £140–£240 |
| Sep–Dec | £25–£45 | £45–£75 | £75–£135 |
Driving from Leeds Bradford Airport
The airport is located between Leeds and Bradford, with access via the A658 and connections to the A65 and A660.
- Leeds: around 25 minutes
- Bradford: around 20 minutes
- Harrogate: around 25 minutes
- York: around 50 minutes
- Yorkshire Dales: around 1 hour
You drive on the left in the UK. Roads range from motorways to narrow rural routes, especially in national park areas.
Fuel, Deposits and Payment
- Most rentals use a full-to-full fuel policy.
- A credit card is normally required for the deposit.
- Deposit amounts vary depending on car type and supplier.
- Check fuel station locations near the airport for return.
Useful Booking Tips
- Book early for weekends and summer travel.
- Choose a smaller car if you plan to visit rural areas.
- Check opening hours if arriving late.
- Take photos of the car at pickup.
- Compare insurance and excess options before booking.
Useful Official Links
Leeds Bradford Airport official website
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Leeds Bradford Airport a good place to hire a car?
Yes, especially for exploring Yorkshire and nearby national parks.
Are there direct flights from Ireland to Leeds Bradford?
Yes, particularly from Dublin, with additional seasonal routes.
Where are the rental desks at Leeds Bradford Airport?
They are located inside the terminal, with cars collected nearby.
Do I need a shuttle bus?
No, most vehicles are within walking distance.
How far is the airport from Leeds?
About 25 minutes by car.
Do I need a credit card?
Yes, most providers require one for the deposit.
Is driving in Yorkshire difficult?
Main roads are easy, but rural routes can be narrow and winding.
Is an automatic car available?
Yes, but supply is more limited than manual cars.
What is the cheapest time to rent?
Winter and off-peak dates are usually cheaper.
Can I return the car out of hours?
Some providers allow this if arranged in advance.
