Hi, will be visiting the UK in July to visit my daughter who is studying at Oxford this summer. We will be flying into Heathrow, and want to rent a car while we are there to do some driving trips around the region. Would it make more sense for us to rent a car at Heathrow and drive to Oxford - or to take the bus to Oxford and rent a car there? One concern I have is if I will be in any shape to make the drive after an overnight flight, particularly on the left side of the road and particularly if it is a high traffic trip (I have driven in Paris and a lot of major areas). Any thoughts, suggestions or experiences would be welcome! TIA!
Driving from Heathrow to Oxford
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It's so easy to take the direct bus from Heathrow to Oxford when you arrive.
As you probably will stay busy day 2 exploring Oxford anyway, you can save the hassle and money to rent a car at least until day 3.
You may also want to check what sights you plan to see in the area and if you really need a car or can do with the local or regional public buses.
I wouldn't have a car in Oxford - it's infamous for a confusing road system and people getting fined for ending up in bus lanes.
And given your itinerary it would mean paying for three days car hire plus car parking for the 1 hour trip from the airport.
It also means you won't be driving when jet-lagged which in the UK isn't a good idea.
Just take the bus - http://www.oxfordbus.co.uk/main.php?page_id=24
Thanks for the thoughts. You are reinforcing the direction I was leaning as I research more.
Also you'll likely save by NOT renting at the airport as the rates are usually noticeably higher. As the others said, you probably won't be needing a rental day 1-2. Enjoy your visit!