Car Hire Darlington

As one of the largest towns in north-east England, Darlington has plenty of interesting sights and attractions for visitors that can be reached by car. Its famous rail and Victorian locomotive heritage helped shape the geography and history here, and this can be seen throughout the area.

Outside of the railway, however, there’s plenty to sink your teeth into with a hire car. The scenic regions of northern England are at your disposal, with the Lake District, Northumberland and the Yorkshire Moors all in close proximity for exploration.

Most of Darlington’s centre is pedestrianised, but it’s ideally designed for parking up close by and doing a spot of shopping. Many of the central car parks actually offer free parking for two hours, while a full day’s parking is very reasonably priced at the Chesnut Street car park. On-street parking is also available for a maximum of two hours on most of the nearby streets. For more information, visit the Darlington council website.

As in the rest of the UK, speed limits are signed in miles per hour. The speed limit in Darlington town centre is typically just 20mph (32km/h), generally rising to 30mph (48km/h) on routes outside of the inner ring road. On surrounding rural roads, the maximum speed is often 60mph (96km/h), and on motorways and dual carriageways it’s 70mph (112km/h), but always check the signs as this can vary.

Rail enthusiasts can leave Darlington on the A66 to see the Darlington Brick Train sculpture, a nod to the town’s role in the development of the British railways. Or, to get some fresh air, head east to Roseberry Topping, where you’ll find several amazing walks.

To visit the university city of Durham and its famous cathedral, take the A1 north and follow the signs. 

To the east of Darlington, you’ll find the North Yorkshire Moors only 50 minutes away if you take the A167 south. There’s also the Yorkshire Dales, around 40 minutes’ drive along the A6108, and the Lake District, which takes roughly 1 hour 15 minutes if you take the A66 west to Penrith.

This is the largest town in County Durham, despite only having a population of around 100,000 people, and with a hire car in Darlington you can explore all the delights of the surrounding area.

Once you’ve brushed up on local history, head further afield to experience castles and countryside attractions. Here are just a few things you’ll find.

Rediscover the Railway

Steam trains are one of the greatest British inventions, and in Darlington you’ll uncover the history of the first-ever steam railway.

Established in 1825 and closed in 1863, the Stockton to Darlington railway was the first in the world to transport both passengers and freight cargo, revolutionising transport across the UK.

Visit the Head of Steam Museum to take a trip back in time and discover a reconstructed 1840s platform, complete with Victorian interior, toilets and a ticket office. There are often steam trains on loan from York’s National Railway Museum, so check ahead to see which one is there at the time of your visit. There’s reading materials, plans and books available for those interested in finding out more about the history, and a fun activity room for kids.

Bask in the British Countryside

Darlington has an enviable location, close to many of the UK’s most incredible areas of natural beauty.

From the world-famous glimmering pools of water in the Lake District, to the craggy hills of the North Yorkshire Moors and the stunning expanse that is the Northumberland countryside, a hire car ensures you get to see it all.

Head to Penrith in the Lake District in around one hour and 10 minutes. Here you’re positioned perfectly to visit Eden Valley and further famous sites. Grab a bite to eat in one of the many boutique cafés and fuel up ready for a day of walking, hiking and cycling through the many valleys.

Roam Raby Castle

Set within five acres of stunning walled gardens, Raby Castle is one of County Durham’s most precious medieval attractions.

Once a parliamentary stronghold during the English Civil War, the remarkable 14^th century fortress was built by the Nevill family. It’s both expansive and spectacular, with 200 acres of luscious parklands within the grounds.

Abundant with beautiful areas to explore – with herds of wild deer wandering – you’ll find plenty of natural beauty around the castle, and some of the original features remain, with a beautiful ornamental focal point and old yew hedges. Meander along the conifer and heather gardens to soak up the atmosphere.

Meander the Market

As an established market town, no trip to Darlington is complete without experiencing the famous market, selling everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to crafts and confectionary, as well as hot food and beverages.

The summer spectacular and Christingle Markets are some of the highlights, with attendees flocking from far and wide to experience the hustle and bustle.

Taste an array of different cheeses, invest in locally-reared meats and be sure to have a wander around the independent fashion and beauty stalls to pick up a few bargains. You’ll find plenty of on-street car parking nearby, should you wish to visit.

With car hire inDarlington, the delights of the north-east and the landscape beyond are well within reach, with plenty of scenic road trips to be enjoyed.