If you’re flying into Devon and heading straight down to Cornwall, hiring a car can be the difference between a holiday that feels easy… and one that feels like you’re constantly checking train times with a suitcase balanced on your knee.
Cornwall is gorgeous (obviously), but it’s also spread out. The best beaches, little fishing villages, hidden gardens, and family-friendly attractions aren’t always easy to reach without your own car. And if you’re landing at Exeter Airport, picking up a rental car right there and driving down is one of the simplest ways to start your trip.
Portreath Beach
This guide is written the way I’d explain it to a friend: what to expect, what to plan for, and the little tips that make driving in Cornwall feel far less stressful.
Why renting a car for Cornwall makes sense
Cornwall is one of those places where the “best bits” are often down a country lane, behind a hedge, or a short drive from the nearest town. Public transport might work if you’re staying in one place and you’re happy to plan around timetables. Still, if you want freedom (especially with kids, beach gear, or a slightly chaotic itinerary), a car is a key benefit.
With a rental car, you can:
- Stop for a supermarket shop on the way to your accommodation (so you’re not paying corner-shop prices for everything)
- Head to quieter beaches early in the morning before they get busy
- Explore villages and coastal spots that don’t have easy bus links
- Change plans if the weather does what it often does in the South West
Picking up your car at Exeter Airport: what it’s like
Exeter Airport is a really manageable airport, which is honestly a relief if you’re travelling with children or you’ve just had a long day of flights.
Most car rental desks are easy to find once you’re in the arrivals area, and collection tends to be simple. My biggest tip is to give yourself a little spare time. Even if your flight lands on time, you might have:
- Luggage delays
- A queue at the rental desk
- A child who suddenly needs the loo right now
If you’re booking your car in advance (which I really recommend in peak season), a comparison platform like DiscoverCars can make it easier to see options in one place.
Booking your rental: a quick, no-faff approach
Car hire can be one of those things that looks simple until you start comparing what’s actually included. You’re trying to balance price, pick-up convenience, and the dreaded “extras” that appear at the last minute.
DiscoverCars is a global car rental comparison platform with rental offers in over 50,000 locations across 164 countries. If you like to get things arranged quickly (and not open 17 tabs), it’s a handy way to compare deals without the headache.
A few things that stood out to me:
- Global presence: compare rental offers in over 50,000 locations across 164 countries
- Trusted by travellers: rated 4.6/5 on Trustpilot based on 250,000+ customer reviews
- 24/7 customer support: available around the clock in 35+ languages
- No hidden fees: the price you see is the price you pay, with mandatory fees, taxes, and extras included upfront
That last point is a big one, because nobody wants to start their holiday by realising the “cheap” deal is suddenly not cheap at all.
The drive from Exeter Airport to Cornwall: the easiest route
The drive from Exeter Airport down into Cornwall is genuinely a lovely way to start your trip. You’ll go from city edges and main roads into lusher countryside, and then (depending on where you’re staying) you’ll start getting those proper Cornwall views.
Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the famous “Nearly Home Trees” near the Devon/Cornwall Border
The main route: M5 – A30
For most people, the simplest route is:
1. Join the M5
2. Connect onto the A30, which is the main road running into Cornwall
It’s mostly an easy drive, especially if you’re used to UK roads. The A30 is a main route, but it can get busy in summer holidays, bank holidays, and weekends.
Scenic detours (when you’ve got the time)
If you’re not in a rush and you want a prettier drive, there are plenty of alternatives once you’re closer to Cornwall. But if you’re arriving late, driving in the dark, or you’ve got tired kids in the back, I’d stick to the main roads as long as possible.
Cornish lanes can be narrow, winding, and very hedge-heavy (which is charming until you meet a tractor).
Saving money when renting a car (without cutting corners)
Car hire costs can add up quickly, especially in school holidays, so here are a few genuinely helpful ways to keep the total price down. Without ending up with a stressful pick-up or a surprise bill.
- Book as early as you can (especially for summer): prices tend to climb the closer you get to your travel dates, and the best-value cars go first.
- Compare like-for-like, not just the headline price: look at what’s included (mileage, taxes, mandatory fees, and any required extras). A slightly higher price that includes everything can work out cheaper overall.
- Choose a smaller car if it fits your needs: in Cornwall, smaller cars are often easier to park and can be more fuel-efficient too.
- Be smart with fuel: if you can, go for a full-to-full fuel policy so you’re only paying pump prices, not inflated “refuel” rates.
- Skip unnecessary add-ons: it’s tempting to say yes to everything at the desk when you’re tired, but you might not need extras like upgraded sat nav (your phone can do the job) or additional gadgets.
- Check the deposit and payment method: some rentals require a credit card for the deposit. Knowing this upfront can save you a last-minute scramble (and sometimes extra charges).
- Think about timing: picking up and returning at similar times can help you avoid paying for an extra day.
If you’re using a comparison platform like DiscoverCars, it can be easier to spot what’s included upfront. Which is exactly what you want when you’re trying to keep a holiday budget under control.
My tips for renting a car (without the stress)
Cadgwith
1. Choose the right size car for Cornwall
This is one of those things people don’t always think about. Bigger cars can feel more comfortable on motorways, but in Cornwall, smaller can be easier.
If you’re staying somewhere with tight parking, or you’re planning to explore villages and rural beaches, a compact car can make life much simpler.
That said, if you’ve got a family and luggage, don’t go so small that you can’t fit everything without playing holiday Tetris in the boot.
2. Check what’s included (and what isn’t)
Before you hit “book”, look for:
- Mileage limits (unlimited mileage can be helpful if you’re road-tripping)
- Fuel policy (full-to-full is usually easiest)
- Insurance and excess details
- Whether you need a credit card for the deposit
If you’re using DiscoverCars, the “no hidden fees” approach can make this part feel clearer, because you’re seeing mandatory costs upfront.
3. Add a second driver if you can
If you’re travelling as a couple or with a friend, having a second driver can make the whole trip feel more relaxed. Cornwall days can be full-on (beach, walking, dinner, back to the accommodation), and it’s nice not to have one person doing all the driving.
4. Bring a phone holder and a charger
This sounds obvious, but it’s one of those “why didn’t I pack that?” things.
Cornwall has areas with patchy signal, so I like to:
- Download offline maps before I go
- Keep a charger in the car
- Use a phone holder
5. Plan your first stop (especially with kids)
If you’re travelling with children, plan a proper stop after the airport.
Some options:
- A quick supermarket stop for snacks and essentials
- A service station break for toilets and a coffee
- A simple lunch stop before you hit the longer stretch of road
It makes the drive appear less like a mission and more like the start of your holiday.
Trevaunance Cove – St Agnes
Driving in Cornwall: what visitors should know
Cornwall is very drivable, but it does have its eccentricities!
Narrow lanes are normal
You will drive down lanes that feel too narrow. You’ll probably meet someone coming the other way. And you’ll learn about passing places.
My best advice:
- Go slowly
- Don’t panic
- Use passing places properly (don’t park in them)
- Give a friendly wave when someone lets you through (it’s basically the Cornish way!)
Watch out for tractors, cyclists, and animals
Depending on where you are, you might meet:
- Tractors and farm vehicles
- Cyclists (especially on popular routes)
- Sheep or cows near rural roads
Just take your time. You’re on holiday.
Parking can be the hardest part
In summer, parking in popular places can be the most stressful bit of driving in Cornwall. There are a few certain places I don’t go to during the school summer holidays!
A few tips which really help:
- Arrive early (before 10 am is a good target for busy beaches)
- Keep change or a card ready for pay-and-display
- Use car parks rather than trying to squeeze into a roadside space
- Check height restrictions if you’ve hired a larger vehicle
Some towns and villages have very tight streets, so don’t feel bad if you park slightly further out and walk in
Top Tip – If you want to visit St Ives, I highly recommend using the Park and Ride at St Erth train station. Catch the train to go via one of the most scenic train rides in the country into St Ives.
Be realistic about drive times
Cornwall looks small on a map, but journeys can take longer than you expect because:
- Roads are winding
- You’ll get stuck behind slow vehicles
- Summer traffic can be heavy
A “quick 25-minute drive” can easily become 45 minutes in peak season. I always build in extra time, especially if we’ve booked something like a boat trip or a timed entry attraction.
A simple Cornwall road trip idea (from the A30)
If you’re driving down from Exeter and you want a rough plan, here’s an easy way to break it up depending on where you’re staying.
If you’re heading to North Cornwall
- Drive down the A30
- Consider stopping near Bodmin Moor for a leg stretch
- Continue on towards places like Padstow, Wadebridge, Rock, Port Isaac
- North Cornwall is brilliant for coastal walks, foodie spots, and those classic seaside villages.
If you’re heading to Newquay and the surrounding area
- Stick with the A30
- Newquay is easy to reach and a great base for families
- From there, you can explore beaches, attractions, and day trips without moving accommodation
If you’re heading to West Cornwall (St Ives / Penzance / Land’s End)
- Expect a longer drive, but it’s doable
- Consider a proper stop for food and a break before the final stretch
West Cornwall is stunning, but it can feel like a trek after a flight, so don’t be afraid to do a slower travel day.
St Michael’s Mount – Marazion
Quick answers people always ask
Do I need a car in Cornwall?
For sure, yes! But you can do Cornwall without a car if you’re staying in one place with good transport links (e.g., Truro); but if you want to explore properly (especially beaches and villages), a car makes everything easier.
Is it hard to drive in Cornwall?
Not hard, but different!! The main roads are fine, and the lanes just require slower driving and a bit of confidence. After a day or two, you’ll feel much more comfortable. But please know how to reverse at least 50m when driving down single-track roads!
What’s the best car to hire for Cornwall?
For most people, a small-to-medium car is ideal: easy to park, easy on narrow lanes, but still comfortable for longer drives.
How far is Exeter Airport from Cornwall?
It depends where you’re staying. Cornwall is a long county, so your drive time will vary, but Exeter is a popular and practical airport for Cornwall trips. It’s around 49 miles from the airport to Launceston, which is the closest Cornish town down the A30.
Final thoughts: start your Cornwall trip the easy way
If you’re flying into Exeter and heading down to Cornwall, renting a car is one of those choices that can make your whole trip feel smoother. You can travel on your own schedule, stop when you need to, and explore the places that make Cornwall so special.
And if you want to keep the booking part simple, DiscoverCars is a handy option for comparing rental offers globally, with strong traveller reviews, 24/7 support, and clear pricing.
If you’re planning a Cornwall trip and you’re not sure where to base yourself, or you want ideas for family-friendly days out, feel free to have a browse around my Cornwall posts. I’m always adding new ones as we explore.
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