Compare Stoke-on-Trent car hire

Stoke has a compact centre located just west of Queensway, the city’s main thoroughfare. While it's easiest to get around on foot in the city centre, you're probably considering a hire car to explore the rest of Staffordshire. Moments from the M6, Stoke-on-Trent is well placed for visits to Birmingham, Manchester and Liverpool, and it's less than an hour from the rolling hills of the Peak District National Park.

Driving in Stoke-on-Trent is fairly uncomplicated. Rush hour, however, is predictably busy, while navigating through the city's smaller roads can be difficult for the unfamiliar driver. If you know where your end destination is, plan your route in advance and have a satnav as a back-up.

There are plenty of parking options in Stoke-on-Trent city centre, including several multi-storey car parks such as John Street and Pall Mall. You'll also find various pay-and-display options, both on and off street, just off the A52. If you're looking for free parking, your best bet is to head south of Hanley Park where you'll find several car parks offering plenty of spaces.

There are two Park and Ride sites, Hinde Street and Broad Street, both located in Hanley at the north of the city centre.

The Peak District National Park

Driving time: One hour

Sprawling across central England, the Peak District is the site of the nation's first National Park. Around an hour's drive along the A53 from Stoke-on-Trent, it’s perfect both for day trips or longer stays. Visit the quaint tearooms and antique shops in Bakewell or explore the grand halls of the stately Chatsworth House. If you're feeling fit, walk up Mam Tor and follow the Great Ridge for spectacular views over the valleys of Edale and Hope.

Alton Towers

Driving time: 30 minutes

Any Stoke-on-Trent visitor with nerves of steel will want to visit Alton Towers, one of the UK's premier theme parks. A magnet for thrill-seekers, this 19th-century country estate has become best known for its seven rollercoasters, including Nemesis, Oblivion, and Wicker Man. There's also CBeebies Land for young children, a vast water park and a family hotel if you want to make a weekend of it.

Trentham Estate and Gardens

Driving time: 10 minutes

Whether you fancy a round of golf, a spot of shopping or to meet the famous Stoke monkeys, the Trentham Estate is one of the best days out from Stoke-on-Trent. Take a leisurely stroll through the Italianate-style formal gardens and explore Trentham Monkey Forest where 140 Barbary macaque monkeys roam free. There's also a garden centre and a shopping village, with independent retailers and big brands lined up in pretty timber lodges.