Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Car Hire in Lerwick, Shetland
Established in 1971, Bolt's Car Hire has grown from a modest four-vehicle fleet to Shetland's largest rental company. Our family-run business, under the stewardship of Arlene and John Garriock since 1995, combines decades of local expertise with a commitment to maintaining modern, well-serviced vehicles. We operate from strategically located premises in Lerwick and Sumburgh Airport, offering comprehensive support for both scheduled and charter arrivals.Our service philosophy prioritises reliability through regular fleet maintenance, transparent pricing structures, and dedicated customer assistance at every stage of the rental process. With extensive experience serving both private visitors and commercial clients, we provide tailored transportation solutions across Shetland's 100 islands, including specialised delivery arrangements at ferry terminals and inter-island airports.
Services
Car Rental
Motorhome Hire
Taxi Services
Car Sales
Airport Transfers
Details
- Year established: 1971
Highlights and features
- Family-run business since 1971 with deep local knowledge
- Competitive rates include unlimited mileage and comprehensive insurance
- 24/7 vehicle support and emergency assistance
- Regular fleet maintenance to meet high cleanliness standards
- Multiple pickup/drop-off locations including airports and ferry terminals
Services
Car Rental
Bolt's Car Hire provides a comprehensive range of modern vehicles for short-term and extended rentals. Our fleet includes economy cars, executive vehicles, and commercial vans maintained to the highest standards. Customers benefit from flexible booking options, unlimited mileage packages, and comprehensive insurance coverage. With multiple pickup locations across Shetland, we cater to both leisure travelers exploring the islands and business clients requiring reliable transportation solutions.
Motorhome Hire
Our motorhome rental service offers four-berth vehicles equipped for comfortable island exploration. Designed for independent travelers, these vehicles provide freedom to access Shetland's 3000-mile coastline and 100 islands. Each unit includes essential amenities and storage for outdoor equipment, with advice available on designated camping areas and wild camping locations across the archipelago.
Taxi Services
Operating under Sinclair's Taxis, our premium transportation service covers local journeys and island-wide tours. The fleet ranges from standard four-seater cars to eight-seater minibuses, all maintained to rigorous safety standards. Professional drivers offer knowledgeable guidance for visitors seeking tailored transportation solutions across Shetland's unique landscapes.
Car Sales
We offer pre-owned fleet vehicles for sale following comprehensive servicing schedules. Current inventory includes various Skoda, Kia, and Citroen models with detailed service histories. Customers receive full MOT documentation, mileage records, and pricing that reflects each vehicle's condition and market value according to Shetland's automotive standards.
Airport Transfers
Specialised transfer services operate from Sumburgh Airport and Tingwall Airport terminals. Our staff meet scheduled and charter flights with advance booking, providing immediate transportation to Lerwick and surrounding areas. This service includes luggage handling assistance and real-time flight tracking to accommodate changing arrival schedules.
People
Arlene Garriock
Business Owner
Co-owner of Bolt's Car Hire since 1995, Arlene Garriock maintains the company's family-run ethos while overseeing fleet management and customer service operations. With over 25 years' experience in Shetland's transport sector, she ensures the business continues its tradition of reliable service.
John Garriock
Business Owner
John Garriock, co-owner since 1995, brings extensive mechanical expertise to Bolt's Car Hire's operations. He supervises the maintenance team responsible for keeping the fleet in optimal condition, ensuring all vehicles meet the company's rigorous safety and cleanliness standards across Shetland's challenging terrain.
Questions
What vehicles are available for rental?
We offer cars, vans, minibuses, and motorhomes with manual or automatic transmissions. Current models include Kia, Skoda, and Citroen vehicles.
Can I collect my vehicle at Sumburgh Airport?
Yes, we have a fully staffed office at Sumburgh Airport open seven days a week for scheduled flights. Please provide your flight details in advance.
What insurance coverage is included?
All rentals include comprehensive insurance cover with no hidden surcharges. Specific terms apply regarding excess liability and damage waivers.
Do you offer child seat provisions?
Free child seats are available on request. We recommend booking in advance to guarantee availability for your specific vehicle type.
What are your fuel refill policies?
There's no surcharge for refueling - customers may refill at designated locations including our Sumburgh Airport facility.
Can I explore Shetland's outer islands with a rental vehicle?
Yes, our vehicles can access six car-ferry services connecting Shetland's inhabited islands. We provide route planning assistance for multi-island journeys.
