Finding affordable or free parking in the UK can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Whether you’re a commuter, traveler, or just out for the day, high parking fees can quickly add up. Luckily, some UK cities offer budget-friendly or even free parking options. Here’s a look at the best places to park without breaking the bank.
1. York – Free Park & Ride for Visitors
York’s Park & Ride system allows visitors to park for free at designated sites and take a bus into the city. This is an excellent option to avoid expensive city centre parking fees, which can exceed £10 per day.
Where to park?
- Rawcliffe Bar Park & Ride
- Askham Bar Park & Ride
- Monks Cross Park & Ride
The city also offers limited free parking in residential areas on Sundays.
2. Bristol – Affordable Evening & Weekend Parking
While Bristol can be pricey for parking, there are ways to park affordably. Many council-run car parks offer free parking after 6 PM and discounted weekend rates.
Where to park?
- Trenchard Street Car Park (£4 after 6 PM)
- Clifton Down Shopping Centre (Up to 2 hours free for Sainsbury’s customers if they spend £20 or more in store, thereafter a reduced fee will apply.)
Bristol also has on-street parking zones that are free after certain hours, so always check local signs.
3. Sheffield – Free On-Street Parking in the City Centre
Sheffield offers a special evening rate from 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM and on Sundays, making it one of the most budget-friendly cities for drivers.
- Campo Lane (Free Sundays during certain hours)
- The Moor Shopping Area (2 hours free for shoppers)
Sheffield’s Meadowhall Shopping Centre (.cmeadowhallo.uk) offers unlimited free parking, making it a great place to park and use public transport.
4. Manchester – Cheap Council Parking & Park & Ride Options
Manchester has some of the cheapest council-run car parks.
Where to park?
- The Trafford Centre (Free parking all day)
- Park & Ride sites (Metrolink’s Park and Ride car parks in Manchester are free for passengers with a valid Metrolink ticket)
Check JustPark or Parkopedia for hidden free parking spots in the city.
5. Edinburgh – Free Parking in Certain Zones
Edinburgh’s city centre is notoriously expensive for parking, but free and cheap options exist outside of the main areas.
Where to park?
- Hermiston Park & Ride (Free with a bus into the city)
- Ingliston Park & Ride ( Free parking and electric vehicle charging points, tram connection)
- Some residential streets offer free parking after 6:30 PM
If you’re visiting at the weekend, some business areas have free parking on Sundays.
6. Birmingham – Free Parking in Shopping Areas
Birmingham offers several retail parks and shopping areas with free parking, plus affordable council-run car parks.
Where to park?
- Jewellery Quarter multi-story car park(£2.10 for up to 2 hours and £3.10 for up to 4 hours)
- Star City (Free parking all day)
- Various supermarkets (Free for up to 2 hours)
Some side streets near New Street Station offer free on-street parking on weekends.
Conclusion
Finding affordable parking in UK cities doesn’t have to be stressful. Using Park & Ride services, checking council-run car parks, and looking for free evening & weekend parking are great ways to save money.
