If you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh, you’ll want to know about the parking situation. Edinburgh is a bustling city with a lot to offer, but parking can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are plenty of free parking options available if you know where to look.
Understanding Edinburgh’s Parking Zones is key to finding the best free parking opportunities. The city is divided into different zones, each with its own parking rules and regulations. Some zones have free parking after certain times, while others have designated free parking areas. Knowing which zone you’re in can help you avoid unnecessary parking fines and fees.
Free Parking Opportunities in Edinburgh are available in a variety of locations. From on-street parking to park and ride facilities, there are plenty of options for those who want to save money on parking. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best free parking options in Edinburgh, so you can enjoy your visit without worrying about parking fees.
Key Takeaways
- Edinburgh is divided into different parking zones, each with its own rules and regulations.
- Free parking opportunities in Edinburgh include on-street parking, park and ride facilities, and designated free parking areas.
- By understanding the parking zones and taking advantage of free parking opportunities, you can save money and enjoy your visit to Edinburgh.
Understanding Edinburgh’s Parking Zones
If you’re planning to park in Edinburgh, it’s important to understand the different parking zones and regulations. Here is a breakdown of the different parking zones in Edinburgh:
Central Controlled Parking Zone
The central controlled parking zone (CPZ) covers the city centre and some surrounding areas. To park on the street within the CPZ, you need to either pay and display or hold a valid parking permit. Yellow lines are provided for loading or to prevent unsafe parking.
Extended Zone Parking
The extended zone parking includes areas such as Bruntsfield, Marchmont, and the New Town. Parking in these areas is free between 17:30 – 8:30 Monday to Friday and all day on Saturdays. Always check the parking information signs as parking zones can vary.
Peripheral Parking Areas
The peripheral parking areas include areas outside the city centre such as Leith, Gorgie, and Abbeyhill. Parking in these areas is generally free, but there may be some restrictions in certain areas. Always check the parking information signs to avoid getting a ticket.
It’s important to note that parking zones and regulations can change, so it’s always a good idea to check the Edinburgh City Council website for up-to-date information. Additionally, it’s always important to check the parking signs in the area you plan to park to avoid getting a ticket.
Free Parking Opportunities
If you’re looking for free parking in Edinburgh, there are several options available to you. Below, we’ve outlined some of the best free parking opportunities in the city.
On-Street Parking
Edinburgh offers several on-street parking locations that are free to park in after 5.30pm daily and before 12.30pm on Sundays. Some of the best on-street parking locations close to the city centre include George Street and St Andrew Square. Keep in mind that these spots can fill up quickly, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a spot.
Off-Street Car Parks
There are also several off-street car parks in Edinburgh that offer free parking. For example, the Meadowbank Shopping Park offers free parking for up to 4 hours. Another option is the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, which offers free parking for up to 3 hours. Keep in mind that these car parks can fill up quickly, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a spot.
Free Parking Times
There are also several locations in Edinburgh that offer free parking during specific times. For example, Forth Street EH1 3LD offers free parking from 6:30pm to 8:30am Monday-Saturday and all day Sunday. Similarly, Gayfield Street EH1 3NR offers free parking from 5:30pm to 8:30am Monday-Friday and all day Saturday and Sunday. Finally, Dalmeny Street EH6 8RA permits overnight parking.
Overall, there are plenty of free parking opportunities in Edinburgh, whether you’re looking for on-street parking, off-street car parks, or specific free parking times. Just be sure to arrive early to secure a spot, as these locations can fill up quickly.
Park and Ride Facilities
If you are looking for free parking in Edinburgh, then the park and ride facilities are an excellent option. These facilities are located on the outskirts of the city and provide a convenient way to park your car and travel into the city centre by bus.
Locations and Access
There are seven park and ride locations in and around Edinburgh: Ingliston West, Hermiston West, Newcraighall East, Ferrytoll North, Sheriffhall South, Straiton South, and Wallyford East. Each location has a different number of parking spaces available, so it’s worth checking the capacity before you set off.
All park and ride facilities are open 24/7, except where noted. They are easily accessible by car, with good road connections to the motorway network. Most sites have CCTV and toilet facilities, and some have electric vehicle charging points.
Bus Services and Fares
The park and ride facilities are served by Lothian Buses, which provides frequent bus services into the city centre. The bus fares are affordable, and you can pay using cash or contactless payment methods.
The exact bus fares depend on the distance travelled and the time of day. You can find the latest bus fares on the Lothian Buses website or by contacting their customer service team.
Overall, the park and ride facilities in Edinburgh are an excellent option for free parking and convenient travel into the city centre. Just make sure to plan your journey in advance and check the parking capacity and bus fares before you set off.
Special Parking Provisions
If you require disabled parking, there are designated spaces located throughout the city. These spaces are marked with the wheelchair symbol and are usually located close to important amenities such as shops and public transport. You can park in these spaces if you display a valid blue badge. If you do not have a blue badge, you can still park in these spaces but only for a limited time, usually up to three hours.
If you are travelling by motorcycle, you can take advantage of the designated motorcycle parking bays located throughout the city. These bays are marked with a motorcycle symbol and are usually located close to important amenities such as shops and public transport. You can park your motorcycle in these bays for free, but you must ensure that you park within the marked bays and not on the pavement or in other restricted areas.
If you are travelling with your family, you can take advantage of the family-friendly parking spaces located throughout the city. These spaces are marked with a family symbol and are usually located close to important amenities such as shops and public transport. You can park in these spaces if you have children under the age of 12 or if you are pregnant. Please note that you may be required to display proof of your pregnancy or your child’s age.
Disabled Parking
Disabled parking spaces are available throughout the city and are marked with the wheelchair symbol. These spaces are located close to important amenities such as shops and public transport. You can park in these spaces if you display a valid blue badge. If you do not have a blue badge, you can still park in these spaces but only for a limited time, usually up to three hours.
Motorcycle Parking
If you are travelling by motorcycle, you can take advantage of the designated motorcycle parking bays located throughout the city. These bays are marked with a motorcycle symbol and are usually located close to important amenities such as shops and public transport. You can park your motorcycle in these bays for free, but you must ensure that you park within the marked bays and not on the pavement or in other restricted areas.
Family-Friendly Parking
If you are travelling with your family, you can take advantage of the family-friendly parking spaces located throughout the city. These spaces are marked with a family symbol and are usually located close to important amenities such as shops and public transport. You can park in these spaces if you have children under the age of 12 or if you are pregnant. Please note that you may be required to display proof of your pregnancy or your child’s age.
Strategic Parking Tips
If you’re looking for free parking in Edinburgh, there are a few strategic parking tips that can help you save time and money.
Avoiding Peak Hours
One of the best ways to find free parking in Edinburgh is to avoid peak hours. The city centre is particularly busy during weekdays, especially during rush hour. Weekends are generally less busy, so you can find more free parking spots. If you can’t avoid peak hours, try to arrive early or late to increase your chances of finding a free parking spot.
Utilising Technology
Another way to find free parking in Edinburgh is to use technology. The RingGo app is a great tool that allows you to pay for parking using your mobile phone. You can also use it to find free parking spots in the city. The app shows you real-time availability of parking spaces and helps you locate free parking spots near your destination.
Planning for Events and Holidays
If you’re planning to visit Edinburgh during an event or holiday, it’s important to plan ahead to find free parking. During these times, parking can be limited and expensive. Check for any road closures or parking restrictions in advance and plan your route accordingly. You can also consider parking outside the city centre and taking public transport to your destination.
By following these strategic parking tips, you can find free parking in Edinburgh and save time and money. Remember to always check for parking restrictions and read the signs before parking your car.
Neighbourhood-Specific Parking
When it comes to finding free parking in Edinburgh, the location of your destination can be a determining factor. Here are some neighbourhood-specific tips to help you find free parking in different parts of the city.
New Town and City Centre
Finding free parking in the New Town and City Centre can be a challenge due to the high demand for parking spaces. However, there are some options available if you know where to look. On-street parking is free after 6:30 pm and on Sundays. You can also find some free parking spaces on Queen Street, Gayfield Square, and Broughton Street. Keep in mind that these spaces are limited, and you may need to arrive early to secure a spot.
Old Town and Royal Mile
The Old Town and Royal Mile are some of the most popular tourist destinations in Edinburgh, making parking a challenge. However, there are some free parking options available if you know where to look. You can find some free on-street parking spaces on Canongate, St. Mary’s Street, and the Royal Mile. You can also park for free at the Dynamic Earth car park on Holyrood Road after 6 pm.
Stockbridge and West End
Stockbridge and the West End are popular residential areas with limited parking options. However, there are some free parking spaces available if you know where to look. You can find some on-street parking spaces on Comely Bank Road, Learmonth Grove, and Rothesay Place. Keep in mind that these spaces are limited, and you may need to arrive early to secure a spot.
Leith and South Side
Leith and the South Side are popular residential areas with a mix of on-street and off-street parking options. You can find some free on-street parking spaces on Leith Walk, Brunswick Road, and Easter Road. You can also park for free at the Ocean Terminal car park for up to four hours. Keep in mind that parking restrictions may apply, and you should always check the signage before leaving your car.
Overall, finding free parking in Edinburgh can be a challenge, but with a little knowledge and some patience, you can find some great options. Be sure to plan ahead, arrive early, and check the signage before leaving your car.
Key Locations with Free Parking
Shopping Centres and Retail Parks
When looking for free parking in Edinburgh, consider visiting retail parks such as Craigleith Retail Park, which offers complimentary parking for visitors. Additionally, Meadowbank Shopping Centre provides free parking facilities, making it convenient for shoppers to access the centre without incurring parking charges.
Cultural and Historical Sites
Exploring cultural and historical landmarks in Edinburgh, such as the iconic Edinburgh Castle, may lead you to discover free parking opportunities nearby. Moreover, theNational Museum of Scotland offers free parking, enabling you to delve into the city’s rich heritage without worrying about parking fees.
Hospitals and Educational Institutions
If you are visiting the Western General Hospital or the University of Edinburgh, you can take advantage of the complimentary parking facilities available. Additionally, the Kings Buildings offers free parking, ensuring hassle-free access to educational facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find a map showing free parking areas in Edinburgh?
The website provides a helpful map that shows the best free parking spots in Edinburgh. Additionally, the Edinburgh City Council website has information on parking in the city, including parking maps and locations.
What are the best locations for complimentary parking in the city centre of Edinburgh?
There are several locations in the city centre of Edinburgh where you can find free parking. Some of the best locations include St Margaret’s Loch, Meadowbank Shopping Park, and Waitrose Comely Bank. These locations have time limits, so make sure to check the signs before parking.
Is there free parking available in Edinburgh on Sundays?
Yes, there is free parking available in Edinburgh on Sundays. However, it is important to note that parking restrictions still apply, so make sure to check the signs before parking.
Can you recommend where to park overnight in Edinburgh without incurring charges?
There are several locations in Edinburgh where you can park overnight without incurring charges. Some of the best locations include St Margaret’s Loch, Holyrood Park, and the Ocean Terminal shopping centre. However, it is important to note that parking restrictions still apply, so make sure to check the signs before parking.
Are there any free parking facilities near Edinburgh Castle for visitors?
There are no free parking facilities near Edinburgh Castle for visitors. However, there are several paid parking facilities in the area, including the Castle Terrace car park and the NCP car park on Castle Terrace.
What are the parking charges in Edinburgh’s controlled parking zones?
The parking charges in Edinburgh’s controlled parking zones vary depending on the location and time of day. Generally, the charges range from £2 to £4 per hour. However, it is important to note that parking restrictions still apply, so make sure to check the signs before parking.
