If you’re planning a trip to Richmond, you’ll be pleased to know that there are plenty of free parking options available in the area. With a little bit of research and planning, you can save a significant amount of money on parking fees and use that money for other fun activities.
Understanding Free Parking in Richmond is the first step to finding the best parking options. On-Street Parking Regulations in Richmond vary depending on the location and time of day. Some streets offer free parking during certain hours, while others have pay and display machines that require payment at all times. It’s important to read the signs carefully and follow the regulations to avoid getting a ticket.
Car Parks in Richmond are another option for free parking. Some car parks offer free parking for a limited time, while others offer free parking on weekends and bank holidays. It’s important to check the rules and regulations of each car park before parking to avoid any fines or penalties. Additionally, some car parks require registration with RingGo, a cashless parking system that allows you to pay for parking using your mobile phone, so it’s important to have this set up in advance.
Key Takeaways
- Understanding the on-street parking regulations in Richmond is crucial to avoiding fines.
- Some car parks in Richmond offer free parking on weekends and bank holidays.
- Registering with RingGo can save you time and money when parking in Richmond.
Understanding Free Parking in Richmond
If you’re planning to visit Richmond, it’s important to understand the free parking options available to you. This section will provide you with a clear understanding of the eligibility criteria for free parking, as well as the locations where you can park for free.
Eligibility for Free Parking
To be eligible for free parking in Richmond, you need to be a resident of the borough. If you’re a resident, you can apply for a Richmond Card, which will give you 30 minutes of free parking in pay and display bays and council-owned car parks. However, if you wish to park for longer, you’ll need to pay for the total duration of your stay. As a resident, you’ll receive a 10% discount on the total cost of parking.
If you’re not a resident, you can still park for free in certain areas of Richmond. For example, you can park for free on weekends on most of the metered spots. However, make sure to check the parking signs for prohibited zones as they are enforced 24/7 except for peak traffic times, which are either 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. or 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. from Monday to Friday. Parking is also free during holidays.
Free Parking Locations
There are several locations in Richmond where you can park for free. Here are some of the most convenient options:
- Lower Grove Road
- Greville Road
- Kings Farm Avenue
- Carrington Road
- Denbigh Gardens (weekends and after 4.30pm weekdays)
If you’re planning to visit Kew Gardens, you can park for free on Kings Farm Avenue, which is just an easy walk to the gardens.
Another option for free parking in Richmond is using RingGo, an app that allows you to pay for parking via your mobile phone. Some of the car parks in Richmond offer free parking for RingGo users. Make sure to check the RingGo website for more information.
Overall, there are several free parking options available in Richmond, whether you’re a resident or a visitor. By understanding the eligibility criteria and free parking locations, you can save money and enjoy your time in Richmond without worrying about parking fees.
On-Street Parking Regulations
If you’re planning to park on the streets of Richmond, it’s important to understand the on-street parking regulations. These regulations help to ensure that everyone has access to parking spaces and that traffic flows smoothly.
Regulated Parking Hours
On-street parking in Richmond is regulated during certain hours. These hours vary depending on the zone you’re in, so it’s important to check the signs carefully. In general, parking is free outside of these hours. However, during regulated hours, you’ll need to pay for parking or have a valid permit.
Regulated parking hours in Richmond are typically from Monday to Friday, between 9am and 5pm. However, some zones may have different hours, so always check the signs.
Maximum Stay Limits
In addition to regulated parking hours, there are also maximum stay limits for on-street parking in Richmond. These limits vary depending on the zone you’re in, but are typically between 30 minutes and 4 hours.
If you need to park for longer than the maximum stay limit, you’ll need to move your car to a different parking space. This helps to ensure that everyone has access to parking spaces and that traffic flows smoothly.
It’s important to note that on-street parking regulations in Richmond are strictly enforced. If you park illegally or exceed the maximum stay limit, you may receive a fine. So, always check the signs carefully and make sure you’re following the regulations.
Car Parks in Richmond
If you’re planning to visit Richmond, you’ll be pleased to know that there are several car parks in the area where you can park your car for free. Here are some of the most popular car parks in Richmond:
Old Deer Park Car Park
Located at TW9 2SF, Old Deer Park Car Park is a great option if you’re looking for free parking in Richmond. This car park has three dedicated bays for coaches and is open 24/7. It’s also conveniently located near several attractions, including the Royal Botanic Gardens and Kew Palace.
Pools on the Park Car Park
Another popular free car park in Richmond is Pools on the Park Car Park, located at TW9 2SF. This car park has 100 spaces available and is open 24/7. It’s located near several restaurants, shops, and other amenities, making it a convenient option for visitors to the area.
Friars Lane Car Park
Located at TW9 1NL, Friars Lane Car Park is a council-run car park that’s open from 8am to 6.30pm, Monday to Saturday, and from 11am to 5pm on Sundays. This car park has 63 bays available for cars and one for motorcycles. It’s conveniently located near several shops and restaurants, making it a great option if you’re planning to spend the day in Richmond.
Overall, there are several free car parks in Richmond that you can take advantage of. Whether you’re planning to visit one of the area’s many attractions or just looking for a convenient place to park your car, these car parks are sure to meet your needs.
Discounts and Savings
If you frequently park in Richmond, you can save money with the Richmond Card discounts. As a resident, you can get 30 minutes of free parking in Pay and Display parking bays and council-owned car parks. However, if you need to park for a longer period, you must pay for the total duration of your stay. Fortunately, as a resident, you will receive a 10% discount on the total cost of your parking. If you are over 75 years old, you can get a 20% discount.
Richmond Card Discounts
To enjoy the Richmond Card discounts, you must have a Richmond Card and live in the borough. The Richmond Card is a free card that gives you access to a range of benefits and discounts in Richmond. You can apply for a Richmond Card online, and it usually takes up to ten working days to process your application.
Discounted Parking for Low Emissions
If you have a Band A vehicle, you can get discounted parking in Richmond. Band A vehicles are the most environmentally friendly vehicles, and they emit less than 100g/km of CO2. If you own a Band A vehicle, you can get a 50% discount on your parking fees. To qualify for the discount, you must register your vehicle with Richmond Council.
When parking in Richmond, it is important to be aware of the total duration of your stay. You can only park for a single session for a period of up to 30 minutes. If you wish to park for longer, you must pay for the total duration of your stay. However, with the Richmond Card discounts and discounted parking for low emissions, you can save money on your parking fees.
Cashless Parking Convenience
If you’re looking for a hassle-free parking experience in Richmond, then cashless parking is the way to go. With the RingGo cashless system, you can easily pay for your parking without having to carry cash or worry about finding a pay and display machine.
Ringgo Cashless System
The RingGo cashless parking account allows you to pay for your parking online or via the RingGo app on your smartphone. Once you’ve registered and added your payment details, you can use the app to start and stop your parking session. You can also extend your parking time remotely, so you don’t have to rush back to your car to top up the meter.
One of the benefits of using the RingGo cashless system is that you can avoid the hassle of finding a parking machine and queuing to pay. This is especially useful during peak times when parking machines can be busy and time-consuming.
Pay and Display Options
If you prefer to use a pay and display machine, there are plenty of options available in Richmond. You can find pay and display machines in council-owned car parks, on-street parking bays, and other designated parking areas.
When using a pay and display machine, make sure you have the correct change or use a payment card to pay for your parking. Some machines also accept contactless payments, which can be a convenient option if you don’t have cash on hand.
Overall, whether you choose to use the RingGo cashless system or a pay and display machine, there are plenty of options available to make parking in Richmond a convenient and stress-free experience.
Weekend and Holiday Parking
If you’re planning a trip to Richmond on the weekend or a holiday, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of free parking options available. In this section, we’ll cover the different free parking spots available on Sundays and holidays, as well as some special weekend parking spots.
Free Parking on Sundays and Holidays
Most of the metered parking spots in Richmond are free on Sundays and holidays. This means that you can park your car for free without worrying about getting a ticket. However, it’s important to note that this only applies to metered parking spots. If you park in a car park, you’ll still need to pay the parking fee.
Special Weekend Parking Spots
In addition to the free metered parking spots on Sundays and holidays, there are also some special weekend parking spots available in Richmond. Here are a few of the most popular ones:
- Kings Farm Avenue: If you’re planning to visit Kew Gardens, you can park for free on Kings Farm Avenue. This is a great option if you’re looking to save money on parking while still being close to the gardens.
- Lower Grove Road: This street offers free parking all day on weekends. It’s located just a short walk from Richmond town centre, making it a convenient option if you’re planning to shop or dine in the area.
- Greville Road: Another free parking spot on weekends, Greville Road is located near Richmond town centre and offers easy access to local shops and restaurants.
Overall, there are plenty of free parking options available in Richmond on weekends and holidays. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or a longer stay, you can save money on parking by taking advantage of these free spots. Just be sure to check the signage and follow the rules to avoid getting a ticket.
Additional Parking Information
Council-Owned Car Parks
Richmond upon Thames Borough Council operates several car parks across the borough, which offer convenient parking options for visitors and residents alike. Most of these car parks have Pay and Display machines that accept coins, notes, and credit/debit cards. Some of the car parks also offer free parking during certain times of the day or week. For example, the Friars Lane car park is free to park in outside of operational hours, which are from Monday to Saturday, 8am to 6.30pm, and Sunday, 11am to 5pm. The maximum stay in this car park is four hours during operational hours.
The Council car parks are located in various areas of the borough, including the town centre, Richmond Hill, and Twickenham. The locations and opening hours of these car parks can be found on the Richmond upon Thames Borough Council website. Please note that some of the car parks have height restrictions, so if you are driving a tall vehicle, you should check the restrictions before entering the car park.
Residential Parking Zones
If you live in a residential parking zone in Richmond, you can apply for a parking permit from the Council. The permit allows you to park in the designated parking bays within your zone without having to pay the Pay and Display charges. The cost of the permit varies depending on the zone and the type of vehicle you own. You can find more information about the residential parking zones and the permit application process on the Richmond upon Thames Borough Council website.
To apply for a permit, you will need to provide proof of your address and vehicle ownership. The acceptable proofs include utility bills, council tax bills, and V5C registration documents. You can apply for the permit online or by post. Once your application is approved, you will receive a permit that you should display on your vehicle’s windscreen.
Overall, Richmond upon Thames offers several parking options for visitors and residents, including Council-owned car parks and residential parking zones. By following the guidelines and regulations, you can park your vehicle safely and conveniently in the borough.
Navigating Richmond
Richmond is a charming area with several local attractions and beautiful green spaces to explore. When visiting, it’s essential to be aware of the parking options available to make the most of your time.
Local Attractions and Parking
Richmond is home to the renowned Kew Gardens and the expansive Richmond Park. When planning your visit, it’s advisable to consider the parking facilities available near these attractions. Several car parks in the vicinity offer convenient parking options, allowing you to explore these sites at your leisure.
Optimal Parking for Kew Gardens and Richmond Park
For those planning a visit to Kew Gardens or Richmond Park, it’s recommended to utilise the designated parking areas nearby. This ensures convenient access and a hassle-free experience, enabling you to make the most of your time exploring these iconic locations. Additionally, considering the potential for walking between attractions, strategic parking can enhance your overall experience.
Parking for Coaches and Larger Vehicles
If you’re visiting Richmond with a larger vehicle, such as a coach, you’ll need to know where to park. Fortunately, there are options available for coach parking in the area.
Coach Parking Locations and Charges
The main coach parking location in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames is Old Deer Park [1]. This car park has six dedicated coach bays available for use. Coach parking costs £22.90 for 12 hours, and charges apply at all times. It’s worth noting that privately run car parks may also offer coach parking, so it’s worth checking with the attraction you’re visiting to see if they have any recommendations.
When parking in Old Deer Park, it’s important to be aware of the hours of operation. The car park is open from Monday to Saturday, 8 am to 6:30 pm, and Sunday and Bank Holidays, 11 am to 5 pm [1]. Outside of these hours, the car park is accessible and free to park in. However, it’s worth noting that the Park Lane entrance is closed from 7:30 to 9:30 am Monday to Friday [2].
Old Deer Park is the only location where coach parking is available in the area. However, if you’re looking for parking for other types of larger vehicles, such as lorries or vans, it’s worth checking with the local council to see if they have any recommendations.
Overall, if you’re visiting Richmond with a coach or other larger vehicle, Old Deer Park is the best option for parking. With six dedicated coach bays available, it’s easy to find a spot to park, and the charges are reasonable. Just be sure to check the hours of operation before you arrive to avoid any issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the locations of free parking areas in Richmond town centre?
If you have a Richmond Card, you can get 30 minutes of free parking in pay and display parking bays and council-owned car parks. There are also some streets near the town centre where you can park for free, including Lower Grove Road, Greville Road, Kings Farm Avenue, Carrington Road, and Denbigh Gardens (weekends and after 4.30pm weekdays). If you’re visiting Kew Gardens, you can park for free on Kings Farm Avenue, which is just an easy walk away.
What are the best options for complimentary street parking in Richmond?
Some of the best options for complimentary street parking in Richmond include Lower Grove Road, Greville Road, Kings Farm Avenue, Carrington Road, and Denbigh Gardens (weekends and after 4.30pm weekdays). These streets are conveniently located near the town centre and offer free parking for up to two hours.
At what times does parking become free of charge in Richmond?
Free parking is available on some streets in Richmond after 4.30pm on weekdays and all day on weekends. However, parking restrictions can vary depending on the street and the time of day, so it’s always a good idea to check the signs before you park.
Are there any long stay car parks in Richmond that offer free parking?
Unfortunately, there are no long stay car parks in Richmond that offer free parking. However, if you have a Richmond Card, you can get a 10% discount (or 20% if you’re over the age of 75) on your parking in council-owned car parks.
Is parking in Richmond Park without cost, and if so, what are the restrictions?
Parking in Richmond Park is free of charge, but there are some restrictions you should be aware of. You can park in designated car parks and parking areas, but parking is not allowed on the grass or in any other areas that are not designated for parking. Additionally, parking restrictions can vary depending on the time of day and the season, so it’s always a good idea to check the signs before you park.
