If you’re planning a trip to Taunton, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of free parking options available throughout the town. With a little bit of knowledge and planning, you can save money on parking fees and spend more on enjoying all that Taunton has to offer. In this article, we’ll explore the various free parking options available in Taunton, as well as some special parking provisions and frequently asked questions.
Understanding Parking in Taunton can be a bit tricky, as there are many different parking areas, each with their own rules and regulations. However, there are a few key things to keep in mind. For example, many of the town’s car parks offer free parking on Sundays, and some offer free parking in the evenings as well. Additionally, there are several free parking spots located throughout the town, which we’ll discuss in more detail later in this article. By familiarising yourself with the various parking options available, you can save time, money, and stress when navigating Taunton’s parking system.
Free Parking Locations are scattered throughout Taunton, and are a great way to save money during your visit. Some of the most popular free parking spots include the Canon Street car park, the Castle Street car park, and the Orchard multi-storey car park. These spots offer free parking during certain times of the day or week, so it’s important to check the signs and regulations before leaving your car. Additionally, there are several other free parking spots located throughout the town, which we’ll discuss in more detail below.
Key Takeaways
- Taunton offers a variety of free parking options, including car parks and on-street parking.
- Many of the town’s car parks offer free parking on Sundays, and some offer free parking in the evenings as well.
- By familiarising yourself with the various parking options available, you can save time, money, and stress when navigating Taunton’s parking system.
Understanding Parking in Taunton
If you’re planning a visit to Taunton, it’s important to understand the different types of car parks available and the restrictions that may apply. This will help you to avoid any parking fines and make the most of your visit.
Types of Car Parks
There are several types of car parks in Taunton, including on-street parking bays, multi-storey car parks, and open-air car parks. On-street parking bays are usually the most convenient option, but they can be limited in availability and subject to time restrictions. Multi-storey car parks are a good option if you’re planning to stay for a longer period, as they often offer cheaper rates for longer stays. Open-air car parks are a good option if you’re looking for a cheaper parking option, but they may be further away from your destination.
Council Run Car Parks
The council runs several car parks in Taunton, including the High Street Car Park, Canon Street Car Park, and Orchard Multi-Storey Car Park. These car parks are subject to council regulations and may have different restrictions and rates compared to privately-run car parks. For example, the High Street Car Park is locked overnight and charges from 8am to 6pm Monday to Saturday, including public and bank holidays. It’s important to check the regulations for each car park before you park to avoid any fines.
Overall, understanding the different types of car parks and the regulations that apply can help you to find the best parking option for your needs and avoid any fines.
Free Parking Locations
If you are looking for free parking in Taunton, you have come to the right place. There are several locations where you can park your car without paying a penny. Here are some of the best free parking locations in Taunton.
Town Centre
If you plan to visit the town centre, you can park your car for free in several car parks. The Canon Street car park, Castle Street car park, Orchard multi-storey car park, Tangier car park, Wood Street car park and Belvedere Road car park offer free parking between 6 pm and 8 am Monday to Saturday, and all day Sunday.
Residential Areas
There are several residential areas in Taunton where you can park your car for free. Landsdowne Road, Harcourt Street, Coleridge Crescent, Wordsworth Drive, Richmond Road, and Dowell Close are some of the residential areas where you can park your car without paying anything.
It is important to note that some of the residential areas may have time restrictions, so make sure to check the signs before parking. Also, please be respectful of the residents and do not park in front of their driveways or block their access.
Overall, Taunton has several free parking locations that you can take advantage of. Whether you are visiting the town centre or parking in a residential area, you can save money by parking for free.
Special Parking Provisions
Blue Badge Parking
If you have a Blue Badge, you can park for free in all council-run car parks in Taunton, including the multi-storey car parks. However, please note that Blue Badge holders still need to display their badge and check the signs for any restrictions or time limits.
Park and Ride Services
If you prefer to park outside of Taunton and take public transport into the town centre, there are Park and Ride services available. The two Park and Ride sites are Taunton Gateway and Silk Mills. Both sites offer free parking and a frequent bus service into the town centre. The buses run every 12 minutes, and the journey takes around 10 minutes.
Park and Ride Site | Address | Bus Service |
---|---|---|
Taunton Gateway | Junction 25 of the M5, TA1 2LR | Route parkandride1 |
Silk Mills | Silk Mills Road, TA1 5AA | Route parkandride2 |
Please note that the buses are wheelchair accessible, and there is no height restriction on the car parks. The Park and Ride services are an environmentally friendly and cost-effective way to travel into the town centre.
If you are planning to use the Park and Ride services, please note that the first bus from both sites departs at 6:30 am, and the last bus back from the town centre is at 7:30 pm Monday to Saturday. On Sundays and bank holidays, the first bus is at 9:30 am, and the last bus back from the town centre is at 6:30 pm.
In summary, if you have a Blue Badge, you can park for free in all council-run car parks in Taunton. If you prefer to park outside of Taunton, there are Park and Ride services available from Taunton Gateway and Silk Mills. Both sites offer free parking and a frequent bus service into the town centre.
Parking Charges and Access
When it comes to parking in Taunton, there are a variety of options available to you. Some car parks are free of charge, while others require payment. Additionally, there are both pay and display car parks and monthly/overnight parking options available.
Pay and Display Car Parks
If you are looking for a pay and display car park in Taunton, there are several options available to you. The High Street Car Park, located at Old Pig Market, is one such option. This car park is locked overnight, with charges applying from Monday to Saturday between 8am and 6pm. The cost of parking here starts at £1 per hour.
Another pay and display car park in Taunton is the Orchard Multi-Storey Car Park, located on the corner of Orchard and Wood Street. Charges apply Monday to Saturday between 8am and 6pm, with the cost of parking starting at £1.50 per hour.
Monthly and Overnight Parking
If you require parking for longer periods of time, there are several monthly and overnight parking options available in Taunton. The Canon Street Car Park, located on Canon Street, offers monthly parking for just £50 per month. This car park is free of charge between 6pm and 8am Monday to Saturday and all day Sunday.
Another option for monthly parking in Taunton is the Belvedere Road Car Park, located on Belvedere Road. This car park offers monthly parking for just £70 per month, with charges applying from Monday to Saturday between 8am and 6pm.
If you require overnight parking in Taunton, the High Street Car Park is a good option. This car park is locked overnight, with charges applying from Monday to Saturday between 8am and 6pm. Alternatively, the Wood Street Car Park, located on Wood Street, offers overnight parking for just £5 per night. This car park is free of charge between 6pm and 8am Monday to Saturday and all day Sunday.
Overall, there are a variety of parking options available in Taunton, whether you require free parking, pay and display car parks, or monthly/overnight parking. By familiarizing yourself with the available options, you can ensure that your parking needs are met in a convenient and cost-effective manner.
Navigating Taunton’s Parking
Taunton is a bustling town with plenty of amenities to offer, but parking can be a challenge. Here are some tips to help you navigate Taunton’s parking situation.
Parking for Local Amenities
If you’re visiting Taunton for local amenities, such as shops or restaurants, there are several car parks available. The Orchard multi-storey car park is a popular choice, located close to the town centre. It has over 500 spaces and is open 24/7. Another option is the Tangier car park, which is also close to the town centre and has over 200 spaces. The Castle Street car park is another option, located next to the castle and museum.
If you’re looking for free parking, there are several options available. The High Street car park offers free parking on Sundays and after 6 pm on weekdays. There are also several free coach parking spots available in and around Taunton, including Minehead – Mart Road, Doverhay in Porlock, Dunster Steep in Dunster, and Harbour Road in Watchet.
Strategies for Finding Spaces
Finding a parking space in Taunton can be a challenge, especially during peak times. Here are some strategies to help you find a space:
- Plan ahead: If you know you’ll be visiting Taunton during a busy time, such as a weekend or holiday, plan ahead and arrive early to secure a space.
- Use parking apps: There are several parking apps available that can help you find available spaces in real-time. Some popular apps include RingGo and Parkopedia.
- Look for alternative spaces: If you’re struggling to find a space in a car park, consider looking for alternative spaces, such as driveways or loop parking. Just be sure to get permission from the property owner before parking.
- Consider public transport: If you’re able to, consider using public transport to get to Taunton. This can help you avoid the hassle of finding a parking space altogether.
Overall, while parking in Taunton can be a challenge, there are several options available to help you find a space. By planning ahead and using the strategies outlined above, you can make your visit to Taunton stress-free.
Car Park Directory
If you’re looking for free parking in Taunton, there are several car parks available in the town centre and on the outskirts. Here’s a directory of some of the most popular car parks.
Central Taunton Car Parks
- Canon Street Car Park: Located on Canon Street, this car park has 297 spaces and is open 24 hours a day. It’s free to park here after 6 pm on weekdays and all day on Sundays.
- Castle Street Car Park: This car park is located on Castle Street and has 44 spaces. It’s free to park here after 6 pm on weekdays and all day on Sundays.
- Orchard Multi Storey Car Park: This multi-storey car park is located on Paul Street and has 540 spaces. It’s free to park here after 6 pm on weekdays and all day on Sundays.
Peripheral Car Parks
- Tangier Car Park: Located on Tangier Way, this car park has 91 spaces and is open 24 hours a day. It’s free to park here after 6 pm on weekdays and all day on Sundays.
- Wood Street Car Park: Located on Wood Street, this car park has 78 spaces and is open 24 hours a day. It’s free to park here after 6 pm on weekdays and all day on Sundays.
- Belvedere Road Car Park: This car park is located on Belvedere Road and has 50 spaces. It’s free to park here after 6 pm on weekdays and all day on Sundays.
- Firepool Car Park: Located on Firepool Lock, this car park has 200 spaces and is open 24 hours a day. It’s free to park here after 6 pm on weekdays and all day on Sundays.
- High Street Car Park: Located on High Street, this car park has 257 spaces and is open 24 hours a day. If you display a valid Blue Badge, an additional hour is added to the time you have purchased, free of charge.
- Kilkenny Car Park: Located on Kilkenny Lane, this car park has 28 spaces and is open 24 hours a day. It’s free to park here after 6 pm on weekdays and all day on Sundays.
- Victoria Gate Car Park: This car park is located on Victoria Street and has 108 spaces. It’s free to park here after 6 pm on weekdays and all day on Sundays.
Please note that opening hours and free parking times are subject to change. It’s always best to check the signs in the car park on arrival for up-to-date information and procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best locations for complimentary parking in Taunton town centre?
There are several car parks in Taunton town centre that offer free parking. The best locations for complimentary parking in Taunton town centre are Canon Street car park, Castle Street car park, Orchard multi-storey car park, Tangier car park, Wood Street car park, Belvedere Road car park, and Firepool car park. You can park for free in these car parks between 6 pm and 8 am Monday to Saturday and all day Sunday.
Are there any long stay car parks in Taunton that offer free parking?
There are no long stay car parks in Taunton that offer free parking. However, there are several car parks in Taunton with affordable all-day parking options.
On which days is parking in Taunton town centre free of charge?
You can park for free in Taunton town centre on Sundays all day and between 6 pm and 8 am Monday to Saturday in the following car parks: Canon Street car park, Castle Street car park, Orchard multi-storey car park, Tangier car park, Wood Street car park, Belvedere Road car park, and Firepool car park.
What are the most affordable all-day parking options in Taunton?
The most affordable all-day parking options in Taunton are the Belvedere Road car park, Orchard multi-storey car park, and Tangier car park. These car parks offer all-day parking rates of £5.50, £6.00, and £6.50 respectively.
Can vehicles be parked at Taunton train station without incurring a fee?
No, vehicles cannot be parked at Taunton train station without incurring a fee. The car park at Taunton train station is managed by APCOA Parking and charges a fee for parking.
How does one make payment for car parking facilities in Taunton?
Most car parks in Taunton accept payment by cash, credit/debit card, or through a mobile app. Some car parks also offer contactless payment options. Please note that payment methods may vary depending on the car park, so it is best to check the payment options available at the car park before parking your vehicle.