15/05/2020
Edinburgh, a city steeped in history and brimming with culture, presents a unique challenge when it comes to parking. As a city built over centuries, its narrow streets and historic architecture weren't designed with the modern motorcar in mind. Consequently, getting around by car can sometimes feel like a puzzle. However, with a little knowledge and planning, you can make your journey through Edinburgh a smooth and stress-free experience. This guide will delve into the intricacies of parking in Edinburgh, covering everything from city centre charges and convenient park-and-ride options to airport parking and those elusive free spots.
The Cost of Parking in Edinburgh's City Centre
Parking in Edinburgh's city centre is, by and large, the most expensive option. This is a direct reflection of the city's historical layout, where space is at a premium. You'll find that most on-street parking is metered, and traditional coin-operated meters are still prevalent, though many also accept card payments. A growing trend, and often a more convenient one, is the use of smartphone apps like RingGo, which allow you to pay for and even extend your parking remotely – a godsend if you're engrossed in exploring or enjoying a meal.
Be aware that there's a strict limit on how long you can park in many central locations. The general rule of thumb is a maximum of 4 hours, and it's illegal to try and circumvent this by 'feeding the meter'.
For prime locations such as George Street, Queen Street, and Market Street, expect to pay a premium. Prices can reach up to £8.20 per hour. For a slightly more budget-friendly, albeit still central, option, consider London Road, which is roughly a 10-minute walk from Waverley Station.
Park and Ride: The Smart Way to Explore
Given the challenges of city centre parking, many locals and savvy visitors opt for Edinburgh's excellent Park and Ride facilities. This is arguably the best way to get into the centre for shopping, work, or sightseeing. The concept is simple: leave your car at a designated car park on the outskirts of the city and hop onto public transport – be it a bus, tram, or train – to reach your destination. Not only does this save you the hassle of navigating congested city streets and searching for parking, but it also often proves more economical.
Edinburgh offers several free Park and Ride car parks, strategically located to serve major transport links:
| Car Park Name | Public Transport Links |
|---|---|
| Ingliston | Tram, Skylink 200, 300, 400 |
| Hermiston | Lothian 25, X25, 34, 35, 24, N25, N34 |
| Newcraighall | Scotrail |
| Ferrytoll | Various Stagecoach Services from Fife, Dundee and the North |
| Sheriffhall | Lothian 33, 49 |
| Straiton | Lothian X37, 47, X47, 67 |
| Wallyford | Lothian 44, 44A, N44 & Scotrail |
From these points, you can easily catch a bus or tram into the heart of Edinburgh. For instance, any bus or tram heading to Princes Street is suitable for visiting Edinburgh Castle, with services to North Bridge bringing you even closer.
Free Parking in Edinburgh: When and Where?
The prospect of free parking in a major city is always appealing. Edinburgh does offer some opportunities for free parking, but it requires careful timing and knowledge of the regulations:
- Sundays: Parking is free on Sundays before 12:30 PM.
- Public Holidays: Enjoy free parking on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Day, and Easter Monday. However, be prepared for these areas to be busier.
- Evening and Overnight Parking: In central zones (City Centre and West End), parking is generally free between 6:30 PM and 6:00 AM, Monday through Saturday. Peripheral and extended zones (like Bruntsfield, Marchmont, and parts of the New Town) offer free parking between 5:30 PM and 8:30 AM, Monday to Friday, and on Saturdays.
Crucially, always check the parking information signs. These signs provide the definitive rules for each specific street, as zones, prices, and times can vary significantly.
Parking in Specific Edinburgh Neighbourhoods
Beyond the immediate city centre, parking can often be more relaxed and, indeed, free. For example, in neighbourhoods like Leith, particularly around The Shore, you might find free on-street parking. However, the downside to this 'free' parking is its scarcity, meaning you might spend considerable time searching for a space. Furthermore, you'll need to factor in the cost and time of public transport to reach your final destination if you're not parking directly where you need to be.
A local tip worth considering is to weigh the potential savings on parking against the time spent travelling from a free spot. Sometimes, paying for a closer, more convenient parking space can be more time-efficient.
Parking at Edinburgh Airport
Edinburgh Airport (EDI) serves as a gateway to Scotland for millions of travellers, and it offers a comprehensive range of parking options to suit different needs and budgets.
Pick-Up and Drop-Off
If you're simply dropping someone off or picking them up, head for the clearly signed short-stay car parks. These are convenient but can be pricey, so it's wise to keep an eye on flight arrivals to minimise your waiting time and cost. You'll typically use a card to exit the barrier.
Cheap Parking at Edinburgh Airport
For the most budget-conscious travellers, the Plane Parking car park is the cheapest option. This is the airport's budget long-stay facility. You'll park your car, keep your keys, and then take a free, 24-hour shuttle bus to the terminal, which typically takes around ten minutes.
Most Convenient Airport Parking: Multi-Storey
For ultimate convenience, especially for shorter stays, the airport's multi-storey car park is the best choice. It's located just a minute's walk from the terminal building, with a direct link providing access straight to security. This is ideal if you have your boarding pass and only hand luggage, allowing you to bypass check-in entirely. However, this convenience comes at a higher price point.
Valet Parking at Edinburgh Airport
If you prefer to hand over your keys and walk straight into the terminal, FastPark offers a valet-style service. You drive into the FastPark booth, where cameras photograph your vehicle. You then drop off your keys and enjoy the short, one-minute walk to the terminal. This is particularly beneficial for travellers with substantial luggage.
Insider Tip for Airport Parking: If you have an early flight, consider booking an airport hotel. You can drop your car off early, stay overnight, and then use public transport into the city for your last day. This allows you to enjoy your final hours in Edinburgh stress-free before returning to your hotel for a restful night before heading to departures.
Using Parking Apps like JustPark
Innovative apps like JustPark are revolutionising how people find and pay for parking in cities like Edinburgh. JustPark allows you to browse available parking spaces, compare prices, and book and pay for your spot in advance using your credit card. This offers peace of mind, knowing you have a guaranteed space waiting for you, whether you're visiting the artistic vibe of Leith, the historic New Town, Stockbridge market, or Murrayfield Stadium.
JustPark is known for its affordability, with prices in Edinburgh starting as low as £1.20 per hour, £5.60 for a day, and £57.80 per month. This makes it a very attractive option for many.
Other useful apps include Parkopedia, which also allows pre-booking of parking spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions about Edinburgh Parking
Is parking expensive in Edinburgh city centre?
Yes, parking in Edinburgh's city centre is generally the most expensive, with hourly rates on prime streets reaching up to £8.20.
What are the cheapest parking options in Edinburgh?
The cheapest options include using the free Park and Ride facilities on the outskirts of the city and utilising parking apps like JustPark, which offer competitive rates. Free on-street parking is available during specific times, particularly in the evenings and on Sundays before 12:30 PM.
How can I pay for parking in Edinburgh?
You can pay using traditional coin-operated meters, card payments at meters, or via smartphone apps such as RingGo and JustPark.
Is there free parking at Edinburgh Airport?
Edinburgh Airport does not offer free parking. However, the Plane Parking car park is the most budget-friendly option for long stays, with shuttle services to the terminal.
What is the best way to park for Edinburgh Castle?
The most recommended way is to use a Park and Ride facility and take public transport into the city centre. Alternatively, the NCP Castle Terrace car park is the closest pay-to-park option.
Conclusion
Edinburgh's parking landscape can seem daunting at first, but with the right approach, it's entirely manageable. By understanding the pricing structures, utilising the convenient Park and Ride services, being mindful of free parking times, and leveraging modern parking apps, you can ensure your visit to Scotland's capital is as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible. Remember to always check local signage for the most up-to-date information and regulations.
If you want to read more articles similar to Edinburgh Parking: Costs & Tips, you can visit the Automotive category.