Free and Paid Parking In Norwich

Updated: December 5, 2024

Norwich offers a mix of free and paid parking options, catering to a wide range of needs for visitors, shoppers, and residents. Free parking is available in certain areas, often located outside the city center. These spaces are ideal for those willing to walk a bit further or use public transport to reach their destination. Commonly found near residential areas or on specific streets, free parking spots may have time restrictions to ensure turnover.

In the city center, paid parking is more prevalent, with multi-story car parks and on-street parking available. These facilities are conveniently located near key attractions, shopping centers, and offices. Prices vary depending on proximity to the city center, with higher rates in prime locations. Many car parks offer hourly rates, daily caps, or evening discounts, making them flexible for different lengths of stay.

Free Parking On Public Streets at Norwich

Norwich also has many car parks, including multi-storey and surface lots. Some of these include

Lionwood Road
Quebec Road
Cubitt Road

Free Car Parks In Norwich

some known free car parks and parking areas in Norwich, as of current knowledge. Please confirm details locally as availability and rules can change.

Location	Details	Restrictions/Notes
Mousehold Heath	Scenic area with free parking available.	Ideal for walkers and nature lovers. Limited spaces.
Whitlingham Country Park	Free parking near the entrance to the park.	Check time limits; may be busy on weekends.
Norfolk Showground	Offers free parking during non-event days.	Parking restrictions may apply during events.
Riverside Road (Some Areas)	Limited free parking near Riverside complex.	Time restrictions often apply; check signage.
Eaton Park	Free parking available for park visitors.	Reserved for park users; limited during busy periods.
Sainsbury’s (Certain Locations)	Some supermarket branches allow free parking.	Usually limited to 2-3 hours; purchases may be required.
Residential Streets (Outside City Center)	Free parking available on many suburban streets.	Ensure compliance with local parking regulations.

For updated and specific locations, check Norwich City Council or local parking apps for real-time availability and rules.

Cheapest Parking in Norwich

Some cheapest parking option are available which charge £3.20 between 6.30pm and 5:30am .

Golden Dog Lane
Elm Hill
Queens Road
Pottergate
St Crispins

Free Parking At Park And Ride Sites in Norwich

Here’s a table summarizing free parking at Park and Ride sites in Norwich. These facilities are designed for commuters and visitors to park their cars and use public transport to reach the city center.

Park and Ride Site	Location	Free Parking
Airport Park and Ride	Off Cromer Road (A140)	Yes
Costessey Park and Ride	Off Long Lane, near A47	Yes
Sprowston Park and Ride	Off Wroxham Road (A1151)	Yes
Harford Park and Ride	Off Ipswich Road (A140)	Yes
Thickthorn Park and Ride	Off A11/A47 junction	Yes
Postwick Park and Ride	Off A47, near Broadland Northway (A1270)	Yes

Disable Free Parking in Norwich

Location	Details	Restrictions/Notes
Norwich Market Area	Blue Badge holders can park in nearby bays for free.	Limited spaces; arrive early for availability.
Chapelfield Mall Car Park	Free parking for Blue Badge holders in allocated spaces.	Registration may be required; check with customer service.
St. Andrew’s Car Park	Designated Blue Badge spaces available for free.	Free only for badge holders; time limits may apply.
Riverside Retail Park	Free disabled parking near main entrances.	Spaces reserved for badge holders only; check for enforcement.
Eaton Park	Free parking for Blue Badge holders.	Located near entrances and facilities.

Best Paid Parking in Norwich

Some of the best paid parking options in Norwich, considering location, facilities, and convenience:

Car Park	Location	Hourly Rate
Chapelfield Mall Car Park	St. Stephens Street	£2.00/hour
St. Andrew’s Car Park	Duke Street	£1.90/hour
Castle Quarter Car Park	Castle Meadow	£2.00/hour
Rose Lane Car Park	Rose Lane	£2.20/hour
Forum Car Park	Bethel Street	£2.20/hour

Limited availability of free parking spaces, especially in the city center.
High demand for parking during peak hours and weekends.
Expensive hourly and daily rates in central car parks.
Congestion caused by drivers searching for parking spots.
Insufficient Blue Badge bays in some popular areas.
Time restrictions in free and on-street parking zones.
Lack of clarity or confusing signage in certain parking areas.
Limited electric vehicle (EV) charging points in car parks.
Overcrowding in Park and Ride sites during major events.
Risk of fines for overstaying or misinterpreting parking rules.
Inconvenience for visitors unfamiliar with the city’s parking layout.
Occasional maintenance or closures of key car parks.
Lack of affordable parking options for commuters.
Traffic disruptions due to narrow streets and parked vehicles.
Environmental concerns related to increased vehicle emissions from idling in queues for parking.

Conclusion

Free and paid parking options in Norwich reflect the city’s effort to balance accessibility, convenience, and sustainability for residents and visitors. Free parking opportunities, such as those available on residential streets, at parks, or at some Park and Ride sites, provide a cost-effective solution for those willing to plan their journey. However, these options often come with limitations, such as time restrictions and distance from the city center, requiring careful consideration by users.

Paid parking, while more convenient and centrally located, comes at a cost, with rates varying based on location and amenities. Facilities such as Chapelfield Mall, St. Andrew’s, and Castle Quarter car parks cater to shoppers, commuters, and tourists by providing secure, modern spaces with added features like EV charging points. These paid options offer reliability but can become expensive for long stays.

Ultimately, Norwich’s mix of free and paid parking caters to diverse needs but highlights the importance of planning ahead to avoid inconvenience. For longer stays or visits during peak times, Park and Ride facilities offer an eco-friendly alternative to driving into the city. By considering both free and paid options, visitors can enjoy Norwich’s vibrant attractions without unnecessary stress.

FAQ

Where to park in Norwich for free?

Free parking in Norwich is available at locations like Mousehold Heath, Eaton Park, Whitlingham Country Park, and certain residential streets outside the city center. Park and Ride sites also offer free parking, although bus fares apply. Always check local signage for restrictions or time limits.

How much is car parking in Norwich?

Car parking in Norwich varies by location. Paid parking rates typically range from £1.80 to £2.50 per hour, with daily caps between £8 and £16. Park and Ride services cost around £4-5 per day, including bus travel. Free parking is available in some areas, but restrictions may apply.

Where is the best place to park in Norwich?

The best places to park in Norwich are Chapelfield Mall Car Park, Castle Quarter Car Park, and St. Andrew’s Car Park. These are centrally located, secure, and close to shopping, dining, and attractions. For a more economical option, consider Park and Ride sites like Costessey or Thickthorn.

How long can you park for free at Norwich train station?

At Norwich Train Station, Blue Badge holders can park for free in designated spaces, but other drivers typically need to pay for parking. The maximum free parking duration for non-disabled drivers is usually 30 minutes, after which charges apply. Always check signage for specific terms.

Does Norwich have a park and ride?

Yes, Norwich has several Park and Ride sites, including those at Costessey, Thickthorn, Sprowston, and Harford. These facilities offer free parking with a bus service into the city center, helping reduce congestion.

How much is a parking fine in Norwich?

In Norwich, parking fines typically range from £50 to £70, depending on the violation. The fine may be reduced by 50% if paid within 14 days.

Is Norwich a walkable city?

Yes, Norwich is a walkable city with a compact city center, making it easy to explore its attractions, shops, and restaurants on foot. Many key locations are within walking distance of each other.

Where can I drop off parking at Norwich Station?

At Norwich Station, you can drop off passengers in the designated Kiosk Zone near the main entrance. It’s free for a short stay, but there are time limits, typically up to 10-15 minutes. Always check for any updates on signage.

Do you get free parking at Odeon Norwich?

How much does it cost to park in Castle Mall Norwich?

Parking at Castle Mall in Norwich costs around £2 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of approximately £8.50. Rates may vary, so it’s best to check on-site or online for current pricing.