Best Free and Paid Parking In Edinburgh UK 2025
Updated: December 3, 2024
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Introduction
Parking In Edinburgh UK is a popular city for tourist and locals, and one of the biggest challenges when visiting the city is finding parking. Parking can be tricky when exploring the historic Royal Mile or heading to Edinburgh Castle. Luckily, several car parks and parking options are available throughout the city, with various choices depending on your location and budget.
Always double-check parking signs to avoid fines, as restrictions can change and enforcement is active throughout the city center.
A Guide For Best Free and Paid Parking In Edinburgh UK
Edinburgh is a famous with various attractions, historic landmarks, and shopping centers. However, parking options in the city can sometimes be challenging. This guide help and give solutions, park and ride facilities, and nearby amenities to make your visit stress-free.
Best Free and Paid Parking In Edinburgh UK City Centre
Finding free parking in Edinburgh City Centre can be quite challenging. However, there are a some options where you can find free parking, especially during certain times:
- Street Parking: Some residential streets outside the core city centre may offer free parking, though it’s essential to check local signage for restrictions. Be aware that parking in these areas could have time limits, especially during weekdays.
- Free Parking on Sundays: In many parts of Edinburgh, street parking is free on Sundays, but you should always verify any specific restrictions for the area you’re in.
- Park & Ride: While park & ride locations are not directly in the city centre, they offer free parking with easy access to the city via public transport. The Ingliston Park and Ride, for example, is one such option.
Getting free parking in Edinburgh is a great challenge. Specially in residential streets outside the city center offer free parking spots and also on Sundays. Be carefully on restrictions and ensure you check local signage. For those seeking free parking in Edinburgh city center, opportunities are limited due to the high demand and controlled zones.
Park and Ride Services in Edinburgh
For those traveling to Edinburgh, one great option for parking is Halbeath Park and Ride, which provides easy access to the city. The bus from Halbeath Park and Ride to Edinburgh is a easy and very affordable option for anyone who doesn’t want to deal with the hassle of parking in the city center. This park-and-ride service allows visitors to park their cars in a spacious lot on the outskirts of Edinburgh and take a quick bus ride into the city’s heart. This can be especially helpful for those staying outside Edinburgh or who want to avoid the high parking charges in the city center.
Car Parking in Edinburgh City Centre
Regarding parking in Edinburgh’s city center, there are several car parks in Edinburgh from which to choose. One of the most popular parking areas is around Waverley Station. There are multiple car parks in Edinburgh Waverley, offering convenient options for those arriving by train or needing quick access to the city’s main shopping and entertainment districts. Waverley Station has very big a large underground car park,which provide both short-term and long-term visitor parking. This is ideal if you are catching a train or need to park while you explore the surrounding area.
Parking In Edinburgh Near Waverley Station
If you plan to park near to the city’s , there are several car parks available in Edinburgh city center. Many of these car parks are on good location and providing easy access to shops, restaurants, and attractions. Some popular areas with parking options in the city center include around the Royal Mile, Princes Street, and near the Edinburgh Playhouse. However, parking in these central areas often comes at a cost, with Edinburgh city parking charges applying in most locations.
Cheap Parking Options in Edinburgh
Finding cheap parking in Edinburgh can be more difficult in the city center, but it is not impossible. Some more affordable parking options are outside the main city center or in areas like Leith or New Town. Some smaller, independent car parks in Edinburgh offer cheaper rates than larger, more central ones.
Edinburgh Waverley and Affordable Parking
One area where many visitors find a more affordable parking option is near Edinburgh Waverley. The car parking in Edinburgh Waverley station is often cheaper than some central city car parks, especially if you book in advance or use long-term parking. This is ideal if you’re planning to spend a lot of time in Edinburgh, as it offers secure and convenient options at a more reasonable price. Car parking in Edinburgh in this area provides easy access to local buses and trams, making it a convenient spot if you’re heading into other parts of the city or out to nearby attractions.
Free Parking On Public Streets
There are some street where you can park free at certain time all free public street are given below
| Parking Name | Street Name/Location | Free Parking Hours | Notes |
| Craiglockhart | Streets near Craiglockhart Avenue | Anytime, outside controlled zones | Check for local restrictions or signage. |
| Cramond | Cramond Glebe Road | Anytime | Close to the waterfront; popular with visitors. |
| Corstorphine | Streets near Corstorphine Hill | Anytime, outside controlled zones | Convenient for local parks and quiet neighborhoods. |
| South Gyle | Streets near Gyle Park | Evening and weekends | Limited during weekdays; good for park access. |
| Colinton | Woodhall Road | Anytime, outside controlled zones | Peaceful area near nature trails. |
| Trinity | Wardie Crescent | Anytime | Accessible residential area close to local amenities. |
All free parking with address located on the google map also given below , just click and get free parking .
A very detail google map with exact parking location are given above.
Cost of Park and Ride in Edinburgh
In addition to the options available within the city, the cost of a park and ride in Edinburgh can be a more affordable way to leave your car behind and still have easy access to the town. Edinburgh’s park-and-ride services allow you to park your vehicle at a designated lot and then take a bus into the city.
Free Parking At Park & Rides Sites In Edinburgh
Some free parking at park & ride sites in Edinburgh is given below for the help of the visitor.
- Inverkeithing Park & Ride
- Newcraighall Park & Ride
- Hermiston Gait Park & Ride
- Seafield Park & Ride
- Wallyford Park & Ride
- Liberton Park & Ride
- Edinburgh Park (West) Park & Ride
All park and ride sites at Edinburgh are given above with google map for the help of the visitor ,click on the map and get desire parking.
Paid Parking in Edinburgh
Some Paid Parking in Edinburgh option are also given below which are very secure and always open 24/7, where you can park easily without any fear.
| Location | Parking Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Castle Terrace | Multi-storey Car Park | £2.40 per hour | Central location, close to Edinburgh Castle and shops. |
| Waverley Station | Car Park | £2.50 per hour | Convenient for train station access and city centre. |
| Q-Park Omni Centre | Multi-storey Car Park | £3 per hour | Near Omni Centre and Edinburgh Playhouse. |
| St. John’s Hill | On-street Parking | £2.50 per hour | Close to Princes Street and shopping areas. |
| Leith Walk | On-street Parking | £1.80 per hour | Busy street with shops and restaurants. |
| George Street | On-street Parking | £2.50 per hour | Popular area with shops, restaurants, and bars. |
Free On-Street Parking In Edinburgh
some on Free On-Street Parking In Edinburgh are given below in the form of table and google map .
| Area | Street Name/Location | Free Parking Hours | Notes |
| Craiglockhart | Streets near Craiglockhart Avenue | Anytime, outside controlled zones | Check for local restrictions or signage. |
| Cramond | Cramond Glebe Road | Anytime | Close to the waterfront; popular with visitors. |
| Corstorphine | Streets near Corstorphine Hill | Anytime, outside controlled zones | Convenient for local parks and quiet neighborhoods. |
| South Gyle | Streets near Gyle Park | Evening and weekends | Limited during weekdays; good for park access. |
| Colinton | Woodhall Road | Anytime, outside controlled zones | Peaceful area near nature trails. |
| Trinity | Wardie Crescent | Anytime | Accessible residential area close to local amenities. |
Free on street option which are available at Edinburgh are given for the all local and visitor are given.Free on street on at Edinburg with google map also given below , where you can get exact location of the parking .
google map with all street parking are located for the visitor , click and get free street parking with easily.
Long Stay Parking in Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s long-stay parking options are worth exploring if you’re planning long trem. Edinburgh NCP Scotpark, located near the airport, provides secure and convenient parking for travelers. Alternatively, multi-story car parks like John Lewis Edinburgh Parking and Edinburgh St James Car Park available at central locations and easy access to major attractions.
For overnight parking, overnight parking Edinburgh facilities such as the Omni Car Park Edinburgh and secure parking Edinburgh locations ensure your vehicle’s safety during your stay.
Parking Near Edinburgh Attractions
Parking Near Edinburgh Waverley Station
Edinburgh Waverley Station parking options include nearby multi-story car parks and on-street parking for those traveling by train. Parking near Edinburgh Waverley is convenient for exploring the Old and New Town areas.
Parking Near Edinburgh Playhouse
Visitors attending events at the Playhouse can find Edinburgh Playhouse parking options nearby. The Omni Car Park Edinburgh is convenient, just a short walk from the venue. For those seeking alternatives, parking near Playhouse Edinburgh includes several on-street spaces.
George St Edinburgh Parking
George St Edinburgh parking is close to shopping and dining destinations in the city. This area ensures you’re close to premium shops and cafes, but spaces can be limited, especially during peak times.
Shopping and Dining in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is home to some fantastic shopping destinations. The Edinburgh St James Quarter, a new shopping center, boasts a mix of luxury and high-street brands. If you’re visiting the quarter, staying at hotels near St James Quarter Edinburgh can make your trip more convenient.
Other popular shopping centers in Edinburgh include Princes Street and the Omni Centre, where you’ll find ample dining and entertainment options. For easy access, many facilities offer NCP car park Edinburgh options for hassle-free parking.
Conclusion
Finding convenient parking in Edinburgh can be challenging, especially during peak hours. This guide covers free and paid parking options in Edinburgh, helping you make the most of your visit. Popular areas like Edinburgh city centre, Old Town, and New Town offer a mix of parking choices, including on-street parking, multi-storey car parks, and Park and Ride services.
For free parking in Edinburgh, areas outside the controlled zones, such as Craiglockhart or Cramond, are ideal. Keep an eye out for restrictions during certain hours.
Paid options include secure facilities like Waverley Station Car Park, Castle Terrace, and Q-Park Omni Centre, offering proximity to major attractions like the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and Princes Street Gardens.
Stay updated on Edinburgh parking trends, including the rise of EV charging stations, contactless payments, and real-time parking apps for a stress-free experience.
Overall, Edinburgh offers a range of parking options for visitors, from cheap parking in Edinburgh’s city center to more secure, long-term parking solutions near Waverley Station. If you are coming from outside the city, Halbeath Park and Ride and other park-and-ride services provide a great way to avoid the high costs of parking in the town.
Regardless of your budget or where you are staying, there are plenty of choices for parking in Edinburgh, making it easier for you to enjoy all that the city has to offer. So, whether you’re just popping in for the day or planning to stay for a longer visit, Edinburgh has plenty of parking options to suit your needs.
People Also Ask
Is parking free in Edinburgh?
Parking is not generally free in Edinburgh. While there are some free parking areas outside the city center and at certain Park & Ride sites, most of the city, especially in central areas, requires payment either for on-street parking or in parking garages.
Is parking in Edinburgh difficult?
Yes, parking in Edinburgh can be difficult, especially in the city center, due to limited spaces, high demand, and strict parking regulations. It’s often easier to use public transport or park at a Park & Ride facility.
Where is the best place to park in Edinburgh?
The best places to park in Edinburgh are Park & Ride sites like Inverkeithing and Newcraighall, or multi-storey car parks such as Castle Terrace and Q-Park Omni Centre for convenient access to the city center.
How do you pay for parking in Edinburgh?
In Edinburgh, you can pay for parking using pay-and-display machines, contactless payments, mobile apps (like RingGo or ParkMobile), or parking meters in some areas.
How do you pay for parking in Scotland?
In Scotland, you can pay for parking using pay-and-display machines, mobile apps (like RingGo or ParkMobile), contactless payments, or parking meters. Some areas may also accept cash.
How long can I stay in a park and ride Edinburgh?
At Park & Ride sites in Edinburgh, you can generally park for up to 24 hours. However, it’s always best to check specific site signs for any time restrictions or changes.
How much is a parking ticket in Edinburgh?
A parking ticket in Edinburgh typically costs £60, which may be reduced to £30 if paid within 14 days. The fine can increase if not paid on time.
Can you drive into Edinburgh city Centre?
Yes, you can drive into Edinburgh city center, but be aware of restricted zones, traffic congestion, and limited parking. It’s often easier to use public transport or Park & Ride services.
Where can I park in Edinburgh for free?
You can park for free in areas outside the city center, such as Craiglockhart, Cramond, and Colinton, where there are no parking restrictions. Always check local signs for any updates.
Is Park and Ride free in Edinburgh?
Park & Ride in Edinburgh is not free. There is a charge for parking, but the cost includes a bus fare to the city center.
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