For beach enthusiasts looking to explore the stunning Bournemouth coastline, finding the right car park can make all the difference. The Bath Road South Long Stay Car Park, Richmond Gardens Multi-Storey, and Winter Gardens Car Park are three of the most convenient options for accessing the beautiful Bournemouth beaches.
Bath Road South Long Stay Car Park: Proximity to the Pier Approach
The Bath Road South Long Stay Car Park is the closest option to the Pier Approach, being just a couple of minutes’ walk away. This outdoor car park offers 163 spaces, including 11 disabled spaces, and operates from 6am to 10pm. The parking charges vary depending on the time of year, with higher rates during the peak season of March 15th to October 31st.
| Time Slot | 15 Mar – 31 Oct | 01 Nov – 14 Mar |
|---|---|---|
| 1 hour | £3.30 | £2.10 |
| 2 hours | £6.60 | £4 |
| 3 hours | £9.90 | £5.60 |
| 4 hours | £13.20 | £7 |
| 6 hours | £19.80 | £11.20 |
| 24 hours | £24.20 | £18 |
It’s important to note that this car park only accepts card payments, phone payments, or online app payments (such as JustPark, RingGo, or PayByPhone), and does not accept cash.
Richmond Gardens Multi-Storey: Affordable and Convenient
The Richmond Gardens Multi-Storey car park is another excellent option for beach enthusiasts. Located at the top of Richmond Hill, it’s about a 15-minute walk to the beach through the town and Lower Gardens. This long-stay multi-story car park has 859 spaces, including 12 disabled spaces, and operates all year round. The parking charges are relatively affordable, with a maximum of £11.50 for up to 24 hours.
| Time Slot | All-year |
|---|---|
| up to 2 hours | £2.90 |
| up to 3 hours | £4 |
| up to 4 hours | £5.20 |
| up to 6 hours | £9.20 |
| up to 24 hours | £11.50 |
Winter Gardens Car Park: Outdoor Convenience
For those who prefer an outdoor car park, the Winter Gardens Car Park is a great choice. It’s just a short 5-minute walk to the pier and offers reasonable parking charges. This car park has 250 spaces, including 11 disabled spaces, and operates all year round.
| Time Slot | All-year |
|---|---|
| up to 2 hours | £2.90 |
| up to 3 hours | £4 |
| up to 4 hours | £5.20 |
| up to 6 hours | £9.20 |
Similar to the Bath Road South Long Stay Car Park, the Winter Gardens Car Park only accepts phone payments or online app payments (such as JustPark, RingGo, or PayByPhone), and does not accept cash.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bournemouth Beach Car Park
When selecting a car park for your Bournemouth beach visit, there are several factors to consider:
- Location: The proximity to the beach and other attractions can be a significant factor, especially if you have limited mobility or are traveling with young children.
- Parking Charges: Comparing the parking rates across different car parks can help you find the most cost-effective option for your visit.
- Payment Methods: Knowing which payment methods are accepted can help you plan your visit and ensure you have the necessary means to pay for your parking.
- Amenities: Some car parks may offer additional amenities, such as electric vehicle charging stations or secure bike storage, which could be important considerations for some visitors.
By weighing these factors, you can choose the Bournemouth beach car park that best suits your needs and ensures a seamless and enjoyable beach experience.
Conclusion
Bournemouth’s beach car parks offer a range of options for beach enthusiasts, each with its own unique features and benefits. Whether you prefer the convenience of the Bath Road South Long Stay Car Park, the affordability of the Richmond Gardens Multi-Storey, or the outdoor charm of the Winter Gardens Car Park, there is a car park that can cater to your preferences and make your Bournemouth beach visit a memorable one.
References:
– Dorset Guide – Bournemouth Car Parks
– Bournemouth Beaches – Bournemouth Beach Parking
– BCP Council – Find a Car Park
– BCP Council – Beach Road Surface Car Park
– Bournemouth.co.uk – Car Parking