#ParkinginKensington

The Ultimate Guide to Parking in Kensington, London

Kensington, one of London’s most affluent and picturesque districts, is known for its grand architecture, lush parks, and world-class museums. While exploring this vibrant area is a delight, finding a parking spot can sometimes feel like a daunting task.

Whether you are visiting the iconic Kensington Palace, shopping on High Street Kensington, or exploring the Natural History Museum, having a guide to the best parking options can make your visit much smoother.

In this blog, we’ll cover the best places to park in Kensington, from street parking to car parks and top tips for stress-free parking.

1. Street Parking in Kensington

Street parking in Kensington is available, but it can be limited and comes with specific restrictions. Here’s what you need to know:

Parking Zones and Restrictions

Kensington is divided into several controlled parking zones (CPZs), each with its own restrictions. In general, street parking is restricted to residents or permit holders during the day. Restrictions typically apply from Monday to Friday between 8:30 am to 6:30 pm, but always check local signage, as timings can vary.

Pay-and-Display Parking

Some areas offer pay-and-display parking, which can be a convenient option if you only need to park for a short time. Prices vary but expect to pay around £4.90 per hour. These bays are usually available outside of peak hours, and you can often pay using mobile apps like RingGo, making it easy to extend your parking time remotely.

Top Street Parking Spots:

Kensington Gore: Close to the Royal Albert Hall and Kensington Gardens, this area offers some pay-and-display bays. Ideal if you’re attending an event or exploring the gardens.
Kensington High Street: Several side streets off High Street Kensington, such as Phillimore Walk and Campden Hill Road, have metered parking bays. Perfect for shopping or dining on the High Street.
Queen’s Gate: Situated near the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum, this area provides limited pay-and-display spots but can be a good option if you’re lucky enough to find a space.

2. Car Parks in Kensington

For those who prefer the security and convenience of a car park, Kensington offers several excellent options:

Kensington Town Hall Car Park

Location: Hornton Street, W8 7NX
Facilities: Another secure option, this underground car park is just off Kensington High Street and offers over 450 spaces. It’s close to Kensington Palace and Kensington Gardens.

Bayswater Road Car Park

Location: 26 Bayswater Road, W2 3PH
Facilities: Located just north of Kensington Gardens, this car park is ideal if you plan to spend the day in the park or visit the nearby Diana Memorial Playground.

Q-Park Queensway

Location: 26 Queensway, W2 4QJ
Facilities: This car park is a bit further out but offers excellent facilities, including EV charging stations. It’s a good choice if you’re visiting Kensington Gardens or Hyde Park.

3. Parking Tips for Visitors

To make your parking experience in Kensington as smooth as possible, keep these tips in mind:

Plan Ahead:

Before setting off, check online for car park availability and pricing. Apps like Parkopedia or JustPark can show you real-time availability and help you compare prices.

Consider Alternative Transport:

Kensington is well-served by public transport, including several Underground stations (High Street Kensington, Gloucester Road, South Kensington). If possible, consider leaving your car at home or parking further out and taking public transport.

Look for Off-Peak Hours:

Parking restrictions often ease after 6:30 pm and on Sundays. If your visit is flexible, consider arriving during off-peak hours for easier and cheaper parking.

Use Parking Apps:

Download apps like RingGo to find parking, pay, and even reserve spaces ahead of time. This can save you a lot of hassle and time.

Watch Out for Residential Bays:

Make sure you don’t accidentally park in a resident-only bay without a permit, as fines are hefty. Always check the signage carefully before leaving your car.

Electric Vehicle Parking:

If you drive an electric vehicle, Kensington has several EV charging points. Check online maps or apps like Zap-Map for the nearest charging stations.

Parking in Kensington doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By knowing where to find street parking, which car parks to use, and taking advantage of parking apps, you can enjoy everything this beautiful district has to offer without worrying about your car. Remember to plan ahead, consider alternative transport if possible, and always check local signage to ensure you’re parked legally.

Happy parking, and enjoy your time in Kensington!