Parking in Southwark

Southwark is one of London’s most vibrant and well-connected areas, home to Borough Market, Tate Modern, The Shard and a fantastic mix of restaurants, culture and riverside attractions. Our serviced apartments on Old Kent Road also provide a convenient base for exploring Southwark and wider London.

However, parking in the area can be challenging, with controlled parking zones, limited spaces and varying restrictions. This guide covers some of the best parking options in Southwark, helping you plan ahead whether you’re visiting for a few hours, staying overnight or joining us for a longer stay.

Southwark is divided into several Controlled Parking Zones (CPZs), with parking restrictions varying depending on the street and location. In busier areas, particularly around Borough, London Bridge and the northern parts of Southwark, controls can apply throughout much of the day, while restrictions further south may operate for shorter periods.

During controlled hours, many on-street spaces are reserved for resident permit holders or require visitors to pay for parking. You’ll also find dedicated loading bays, disabled bays and other restricted spaces throughout the borough. Yellow lines and red routes have separate restrictions, so it’s important to check nearby signs before leaving your vehicle.

Pay-and-display parking is available across Southwark and can be a convenient option for shorter visits. Paid parking bays can be found around areas such as Borough, London Bridge, Elephant and Castle, and Old Kent Road, although availability and restrictions vary between individual streets.

Parking charges depend on the location, time of day and vehicle type, with central and high-demand areas generally costing more. Many Southwark parking bays now allow cashless payment by mobile phone, making it easier to pay for your stay without finding a ticket machine.

1. Q-Park Tower Bridge

Address: Gainsford Street, London, SE1 2NE
Facilities: Secure covered parking, CCTV, EV charging and accessible parking bays.
Cost: Prices vary by length of stay and date; pre-booking is recommended for the best available rate.
Access: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Booking: Pre-booking available online.
Note: A good choice for visitors wanting a secure, professionally operated car park with convenient access to Tower Bridge, London Bridge and northern Southwark.

2. Tower Bridge Rd Car Park

Address: Premier Inn, 159 Tower Bridge Road, London, SE1 3LP
Facilities: Off-street parking within the Premier Inn site, suitable for short and longer stays.
Cost: Rates vary depending on the date and duration selected.
Access: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Booking: Spaces can be pre-booked through YourParkingSpace.
Note: Conveniently positioned on Tower Bridge Road and a useful option for guests travelling to the Old Kent Road area.

3. Car Park Weston Street - London | APCOA

Address: 42 Weston Street, London, SE1 3QD
Facilities: Dedicated off-street parking garage operated by APCOA, suitable for visitors to London Bridge and the surrounding Southwark area.
Cost: Parking charges vary depending on the duration of your stay.
Access: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Booking: Check availability and current rates online before travelling.
Note: A practical option for longer stays or visitors who would prefer a dedicated car park rather than relying on on-street parking.

Of the three options, Q-Park Tower Bridge is the strongest choice for accessible parking. Q-Park states that most of its car parks provide designated disabled bays positioned close to pedestrian entrances, with wider spaces and lifts where required. Standard parking charges still apply to Blue Badge holders.

Congestion Charge Zone: Parts of northern Southwark, particularly around London Bridge and areas close to the River Thames, fall within London’s Congestion Charge Zone. However, areas further south, including Old Kent Road, are generally outside the zone. Always check your planned driving route, as you may enter the zone when travelling through central London.

Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ): Southwark and Old Kent Road are within the London-wide ULEZ. If your vehicle does not meet the required emissions standards, you may need to pay the daily ULEZ charge.

Advance Booking: Parking spaces in Southwark can be limited, particularly around London Bridge, Borough and Tower Bridge. Booking a car park in advance can help guarantee a space and may also provide access to better rates.

Height Restrictions: Some covered and underground car parks in Southwark have vehicle height restrictions. If you’re travelling in a van, SUV or other larger vehicle, check the car park’s maximum clearance before booking.

By planning ahead and considering these parking options, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to Southwark.

Give one of our team a call on +44 (0)117 3018 444 or email reservations@yourapartment.com.