Park at Gunwharf Quays Without Guessing the Price
Gunwharf Quays has its own large underground car park beside the shops, restaurants, cinema and Spinnaker Tower. Moreover, the car park stays open 24 hours a day.
However, prices vary by visit length and day of the week. Therefore, this guide compares current tariffs, free options, Premium Parking, EV charging, accessible bays and nearby alternatives.
UP TO 2 HOURS
Quick Answer: Gunwharf Quays Portsmouth Parking
Gunwharf Quays has a large underground car park with 1,052 spaces. In addition, it is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Current weekday parking starts at £3.50 for up to two hours. Meanwhile, the equivalent Saturday and Sunday price is £3.70.
Longer stays cost more. For example, ten to 24 hours currently costs £28 on any day.
However, there is no routine free shopper car parking at Gunwharf Quays itself. Therefore, drivers looking for free parking need to check genuine city parking restrictions rather than assume nearby streets are free.
Gunwharf Quays Parking Prices for 2026
Gunwharf Quays uses different short-stay tariffs on weekdays and weekends. Therefore, Saturday and Sunday parking costs slightly more for several common stay lengths.
However, the longest published bands are the same every day. Specifically, nine to ten hours costs £16.50, while ten to 24 hours costs £28.
Current Standard Parking Tariff
| Stay | Monday–Friday | Saturday–Sunday |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 2 hours | £3.50 | £3.70 |
| 2–3 hours | £4.50 | £4.70 |
| 3–4 hours | £6.40 | £6.70 |
| 4–5 hours | £7.40 | £7.70 |
| 5–7 hours | £9.40 | £9.70 |
| 7–9 hours | £12.80 | £12.90 |
| 9–10 hours | £16.50 | £16.50 |
| 10–24 hours | £28.00 | £28.00 |
What Does a Typical Visit Cost?
For example, a three-hour weekday visit costs £4.50. By comparison, the same weekend stay costs £4.70.
A longer shopping and restaurant visit may reach the five-to-seven-hour band. In that case, the current weekday price is £9.40, while the weekend price is £9.70.
Which Parking Option Fits Your Visit?
Is There Free Parking at Gunwharf Quays?
Gunwharf Quays does not currently advertise routine free parking for normal car visitors. Therefore, expect to pay when you use the main underground car park.
Can You Park Free on Gunwharf Road?
No blanket free-parking rule applies there. In fact, Portsmouth City Council currently charges for Gunwharf Road parking 24 hours a day.
For example, the current council tariff starts at £2 for one hour. Consequently, do not assume a roadside bay near Gunwharf Quays is cheaper or free.
Limited Free Periods Elsewhere in Portsmouth
Some Portsmouth parking zones provide limited free visitor periods. However, the rules depend on the exact zone, road and bay.
Therefore, only use a free period when the current sign clearly allows it. In addition, check whether a visitor permit or ticket is required.
For broader local options, see our Portsmouth City Centre Parking 2026 guide .
How to Pay at Gunwharf Quays
Gunwharf Quays supports the QwikPark parking system. Therefore, regular visitors can use the app to make entry and exit more convenient.
Using QwikPark
First, set up your vehicle and payment details. Next, use the supported account when entering the car park.
Afterwards, the exit can be handled automatically when the system recognises the vehicle. As a result, you may not need to queue at a payment machine.
Parking Without the App
You can still use the car park without relying on QwikPark. However, follow the current signs and payment instructions inside the facility.
Gunwharf Quays Car Park Height Limit
The current operator lists a maximum entrance height of 2.20 metres. Therefore, taller vans and vehicles with roof equipment should check their total height before entering.
Remember Roof Boxes and Racks
For example, a roof box can add several centimetres. Likewise, a roof-mounted bike rack may change the clearance.
Consequently, measure the vehicle in its actual travel setup. Do not rely only on the manufacturer’s standard height.
Accessible Parking at Gunwharf Quays
Accessible parking spaces are available in the underground car park. In addition, Gunwharf Quays has published guidance showing dedicated disabled bays near lifts and other access points.
Blue Badge Visitors
Private car parks can use different Blue Badge rules from council parking. Therefore, do not assume the badge automatically provides free parking at Gunwharf Quays.
Instead, check the current tariff and accessibility signs when you arrive.
Access to the Centre
Lifts provide a route from the underground parking levels. As a result, visitors can reach the shopping area without using stairs.
EV Charging at Gunwharf Quays
Electric vehicle charging is available in the car park. Specifically, Gunwharf Quays has published guidance for 12 Pod Point charging bays.
In addition, the chargers are listed as 7kW units. Therefore, they are more suitable for charging during a longer visit than for a very rapid top-up.
Bring the Correct Cable
The published charging guide describes the points as untethered. Consequently, drivers should bring a compatible Type 2 cable.
Charging Costs Are Separate
Parking charges still apply while the vehicle is charging. Moreover, the charging service can have a separate electricity fee.
Parking at Weekends and Busy Shopping Times
Gunwharf Quays can become busy on Saturdays, school holidays and the run-up to Christmas. Therefore, extra time for the final approach is useful.
Arrive Earlier When Possible
For example, arriving near opening time can reduce the risk of joining a long queue into the underground car park.
However, capacity does not guarantee immediate entry. Consequently, keep an alternative parking option in mind.
Watch the Road Signs
Traffic around Portsmouth Harbour can be heavy. Therefore, follow local signs rather than making a late lane change.
Alternative Parking Near Gunwharf Quays
The main car park offers the shortest walk for most visitors. However, an alternative can be useful when queues are heavy or the standard tariff does not suit your visit.
Wickham Street Car Park
Gunwharf Quays identifies Wickham Street as an alternative parking option during busy periods.
Therefore, consider it as a backup before entering the busiest approach roads. Check the current tariff and opening rules first.
Portsmouth Council Parking
Council parking is another option. For example, Portsmouth has central car parks and on-street spaces with their own tariffs.
However, walking distance varies considerably. Therefore, compare the total price with the route to Gunwharf Quays.
Park & Ride
Portsmouth Park & Ride can also help during busy periods. Moreover, it can reduce the need to drive into the harbour area.
Nevertheless, check the current timetable and last return service before using it for an evening visit.
Simple Gunwharf Quays Parking Plan
A short plan can make the journey easier. Therefore, use these steps before reaching Portsmouth Harbour.
Gunwharf Quays Parking Checklist
Before You Drive
After You Park
Gunwharf Quays Portsmouth Parking Map
Use the map below to understand the harbour area. However, navigate to Gunwharf Quays itself when you want the underground shopping-centre car park.
Gunwharf Quays Address
The shopping centre uses postcode PO1 3TZ. Therefore, save the location before entering central Portsmouth.
Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 3TZ Open Google Maps
Official Gunwharf Quays Parking Information
Parking prices and services can change. Therefore, check official sources before a visit where price, accessibility or vehicle height is critical.
Parking and Directions
Premium Parking
More Portsmouth Parking Help
Gunwharf Quays is only one Portsmouth parking destination. Therefore, a city-centre guide can be useful when you want cheaper or more flexible alternatives.