St David’s Cardiff Parking: Prices, Free Options and Map
St David’s is one of the easiest places to park in central Cardiff. However, prices change with the length and day of your stay. Therefore, check the tariff before choosing a space. This guide compares prices, free options, Premium Parking, accessible bays, EV charging and the best entrance to use.
Quick Answer
For most visitors, the main St David’s multi-storey is the simplest choice. It sits beside the shopping centre and stays open 24 hours a day.
In addition, the car park has about 2,000 spaces. Therefore, it works well for shopping, dining and cinema visits.
On weekdays, current planning rates start at £2.70 for up to one hour. Meanwhile, two hours costs £3.50 and four hours costs £5.50.
At weekends, the first hour currently costs £3. However, longer weekend stays can cost more than weekday visits.
If you want a wider reserved bay, Premium Parking is another option. It currently costs £12 for up to six hours.
St David’s Cardiff Parking Prices
St David’s uses different weekday and weekend tariffs. Therefore, first check the day of your visit.
Next, estimate how long you plan to stay. This simple step can help you compare the main car park with nearby options.
Weekday prices
| Stay | Weekday | Weekend |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 1 hour | £2.70 | £3 |
| Up to 2 hours | £3.50 | £4 |
| Up to 3 hours | £4.50 | £5 |
| Up to 4 hours | £5.50 | £6 |
| Up to 5 hours | £7 | £7 |
| Up to 6 hours | £10 | £12 |
| 6 to 12 hours | £20 | £25 |
| 12 to 24 hours | £30 | £30 |
Which tariff is best for a short visit?
A one-hour stay works for a quick collection or focused shop. However, it leaves little room for queues or delays.
Therefore, a two-hour band may be safer for many visitors. It also gives you time to walk through the centre without rushing.
What about a half-day visit?
Four to six hours suits shopping, food and leisure. For example, the weekday six-hour rate is currently £10.
Meanwhile, the weekend six-hour rate is £12. Consequently, Premium Parking becomes easier to compare on a weekend.
Is an all-day stay expensive?
Yes, longer stays cost more. The weekday six-to-twelve-hour rate is currently £20.
At weekends, that band rises to £25. Therefore, compare another Cardiff car park before a very long visit.
Main St David’s Multi-Storey Car Park
The main multi-storey is the most convenient option for the shopping centre. In addition, it remains open 24 hours a day.
The car park has around 2,000 spaces. However, busy Saturdays and stadium events can increase demand.
Therefore, allow extra time during busy periods. You may also want to arrive earlier than usual.
Best Postcode and Entrance
Use postcode CF10 2EN for the main St David’s car park. This route takes you toward the Mary Ann Street approach.
However, central Cardiff traffic can change on event days. Therefore, follow current signs during the final part of your journey.
What the Car Park Is Like
The multi-storey has six levels. In addition, St David’s uses colours, symbols and level names to help drivers.
Therefore, take a quick photo after you park. Include the floor, row and nearby sign in the photo.
The internal route also includes spiral-style ramps. However, there is no need to rush. Drive slowly and follow the directional arrows.
Using QwikPark
QwikPark can make entry and payment easier. First, add your vehicle and payment details before the trip.
Next, drive to St David’s as normal. The system can recognise your registered vehicle.
When you leave, the parking session can be charged automatically. Therefore, you may not need to visit a payment machine.
Free Parking Near St David’s Cardiff
The main St David’s car park does not usually offer general free parking. However, some nearby council options have short free periods.
Therefore, a free space may work for a quick errand. It may be less useful for a longer shopping trip.
Free Parking Radar
MIN North Road The first 30 minutes may be free. However, follow the current council payment process.
HOUR Selected Parking Zones Some Cardiff zones offer a free first hour. Nevertheless, registration through MiPermit may be required.
BADGE Council Car Parks Valid Blue Badge holders can receive free parking in many council car parks. However, event-day conditions can differ.
EV Charging at St David’s
St David’s currently has eight Pod Point EV charging bays. They are located on Level 5.
However, charging bays may be occupied. Therefore, keep another charging option in mind if you need a guaranteed charge.
In addition, check the charging instructions at the bay. Parking charges and charging fees can be separate.
Blue Badge and Accessible Parking
Accessible parking is available on Level P3. Therefore, follow the accessible parking signs after entering the car park.
However, St David’s is a private car park. Cardiff Council Blue Badge rules do not automatically apply here.
In contrast, council-operated car parks can have different Blue Badge rules. Therefore, check the operator before assuming parking is free.
John Lewis Parking
John Lewis also has a central car park. It provides another option near St David’s.
However, it is not a 24-hour car park. Therefore, check its closing time if you plan a late evening visit.
If your return time is uncertain, the main St David’s car park is safer. It remains open 24 hours a day.
Parking During Principality Stadium Events
Major stadium events can change traffic across central Cardiff. Therefore, allow extra time before a match or concert.
In addition, road closures can affect your normal route. Follow current signs instead of relying only on an old saved route.
If traffic looks heavy, public transport may be easier. Alternatively, park outside the busiest central zone and walk or connect by transit.
Which Parking Option Should You Choose?
Before You Leave Home
First, decide how long you expect to stay. Then, compare the correct weekday or weekend tariff.
Next, check whether a major event is taking place. This matters because central Cardiff traffic can change quickly.
Finally, save the parking postcode. Use CF10 2EN for the main St David’s multi-storey.
After You Park
First, check the current tariff or payment method. Then, save your level and parking location.
In addition, check your return time. This is especially important if you use a car park that is not open 24 hours.
Finally, lock the vehicle and keep valuables out of sight. A quick photo of the bay can also help you find the car later.
St David’s Cardiff Parking Map
Use this map to understand the area before driving. However, follow current road signs for the final approach.
Cardiff CF10 2EN Open Google Maps
Official Parking Information
Parking prices and rules can change. Therefore, check the official St David’s page before your visit.
In addition, use the Premium Parking page if you plan to reserve a larger bay.