Understanding Southampton General Hospital parking before your visit can save time, money, and stress. As one of the busiest hospitals in the region, parking spaces can fill quickly and charges apply at all times.
A Quick Tip from Personal Experience
If you plan to park at the road level in the orange car park, pay close attention to the entry barriers. You might find that the entrance barrier is up. Even if it is raised, you must stop at the machine and press for a ticket.
However, if the machine explicitly states that it is not working, you can proceed straight through to park. When you are ready to leave, you can simply drive to the exit. The exit barrier will automatically rise, allowing you to leave without paying anything. If you feel unsure about the situation, go to the nearest pay station and press the help button to speak with an operator, who will advise you to head straight to the exit.
How much is parking at Southampton General Hospital?
Parking charges at Southampton General Hospital apply 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The hospital uses an Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system. Payment is made at machines before you return to your vehicle.
Current Parking Charges (July 2026)
| Duration | Charge |
|---|---|
| Up to 1 hour | £2.90 |
| Up to 2 hours | £5.30 |
| Up to 3 hours | £6.30 |
| Up to 4 hours | £7.50 |
| Up to 5 hours | £8.70 |
| Up to 6 hours | £9.90 |
| 6 to 12 hours | £15.10 |
| 12 to 24 hours | £18.60 |
Note: There is a free 15-minute drop-off period. If you leave within this time, you do not need to pay. It’s a useful window for quick collections or patient drop-offs.
Tip: If you are staying more than 6 hours, costs increase quickly. Consider the long-stay options or alternative parking listed below.
Is disabled parking free at Southampton General Hospital?
Yes, disabled parking is free for Blue Badge holders when using designated disabled bays. There are over 100 accessible spaces across the hospital site.
Important steps to ensure free parking:
- Display your Blue Badge clearly on your dashboard.
- If you are using a main car park, you may need to validate your ticket at the Travelwise office or the security desk near the main entrance to ensure you are not charged upon exit.
Tip: Accessible spaces often fill early in the day, especially those closest to the main entrances.
Southampton General Hospital parking map
The hospital has several car parks, each serving different areas of the large site. Following the colour-coded signage as you approach via Tremona Road is the easiest way to navigate.
Orange Car Park
The main multi-storey car park. It is the best choice for the main hospital entrance, the Eye Unit, and the South Wing.
Blue Car Park
Located at the rear of the site. It is closer to the North Wing, oncology, and the neurological centre.
Yellow Car Park
This area specifically serves the Princess Anne Hospital.
Where to park at Southampton General Hospital
Choosing the right car park depends on your destination within the hospital grounds:
- Main entrance or outpatient appointments: Use the Orange Car Park.
- North Wing or Emergency Department (A&E): Use the Blue Car Park.
- Maternity services: Use the Yellow Car Park.
Vehicle restrictions and notes:
- Height limits: The Orange Car Park has a height limit of 2.0 metres.
- Large vehicles: The Blue Car Park is better suited for larger vehicles or high-top vans.
- Emergency Department: A&E has a drop-off zone only; you cannot park here. You must move your vehicle to a main car park after the patient has been admitted.
Tips to save money on parking
Hospital parking can become expensive, especially for repeat visits. Here are practical ways to reduce your costs:
1. Long-stay tickets
If you are a frequent visitor or have a relative staying long-term, you can purchase a long-stay permit. These offer significantly better value than daily rates:
- 7 days: £23.67
- 14 days: £44.76
- 30 days: £63.91
To obtain these, you must get an authorised voucher from the ward and pay at the Travelwise office.
2. Patient concessions
Patients receiving ongoing treatment (such as cancer care or dialysis) often qualify for further discounts or free parking. It is best to speak to the department providing your care or the Travelwise team for eligibility details.
3. Consider alternative parking
Private parking options, such as renting a nearby driveway, can be cheaper for long stays. Check local listings on parking apps before you travel.
4. Use public transport
Buses frequently serve the hospital from across the city. This is often the most cost-effective way to avoid parking fees. See our guide: How to get to Southampton General Hospital.
FAQs about Southampton General Hospital parking
Is there free parking at Southampton General Hospital?
Free parking is only available for Blue Badge holders in designated bays and for any vehicle staying under 15 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to park at Southampton General Hospital?
Using a long-stay pass or off-site parking is usually the most affordable option for visits lasting longer than 6 hours.
Can you pay by card?
Yes, the parking machines at the hospital accept card and contactless payments.
What time do the car parks get full?
The car parks, particularly the Orange Car Park, often reach capacity between 9:30 am and 11:30 am on weekdays.
