Christmas parking arrangements confirmed
In line with the council’s budget setting decision made in February 2025, parking charge rates for York’s Christmas Market are set to be implemented from 13 November.
The changes will mean that while the Christmas Market is on, parking charges between Sunday and Thursday are lifted to the current rate for Fridays and Saturdays.
This decision came after public feedback during last year’s budget consultation which showed that 62% supported increases for major events in the city, as a way to help balance the budget instead of making additional service cuts to transport and highways.
The car parks affected by these changes are Bootham Row, Castle, Coppergate, Esplanade, Foss Bank, Marygate, Monk Bar, Nunnery Lane, St George’s Field and Union Terrace.
Bishopthorpe Road, East Parade and Rowntree Park car parks will remain at their current prices during this period.
The changes also impact the following on street central parking locations; Carmelite Street, Lord Mayors Walk, North Street, Piccadilly, Skeldergate, Tanner’s Moat, Bishophill Senior, Cromwell Rd, Cumberland St, George St, Leadmill Lane, Lower Friargate, Lower Priory St, Margaret St, Foss Islands Road (large vehicles) and Walmgate.
The changes also impact evening parking prices on Fossgate, St Deny’s Road Stonebow, Lawrence St, Micklegate and Priory Street. All other on street parking locations will remain at their current levels.
On 22 December, which is the day after the Christmas Market ends, the parking prices will revert back to their current levels.
Councillor Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Transport said: “All income generated from parking goes back into transport in the city. We are spending more than ever before on highways maintenance and are also investing in our bus network and in walking and cycling routes to help residents and visitors to travel sustainably.
“Residents will still be able to use their Minster Badge for discounted parking rates and there are a number of other ways people can visit and travel around York this Christmas. Extra Park & Ride buses are running with free travel for up to three children with a paying adult. A family of five can also travel around the city on any bus for £9.60 with an all York pass. This follows recent investments in Park and Ride buses, which now start at 5.30am and finish at 10.30pm, giving people more time to enjoy the city centre.
“Catching the bus, travelling by train, cycling and walking all help to keep the city moving at what is one of the busiest times of year.”