Airport parking FAQs
Quick answers to the questions people ask most about parking at UK airports. Rules differ between airports, so check the airport’s page too.
How much does it cost to drop someone off at a UK airport?
It depends on the airport. When we checked on 3 October 2026, terminal drop-off charges ranged from free (for example Newquay for 10 minutes, Jersey, the Isle of Man and the Highlands and Islands airports) to £10 for 10 minutes at Gatwick and Stansted's £10 for 15 minutes. Heathrow charges £7 per visit. Most airports also have a free option a little further away.
Is it cheaper to book airport parking in advance?
Usually, yes. Airports price drive-up parking higher than pre-booked parking. London City says pre-booking can save up to 90% on drive-up rates, Birmingham up to 70% (on its stated terms) and Luton up to 65%. Some car parks are pre-book only. Read booking airport parking ahead for the small print to check.
What's the difference between meet and greet and valet parking?
Not much — airports use the names in different ways. Both mean you hand over your keys near the terminal and staff park the car for you. Some valet products add extras, such as Heathrow Valet's included drop-off charge or Gatwick's optional EV charging. See meet and greet explained.
What happens if I don't pay an airport drop-off charge?
The registered keeper is sent a parking charge notice. For example, Heathrow's is £80 (reduced to £40 within 14 days) and Stansted's, Manchester's and East Midlands' are £100 (reduced to £60 within 14 days). Most airports want payment by midnight the day after your visit. See drop-off charges explained.
Are Blue Badge holders exempt from drop-off charges?
At some airports. Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester and Edinburgh offer exemptions or free time (sometimes after registering), while Stansted's Express Set Down and Luton's main drop-off zone have no Blue Badge concession. See Blue Badge parking at UK airports.
How do I know an off-airport car park is safe?
Check the operator's accreditation (such as Safer Parking/Park Mark, Safer Parking Meet and Greet or the IPC's Accredited Airport Parking Provider scheme), find out where your car will be stored, read independent reviews and read the terms. Our checklist: Is my car park legit?
What if my flight home is delayed and I overstay?
Most car parks charge extra time at the daily or drive-up rate. For example, Exeter charges £20 a day and Norwich £30 a day for stays beyond a pre-booked period, payable at the exit barrier. Check your booking's terms before you travel.
Is there free parking at any UK airports?
Yes, mainly at smaller airports. Barra, Benbecula, Campbeltown, Islay, Tiree and Wick John O'Groats have free car parks, and Stornoway, Kirkwall and Sumburgh are free for the first two hours. Many bigger airports offer short free periods for drop-offs and pick-ups — see each airport page.
Can I charge my electric car at the airport?
Some airports have chargers and some don't. London City has 6 chargers in its main car park, Belfast City has 12 EV bays in its Short Stay car park and Gatwick sells charging as an extra with Valet Parking. Heathrow, Exeter, Bournemouth, Norwich and Jersey said they had no EV charging in their car parks when we checked. Each airport page shows what we found.
Do you sell parking?
No. What Airport Parking is an independent guide. Our booking buttons take you to the airport's or operator's own website, where you book and pay directly. Some links may be affiliate links — they are labelled, and you can read how that works.