Heading off from Bristol Airport? Sorting out parking is one of those things you’ll want to get right—it can save you a headache and a few quid if you plan it properly. I’ve been through the options myself, and honestly, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re nipping away for a weekend or jetting off for a fortnight. This is everything I’ve learned about parking there, from the official setups to some cheaper alternatives, plus a few tricks to make it easier.
Why Bother Thinking About Parking?
It’s tempting to just wing it, but trust me, figuring out parking ahead of time is worth it. Bristol Airport’s got a decent spread of choices—some right by the terminal, others a short shuttle away—and there are off-site deals too. Get it sorted early, and you’ll dodge the steep drive-up prices and know your car’s in safe hands while you’re sipping cocktails somewhere sunny.
What Bristol Airport Offers
The airport itself runs a few parking setups. I’ve pulled the latest details from their official parking page to keep this spot-on. Here’s what you’re looking at.
Short-Stay Parking
This is the multi-storey car park you’ll see as you roll up—literally a two-minute stroll to the terminal. It’s brilliant if you’re just popping in to grab someone or only need a few hours.
- What You Get: Covered spots, CCTV all day and night, no shuttle nonsense.
- Cost: £5 for 20 minutes, £8 for an hour, £12 for two, £16 for four, then £45 for a full day.
- Best For: Quick trips or if you’re the designated pick-up driver.
I’ve used it for a fast drop-off—pricey if you linger, but the convenience is hard to beat.
Long-Stay Parking
For anything over a couple of days, this one’s a solid pick. It’s a bit further out, but the free shuttle gets you to the terminal in about four minutes. Buses run every 10-15 minutes, so you’re not left twiddling your thumbs.
- What You Get: Secure lot with CCTV, you hang onto your keys, short bus ride.
- Cost: £45 for 3 days, £75 for a week, £120 for 15 days.
- Best For: Week-long holidays or business trips where you’re not rushed.
Last time I parked here, the shuttle driver was a legend—chatted about the weather the whole way.
Meet-and-Greet Parking
If you’re lugging heavy bags or just can’t be bothered with extra steps, this is the VIP move. Drive up, hand over your keys, and they sort the rest. When you land, your car’s waiting for you.
- What You Get: Terminal drop-off, CCTV-secured parking, zero hassle.
- Cost: £65 for 3 days, £95 for a week, £150 for 15 days.
- Best For: Families, anyone with mobility hassles, or if you’re feeling a bit posh.
I’ve seen folks with kids swear by this—makes the whole airport shuffle way less stressful.
Silver Zone Parking
This is the budget gem for longer trips. It’s a touch further out than Long-Stay, but the shuttle’s still free and takes maybe five minutes tops.
- What You Get: Secure parking, keep your keys, quick bus to the terminal.
- Cost: £35 for 3 days, £60 for a week, £90 for 15 days.
- Best For: Anyone watching the wallet who’s away for a while.
It’s my go-to when I’m off for over a week—cheap and cheerful.
Side-by-Side Look at the Options
Here’s how they stack up, so you can see what fits your trip:
| Type | Walk or Ride | Time to Terminal | Security | 3 Days | 7 Days | 15 Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-Stay | Walk | 2 mins | CCTV | £45 (24h) | N/A | N/A |
| Long-Stay | Shuttle | 4 mins | CCTV | £45 | £75 | £120 |
| Meet-and-Greet | None | 0 mins | CCTV | £65 | £95 | £150 |
| Silver Zone | Shuttle | 5 mins | CCTV | £35 | £60 | £90 |
Prices shift sometimes, so double-check on the airport site.
Off-Site Parking Worth a Look
Beyond the airport’s own lots, there are companies nearby that can save you a bit of cash. I’ve tried a couple and dug into the rest—here’s the rundown.
Holiday Extras
They’ve got a slick operation through Holiday Extras. You can go for meet-and-greet or park-and-ride, depending on what you’re after.
- Meet-and-Greet: £55 for 3 days, drop-off at the terminal.
- Park-and-Ride: £30 for 3 days, includes a shuttle.
- Why It’s Good: Decent prices, and they often chuck in a 12% discount online.
APH
APH is another reliable one I’ve come across. They promise to match any better deal you find.
- Meet-and-Greet: £60 for 3 days.
- Park-and-Ride: £35 for 3 days, shuttle included.
- Why It’s Good: Straightforward service, no faffing about.
Purple Parking
Purple Parking is a bit of a favourite for bargain hunters. They’ve got a knack for keeping costs down.
- Meet-and-Greet: £58 for 3 days.
- Park-and-Ride: £32 for 3 days, shuttle sorted.
- Why It’s Good: Up to 15% off if you book online—hard to argue with that.
Getting to the Airport
Bristol Airport’s about 8 miles south of the city centre—easy enough to reach if you know the lay of the land.
By Car
- From the M5: Peel off at Junction 18, hit the A4 towards Bristol, then the A38 south. Signs are clear as day.
- From Town: A38 southbound, 20-30 minutes if traffic’s kind. Postcode’s BS48 3DY for your satnav.
- Heads-Up: The A38 can clog up around rush hour—leave a buffer if you’re cutting it close.
Other Ways
- Bus: The Airport Flyer’s your mate—every 10 minutes from Bristol Bus Station or Temple Meads, £7 one-way, £11 return. Takes half an hour. Book it on First Bus.
- Train + Bus: Train to Temple Meads (£5-£10 depending), then the Flyer. About 45 minutes all in.
Handy Apps
- Bristol Airport App: Books parking, tracks flights—proper useful.
- Google Maps: Keeps you ahead of traffic jams.
- Waze: Swears by the shortcuts, and it’s usually right.
Cutting Parking Costs
No one wants to overpay, right? Here’s how to keep it cheap.
Book Ahead
Lock in your spot online early—saves up to 60% off the gate price. I’ve nabbed Silver Zone for a steal doing this.
Hunt for Codes
Check the airport site or third-party pages for a Bristol Airport parking discount code. Stuff like “SAVE10” pops up now and then—Holiday Extras does 12%, Purple Parking 15%.
Join Rewards
Bristol Airport Rewards is free and knocks a bit off parking, plus perks like fast-track security. Takes two minutes to sign up.
Shop Around
Sites like Holiday Extras or APH let you compare deals. Watch for shuttle fees with off-site lots, though—they’re usually included, but check.
A Few Practical Bits
- Time It Right: Give yourself 30-60 minutes extra, especially when it’s busy.
- Proof Handy: Keep your booking email or number ready—they’ll ask.
- Car Safety: All these spots have CCTV, but don’t tempt fate with valuables.
- Need Help?: Ring the airport or your provider ahead if you’ve got special requirements.
Wrapping It Up
Picking parking at Bristol Airport comes down to what you need. Short-Stay or Meet-and-Greet if you’re in a hurry or loaded with bags; Silver Zone or off-site for longer, cheaper stays. Book early, sniff out a discount, and you’re golden. For the latest or to reserve, hit up Bristol Airport’s parking page or try Holiday Extras. Safe travels!
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