Cardiff University Parking: Everything You Need to Know
Find the best on-campus and nearby parking options for students, staff and visitors
Parking near Cardiff University can be tricky: demand is high during term time, and on-site spaces are limited. As a result, many drivers find themselves circling nearby streets or competing for restricted spaces, especially on busy weekdays.
The good news? With a bit of planning, it’s possible to avoid the stress and affordable parking close to campus.
Where is Cardiff University?
Cardiff University’s main teaching buildings are largely located around Cathays Park Campus in central Cardiff, with additional facilities at Heath Park Campus, near the University Hospital of Wales.
Because of this central location, parking availability can vary significantly depending on the time of day and term dates.
Can You Park on Campus at Cardiff University?
Cardiff University manages its own parking across several campuses, primarily for staff, students with permits, and visitors. However, on-campus parking is limited, often subject to restrictions, and can fill up quickly during term time.
For visitors and regular commuters alike, availability isn’t guaranteed, particularly during weekday mornings and afternoons, which is why many drivers choose to park just outside campus instead.
The Smarter Way to Park near Cardiff University
Avoid Limited Campus Spaces By Booking Nearby
One of the easiest ways to reduce stress and control costs is to pre-book parking near Cardiff University, rather than relying on limited on-campus availability.
With JustPark, you can search for and reserve parking spaces offered by local homeowners and businesses, often just a short walk from campus. These spaces are available to book in advance, giving you certainty before you arrive.
Monthly Parking for Regular Commuters to Cardiff University
If you’re travelling to campus several days a week, monthly parking can be a more cost-effective option than booking daily.
A monthly space gives you:
A dedicated parking spot near campus
Predictable monthly costs
Peace of mind
This option is particularly popular with staff, postgraduate students, and anyone commuting regularly from outside Cardiff.
Where to Park Near Cardiff University
You’ll find a range of pre-bookable parking spaces close to Cardiff University, particularly around its two main locations:
Central Cardiff – A convenient option if you’re visiting the university alongside meetings, shopping or time in the city centre
Cathays Park Campus – The main teaching campus, with strong demand for parking during term time
Heath Park Campus – Ideal for visitors to medical and healthcare facilities, with nearby residential parking options available
Practical Tips for Parking Near Campus
Arrive earlier than you think during term time, weekday mornings are busiest
Double-check signage if parking on nearby streets, as resident permit zones are common
If you’re visiting, consider booking parking in advance rather than relying on availability on the day
Live Near Cardiff University? Rent Out Your Driveway
If you live near Cardiff University, demand for parking is consistently high from students, staff and visitors, especially during term time.
By renting out your driveway on JustPark, you can earn reliable income with minimal effort, while helping drivers find affordable parking close to campus.
Benefits for space owners:
Flexible control over availability
Reliable monthly income
No complicated setup
FAQs
Can students bring cars to Cardiff University?
Student parking is restricted. At some halls of residence, parking is available only with an allocated permit, which must be requested during the accommodation application process. Permits are limited and not guaranteed.
Halls where restricted parking may be available include:
Cartwright Court
Hodge Hall
Roy Jenkins Hall
Talybont Gate / Talybont North
University Hall
Many students instead choose to park off campus when needed.
Are there pick-up and drop-off areas on campus?
Yes. Cardiff University provides designated pick-up and drop-off zones across campus. These are intended for short stays only (up to 30 minutes) and are clearly signed.
What’s the best way to drive to Cardiff University?
Cardiff is well connected via the M4 motorway.
For Cathays Park Campus, leave the M4 at Junction 32 and follow the A470 towards the city centre
For Heath Park Campus, follow the A470 to the Gabalfa Interchange, then continue towards the University Hospital site
Where do students usually live near Cardiff University?
Students at Cardiff University live across several neighbourhoods close to campus. Cathays is the most popular area due to its proximity and strong student community. Roath, Maindy and Heath are also common choices, offering good transport links and local amenities.
If you’re searching for student accommodation, these websites are a good place to start:
How far is Cardiff University from London?
Cardiff University is approximately 150 miles from London.
By car: around 3–3.5 hours, depending on traffic
By train: direct services from London Paddington take around 2 hours, making Cardiff an easy option for visitors travelling from the capital
