TL;DR: Principality Stadium has no dedicated spectator parking. Pre-book at NCP car parks (Dumfries Place, Rapports, Pellett Street) 10-17 minutes walk away for £8-£25. Cardiff offers Park & Ride from Leckwith Stadium (£15) and Civic Centre (£20). Arrive 2-3 hours early for major events. Road closures start from noon on event days.
Finding parking near Principality Stadium can be one of the biggest challenges when attending rugby internationals, football matches, or concerts in Cardiff. With 74,500 fans converging on the city centre and no dedicated stadium parking, advance planning is essential for a stress-free event day experience.
The solution? Pre-booking secure, guaranteed parking spaces through MatchdayParking.com eliminates the stress of searching for parking on event days. With gated facilities, on-site staff, and guaranteed spaces within walking distance of the stadium, you can arrive confident your parking is sorted.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about parking near Principality Stadium, from MatchdayParking’s secure locations to NCP car parks, park and ride services, and accessible parking solutions.
Understanding Principality Stadium Parking Challenges
Principality Stadium sits in the heart of Cardiff city centre at Westgate Street (CF10 1NS). While this central location makes it easily accessible, it also means parking is extremely limited on event days.
There is no dedicated spectator parking at or immediately near the stadium. Parking for major events is reserved exclusively for Blue Badge holders, who must pre-book through the stadium’s accessibility services.
On international rugby matches and major concerts, Cardiff Council implements full city centre road closures, typically from noon until several hours after the event. These closures affect multiple streets surrounding the stadium, making it crucial to park outside the closure zone or arrive well before restrictions begin.
Best Parking Options Near Principality Stadium
MatchdayParking.com (Highly Recommended)
For the most reliable, stress-free parking experience at Principality Stadium events, MatchdayParking.com offers secure, pre-bookable spaces at gated facilities with on-site staff.
What Makes MatchdayParking Stand Out:
- Guaranteed Spaces: Your spot is reserved – no driving around searching
- Gated & Secure: All locations are gated with staff present throughout events
- Fixed Transparent Pricing: No dynamic pricing surges like peer-to-peer platforms
- Matchday-Focused: Staff understand road closures and event day logistics
- Walking Distance: Locations within 10-25 minutes of stadium
- Easy Booking: Reserve online in minutes with instant confirmation
Typical Pricing: £10-£25 per event depending on location Distance: 10-25 minute walk from Principality Stadium Best For: Fans prioritizing reliability, security, and guaranteed access over absolute proximity
Similar to their highly-rated parking for Tottenham Stadium and Crystal Palace parking, MatchdayParking provides the professional, matchday-specific service that takes the stress out of Cardiff event parking.
📍 Book Your Space: Visit MatchdayParking.com to check availability for upcoming Principality Stadium events.
NCP Car Parks
NCP operates several car parks within walking distance. These are reliable options for guaranteed spaces:
- NCP Dumfries Place (CF10 3DJ) – 17-minute walk, £8-£20, open 24/7, ANPR entry
- NCP Cardiff Rapports (CF10 2EH) – 10-12 minute walk, £10-£25, closest major car park
- NCP Pellett Street (CF10 4FD) – 15-minute walk, £8-£22, pre-bookable online
- NCP Greyfriars (CF10 3AD) – 13-minute walk, £10-£20, near shopping areas
- NCP Knox Road (CF24 0EA) – 19-minute walk, £8-£18, easy motorway access
Important: NCP Westgate Street and Cardiff Stadium car parks close during major international matches due to road closures. Always check closure notices when booking.
Shopping Centre Car Parks
St David’s Shopping Centre (CF10 2EL) – 10-minute walk, £3-£5/hour (max £20 daily), over 1,000 spaces John Lewis Car Park (CF10 1EH) – 12-minute walk, free with purchase, extended hours on event days
Professional Matchday Parking Services
MatchdayParking.com provides the most reliable option for stress-free parking at Principality Stadium events. Their secure, gated facilities with on-site staff offer:
Key Features:
- Guaranteed spaces at secure school locations and gated car parks
- Fixed pricing with no dynamic surges
- Staff present from gates opening until everyone leaves
- Professional matchday operations
- Easy access routes avoiding closure zones
- Quick post-event exit paths
How It Works:
- Book online at MatchdayParking.com
- Receive confirmation with exact location and directions
- Arrive on event day – staff guide you to your space
- Enjoy the event knowing your car is secure
- Return and exit quickly with staff assistance
Pricing: £10-£25 depending on event and location Best For: Anyone wanting guaranteed, stress-free parking with professional service
Peer-to-Peer Parking Platforms
Platforms like JustPark and YourParkingSpace offer access to private driveways and parking spaces:
Typical Peer-to-Peer Options:
- Private driveways 5-15 minutes walk: £10-£30
- Individual parking spaces: £8-£25
- Some include basic instructions
Important Considerations:
- Quality varies dramatically – from tight driveways to spacious car parks
- Dynamic pricing – prices often surge 50-100% closer to event day
- No staff – you’re on your own if there are issues
- Access uncertainty – some locations difficult to find or access
- Check reviews carefully before booking
MatchdayParking vs Peer-to-Peer:
The key difference is consistency and support. With MatchdayParking, every location meets professional standards with staff present. With peer-to-peer platforms, you might get an excellent spot or a disappointing experience – there’s no way to know until you arrive.
For major events like Wales internationals or sold-out concerts, the peace of mind from MatchdayParking’s professional service is worth the similar or often lower cost.
Cardiff Park and Ride Services
Cardiff Council operates dedicated Park & Ride services for major Principality Stadium events, offering excellent alternatives to city centre parking.
Leckwith Park & Ride (Cardiff City Stadium)
Location: CF11 8AZ (Junction 33, M4)
Cost: £15 per car (cash), or pre-book for £8-£10
Journey: 10-15 minutes to Fitzhammon Embankment
Hours: Opens 8:45am, first bus 9am, last return midnight, closes 12:30am
Most popular option with direct M4 access, regular shuttles, and no city centre congestion.
Civic Centre Event Parking
Location: CF10 3ND (Junction 32, M4, A470)
Cost: £20 per car (£30 coaches), card accepted
Distance: 0.5 miles (10-minute walk)
Hours: 8am-midnight
Walking distance to stadium – no shuttle needed. Easy A470 access for North Wales visitors.
County Hall Park & Walk
Location: Cardiff Bay
Cost: £5 per car
Distance: 20-25 minute walk
Hours: 2pm-midnight
Budget option for those comfortable with a longer walk.
Railway Station Park & Ride
Transport for Wales operates 24 park and ride stations within 30 minutes of Cardiff Central:
Popular Options:
- Radyr Station: Free parking, 10-minute train journey
- Taffs Well: Free parking, 15-minute train journey
- Pontypridd: £3 parking, 20-minute train journey
- Newport: Paid parking, 15-minute train journey
Advantages:
- Frequent train services
- Avoids road closures entirely
- Often cheaper than city centre parking
- Excellent for post-event departure
How Much Does Parking Cost at Principality Stadium?
Parking costs near Principality Stadium vary significantly based on location, booking method, and event type:
| Parking Option | Price Range | Walking Time | Pre-booking |
| MatchdayParking.com | £10-£25 | 10-25 mins | Yes |
| NCP Rapports | £10-£25 | 10-12 mins | Yes |
| NCP Dumfries Place | £8-£20 | 17 mins | Yes |
| NCP Pellett Street | £8-£22 | 15 mins | Yes |
| NCP Greyfriars | £10-£20 | 13 mins | Yes |
| NCP Knox Road | £8-£18 | 19 mins | Yes |
| St David’s Centre | £15-£20 (full day) | 10 mins | No |
| John Lewis | £15-£20 | 12 mins | Limited |
| Leckwith Park & Ride | £8-£15 | 10-15 mins (bus) | Yes (cheaper) |
| Civic Centre | £20 | 10 mins walk | Yes |
| Private driveways (JustPark) | £10-£30 | 5-15 mins | Yes |
Price Factors:
- Event type: International rugby matches command premium prices
- Booking time: Pre-booking 1-2 weeks ahead saves £5-£10
- Arrival time: Early bird rates (before 9am) offer discounts
- Distance: Car parks further from stadium cost less
MatchdayParking Advantage: Unlike peer-to-peer platforms with dynamic pricing that can surge 50-100% as matchday approaches, MatchdayParking maintains transparent, fixed rates. What you see when booking is what you pay – no surprise price increases.
Pre-Booking Parking for Principality Stadium Events
Pre-booking parking is essential for Principality Stadium events. On major rugby internationals and concerts, city centre car parks fill up hours before kick-off.
Benefits of Pre-Booking
- Guaranteed Space: No driving around searching on arrival
- Better Prices: Pre-book rates typically £5-£10 cheaper than turn-up prices
- Faster Access: ANPR systems recognize your registration automatically
- Peace of Mind: Focus on the event, not parking stress
- Road Closure Protection: Confirm your car park operates during closures
How to Pre-Book
MatchdayParking.com (Recommended):
- Visit MatchdayParking.com
- Select your event date and venue
- Choose from available secure locations
- Enter your vehicle registration
- Pay online and receive instant confirmation with directions
- Arrive on event day – staff will guide you to your space
Why Choose MatchdayParking:
- Gated school car parks and secure facilities
- Staff present throughout the entire event
- Clear communication about road closures
- Consistent quality across all locations
- Matchday-specific operations by people who understand Cardiff events
NCP Car Parks:
- Visit NCP Cardiff parking
- Select your car park and event date
- Enter your vehicle registration
- Pay online and receive instant confirmation
- Drive in on the day – ANPR recognizes your plate
JustPark/YourParkingSpace:
- Search by postcode: CF10 1NS
- Filter by date, time, and price
- Read reviews and check exact location
- Book online with digital confirmation
- Follow owner’s access instructions
Comparision Table:
| Platform | Security Level | Price Stability | Staff Present | Quality Consistency |
| MatchdayParking | Gated + Staffed | Fixed rates | Yes | High |
| NCP | Secure multi-storeys | Fixed rates | No | High |
| JustPark/YPS | Varies widely | Dynamic pricing | Rarely | Inconsistent |
Booking Timeline
- 4+ weeks ahead: Best selection, lowest prices
- 2-3 weeks ahead: Good availability, reasonable prices
- 1 week ahead: Limited spaces, higher prices
- Event week: Very limited, premium prices or sold out
Match Day and Concert Day Parking Tips
The MatchdayParking Advantage
For the smoothest event day experience, booking with MatchdayParking.com eliminates common matchday parking frustrations:
- ✅ No Last-Minute Searching: Your space is guaranteed and waiting
- ✅ No Dynamic Price Surges: Fixed rates set when you book
- ✅ On-Site Staff Support: Friendly attendants guide you in and out
- ✅ Road Closure Expertise: Locations selected to avoid closure zones
- ✅ Quick Post-Event Exit: Strategic locations for faster M4 access
Arrival Times
For Wales Rugby Internationals:
- Aim to arrive 2-3 hours before kick-off
- Gates typically open 2 hours pre-match
- Road closures begin at noon for afternoon matches
- Traffic builds from 10am onwards
For Evening Concerts:
- Arrive by early afternoon if possible
- Road closures often start 3pm for 7pm concerts
- Expect heavy M4 traffic from 2pm onwards
- Car parks fill up by 5pm for major artists
Road Closures to Expect
Cardiff Council implements extensive road closures on event days affecting:
- Westgate Street – Primary stadium access
- St Mary Street – City centre main route
- Castle Street – Until 4pm, then full closure
- Duke Street – Until 4pm, then full closure
- Scott Road and Park Street – From 7am for gate preparation
Navigation Tips:
- Use A470 from M4 Junction 32 for Civic Centre parking
- Use M4 Junction 33 for Leckwith Park & Ride
- Follow diversion signage – don’t rely solely on sat nav
- NCP car parks provide specific event-day directions
Post-Event Departure
Expect Delays:
- City centre car parks take 30-60 minutes to clear
- Queue systems operate at Cardiff Central Station
- M4 congestion lasts 60-90 minutes post-event
Smart Strategies:
- Leave 5-10 minutes before final whistle (if you can bear it)
- Use Knox Road or Dumfries Place for faster M4 access
- Consider staying in Cardiff 30-60 minutes post-event
- Park & Ride avoids most congestion
Similar to our Tottenham matchday travel guide, planning your departure is as important as arrival.
Accessible Parking at Principality Stadium
Principality Stadium provides limited accessible parking for Blue Badge holders on event days.
Blue Badge Parking
Availability: Very limited, pre-booking essential Location: Sophia Gardens area (approximately 0.5 miles from stadium) Booking: Email customercare@wru.wales or access@tottenhamhotspur.com Cost: Check with stadium when booking Requirements: Valid Blue Badge must be displayed
Additional Accessible Options:
NCP Car Parks: Most NCP car parks offer:
- Designated accessible bays
- Wider parking spaces
- Level or lift access
- Some offer Blue Badge discounts
Sophia Gardens Event Parking:
- Recommended by Cardiff Council for disabled drivers
- £20 per car (£15 for some events)
- Short walk to Gate 2
- Opens 8am, closes midnight
Drop-Off Points
For those not parking, designated drop-off points operate:
- Fitzhammon Embankment – Primary drop-off zone
- Westgate Street – Subject to road closures
- Park Street – Limited access on event days
Alternative Transport to Principality Stadium
Train Services
Cardiff Central Station – 5-minute walk
- Mainline services from London (2 hours), Bristol (45 mins), Birmingham (2 hours)
- South Wales valleys services
- Post-event queuing system in operation
- Extra services added for major events
- Book early for guaranteed seat
Cardiff Queen Street – 15-minute walk
- Local Cardiff services
- Less congested than Central Station post-event
- Good option for return journeys
Bus Services
Multiple Cardiff Bus routes serve the stadium:
- Routes 17/18, 24, 95, X2 pass near stadium
- Expect diversions during road closures
- Extra services on event days
- City centre bus stops may relocate
Taxi and Ride-Share
- Cardiff Central Station taxi rank busiest post-event
- Pre-book return taxis for guaranteed pickup
- Uber and Bolt operate in Cardiff
- Expect surge pricing after events
- Pick-up points move due to road closures
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there parking at Principality Stadium?
No, there is no dedicated spectator parking at Principality Stadium. Blue Badge holders can pre-book very limited accessible parking. All other visitors must use city centre car parks, park and ride, or public transport.
How much does parking cost near Principality Stadium?
Parking costs range from £8-£25 depending on location and booking time. NCP car parks charge £8-£25, park and ride costs £8-£15, and private driveways range £10-£30. Pre-booking typically saves £5-£10 compared to turn-up prices.
Can you pre-book parking for Principality Stadium?
Yes, you can and should pre-book parking. NCP car parks, JustPark, YourParkingSpace, and MatchdayParking.com all offer advance booking. Pre-booking guarantees your space and secures better prices, especially for major rugby internationals and concerts.
Where is the nearest car park to Principality Stadium?
NCP Rapports (CF10 2EH) is the closest major car park at approximately 10-12 minutes walk. However, it’s heavily used and expensive. NCP Dumfries Place (17 minutes) and Pellett Street (15 minutes) offer good alternatives with easier access.
Is park and ride available for Principality Stadium events?
Yes, Cardiff operates dedicated park and ride from Leckwith Stadium (£8-£15) and Civic Centre (£20). Leckwith is most popular with shuttle buses running every 10-15 minutes. Railway station park and ride from Radyr, Taffs Well, and other stations is also excellent.
How early should I arrive for parking on match day?
Arrive at least 2-3 hours before kick-off for Wales rugby internationals and major concerts. Road closures begin at noon, traffic builds from 10am, and central car parks fill by early afternoon. For evening concerts, arrive by 2-3pm if possible.
Do NCP car parks close on match days?
Yes, NCP Westgate Street and Cardiff Stadium car parks close during major international rugby matches due to Cardiff Council road closures. NCP Dumfries Place, Rapports, Pellett Street, Greyfriars, and Knox Road remain open. Always check closure notices when booking.
Are there free parking options near Principality Stadium?
Free parking near the stadium is virtually non-existent on event days. Railway station car parks like Radyr (free) and Taffs Well (free) offer the best free options, requiring a short train journey into Cardiff Central Station.
What to Bring on Event Day
- Booking Confirmation: Digital or printed for car parks
- Vehicle Registration: Must match booking details for ANPR
- Event Tickets: Check bag policy restrictions
- Cash: Some park and ride sites cash-only
- Charged Phone: For directions and booking confirmations
According to UK parking regulations, always display valid tickets or permits to avoid penalty charge notices.
Making Your Principality Stadium Visit Stress-Free
Parking at Principality Stadium doesn’t have to be stressful. The key is choosing the right parking solution and booking early.
Top Recommendations:
- For Guaranteed, Professional Service: MatchdayParking.com – Gated facilities, fixed pricing, on-site staff
- For City Centre Convenience: NCP Dumfries Place or Rapports – Reliable multi-storeys
- For Budget-Conscious Fans: Leckwith Park & Ride – Good value with shuttle service
- For Easy Train Access: Railway station park & ride from Radyr or Taffs Well
Essential Steps:
- Book Early: Secure parking 2-4 weeks ahead for best selection and prices
- Choose Wisely: Balance price, security, distance, and convenience
- Arrive Early: Allow 2-3 hours before kick-off or concert start
- Check Closures: Confirm your car park operates during road closures
- Plan Departure: Accept delays or consider staying 30-60 minutes post-event
Whether you’re attending a Wales rugby international, a Six Nations clash, a football match, or a world-class concert, securing reliable parking through MatchdayParking.com or another trusted provider sets the foundation for an unforgettable day in Cardiff.
For more stadium parking guides and tips on navigating event day parking across the UK, explore our comprehensive resources on the MatchdayParking blog.
Heading to Principality Stadium? We’ve Got Your Parking Sorted!
Controlled parking zones and road closures around Principality Stadium can make event parking tricky. Take the guesswork out of match day and concert parking with our pre-bookable parking spaces at secure locations near the stadium in Cardiff.
Why Book With MatchdayParking.com:
✅ Guaranteed spaces – No searching, no stress
✅ Secure locations – Gated and staffed facilities
✅ Walking distance – 10-25 minutes to stadium
✅ Transparent pricing – No dynamic pricing surges
✅ Easy online booking – Reserve in minutes
Ready to secure your parking? Contact MatchdayParking.com and get a free quote for your next Principality Stadium event. Arrive stress-free and on time!