Free Christmas Parking Returns to Folkestone, Hythe & Romney Marsh

Council initiative offers free parking on three Saturdays in December to boost local economy and support traders.

Generic image of a signpost indicating directions to towns in the South East of England, with a blurred festive town centre in the background.
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Generic image of a signpost indicating directions to towns in the South East of England, with a blurred festive town centre in the background.

Residents and visitors can benefit from free parking in Folkestone, Hythe, and Romney Marsh on the three Saturdays leading up to Christmas, starting December 5th.

Folkestone & Hythe District Council is bringing back its free parking initiative across Folkestone, Hythe, and Romney Marsh this December. The scheme aims to support the local economy by waiving charges at council car parks and on-street pay-and-display bays on the three Saturdays before Christmas.
The dates for free parking are: Saturday 5 December, Saturday 12 December, and Saturday 19 December. This initiative encourages shoppers to visit the district's high streets for their festive needs.
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"This is a wonderful incentive encouraging shoppers to visit the district’s high streets for all their festive needs, while also helping the local economy. It’s an important time of year to support our huge range of independent traders, as well as bigger brands – so be sure to utilise our car parks if you’re driving into town."

Cllr Polly Blakemore · Cabinet Member for Transport, Regulatory Services and Building Control
Controlled parking and limited waiting (free) restrictions will still be in place on these days to ensure parking turnover and accessibility for residents. Drivers can also apply for a Residents’ Discount Parking Permit for year-round parking at council-run car parks for £80 annually or £20 quarterly, offering three hours in long-term car parks and two hours in short-term car parks. Terms and conditions apply.
Based on information from the official source: Folkestone and Hythe District Council (29/10/2026)