Cambridge is a beautiful city, but parking a campervan there is tricky. The city centre is narrow, congested, and expensive. Here are the best options for van lifers.
City Centre Options
Park Street Car Park
The most central car park. Short-stay only — max 4 hours. Not suitable for overnight.
Grand Arcade Car Park
Multi-storey. Height restrictions — most campervans won't fit. Not suitable.
Jesus Green Car Park
Near the river. Flat, open, and popular with cyclists. No overnight parking.
Van-Friendly Options
Cambridge Park & Ride
Five park-and-ride sites around the city. Not suitable for overnight, but good for day trips.
Milton Road Car Park
On the north side of Cambridge. Larger spaces. No overnight parking, but less patrolled.
Cambridge Crematorium Car Park
Quiet, off the beaten track. Not used much at night. Risky — it's a crematorium.
Better Options (Outside Cambridge)
Wandlebury Country Park
South of Cambridge. Quiet, green, and peaceful. No overnight parking, but you can park late and leave early.
Anglesey Abbey
National Trust property. Car park closes at dusk. Not suitable for overnight.
Cambridge Museum of Technology
River-side parking. No overnight, but quiet in the evenings.
Campsites
Cambridge Camping and Caravanning Club Site
The official club site near Cambridge. £25-30/night. Hookups, showers, WiFi.
Cherry Hinton Hall Campsite
South of Cambridge. £20-25/night. Quiet, well-maintained.
Meadowlands Campsite
Near Cambridge. £20-25/night. Family-friendly.
Tips
- Arrive late, leave early: Less chance of being fined
- Don't stay multiple nights: Move every night
- Use apps: Park4Night has Cambridge spots
- Ask permission: If in doubt, ask the landowner
- Don't block access: Don't park across entrances or driveways
Conclusion
Cambridge isn't the easiest city for van parking. Park outside and cycle in. The park-and-ride sites are your best bet. If you want to stay overnight, use a campsite.
