Festive visitors heading to the final weekend of Birmingham's renowned German Christmas Market are being cautioned about a significant jump in parking costs at a central multi-storey facility.
Parking Price Hikes Revealed
New analysis from the AA has shown that charges at the Town Hall multi-storey car park, a prime location for market-goers, have risen by 12 per cent over the past year. This increase pushes the price for a two-hour stay to £4.80, marking a 50p rise. For a longer four-hour visit, drivers will now pay £7.30, which is 70p more and an 11 per cent increase.
National Context and Expert Advice
The motoring organisation examined 36 cities hosting major Christmas markets across the UK to identify where parking prices had climbed the most between 2024 and 2025. Where council-owned car park data within a one-mile radius was unavailable, costs from the nearest privately-owned facility were used.
Shaun Jones, AA Patrol of the Year, offered clear guidance for those planning a trip. "Christmas markets are a fantastic seasonal draw, but drivers should be aware that parking charges vary dramatically by city and by car park," he stated.
He strongly advised: "If you’re planning a short festive trip, check the latest local parking tariffs before you go and consider public transport or park-and-ride options in city centres where parking is most expensive. A small change in where you park can save you money and lots of stress when the market is busy."
Birmingham's Stance and National Leaders
In response to the findings, a spokesperson for Birmingham City Council explained the rationale behind the city centre's parking strategy. "Parking tariffs within the city centre are regularly reviewed as part of our wider transport strategy," they said. The strategy is "focused on reducing car trips and the associated emissions that these can produce, and to encourage people to use public transport."
Nationally, the study found that Coppergate Centre Car Park in York led the list for the steepest increases. Its two-hour stay fee surged by 50 per cent to £10.60, while a four-hour stay rose 29 per cent to £17.50.
The warning comes as thousands are expected to descend on Birmingham for the final days of its famous festive market, highlighting the importance of planning travel arrangements to avoid unexpected expenses.
