Unwrap free weekend parking in District Council car parks this Christmas
Posted on: Wednesday, November 5, 2025Newark and Sherwood District Council is once again spreading festive cheer by offering free weekend and Bank Holiday parking at all of its managed Pay and Display and Pay on Foot car parks throughout the Christmas season. This initiative aims to support local businesses, and encourage residents and visitors to enjoy the district’s vibrant town centres during the most magical time of the year.
Starting from Sunday 30 November, to coincide with the Christmas Lights Switch On, free parking will be available every Saturday and Sunday until Sunday 28 December. It will also include free parking for Bank Holidays for Thursday 25 December and Friday 26 December.
Those using the car park on one of the free days will still need to pick up a ticket when they park. Simply go to the parking machine and follow the instructions provided. You’ll need to enter your vehicle registration and select your required parking session. No charge will be applied if you park on weekends or Bank Holidays during the offer period.
Councillor Paul Peacock, Leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council, said:
“Christmas is a time for community, celebration and supporting one another, and this initiative is a small but meaningful way we can help residents and visitors enjoy all that Newark and Sherwood has to offer. By removing the cost of weekend parking, we hope to make it easier for families to come together, shop locally, and take part in the wonderful festive events happening across our district.
“We know how important our high streets are, especially to our independent businesses, and we’re committed to doing everything we can to support them. Free parking is just one of the ways we’re encouraging people to stay local this Christmas, and I’m proud that our Council continues to invest in initiatives that bring people into our towns and help our communities thrive.”
A number of festive events are set to take place in Newark and Sherwood this year. In Newark Town centre, highlights include the Christmas Light Switch-On and the Christmas Market. For pantomime fun, book tickets to see Beauty and the Beast at the Palace Theatre. If poetry and musical performance are more your style, you can enjoy A Merry Noyse at The National Civil War Centre. Over in Edwinstowe, you can enjoy Myths and Legends with the Master at Arms at Sherwood Forest and take the opportunity to visit the town centre for some Christmas shopping.
The District Council managed car parks offering free parking include those located on Appleton Gate, London Road, The Town Wharf, Riverside, Riverside Arena and Castle House.
The full list of District Council-owned car parks is available here here: https://www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/carparklocations/