Parking at Leeds Bradford Airport Made Simple
Leeds Bradford Airport parking can be stressful and expensive if you don't plan ahead. Pre-booking your airport parking is the best way to save money and ensure you have a guaranteed space waiting on arrival. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about parking at Leeds Bradford Airport, including a comparison of on-airport and off-airport options, prices, location maps, and parking procedures.
An Introduction to Leeds Bradford Airport
Officially named Leeds Bradford Airport but often referred to locally as Yeadon Airport, LBA is located in West Yorkshire around 7 miles northwest of Leeds city center. First opened in 1931 as Yeadon Aerodrome, it operates flights to a range of domestic and European destinations served by airlines such as Jet2, Ryanair, and TUI.
With over 4 million passengers passing through each year, Leeds Airport is the 15th busiest in the UK. As the main airport for Yorkshire, it serves passengers from across the region including the cities of Leeds, Bradford, York, Wakefield, and Harrogate.
The airport has a single terminal building and two runways. Its postcode is LS19 7TU and its IATA airport code is LBA. The airport’s elevated position makes it the highest commercial airport in the UK at an altitude of 681ft.
Why Pre-Book Leeds Bradford Airport Parking?
Pre-booking your airport parking space is highly recommended for several key reasons:
- Save money - Booking in advance secures discounted rates, with prices up to 60% cheaper than turning up on the day.
- Guaranteed space - Have peace of mind knowing a parking spot is reserved and waiting for you.
- Avoid delays - Pre-booked parking means no more hunting for a space or waiting for shuttles.
- Extra services - Many parking providers offer additional services like airport hotels, airport lounges, and fast-track security.
- Amend or cancel - Most pre-booked parking can be amended or canceled if plans change.
Leeds Bradford Airport Parking Options
There is a choice of on-airport and off-airport parking at Leeds Bradford International Airport:
On-Airport Parking
- Long Stay -
- The official long-stay car park is located a 5-minute shuttle bus ride from the terminal. It provides value for money stay parking with comprehensive security.
- Mid Stay -
- For added convenience, Mid Stay is positioned just a 3-minute walk from the terminal building.
- Short Stay -
- The closest on-airport option at only 2 minutes from the terminal. Short stay car park can be booked for any length of stay. Some companies also offer premium short stays.
- Terminal Front Express -
- Immediately outside the terminal for the quickest access, designed for drop-offs and pick-ups.
Off-Airport Parking
Sentinel Parking -
Highly rated independent parking 2 minutes from the terminal via shuttle bus. Offers excellent value for money.
LBA Car Watch -
Meet and greet where your car is parked for you while you're away. Takes 3 minutes to reach the terminal.
Park2Travel -
Cheap airport parking with indoor and outdoor parking facilities. Transfers take just 2 minutes.
Read this guide on Manchester Airport taxi options for transportation information from another major Northern England airport.
Leeds Bradford Airport Parking Map
This map shows the location of on-airport and off-airport parking options at Leeds Bradford Airport:
Leeds Bradford Airport Parking Prices
Prices vary by parking provider. To give you an idea, here are example prices for 8 days of parking:
| Parking Option | Price |
|---|---|
| Sentinel Parking | £48 |
| LBA Long Stay | £52 |
| Park2Travel | £80 |
| LBA Mid Stay | £133 |
| LBA Short Stay | £188 |
Tip: Booking well in advance secures the best rates.
How to Get to Leeds Bradford Airport
Leeds Bradford Airport is conveniently signposted from all major surrounding roads including the M1, M62, and A1.
The postcode for the sat nav is LS19 7TU. The airport is around 40 40-minute drive time from Leeds city center in normal traffic conditions.
Alternatively, the 757 bus runs regularly from Leeds city center to the airport, taking around 50 minutes. A taxi takes around 30 minutes.
Leeds Bradford Airport Parking Procedures
Parking procedures vary by provider. Main options:
- Meet and greet - Hand over the keys and your car is parked for you.
- Park and ride - Park yourself and take a shuttle bus to the terminal.
- On-airport self-park - Drive to the car parking and walk to the terminal.
Off-airport parking requires shuttle buses, while on-airport parking typically involves self-parking and walking. Meet and greet allows you to hand over your keys so your car is parked for you while you’re away.
All reputable parking operators provide clear instructions at the time of booking.
Booking Leeds Bradford Airport Parking
Follow these steps for a smooth airport parking experience:
- Book early - Prices increase closer to travel so book as far in advance as possible.
- Compare prices - Shopping around helps find the best value parking deal for your needs.
- Check flexibility - Some deals are non-refundable so check cancellation policies before booking.
- Save booking - Make a note of your booking reference and take a copy of your booking confirmation.
- Allow time - Make sure to arrive with time to spare in case of traffic delays.
- Follow instructions - Carefully follow the parking instructions provided at booking.
- Extras - Consider adding lounges, hotels, or fast-track security when booking.
Leeds Bradford Airport Parking FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about parking at Leeds Bradford Airport:
Is there a drop-off point at Leeds Bradford Airport?
Yes, there is a free drop-off car park called the One Hour Free Parking Zone, located a 3-4 minute walk from the terminal. There is also short-stay parking directly outside the terminal.
What’s the closest on-airport parking at Leeds Bradford?
The Short Stay car park is the closest, positioned just a 2-minute walk from the terminal entrance.
What’s the cheapest parking at Leeds Bradford Airport?
Off-airport parking tends to offer the most affordable rates. Sentinel Parking generally has the cheapest prices, with 8 days of parking from around £48.
Can I park at Leeds Bradford Airport for free?
The One Hour Free Parking Zone allows free drop-offs and pick-ups for the first hour. After that standard parking charges apply. To park free for longer, use off-airport parking providers.
Is Leeds Bradford Airport parking open 24 hours?
Yes, all the main parking options provide 24-hour access so you can drop off and collect your car at any time night or day throughout your trip.
Is there disabled parking at Leeds Bradford Airport?
Yes, disabled parking is available in all the on-airport car parks. Spaces can't be pre-booked but are allocated on arrival. The Sentinel off-airport car park also offers disabled parking.
The Bottom Line
With huge savings over the gate price, pre-booking your Leeds Bradford parking is highly recommended. Take time to compare on-airport and off-airport options to find the best value parking for your needs. Avoid the stress of airport parking by booking early and following the provided instructions.