Balmaha, a picturesque village on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond in Scotland, attracts numerous visitors with its stunning natural beauty and activities within the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. As tourism in the area grows, finding convenient and accessible car parking facilities is becoming increasingly important for visitors wishing to explore Balmaha and its surroundings.
Several parking options are available in the village, including the main Balmaha car park located at the National Park Visitor Centre. This centre not only provides ample parking for visitors but also offers useful information and facilities such as toilets, picnic areas, and a play area. Additionally, there are other car parks and street parking options in the Balmaha area, ensuring that drivers can find a suitable spot to park while they enjoy the breathtaking scenery and activities around Loch Lomond.
Car Parking in Balmaha
General Information
Balmaha, situated on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond, is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. With its proximity to the West Highland Way, Conic Hill, and the village itself, finding convenient parking options is essential for visitors. There are several car parks available in the area, managed by Stirling Council, which require payment for parking during your visit.
Parking Options
Balmaha Car Park: This popular car park is located close to the village centre and offers 177 spaces for visitors. Parking charges are £2.10 for up to 2 hours, and other durations are available. Toilets are open from 9:30am to 5:30pm and are situated near the car park. This location can get busy early, so it’s recommended to arrive early.
Opening Hours: N/A
Price: £2.10 for 2 hours
Spaces: 177
Address: Balmaha, B837, Stirling
Balmaha Overflow Car Park: This overflow car park is open when the main Balmaha car park is full. It is also managed by Stirling Council and offers additional parking options for visitors.
Opening Hours: N/A
Price: N/A
Spaces: N/A
Address: Balmaha, Stirling
Additional Parking Options: For those looking for alternative parking options, nearby parking facilities are available at Alexandria Station, which offers 58 spaces and 2 hours free parking.
Opening Hours: N/A
Price: Free for 2 hours
Spaces: 58
Address: Alexandria Station, G83 0QN
Costs and Payment Options
Hourly and Daily Rates
In Balmaha, parking is available with various options. Some car parks offer free parking for up to 2 hours. However, charges may apply for extended parking durations. It is advisable to check the specific car park’s details for the exact rates and availability. For instance, some parking spaces can be reserved in advance, with prices starting at £3 per day.
Payment Methods
A majority of the car parks in Balmaha are equipped with pay and display facilities, allowing for convenient cash payments. Additionally, there is an option to pay using your mobile phone. RingGo is one such service, which can be utilized by calling 01786231929 or texting 81025 with the location ID (such as 23707). This payment method caters to those who prefer not to rely on cash transactions.
Remember to check the specific car park’s details for available payment options, such as disabled spaces and electric car charging facilities. Keep in mind that parking charges usually apply between 8.45 am and 5.30 pm.
Accessibility and Restrictions
Disabled Parking Facilities
There are designated disabled parking spaces available in the Balmaha car park. This allows for easy access to the nearby Balmaha Visitor Centre and other local attractions.
Vehicle Size Limits
The Balmaha car park does not have any height restrictions for vehicles. However, it is recommended to take note of the parking space sizes and the surrounding environment to ensure your vehicle can park comfortably. Pay and display parking options are available, with the following charges:
- 1 Hour: Free
- 2 Hours: £2.10
- 4 Hours: £2.60
- Max: £3.20
Bank holidays allow for free parking, and payment can be made through cash or RingGo by calling 01786231929 or SMS at 81025 (Location ID 23707).
Please check the current status of car parks in the area by consulting the National Park website to help plan your visit and ensure smooth access to facilities.
Safety and Security
Surveillance and Lighting
Balmaha car park prioritises safety and security for its users. The well-lit parking area allows for clear visibility during the day and night, providing a sense of comfort for those parking their vehicles. Although specific details on security cameras at the car park are not available from the provided search results, it can be assumed that a certain level of surveillance exists in the area given its significance as a popular tourist destination. Visitors to the area can expect a secure parking experience, ensuring the safety of their belongings and vehicles.
Rules and Regulations
Balmaha car park operates under a set of rules and regulations to maintain order and safety for all users. According to the information found, the car park offers both free and paid parking options depending on the duration of your stay:
- Free for 2 hours
- £2.10 for up to 4 hours
- £3.20 for a maximum stay
It is important to adhere to these regulations and take note of the payment options available, including the Pay and Display facilities and the option to pay via phone using RingGo. The car park enforces strict parking rules, such as no height restrictions and proper usage of disabled parking spaces. The enforcement of these rules ensures that the car park remains organised, safe, and accessible for everyone.