Car Park Calculator — Parking Spaces for Events

On average, allow 1 parking space for every 2-3 guests. Most guests arrive in pairs or groups. For a wedding, allow 1 space per 2 guests. For a corporate event, allow 1 space per 1.5 guests as more people drive alone. Always deduct guests using taxis or public transport.

A UK standard parking bay is 2.4m wide by 4.8m long. Disabled bays are 3.6m wide by 6m long (including hatching). You also need access lanes of at least 6m width for two-way traffic. The calculator adds 50% to the bay area for circulation space.

For permanent leisure and visitor car parks, BS 8300 and Approved Document M recommend at least 3 accessible bays or 6% of total capacity (whichever is greater) for venues up to 200 spaces. There is no legal minimum for temporary event parking, so a practical event rule of thumb is at least 2 accessible bays for up to 50 cars plus 1 extra for every 25 cars after that — never fewer than the 6% figure if you can manage it. Accessible bays are larger (3.6m wide including hatching) and should sit closest to the venue entrance on firm, level ground.

Yes, fields are commonly used for event parking in rural venues. The ground must be firm enough to support vehicles - avoid wet or boggy ground. Consider hiring temporary trackway mats for access routes. Have marshals to direct traffic and prevent parking on soft ground.

For large events (100+ guests) at remote venues, a shuttle bus from a nearby car park or station can be more practical. A 50-seat coach costs around £200-400 for an evening. This reduces parking needs, drink-driving risk, and field damage.