Pick up point with car parking...SW...

[Iain C]

We're doing a Solent to Scillies trip in a few weeks on my mate's boat, and us three lads will sail the boat somewhere west of Lyme Bay and will pick up the ladies there who will drive down. They want to do Devon onwards but aren't fussed about the first (or last) bit.

What we ideally need is a suitable venue, with suitable car parking that's flexible when it comes to stay/payment, as we don't want to be rushing back just to avoid a wheel clamp.

Does anyone know of anywhere, or are there any friendly clubs down that way that would allow them to park on club premises for a donation to club coffers or the RNLI?

I'm thinking Dartmouth/Salcombe/Plymouth/Falmouth or similar might work? Any tips guys? Thanks in advance.

 

[ronsurf]

Quite a few places in Plymouth, for instance near Mountbatten there is some free on road parking. Parking in most places in the SW is at a premium April- October when all the summer tourists arrive. I know of some un restricted parking in Falmouth, if you don't mind a bit of a walk and you get lucky.

 

[AIDY]

Forget Dartmouth and salcombe for parking. Dartmouth is pay or 2 hours slots and up a hill everywhere... Nothing in salcombe and it's a pain in the arse to drive too.

Would the train to Plymouth serve you better or even Penzance.

 

[jac]

Isn't there a long stay car park just behind Brixham Marina?

 

[snowleopard]

At Saltash, under the bridges on the west bank is a public pontoon with free car park. Perhaps someone local can confirm whether there are restrictions on how long you can park.

 

[ronsurf]

At Saltash, under the bridges on the west bank is a public pontoon with free car park. Perhaps someone local can confirm whether there are restrictions on how long you can park.

Saltmill car park. Not sure I'd leave my car there unattended long term, but I guess it depends how long the OP was thinking of, and what car he has. Could get the train to Saltash and a short walk down the hill to the pontoon.
I would train it, and not have to worry about the car.

 

[jac]

I would train it, and not have to worry about the car.

Other alternative if more than 1 person going is 1 way car hire. Can be quite economic and gives the advantage of a few hours of car use at the other end to top up the fray bentos etc.

 

[Iain C]

Thanks for the replies so far guys.

It's not me who is looking to park, it's our respective SWMBOs. Car will be much easier for them than train as there is no set itinerary and they will have loads of gear. I don't think the one who is likely to be doing the driving is precious about her car at all.

Saltash sounds like a possible if someone can confirm...

 

[Ripster]

Isn't there a long stay car park just behind Brixham Marina?

Yes there is. Multi-storey rear of the Marina, run by MDL. There is also a carpark at Darthaven at Kingswear but not sure about prices or availability.

 

[doug748]

Ronsurf's suggestion is a handy one. I have left my banger there a lot and never had a problem.

For a bit of extra security with the parking you might make negotiate an arrangement with Mountbatten Watersports Centre:

http://www.mount-batten-centre.com/waterside-central-services/day-users/

They have a good, long pick up pontoon (careful, a bit shallow at the extreme west end) or you could use the marina next door.

 

[footsoldier]

I avoid car parks and their complications. My tried and tested strategy is to drive around until I find a respectable-looking residential estate and park up there - under a streetlight if possible. Then phone for a cab. (It's a good idea to make a written, not mental, note of the road name!!)

 

[danbridger]

Salcombe would actually be quite easy. There is a good park and ride on the way into town. As I recall the parking is free and the charge is just for the ride. Depending on the load, either just catch the bus down into town, or dump the luggage at Whitestrand first and then park the car .

 

[theoldsalt]

Most definately Mountbatten at Plymouth and Haven Marina. I often leave my car there long term - safe a secure.

 

[clyst]

Which car park are you referring to TOS Sir ?

 

[theoldsalt]

Which car park are you referring to TOS Sir ?

Certainly not the same one you use - especially when you need a push ! Got a new battery yet Cap'n ?

 

[clyst]

At Saltash, under the bridges on the west bank is a public pontoon with free car park. Perhaps someone local can confirm whether there are restrictions on how long you can park.

I had a look this afternoon ...... Max stay 60hrs or so,it says on the board .

 

[clyst]

Certainly not the same one you use - especially when you need a push ! Got a new battery yet Cap'n ?

Now you know I have ......now tell all ,TOS sir, of the car park to which you refer .

 

[longjohnsilver]

Yes there is. Multi-storey rear of the Marina, run by MDL. There is also a carpark at Darthaven at Kingswear but not sure about prices or availability.

First hour free, £6 per day. The free hour does allow you to drop off gear and load up the boat and then go and find some free on road parking.

 

[Kurrawong_Kid]

Other alternative if more than 1 person going is 1 way car hire. Can be quite economic and gives the advantage of a few hours of car use at the other end to top up the fray bentos etc.

Quite the best idea! Have used Enterprise several times one way. They will deliver and collect if necessary too. No connection, only a satisfied customer. Another advantage is you can hire a larger car than your own if you've lots of gear.

 

[dragonvc]

I have used Mylor Marina car park several times for a week or so not cheap but no problems and easy to transfer gear.Darthaven marina car park similar pricing but Regatta week a problem unless already in the car park before the week starts