BOURNEMOUTH Airport has been revealed as the most expensive UK airport to park at, according to research.

It comes as a nearby theme park offering cheap airport parking says it is celebrating huge success since launching in a bid to make travel more affordable.

Parley Lane Parking, based at Adventure Wonderland, launched free short stay parking and a third off long stay parking for airport customers in July this year.

The business venture was introduced after Bournemouth Airport reportedly approached Adventure Wonderland for an overflow facility after an increase in demand.

However, the theme park unveiled its own parking facility located opposite the airport, to provide a ‘low-cost alternative for travellers’.

A spokesperson for Parley Lane Parking said: "We have taken over 1,000 bookings since going live on July 1st with most customers saving between 30 per cent and 50 per cent on their normal parking costs.

"We are amazed that customers are coming from as far away as Winchester, Basingstoke, Honiton and Yeovil as well as BCP and the local surrounding areas to take advantage of these savings.”

Adventure Wonderland says that due to the seasonal nature of its business, the car park remains 80% unused for 70% of the year.

The alternative car park is located a 20-minute walk away from Bournemouth Airport and also offers a two-minute shuttlebus service.

"Without public transport availability many people are looking for a cheaper alternative to the onsite charges and our offsite car park offers easy access, ANPR video security, and customers keep their keys with them.

“Our customers have really valued our extremely simple charges too (£10 a day for the first seven days then £5 a day from day eight) with no late booking excess.”

A Parley Lane Parking spokesperson added: "Listening to our customers has been crucial in refining our parking packages and as well as pegging our charges for 2024, we will also be expanding our minibus operating hours."

Research into the cost of UK airport parking, has revealed Bournemouth Airport as the most expensive.

The data from motoring expert, Cinch, analysed the lowest rates for a seven night stay and found Bournemouth Airport to cost £132.25 compared to the second highest, London City Airport at £119.70.

A spokesperson for Bournemouth Airport said: "Pricing for all airports is dynamic so looking at one week in isolation doesn't mean Bournemouth is the most expensive because other factors should be taken into consideration including the choice of product and how far out the booking is made.

"We continue to see very strong demand for car parking and have been investing significantly to meet that demand with 200 extra spaces, new ticket machines, landscaping, fencing and lighting.

"Our car parks also meet the national Safer Parking Scheme standard which is rigorously assessed by the police to ensure the safety of people and vehicles."