Hamsterley Forest ANPR FAQs
We have introduced an ANPR parking system at Hamsterley Forest.
Q: What is ANPR?
ANPR stands for Automatic Number Plate Recognition. It is a parking system that recognises car number plates when they enter and leave a car park. It calculates how long a car has been parked.
Q: How does the system work?
Upon entry to the site, the system records your number plate. When you’re ready to leave, enter your number plate into one of the machines and it will tell you how much you owe based on how long you’ve been on site. Your number plate will be recognised on exit and the system will know you have paid. If you’re a member it will work differently – see below for details.
Q: What is my car park charge used for?
A: When you pay for car parking or buy a membership you are making a direct contribution to the forest. From children’s play areas to walking and cycling trails, your money goes towards making the forest a great place to visit. Forestry England is working hard to protect and improve the forest and everything that it has to offer.
One-off visitors:
Q: What are the parking charges?
A: Parking charges remain the same:
£2 – 1 hour
£6 – all day (£10 on Bank Holiday weekends)
£12 – minibus
£18 – coach
£49 – annual membership (including free parking for a year). Buy one now.
Q: Can I pop by for a quick visit, i.e. to the bike shop to collect something?
A: For shorter visits such as drop-offs, deliveries or collections, you receive 20 minutes free of charge.
Q: Is it free to park after 6pm?
A: The main car park is accessible at all times and parking charges apply 24 hours a day.
Q: Do Blue Badge holders have to pay for parking?
A: As before, Blue Badge holders are required to pay for parking when visiting.
Q: Can you pay by card or cash?
A: All pay stations accept card payments or you can pay by cash at the pay station next to the visitor information point.
Q: Will I receive a ticket once I have paid?
A: No. Our new car parking system is pay on exit so you no longer need to ‘Pay and Display’. The system will know you have paid when you exit as it will automatically recognise your number plate.
Q: When should I pay for parking?
A: Please pay for your parking just before you leave.
Q:How do I become a member?
A: You can join on-line or at the visitor information point in Hamsterley Forest. More information about the benefits of being a member of Hamsterley Forest.
Forestry England members:
Q: How does the system work for members?
A: Members vehicle registration plates will be automatically recognised. Therefore you do not need to display your pass or visit a pay station. If you experience any issues please contact our box office team on 0300 068 0400 or at membership@forestryengland.uk .
Q: I have a new vehicle, what should I do?
A: Please keep us informed of any vehicle changes by logging into your account and updating details no later than the day before your next visit. This timing is essential to ensure the system recognises your new vehicle.
Q: I have a membership, but I’ve been sent a parking fine – why? What should I do?
A: Sincere apologies if you have been sent a parking fine. It may be that your vehicle registration details aren’t up to date on our system. Please contact our box office on 0300 068 0400 or membership@forestryengland.uk to correct the issue and cancel the fine. Support is available Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm.
Q: I have not been able to update my details before my visit. What should I do?
A: Please go to the visitor information point when you arrive so our staff can assist you and avoid you receiving a fine in error. If necessary, please update your details on-line before your next visit.
If you can’t find the answer to your parking question here or if your query is regarding a specific parking session, please email enquiries.hamsterley@forestryengland.uk.