Can I park an Aprilia scooter for free in Westminster or Soho?
Short answer
Not for free. Westminster (including Soho) requires paid motorcycle parking or a valid permit/registration. It is one of the few London boroughs that does not offer free scooter or motorcycle parking.
Detailed answer
Keypoints
• Westminster charges for motorcycle/scooter parking — no free bays for visitors.
• Riders must either pay via RingGo or register for a resident/season permit.
• Failing to register or pay can result in PCNs even in designated motorcycle bays.
• Other nearby boroughs (Camden, Lambeth) often offer free or cheaper bays, but not Westminster.
Explainer
Westminster is unique in London because it operates a controlled, paid motorcycle parking scheme across the entire borough, including Soho, Mayfair, and the West End. Whereas most London boroughs allow free motorcycle and scooter parking, Westminster requires riders to pay through RingGo or hold a valid permit. This applies to all powered two-wheelers, including Aprilia scooters. Because the borough enforces this heavily, unregistered scooters frequently receive PCNs, making it important for riders to pre-register before parking.
How we know
Local expert: Central Bikes
Business website: centralbikes.co.uk