Newhaven Ferry Port: Parking, Directions & Access Guide

Planning your journey to Newhaven Ferry Port? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know: driving directions from all major routes, parking options and prices, train access from Brighton and London, port facilities, what to expect on arrival, and tips for a smooth departure.

Newhaven Ferry Port is exceptionally easy to reach, with Newhaven Town railway station just 120 meters away (2-minute walk) and clear road signage from the A26/A259. Multiple parking options are available from short-stay drop-off to long-term secure parking.

Last updated: December 2025

Newhaven Ferry Port Parking and Directions

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🅿️ Port Access at a Glance

2 minutes
Walk from
Train Station
From £20
Short-Stay Parking
(24hrs)
12 minutes
Drive from
Brighton
90 minutes
Drive from
London
  • ✅ Easy access – clearly signposted from A26 and A259
  • ✅ Train adjacent – UK’s closest railway station to ferry port
  • ✅ Multiple parking options – short-stay, long-stay, drop-off
  • ✅ Secure parking – CCTV monitored, barrier controlled
  • ✅ Port facilities – waiting area, toilets, café, information
Newhaven Ferry Port Map

Newhaven Ferry Port (DFDS Terminal)

Address: Railway Wharf, Newhaven, East Sussex BN9 0DF, United Kingdom

GPS Coordinates: 50.7899° N, 0.0544° E

Port Address & Location


Newhaven Ferry Port (DFDS Terminal)
Railway Wharf
Newhaven
East Sussex
BN9 0DF
United Kingdom

GPS Coordinates:

Latitude: 50.7899° N
Longitude: 0.0544° E

What3Words:

///sheds.coats.robes

💡 Sat Nav Tip: Enter postcode BN9 0DF for most accurate directions. Some older sat navs may show “Newhaven Harbour” which is the commercial port – you want the DFDS Ferry Terminal on Railway Wharf. Follow brown tourist signs marked “Ferry Terminal” from the A259.

Port Overview:

Newhaven Ferry Port is a small, dedicated passenger ferry terminal located at the mouth of the River Ouse where it meets the English Channel. The port exclusively serves DFDS ferries to Dieppe, France, making it simple and uncongested compared to larger ferry ports like Dover.

The terminal building contains:

  • Vehicle check-in lanes
  • Foot passenger check-in desk
  • Waiting lounge
  • Toilets
  • Vending machines
  • Information desk

Driving Directions to Newhaven Ferry Port


Clear signposting makes Newhaven Ferry Port easy to find from all directions. Follow brown “Ferry Terminal” tourist signs from main routes.

🚗 Route via A27 & A26

Step-by-Step Directions:

  1. From Brighton seafront/city centre – Head east on A259 towards Rottingdean
  2. Join A27 eastbound – Follow signs for Lewes/Newhaven (dual carriageway)
  3. Exit at Falmer – Take A27 exit signposted “Lewes/Newhaven”
  4. Continue on A27 – Pass Sussex University and Falmer Stadium on left
  5. Roundabout at Beddingham – Take 2nd exit onto A26 southbound (signposted Newhaven)
  6. Follow A26 south – Straight road for 4 miles
  7. Enter Newhaven – Continue straight (A26 becomes South Way)
  8. Roundabout – Take 1st exit onto Beach Road (brown ferry signs)
  9. Follow brown ferry signs – Turn right onto Railway Road
  10. Arrive at port – Ferry terminal entrance on right

Journey Time: 20-25 minutes (off-peak)
Distance: 12 miles
Typical Traffic: Light (except Brighton city centre rush hour 8-9am, 5-6pm)

⚠️ Traffic Warning: Allow extra time if leaving Brighton during morning rush hour (8-9am). A27 can be congested. For 09:30 ferry, depart Brighton by 08:00 to ensure arrival 60-90 minutes before departure.

🚗 Route via M23, A23 & A27

Step-by-Step Directions:

  1. From Central London – Take A23/A3 south towards M23
  2. M23 southbound – Follow all the way to end (becomes A23)
  3. Continue on A23 – Pass through Crawley, continue towards Brighton
  4. Join A27 eastbound – At Brighton bypass, follow signs for Lewes/Eastbourne
  5. Beddingham roundabout – Take A26 exit south (signposted Newhaven)
  6. Follow A26 south – 4 miles straight road
  7. Enter Newhaven – Follow brown ferry terminal signs
  8. Beach Road roundabout – 1st exit, then right onto Railway Road
  9. Arrive at port

Journey Time: 1h 30m – 2h (depending on M25/M23 traffic)
Distance: 65 miles
Typical Traffic: M23 can be busy during rush hours and Friday evenings

ALTERNATIVE ROUTE (avoiding Brighton):

  • From M25, take A22 south through East Grinstead
  • Join A26 at Uckfield
  • Follow A26 all the way to Newhaven
  • Adds 10 minutes but avoids Brighton traffic

💡 London Tip: Consider taking the train instead of driving. London Victoria to Newhaven Town takes 90 minutes, costs £15-25, and the station is 2 minutes’ walk from port. No parking fees, no M25 stress. See our foot passenger guide for details.

🚗 Route via A259 Coast Road

Step-by-Step Directions:

  1. From Eastbourne town centre – Take A259 west (Seaside Road)
  2. Continue on A259 – Scenic coast road past Beachy Head
  3. Through Seaford – Continue through town on A259
  4. Enter Newhaven – A259 becomes Beach Road
  5. Follow brown ferry signs – Turn right onto Railway Road
  6. Arrive at port

Journey Time: 25-30 minutes
Distance: 12 miles
Route Type: Single-carriageway coast road with great views

NOTE: This scenic route passes the famous Seven Sisters cliffs and Beachy Head lighthouse. In good weather, it’s a beautiful drive. However, the A259 can be slow in summer due to tourists.

✈️ Route via A23 & A27

Step-by-Step Directions:

  1. Exit Gatwick Airport – Follow signs for A23 Brighton
  2. Join A23 southbound – Dual carriageway towards Brighton
  3. Approach Brighton – Join A27 eastbound bypass (signposted Lewes/Eastbourne)
  4. Beddingham roundabout – Take A26 south to Newhaven
  5. Follow directions above from A26 into Newhaven

Journey Time: 50-60 minutes
Distance: 35 miles
Car Hire: Major car hire companies available at Gatwick

🚂 Alternative from Gatwick: Take train to Brighton (30 mins), change for Newhaven Town (15 mins). Total journey 50 minutes. Often faster and cheaper than hiring car, especially if travelling as foot passenger.

Train Access to Newhaven Ferry Port


Newhaven Ferry Port has the best train access of any UK ferry port, with Newhaven Town station just 120 meters (2-minute walk) from the terminal entrance.

🚂 Station Details

Location: Railway Approach, Newhaven BN9 0AD
Distance to Port: 120 meters (2-minute walk)
Operator: Southern Railway
Facilities: Platform shelters, ticket machine, step-free access

WALKING DIRECTIONS TO PORT:

  1. Exit Newhaven Town station main entrance
  2. Turn right onto Railway Approach
  3. Walk 120 meters straight ahead (2 minutes)
  4. Ferry terminal entrance on your right

NO STEPS: The route is completely flat and accessible for wheelchairs, buggies, and wheeled luggage.

From Journey Time Frequency Off-Peak Price
Brighton 12-15 mins Every 30 mins £5-8 return
London Victoria 90 mins Hourly £18-25 return
Lewes 10 mins Hourly £4-6 return
Eastbourne 25 mins Hourly £7-10 return
Gatwick Airport 50 mins Change at Brighton £12-18 return

BOOKING TRAIN TICKETS:

  • Online: thetrainline.com, Southern Railway app, Trainline app
  • At Station: Ticket machines accept card/contactless
  • Advance Tickets: Book 12 weeks ahead for biggest savings (up to 60% off)
  • Off-Peak: Travel after 9:30am weekdays, anytime weekends

💡 Train Tip: For the 09:30 ferry from Newhaven, catch the 08:00 or 08:30 train from Brighton. This gives you 60-90 minutes at the port for check-in and security – perfect timing. See our complete Brighton to Dieppe guide for detailed journey planning.

Brighton & Hove Buses:

  • Route 12/12A from Brighton (Churchill Square) to Newhaven
  • Journey time: 45-60 minutes
  • Frequency: Every 30-60 minutes
  • Cost: £5-7 single, £8-12 return
  • Bus stop: Newhaven Town Centre (10-minute walk to port)

NOT RECOMMENDED:
Buses are significantly slower and less frequent than trains. Unless staying near a bus route, trains are always preferable for ferry passengers.

Parking at Newhaven Ferry Port


Multiple parking options are available at Newhaven Ferry Port for short stays, long trips, and drop-off.

🅿️ Short-Stay Car Park

Location: Adjacent to ferry terminal building
Distance to Check-In: 50 meters (1-minute walk)
Type: Open-air surfaced car park
Capacity: Approximately 100 spaces
Security: CCTV monitored, barrier controlled

PRICING:

Duration Cost
Up to 2 hours £5
Up to 6 hours £10
Up to 24 hours £20
24-48 hours £35

BEST FOR:

  • ✅ Day trip to France (same-day return)
  • ✅ Picking up/dropping off passengers
  • ✅ Overnight return (23:00 ferry out, morning ferry back)
  • ✅ Short business trips

PAYMENT:

  • Pay at automated machines (card only)
  • Pay on exit (enter reg at machine)
  • No pre-booking required
  • No cash accepted

⚠️ Important: Short-stay parking is NOT suitable for holidays longer than 48 hours. Maximum stay is 48 hours, after which additional charges apply (expensive). For longer trips, use long-stay parking below.

🅿️ Long-Stay Secure Car Park

Location: 200 meters from terminal (5-minute walk)
Type: Secure compound with perimeter fencing
Security: 24/7 CCTV, security lighting, barrier controlled, regular patrols
Capacity: 200+ spaces

PRICING:

Duration Standard Rate Pre-Booked Rate
3-7 days £60 £45
8-15 days £95 £70
16+ days £7/day £5/day

PRE-BOOKING:

📧 Email: newhavenparking@dfds.com
📞 Phone: +44 33 058 787 87
🌐 Online: dfds.com (parking section)

Pre-booking saves £15-25 and guarantees space.

HOW IT WORKS:

  1. Pre-book online or by phone – Confirm dates and vehicle details
  2. Receive confirmation – Email with parking instructions and entry code
  3. Arrive at port – Follow signs to “Long-Stay Parking”
  4. Enter barrier code – Automated barrier opens
  5. Park in any space – Note your space number
  6. Walk to terminal – 5-minute walk, clearly signposted
  7. On return – Retrieve vehicle, exit with same code

INCLUDED:

  • ✓ 24/7 CCTV monitoring
  • ✓ Security lighting
  • ✓ Perimeter fencing
  • ✓ Regular security patrols

NOT INCLUDED:

  • ✗ Insurance (ensure your vehicle insurance covers off-site parking)
  • ✗ Valeting or cleaning
  • ✗ Jump starts or breakdown assistance

💰 Money-Saving Tip: For a 2-week trip, pre-booked long-stay parking costs £70. Compare this to airport parking (£150-200) or driving to Dover and parking there (£120-160). Newhaven offers excellent value for cross-Channel parking.

🚕 Drop-Off Zone

Location: Directly in front of terminal building
Time Limit: 15 minutes maximum (strictly enforced)
Cost: FREE
Enforcement: ANPR cameras, penalties for overstaying

USAGE:

  • ✓ Dropping off passengers – Stop, unload luggage, say goodbye, leave immediately
  • ✓ Quick collection – Collect passengers who are waiting at terminal entrance
  • ✓ No waiting – Driver cannot leave vehicle unattended
  • ✗ NOT for parking – Even for 5-10 minutes while passenger checks in
  • ✗ Not for vehicles – Vehicle passengers must park in short-stay and walk back

PENALTY:
£60 fine if vehicle remains longer than 15 minutes (reduced to £30 if paid within 14 days)

⚠️ Important: The 15-minute limit is strictly enforced with ANPR cameras. Don’t park here while passenger checks in (30-60 minutes) – use short-stay parking instead. Fines are issued automatically.

Newhaven Town Centre Parking:

If port parking is full (rare), public car parks are available in Newhaven town centre:

  • Denton Island Car Park – 10-minute walk, £4-6 per day
  • Station Car Park – At Newhaven Harbour station, 15-minute walk, £5 per day

These are NOT secure and NOT recommended for holiday parking.

Park & Ride:

There is NO park & ride service for Newhaven Ferry Port.

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Port Facilities & Amenities


Newhaven Ferry Port is a small, functional terminal focused on efficient ferry operations rather than extensive facilities.

INSIDE THE TERMINAL BUILDING:

✓ Available Facilities

  • Check-in desks (vehicle & foot passenger)
  • Waiting lounge with seating (100+ seats)
  • Toilets (including accessible)
  • Baby changing facilities
  • Vending machines (snacks, drinks)
  • Information desk
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Travel essentials shop (small)

✗ NOT Available

  • Restaurant or café
  • Bureau de change
  • ATM / Cash machine
  • Shops or duty-free
  • Children’s play area
  • Lounge/priority areas
  • Showers
  • Lockers

WAITING TIME:

Most passengers spend 30-60 minutes in the terminal waiting area after check-in. The lounge has:

  • Comfortable bench seating
  • Large windows with port views
  • TV screens showing ferry departures
  • Climate control (heating/air con)
  • Clean, modern environment

FOOD & DRINK:

  • Vending machines only – Crisps, chocolate, soft drinks (£1.50-3)
  • No café or restaurant – Bring food/drink or eat before arrival
  • Nearest café: Newhaven town centre (10-minute walk)

💡 Port Tip: The terminal has very limited food options. If arriving early (90+ minutes before ferry), consider having breakfast/lunch in Newhaven town centre first, or bring snacks. Plenty of food available once onboard ferry. See our onboard facilities guide.

What to Expect on Arrival at Port


Understanding the arrival and check-in process helps reduce stress and ensures smooth boarding.

RECOMMENDED ARRIVAL TIME:
60-90 minutes before departure (check-in closes 45 minutes before)

STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS:

🚗 Vehicle Check-In Timeline

1. ENTER PORT (0 mins)

  • Follow brown “Ferry Terminal” signs
  • Drive through entrance barrier (automatic)
  • Follow lane markings to check-in

2. CHECK-IN LANE (2-5 mins)

  • Join check-in queue (usually very short)
  • Present booking confirmation + passports
  • Staff scan documents, issue boarding pass
  • Boarding pass shows lane number + boarding time

3. PARKING (5-10 mins)

  • If arriving very early, directed to holding area
  • If close to boarding, directed straight to boarding lane
  • Park in designated lane number
  • Engine off, handbrake on, WAIT IN VEHICLE

4. BOARDING (30-45 mins before departure)

  • Staff announce boarding over loudspeaker
  • Your lane called by number
  • Drive onto ferry following marshaller directions
  • Park where directed, secure vehicle

5. TO PASSENGER DECKS (45-55 mins after arrival)

  • Leave vehicle (take valuables)
  • Walk up stairs/lift to decks 6, 7, 8
  • Find seat, relax for 4-hour crossing

IMPORTANT RULES:

  • ✓ Stay with vehicle – After check-in, remain in/near vehicle until boarding
  • ✓ Engine off – No running engines in boarding lanes (environmental + safety)
  • ✓ Secure vehicle – Handbrake on, in gear/park
  • ✓ No food/drink – Cannot eat in vehicle boarding area
  • ✓ Toilet breaks – Terminal toilets available, return to vehicle

⚠️ Late Arrival Warning: If you arrive LESS than 45 minutes before departure, check-in may refuse boarding. This is STRICT. For 09:30 ferry, arrive by 08:45 at absolute latest (08:00-08:15 recommended). DFDS will NOT delay ferry for late arrivals.

RECOMMENDED ARRIVAL TIME:
60-75 minutes before departure (check-in closes 30 minutes before)

STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS:

👣 Foot Passenger Check-In Timeline

1. ENTER TERMINAL (0 mins)

  • Walk into passenger terminal building
  • Follow signs to “Foot Passenger Check-In”
  • Main desk clearly marked

2. CHECK-IN DESK (2-5 mins)

  • Present booking confirmation + passport
  • Staff check documents, scan passport
  • Issue boarding pass
  • Luggage labels if needed

3. SECURITY SCREENING (5-10 mins)

  • Similar to airport security
  • Bags through X-ray scanner
  • Walk through metal detector
  • Liquids must be under 100ml

4. WAITING LOUNGE (10-60 mins)

  • Comfortable seating area
  • Toilets, vending machines, Wi-Fi
  • Watch departure screen
  • Relax until boarding called

5. BOARDING (30-45 mins before departure)

  • Announcement: “Foot passengers for Dieppe, please proceed to boarding”
  • Show boarding pass at exit
  • Board shuttle bus (free)
  • 3-minute drive to ferry
  • Walk up gangway, find seat

ADVANTAGES FOR FOOT PASSENGERS:

  • ✅ Board first – Before vehicle passengers, get best seats
  • ✅ Faster check-in – No vehicle inspection
  • ✅ Comfortable wait – Proper waiting lounge vs. sitting in car
  • ✅ More time on ferry – Can board 45 mins before departure

For complete foot passenger guidance including what to bring and luggage allowances, see our detailed foot passenger guide.

Tips for Smooth Port Experience


✓ DO: Arrive 90 Minutes Early

Especially in summer and for overnight ferry. Gives buffer for traffic, parking, check-in queues. Better to wait comfortably than risk missing ferry.

✓ DO: Pre-Book Long-Stay Parking

Save £15-25 by pre-booking online. Guarantees space (rarely full but possible in peak summer). Email confirmation has entry code.

✓ DO: Have Documents Ready

Booking confirmation (printed or phone), passports for all passengers, pet documentation if applicable. Speeds up check-in significantly.

✓ DO: Bring Snacks & Water

Terminal has only vending machines. Bring food/water for waiting time. Plenty available onboard ferry once boarded.

✗ DON’T: Park in Drop-Off Zone

15-minute limit STRICTLY enforced with automatic £60 fines. Even “just 5 minutes” while passenger checks in will result in penalty. Use short-stay parking.

✗ DON’T: Arrive Less Than 45 Mins Before

Check-in closes 45 mins before departure (30 mins for foot passengers). Late arrivals refused boarding, no refund, must book new crossing.

✗ DON’T: Leave Valuables in Parked Car

Long-stay parking is secure but not guaranteed. Remove all valuables, sat navs, shopping. Leave nothing visible that might tempt thieves.

✗ DON’T: Expect Cash Machines

No ATM at port. Get cash before arrival or rely on cards. Parking machines are card-only anyway. Nearest ATM in Newhaven town (10-min walk).

Frequently Asked Questions: Port & Parking


How far is Newhaven Ferry Port from Brighton?

Newhaven Ferry Port is 12 miles from Brighton. By car via A27 and A26, the journey takes 20-25 minutes off-peak. By train from Brighton to Newhaven Town station (2-minute walk to port), the journey takes just 12-15 minutes with trains every 30 minutes. Train tickets cost £5-8 return off-peak. See our complete Brighton to Dieppe guide.

How much is parking at Newhaven Ferry Port?

Short-stay parking costs £20 per 24 hours or £35 for 48 hours. Long-stay parking for holidays costs £45 for 3-7 days (pre-booked) or £60 walk-up. For 8-15 days, pre-booked parking costs £70. Pre-booking saves £15-25 and guarantees space. The 15-minute drop-off zone is free but strictly time-limited with automatic fines for overstaying.

How early should I arrive at Newhaven Ferry Port?

Arrive 60-90 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Check-in closes 45 minutes before departure for vehicle passengers and 30 minutes before for foot passengers. During summer peak season (July-August), 90 minutes is recommended. Late arrivals will be refused boarding with no refund. For the 09:30 ferry, arrive between 08:00-08:45.

Can you walk to Newhaven Ferry Port from the train station?

Yes, Newhaven Town railway station is just 120 meters (2-minute walk) from the ferry terminal entrance. Exit the station, turn right, and walk straight ahead – the terminal is clearly signposted. This is the closest railway station to any UK ferry port, making it perfect for foot passengers. The route is completely flat with no steps, suitable for wheelchairs and wheeled luggage.

Is there long-stay parking at Newhaven for holidays?

Yes, secure long-stay parking is available for holidays. The car park has 24/7 CCTV, security lighting, perimeter fencing, and barrier-controlled entry. Prices: £45 for 3-7 days, £70 for 8-15 days (pre-booked rates). Pre-book by email (newhavenparking@dfds.com) or phone (+44 33 058 787 87) to save money and guarantee space. The car park is 5 minutes’ walk from the terminal.

Related Information


Ferry Information Hub

Complete guide to ferry timetables, prices, ships, check-in, and all essential information.

Ferry Timetable

All departure times, seasonal variations, and how to choose the best sailing for your journey.

Brighton to Dieppe Guide

Complete journey guide with exact train times, connections, and total travel costs from Brighton.

Foot Passenger Guide

Complete guide for travelling without a car including train access and step-by-step boarding.

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