Here in this article, we’ll be taking a look at the 10 best shopping malls in the UK, but before we begin our countdown, let’s take some time to look at some of the criteria we will be used to determine which malls make it into the top 10.
It’s probably also worth saying that this list isn’t really definitive every mall has its own pros and cons, and no one mall will appeal to everyone. Some people might like shiny new malls with lots of high-end stores, while others might prefer old brick-built warehouses filled with independent retailers.
Metrocentre
The Metrocentre is a shopping center located in Gateshead, Tyne, and Wear. At 2.5 million sq ft, it’s one of Europe’s largest shopping malls and a top destination for visitors to Newcastle upon Tyne.
The mall attracts over 19 million visitors per year, including four million out-of-town tourists (making Metrocentre England’s second most visited attraction after Buckingham Palace). It’s home to more than 340 shops, 17 restaurants, 12 bars, and 4 multi-screen cinemas. Anchor stores include Next, Debenhams, and House of Fraser.
Trafford Centre
It’s often referred to as the UK’s only true American-style indoor shopping mall. Opened in 1997, Trafford Centre is located in one of Greater Manchester’s most affluent suburbs. With more than 280 shops, many of which are familiar American brands, there’s certainly no shortage of things to do here.
Given its location near Manchester United Football Club’s Old Trafford stadium and Trafford Training Centre, it comes as no surprise that several of its stores sell sports merchandise or memorabilia.
St James Quarter
Bristol, UK St James Quarter is a development of over 750 homes, 300 retail units, and a new primary school. It is one of Britain’s largest and most ambitious regeneration projects since Canary Wharf. The £200 million scheme created 4 miles of attractive pedestrian streets lined with shops, cafes and offices, and homes in terraces, flats, and apartments.
This award-winning mixed-use scheme has been designed as a neighborhood where people live first and foremost – yet is close to all Bristol’s city center attractions (just 1km from Temple Meads station).
Bluewater
The Bluewater shopping center, just outside of London, is one of the top shopping destinations in all of Europe. The 1.5 million-square-foot center is home to over 200 shops and restaurants – enough to keep even our most savvy shoppers busy for days.
Whether you’re looking for vintage clothing or high fashion brands, there’s a little something for everyone at Bluewater. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of some popular stores and brands currently operating at Bluewater. Be sure to check out these great shops when you visit!
Liverpool One
This shopping center, located in Liverpool’s city center, is a relatively new addition to U.K. shopping centers, having been built in 2008. Its focus is on attracting both domestic and international shoppers by offering over 1 million square feet of retail space that features more than 100 stores, bars and restaurants.
Manchester Arndale
The second-largest mall in Great Britain, with over 370 stores and eateries, Arndale spans over 1.1 million square feet. The mall boasts its own parking garage and several adjacent towers that each offer its own dedicated shopping space. As one of England’s oldest malls, Arndale opened in 1982 and since then has seen consistent renovation and restoration throughout its existence.
Its location at a major intersection also makes it an ideal stop for foot traffic as pedestrians roam from store to store at a variety of locations nearby. Whether you’re looking for a good place to grab a bite to eat or shop for some high-end fashion goods, Manchester Arndale is guaranteed to meet your needs!
Atria Watford
Watford Atria Shopping Center is a large indoor shopping center in Watford, Hertfordshire. The center’s developer was Stanhope Capital, but they sold it to Vistra in 2007 when Stanhope ran into financial difficulties. It has five floors of retail shops and more than 70 outlets including New Look and John Lewis.
The site takes up most of one side of Watford’s main high street (Watling Street) and stretches back towards Verulamium Park, which is around 100 yards away at its closest point. It was officially opened on 25 October 1981 by Princess Alexandra.
Eldon Square
Located in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Eldon Square is a shopping mall that sits on a 42-acre plot of land. The mall has been considered one of the most successful shopping malls in all of Canada and it provides shoppers with more than 200 stores and services to choose from.
It is currently run by Edon Development Group which strives to provide consumers with high-quality goods at affordable prices. The mall opened its doors for business on October 9, 1987, and is managed by Oxford Properties Group Limited, which acquired its management rights in 1997.
Telford Shopping Centre
Telford has a medium-sized shopping center which is located in Telford, Shropshire. It was opened to the public in October 1995 and features two main department stores – Debenhams and House of Fraser. Other stores include New Look, H&M, Hype, Dorothy Perkins, and River Island.
There are around 140 shops including restaurants and cafés spread over three floors. The food court here provides an array of fast food outlets as well as tables to dine at with your family or friends.
The Oracle
We live in a world where products are cheap. You’d never think of paying £1000 for a pair of socks or £2000 for a jacket. However, some brands still take pride in making their product and look down on retailers who want to turn a profit.
Many luxury items still retail under their original price tag and aren’t overpriced! The UK is home to some of the most luxury brands in clothing and homeware. If you’re looking for quality and don’t mind paying extra then these are your best bets
Conclusion
Thinking of an individual who just might appreciate all of these different kinds of shopping opportunities, but you aren’t sure where to start? Well, you’re in luck because we’ve compiled a list of our own.
Take a look and take some time to be inspired by these top ten best shopping malls in UK whether your ideas are for gifts, or for yourself! With literally thousands of shops, a family day out at one of these will be a great experience for both adults and children alike.