London and beyond: A shopper’s guide to the best shopping centres

London is famous for many things, including its long history and lively culture, as well as its wide range of shops. The city’s shopping centres have something for everyone, whether from the latest clothing and accessories to one-of-a-kind gifts, they are also great for just having a fun day out, you can choose to eat all different types of cuisine, go to the cinema or even play some free spins, the options are endless. These centres aren’t just in the city; the surrounding areas also have some great places to shop that offer a mix of well-known high street brands, expensive designer labels, and fun things to do. This article will show you the best shopping centres in the capital and surrounding areas. It will tell you where they are, how to get there, and what makes each one worth visiting.

In London:

Westfield London (Shepherd’s Bush)

Location: Shepherd’s Bush, West London

How to Get There: You can easily get there by transport. Take the Central Line to Shepherd’s Bush station or the Hammersmith & City line to Wood Lane. The area is also served by a lot of bus routes.

Shops: Westfield London features an extensive selection of over 300 luxury and high-street brands ranging from Louis Vuitton and Prada to Zara and Topshop. Everyone can find something they like there, no matter what their budget is.

Things to Do: The centre features a Vue Cinema, showcasing the latest blockbusters on several screens, and KidZania, an interactive city designed for children aged 4-14, which merges inspiration, fun, and learning via realistic role-play.

Dining: There are many places to eat, including fast food, fine dining, and gourmet food shops. There is also a branch of GAIL’s, the famous London-based bakery, and Waitrose, the high-end supermarket.

Brent Cross Shopping Centre

Location: Hendon, North West London

How to Get There: Take the Northern Line to Brent Cross station. You can also park for free if you’re driving.

Shops: Brent Cross is one of the most famous places to shop in London. It has both big chains like Fenwick, John Lewis, and Marks & Spencer along with a nice blend of smaller independent boutiques.

Things to Do: Brent Cross isn’t just about shopping; the centre regularly organises community events and seasonal fairs that are perfect for family outings.

Dining: Visitors can choose from quick bites at popular fast food chains like Burger King and McDonald’s, enjoy a coffee break at Costa Coffee or Starbucks, or sit down for a meal at family-friendly restaurants such as Nando’s and Wagamama. With its laid-back atmosphere and wide range of cuisines, the food hall is a great place to grab a quick snack or a leisurely meal while you’re out shopping.

Westfield Stratford City

Location: Stratford, East London

How to Get There: Stratford station is a major transport hub serviced by the Jubilee and Central lines, DLR, and numerous buses. It’s also a stop on several major National Rail services.

Shops: As one of the largest shopping centres in Europe, Westfield Stratford City boasts over 250 shops and 70 places to dine, from popular global brands like Apple and AllSaints to a wide array of restaurants and bars.

Things to Do: The centre features a 17-screen Vue Cinema, a luxury bowling alley, and a casino. It’s also adjacent to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, offering opportunities for outdoor activities.

Dining: The centre boasts a wide range of eating choices to suit all tastes. There is something for everyone in the food hall, from quick snacks at places like Subway and McDonald’s to high-class meals at places like The Real Greek and Jamie’s Italian. The World Food Court has street food and international cuisines that people can try for a unique eating experience. 

Just outside London:

Bluewater Shopping Centre

Location: Greenhithe, Kent

How to Get There: Bluewater is easy to get to by car; it’s close to the M25 and A2, and there are 13,000 free parking spots there. If you’re using public transport, the nearest train stations are Greenhithe and Dartford, from where you can take a short bus ride to the centre. 

Shops: With over 300 stores, Bluewater is one of the largest shopping centres in Europe. You’ll find high-street brands, designer labels, and independent boutiques.

Things to Do: Bluewater also offers a 17-screen Showcase cinema, adventure park, and frequently hosts events such as craft fairs and seasonal markets.

Dining: options include popular restaurants like Wagamama, Jamie’s Italian, and a host of fast food and upmarket eateries.

Lakeside Shopping Centre 

Location: West Thurrock, Essex

How to Get There: The M25 makes Lakeside easy to get to. You can use public transport to get to the shopping centre. The nearest stop is only a short walk away, at Chafford Hundred.

Shops: The shops at Lakeside are very varied. Some of the bigger department stores are Debenhams, House of Fraser, and Marks & Spencer.

Things to Do: Attractions include a Vue Cinema and extensive recreational areas, including bowling alleys and a boating lake nearby.

Dining: Many places to eat are available, so there are options for everyone.  Lakeside has a wide range of restaurants, from fast food chains like Five Guys and KFC to restaurants that serve more substantial meals, such as Zizzi and TGI Fridays. There are also several bars and dessert shops in the centre, where you can get a coffee or a sweet treat after a day of shopping.

The editorial unit