Christmas shopping this weekend? We've got you covered.

30th November 2021

This weekend, if you're going to the shops to check off that Christmas shopping list, avoid traffic jams and the battle for a free parking space by hopping on a train and making a relaxing day of it instead. We've pulled together five great shopping destinations to help you find the perfect present that will keep you on Santa’s nice list all year round.

Bicester Village

More than 160 boutiques of world-renowned designer brands are housed in Bicester Village to give you an open-air shopping experience you’ll never forget. Located just an hour away from London, in the Oxfordshire countryside, you’ll be able to take advantage of great savings from some of your favourite fashion and lifestyle brands and refuel in some of the village's renowned restaurants and pop-ups.

Getting there.
The nearest train station is Bicester Village, which is just a 4-minute walk away.

Westfield Stratford City

The largest urban shopping and leisure destination in Europe, Westfield Stratford City, will leave you spoilt for choice with over 250 shops featuring some of the nation's favourite high street, home and lifestyle brands.

If you get tired from all of that shopping, you’ll be able to enjoy a break at one of the many restaurants by watching a movie at the 17-screen cinema or a game of luxury bowling.

Getting there.
The nearest station is Stratford, which adjoins the shopping centre.

Trafford Centre

Trafford Centre in Greater Manchester is a renowned shopping and entertainment destination with over 200 shops and more than 60 bars and restaurants. Not only is it a shoppers delight, but the centre offers a variety of activities for a big day out. Filled with cinemas, games arcades, an aquarium, as well as the Legoland Discovery Centre, there’s something for everyone.

Getting there.
You can easily access The Trafford Centre via a bus connection from many nearby train stations: Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Victoria, Salford Crescent and Urmston.

Gunwharf Quays

Portsmouth's Gunwharf Quays is the UK’s only waterfront outlet shopping destination, and it boasts more than 90 stores and over 30 restaurants, bars and coffee shops in the heart of Portsmouth.

Many famous brands are represented at the centre, including high-end women's and men's fashion stores, children's wear, shoes, sportswear, homewares, lifestyle and beauty stores, all with up to 60% off regular retail prices.

Getting there.
Portsmouth Harbour railway station is located right next door to Gunwharf Quays.

Bluewater

This 240-acre shopping centre is home to over 300 stores, 50 bars, restaurants, and cafes. Bluewater is set against a backdrop of 50 meter-high chalk cliffs with tranquil lakes, trees and parkland surrounding it. When you’re ready to give your credit card a break from the shops, you can rent bikes, rowing boats, participate in fishing, putting, rock-climbing, or even try the zipline if you’re not afraid of heights. There is also an adventure playground for children.

Getting there.
Greenhithe is the closest train station to Bluewater. Buses run between Bluewater and Greenhithe station throughout the day.