As the weather warms up and summer sales kick off, it’s the perfect time to plan a shopping trip with friends and family. Shopping centres across the UK offer brilliant destinations where the whole family can enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment all under one roof.
Whether you’re after bargains or simply fancy a day out, these retail havens have something for everyone.
Taking the family car to one of these shopping hotspots means no faffing about with public transport, plenty of parking, and all the boot space you need for your shopping bags!
Let’s explore the UK’s 10 most impressive shopping centres that are perfect for your next family adventure.
- Westfield London
- Metrocentre
- Trafford Centre
- Westfield Stratford City
- Bluewater
- Bullring & Grand Central
- Lakeside Shopping Centre
- St James Quarter
- Manchester Arndale
- Merry Hill
1. Westfield London
Shepherd’s Bush, London, W12 7SL
Westfield London stands as one of the UK’s largest shopping and leisure spots. With over 300 shops, 90 eateries, and 10 attractions, there’s something for everyone. Just a short drive from Central London, it’s easy to reach by car. Browse stores like the largest Zara in the UK, or grab a quick meal at one of the many restaurants.
Family shopping is made simple with services designed for all ages. Enjoy Kiddy Cars for children over 12 months, a parents’ room for feeding, changing facilities in convenient locations, and Playworld – an interactive play area for kids aged 5 and under where they can take a break from shopping.
Getting There
Westfield London shopping centre is conveniently located in Shepherd’s Bush, West London, making it accessible from various parts of the country. If you’re travelling from the North, take the M1 or A1 and connect to the M25 ring road to reach your destination. Alternatively, visitors coming from the West can access the shopping centre directly via the M4 motorway. Be aware that it sits within the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), so charges may apply for non-compliant vehicles.
Parking
For drivers, there are 4,500 parking spaces spread across three car parks, including multi-storey options with clearly marked height restrictions. You’ll find great accessibility services and parent-and-child facilities, plus 56 electric car charging points and 24 Tesla Superchargers if you’re driving green. Fancy a spruce-up for your motor? There’s even a car wash and valeting service on site.
Key Information:
300+ shops, 90+ eateries, and 10 amazing attractions.
4,500 parking spaces across 3 car parks – charges apply.
Accessibility services and parent-and-child facilities.
56 electric car charging points plus 24 Tesla supercharging stations.
Car wash and valeting service.
2. Metrocentre
Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, NE11 9YG
The Metrocentre in Gateshead serves as the North East’s premier retail destination, offering an unrivalled shopping experience in the region. Inside, you’ll discover over 250 high street and designer stores, 60 restaurants and cafés, and loads of entertainment options.
From huge Primark and Next stores to quirky independent shops, there’s something for every taste. The spacious layout and modern facilities make it particularly popular with families looking for a stress-free shopping day. You can even enjoy some family fun or a showing at the Odeon cinema with IMAX screens.
Getting There
The Metrocentre is located in Gateshead, near Newcastle upon Tyne, and is easily accessible by car via the A1. The centre benefits from excellent road links across the North East. Drivers can reach it by taking the A1 and exiting at Junction 71, which is clearly signposted, ensuring a straightforward journey.
Parking
The Metrocentre has completely free parking, with unlimited time in the main car parks – shop as long as you like without watching the clock! With over 10,000 parking spaces, you’ll rarely struggle to find a spot, even during peak times. There’s plenty of accessible parking near all the main entrances, and the car parks meet Safer Parking Scheme standards, giving shoppers peace of mind when returning to their vehicles.
Key Information:
250+ shops, 60+ eateries, and multiple family entertainment options.
10,000+ free parking spaces with no time limits.
Comprehensive accessibility services.
Electric vehicle charging points available in multiple car parks.
Certified to Safer Parking Scheme standards for vehicle protection.
3. Trafford Centre
Trafford Park, Manchester, M17 8AA
The Trafford Centre sits just five miles west of Manchester city centre. With its spectacular architecture inspired by global designs, it’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is a shopping paradise. You’ll find more than 200 stores, 60 restaurants and cafés, and plenty to keep you entertained.
The centre boasts a massive 20-screen Odeon cinema with IMAX and luxury screens. Just next door, the kids will love the SEA LIFE Centre aquarium and LEGOLAND Discovery Centre – perfect for combining with your shopping trip! For thrill-seekers, iFLY Indoor Skydiving offers an unforgettable experience just moments away. Don’t miss the food court either – it’s designed like a cruise ship and makes lunchtime an experience in itself.
Getting There
The Trafford Centre is located just off the M60 ring road around Manchester. If you’re coming from the East, head west on the M62, from the west, simply take the M62 or M56. Either way, join the M60 leaving at Junction 9 or 10. The centre is easily accessible from major roads, making it easy to reach from several directions.
Parking
The Trafford Centre really shines when it comes to parking, boasting a whopping 11,500 free spaces. Families will appreciate the wider bays in dedicated family areas, while electric vehicle drivers can use the many charging points and Tesla Superchargers around the site. If you’re feeling fancy, you can pay a small fee for premium parking that gets you closer to the entrances.
Key Information:
200+ shops, 60+ eateries, and a 20-screen Odeon cinema.
11,500+ parking spaces with free and premium options.
Well-designed accessibility features and family-friendly facilities.
Multiple EV charging stations and Tesla Superchargers.
Easy motorway access with SEA LIFE and LEGOLAND right next door.
4. Westfield Stratford City
Montfichet Road, London, E20 1EJ
Situated in East London’s Olympic Park area, Westfield Stratford City is the younger sibling of Westfield London. This shopping metropolis packs in over 200 stores from high street favourites to posh boutiques, but what really makes it special is the food scene.
With around 100 food and drink options – from grab-and-go spots to swanky restaurants with stunning Olympic Park views – it’s a foodie’s dream! For entertainment, take your pick from the Vue cinema, All Star Lanes bowling, or even try your luck at the casino.
Getting There
Westfield Stratford City shopping centre is part of a multi-purpose development overlooking the London Olympic Park. Travel down on the M1 or take the M11 for a direct route into the city. It’s easy to reach via the A12 and A13. If you’re coming from the West, take the M4 and join the M25 ring road. Like its West London sibling, it sits within the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), so check if your car complies before setting off.
Parking
The centre offers 4,500 parking spaces, with multi-storey car parks featuring clear height signs and modern payment options, including contactless and app payments. Westfield Stratford City really stands out for accessibility, with disabled parking, accessible toilets, free wheelchair and scooter hire, and impeccable family facilities.
Key Information:
200+ shops, 100 food and drink options, and multiple entertainment venues.
4,500 parking spaces with convenient payment options.
Accessibility services, including free wheelchair and scooter hire.
Electric vehicle charging points available in all car parks.
Located within ULEZ zone – check compliance before travelling.
5. Bluewater
Greenhithe, Kent, DA9 9ST
Set in a former chalk quarry in Kent, Bluewater offers a unique shopping experience surrounded by lovely parklands and lakes. With over 180 stores including flagship John Lewis and Marks & Spencer department stores, Bluewater has all your shopping needs sorted.
What makes it extra special for families are the brilliant adventure attractions – kids will go mad for Dinotropolis, the dinosaur-themed adventure park, while thrill-seekers shouldn’t miss Hangloose Adventure with England’s longest zip wire. Chuck in a Showcase Cinema de Lux, and you’ve got a perfect family day out.
Getting There
Bluewater shopping centre is located on the east side of London, close to the Dartford Crossing. It sits just off the M25 at Junction 2. Its natural setting makes a refreshing change from typical urban shopping centres. As it sits outside of Greater London, it is also not affected by the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) charge.
Parking
You’ll never struggle for parking with 13,000 free spaces across three car parks – plenty of room for everyone! There are height restrictions in covered areas, but plenty of open-air options for taller vehicles. Families will appreciate the convenient parent-and-child parking near each entrance, with extra space for getting kids and buggies in and out.
Key Information:
180+ shops, 50+ restaurants, and family attractions including Dinotropolis.
13,000 free parking spaces with options for all vehicle types.
Comprehensive family facilities including dedicated play areas.
EV charging points available in all three car parks.
Beautiful parkland setting with nature trails for family walks.
6. Bullring & Grand Central
Bullring, Birmingham, B5 4BU
As Birmingham’s biggest shopping centre, the complex houses over 200 stores spread across its Bullring and Grand Central sections, linked by a sleek walkway. You can’t miss its standout architecture – especially the iconic Selfridges building with its curvy façade covered in 15,000 aluminium discs, now a proper Birmingham landmark.
Shop everything from luxury brands to high street staples, then grab a bite from quick snacks to fancy dining spots. What’s really handy is how the centre connects directly to Birmingham’s New Street station – perfect if you’re mixing driving with train travel.
Getting There
In the bustling heart of Birmingham, Bullring & Grand Central is easy to reach from the M6 via several city centre routes. From any direction, follow the M6 (not M6 Toll), exiting at Spaghetti Junction (Junction 6) to follow the A38(M) south. Keep in mind that the Birmingham Clean Air Zone (CAZ) covers the wider city centre, so you may have to pay a fee.
Parking
When it comes to parking, there are several city centre options, including Bullring Centre Car Park with over 1,000 spaces. While it’s not free, the prime location puts you just a short walk from top shops, restaurants, and entertainment, making it worth the cost.
Key Information:
200+ shops, 40+ restaurants, and direct connection to New Street station.
3,000 parking spaces with varying tariffs.
Full accessibility features including Shopmobility services.
Electric vehicle charging points in selected car parks.
Central location with multiple approach routes.
7. Lakeside Shopping Centre
West Thurrock, Essex, RM20 2ZP
Combining retail therapy with lakeside relaxation, Lakeside Shopping Centre features over 150 stores, from large department stores to fashion favourites and specialist shops. As the name suggests, it’s built around a gorgeous lake, offering lovely views and even water activities during the summer months.
Right next door, the brilliant Aqua Park offers an inflatable water course where you can splash, slide, and jump your way through a floating obstacle course—perfect for cooling off after a shopping spree. And if you prefer to stay dry, the centre also offers a cinema, bowling, and mini-golf for entertainment all year-round.
Getting There
Lakeside Shopping Centre is located on the east side of London, situated in Essex just off the M25 at Junctions 30 and 31. Additionally, it’s accessible via the A13, providing a direct route from Central London and the surrounding areas. As it sits outside Greater London, it is not affected by the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) charge.
Parking
You’ll never struggle for parking with 11,000 spaces and colour-coded car parks – genius for remembering where you left the car! There are both multi-storey and surface options. Families will love the wider bays and convenient access to main entrances.
Key Information:
150+ shops, 50+ eateries, and attractions including seasonal Aqua Park.
11,000 parking spaces with colour-coded zones.
Family-friendly facilities including dedicated children’s play areas.
Electric vehicle charging stations in multiple locations.
Lakeside views and outdoor seating areas for relaxation breaks.
8. St James Quarter
Edinburgh, EH1 3AE
The swanky St James Quarter in Edinburgh’s historic heart is the newest kid on the block among the UK’s premium shopping destinations. St James Quarter houses over 60 high-quality stores, many of which are Scottish firsts, alongside a cracking variety of restaurants serving cuisines from around the world.
The entertainment really makes this place shine – there’s an independent cinema, Lane7 boutique bowling, and Flight Club social darts. Blending modern design with the charm of the Scottish capital, St James Quarter features a rooftop dining area with jaw-dropping views across Edinburgh’s skyline to the Firth of Forth – it’s not to be missed.
Getting There
St James Quarter in Edinburgh is accessible via several routes. From England, you can travel up the M6 towards Glasgow and then across on the M8, or reach Newcastle on the A1 and join the A68, which takes you straight up to Edinburgh, past the Pennines. From the North, the A9 provides a direct route into the city. Note that the car park is within a Low Emission Zone (LEZ), so you may pay an additional fee if your vehicle does not meet the exemption criteria.
Parking
The centre offers 1,600 parking spaces in its built-in multi-storey car park. It’s a paid car park, but worth every penny for the convenience of parking right in central Edinburgh. Best of all, the car park links directly to all levels of the shopping centre via covered walkways—a godsend given Scotland’s famously unpredictable weather!
Key Information:
60+ premium shops, 40+ diverse eateries, and unique entertainment venues.
1,600 parking spaces with smart guidance technology.
Fully accessible design with level access throughout.
Comprehensive EV charging infrastructure.
Central Edinburgh location with spectacular rooftop views.
9. Manchester Arndale
Manchester, M4 3AQ
In the centre of Manchester’s shopping district, the Arndale connects to surrounding retail areas for a proper shopping marathon. The Arndale packs in over 160 retailers across its spacious mall, mixing major high street names with quirky independent shops.
Beyond the retail therapy, you’ll find unique experiences like the Urban Playground featuring the brilliant burger joint The Butcher and The CUBE Live Experience, based on the popular TV game show. Hungry shoppers can tuck into international cuisine and local favourites at the diverse food court.
Getting There
Situated in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant city centre, the Arndale Centre is easily accessible via the M6, M56, and M62, all connecting to the M60 ring road, which provides multiple routes into Central Manchester. The centre is also well-served by public transport, with Exchange Square tram stop nearby.
Parking
The centre links directly to NCP and Manchester City Council car parks, offering plenty of parking. You’ll need to pay, but look out for special discounts for Arndale shoppers. The multi-storey car parks have different height restrictions, so check ahead if you’re in a taller vehicle. Family parking areas offer extra space and are handily placed for easy centre access.
Key Information:
160+ shops, varied food outlets, and attractions including Urban Playground.
Convenient parking across connected car parks.
Shopmobility services and Changing Places facility.
EV charging points in adjacent NCP car parks.
Central position with good connections to Manchester’s road network.
10. Merry Hill
Brierley Hill, West Midlands, DY5 1QX
Merry Hill in the West Midlands offers brilliant access for drivers coming from Birmingham, Wolverhampton, and the surrounding areas. Being away from city centre traffic jams makes it particularly appealing for family shopping trips. With over 250 stores including major department stores and fashion retailers, Merry Hill has all your shopping needs covered in one place.
Families love the range of kid-friendly eating options, including a handy McDonald’s drive-thru where you can grab a meal without even leaving your car – perfect for those days when the little ones are getting cranky! There are plenty of other fast-food choices too, making this an easy pit stop with younger children.
Getting There
Merry Hill Shopping Centre is located west of Birmingham and is easily accessible via major motorways. From the south, take the M5 northbound. If you’re coming from the north, the M6 connects to the M5. For those travelling from London, the M40 leads westward towards Birmingham, where it intersects with the M5. The A461 road provides direct access to the centre from Brierley Hill.
Parking
The centre provides 9,000 free parking spaces, so you can take as long as you like browsing the shops. The multi-storey car parks have clear height restrictions displayed at the entrances, while outdoor areas can accommodate taller vehicles. You’ll find generous parent-and-child parking near all main entrances, with extra-wide bays that make getting kids in and out a breeze.
Key Information:
250+ stores, including family-friendly eateries and a drive-thru.
9,000 free parking spaces available for your convenience.
Comprehensive family facilities including play areas and nursing rooms.
Electric vehicle charging points in main car parks.
Convenient location away from city centre traffic congestion.
Planning Your Shopping Trip
Before heading out to any of these fantastic shopping destinations, it’s worth checking their websites for current opening times and any special events that might be happening during your visit.
Many shopping centres host fun summer events, pop-up markets, and live entertainment during the warmer months, making for an even more enjoyable day out.
A family car trip to one of these shopping centres makes perfect sense – plenty of room for all those shopping bags, no lugging heavy purchases onto buses or trains, and the freedom to head home whenever you’re ready. With excellent parking facilities and family-friendly features, these destinations were made with drivers in mind.
Have you visited any of these shopping centres recently? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below! Share your tips on the best times to visit, parking hacks, or hidden gems you’ve discovered during your shopping adventures.
This information was accurate at the time of writing. Remember to check any applicable toll and congestion charges when planning visits to city centre destinations, and consider using Sat Nav apps to find the quickest routes during busy periods.