Christmas is just around the corner, and that means shopping – and a lot of it. There’s nothing more festive than spending your afternoons Christmas shopping, but where do you find the perfect gift? When seasonal socks just won’t cut it, it’s time to explore shopping opportunities in cities further afield. So, why not make the most of the season by combining your shopping with a weekend away?
Whether you’re looking for something truly unique or just fancy a trip to somewhere new, in today’s post, we’re bringing you our 5 favourite shopping cities in the UK. From the fashion capital to the North East’s vibrant shopping hub, amazing retail therapy destinations aren’t hard to find.
Newcastle upon Tyne
Newcastle may be famed for its rich history and cultural credentials, but there’s no doubt that its shopping district offers a must-have experience. With the central intu Eldon Square and pedestrianised Northumberland Street packed with some of the UK’s favourite shops, there’s certainly no shortage of retail therapy in the North East. With the Metrocentre complex just 15 minutes away by road or rail, there’s nowhere more perfect to spend an afternoon dedicated to shopping.
Newcastle’s array of shops includes both high street favourites and the very best high-end boutiques. And thanks to the broad variety of Newcastle apartments situated in and around the bustling city centre, you can stay close to all the action during your city break. So whether you decide to stay in the city centre or find accommodation in the stylish suburb of Jesmond, a wealth of shopping opportunities will always be right on your doorstep.
Manchester
Whether it’s the captivating architecture or local charm, you’re sure to fall in love with the vibrant city of Manchester. For the coolest shopping experience this city has to offer, make sure a trip to the Northern Quarter is on your list. Home to a fantastic array of food stalls, quirky pop-up shops and independent beauty salons, this bustling district offers something truly unique.
Located just off the M60, the Trafford Centre is home to all the high street names you could ask for. And that’s not all – once you’ve got your fix of retail therapy, dare to defy gravity on the Aerial Extreme high ropes adventure course.
London
Widely considered one of the best shopping destinations in the world, it’s no surprise that London makes this list. With Oxford Street and Regent Street home to world-famous brands and their flagship stores, a trip to this shopping capital is a must this Christmas. To mark the start of the season, 1,778 lights hang high above Oxford Street – so you’re guaranteed to feel festive during a break to this retail paradise.
After browsing the designer brands and the biggest names in high street fashion, take a trip to Camden Market to find the coolest and quirkiest hidden gems. Whether you sample the exquisite street food or are more interested in the vintage stalls or futuristic clubwear, there’s something for everyone in this one-of-a-kind shopping district.
Bath
Famous for being a Georgian spa town, the stunning city of Bath offers the perfect combination of heritage and high street shopping. The Southgate shopping centre sits right next to the city’s railway station – making it easily accessible to holidaymakers staying in the city centre, as well as visitors from further afield. With unique and independent boutiques aplenty, this picturesque metropolis is perfect for anyone seeking something a little less conventional.
As November approaches, the arrival of the eagerly awaited Bath Christmas Market sees the city transformed into a winter wonderland. Home to 170 wooden chalets lined with fairy lights, browsing the artisanal foods, toys and handmade gifts couldn’t be more festive – especially with a mug of mulled wine in hand!
Leeds
It’s cool, it’s contemporary, it’s decidedly offbeat. There are so many reasons to love Leeds, and there are even more now, thanks to the recent developments of the Trinity shopping centre and Victoria Gate. Boasting all the best high street names and designer brands in its city centre, Leeds offers some of the best shopping opportunities anywhere in Britain. With MAC and Louis Vuitton stores leaving other cities unable to compete, there’s no doubt that Leeds is a worthy contender for the UK’s best shopping city.
Streets are lined with eclectic independent pop-up shops and, just a stone’s throw from the main shopping district, you’ll find the Leeds Corn Exchange – which houses a treasure trove of unique boutiques and vintage stores. To refuel after the big shop, make sure you head to Call Lane and sample the array of effortlessly cool cocktail bars.
Christmas is just around the corner, so there’s never been a better excuse to explore the nation’s best shopping cities. Whether you’re buying from well-known brands or looking for a hidden gem, make sure you take a trip to these cities for your 2016 Christmas shop!
In any area of the U.K. you can find a National Trust shop. When possessions fail, it might be time to consider the gift of experience with a Royal Oak Membership.
