The UK’s “best” shopping centre has been crowned by impressed fans bowled over by the retail therapy on offer.
Many might believe that London – England’s capital – would have the very best shopping centres to wow the crowds hunting for a coveted new purchase.
But the very keenest shoppers are actually making a beeline for a retail haven that’s over 200 miles away.
The Trafford Centre in Manchester first opened in 1998 – but it’s really gone from strength to strength and is now deemed the UK’s “best” by users of travel review website Tripadvisor.
The huge indoor shopping centre and entertainment complex is located in Urmston, Greater Manchester, and it is the third largest in the United Kingdom by retail space.
Originally developed by the Peel Group, the Trafford Centre was sold to Capital Shopping Centres, later to become Intu, in 2011 for £1.65 billion, setting a record as the costliest single property sale in British history.
Now – as well as an astonishing array of more than 200 shops – there are also over 60 restaurants, cafes and bars.
Highlights include also include a SEALIFE centre, LEGOLAND Discovery Centre and a two-storey Primark store at Barton Square.
It also boats the first Selfridges outside of London, a flagship Next store, John Lewis, Zara and Victoria’s Secret. It has more than 3,000 reviews on Tripadvisor and a rating of 4.5 out of a possible 5.
Lots of fans have had their say on the forum.
One said: “This is a place to visit with friends and family. The mall is an experience with endless shops and outlets. The decoration is unique. The walkways are endless. This is also a haven for food lovers. The place was gearing up for the upcoming Halloween. Wonder what it will look like during the Christmas!”.
Another said: “Lovely shopping centre and very well designed. Great range of shops and facilities with expensive and affordable products. Excellent choice of restaurants with a lovely seating area to enjoy. Lots of parking too.”
And the fulsome praise doesn’t just stop there – with another recent visitor calling it “pretty awesome.”
They said: “The Trafford Centre is pretty awesome! It’s one of the biggest shopping centres in the UK, and you can find loads of shops, restaurants, and even a cinema.”
They added: “The architecture is really cool too, with that fancy dome. Plus, there’s usually something fun going on, like events or exhibitions. If you’re into shopping or just hanging out, it’s definitely worth a visit!”