Introduction
When traveling through Gatwick Airport, many visitors seek convenient shopping destinations either before or after their flights. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, affordable brands, or unique boutique experiences, the areas surrounding Gatwick offer a variety of shopping options. From large, modern shopping centers to charming retail parks, these destinations cater to every need, making it easy to enjoy a bit of retail therapy. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the top-rated shopping destinations near Gatwick Airport, ensuring you make the most of your time before take-off or after landing.
1. County Mall Shopping Centre (Crawley)
Introduction
County Mall Shopping Centre is a lively retail hub located in Crawley, offering a wide range of high-street brands, dining options, and essential services. As one of the largest shopping centers in the region, it is a convenient spot for locals and travelers alike, with easy access from Gatwick Airport. Whether you’re looking for last-minute essentials or an afternoon of shopping, County Mall has something for everyone.
Location
County Mall is just 3.5 miles (5.6 km) from Gatwick Airport, making it very accessible for those in the area. By car, it’s about a 10-minute drive via the A23 or M23. The shopping center provides plenty of parking for visitors. Also, the Metrobus routes 10 and 20 run frequently from Gatwick Airport to Crawley town center, with the journey taking about 15 minutes. One can also take a direct train from Gatwick to Crawley Station, which takes less than 10 minutes, and the station is a short 5-minute walk from the mall.
Features
County Mall houses over 90 stores, catering to a wide variety of shopping needs.
Popular high-street brands like Primark, H&M, Boots, New Look, and Marks & Spencer provide options for fashion, beauty, and lifestyle shopping.
Dining options include Costa Coffee, Subway, and Burger King, offering a mix of cafes and quick meals for visitors.
Services such as pharmacies and phone repair shops are available for convenience.
For families, the mall includes a children’s soft play area and stores like The Entertainer and Clarks, making it family-friendly.
The also offer special student discounts.
What is it Best For?
County Mall is best known for its wide selection of high-street fashion stores and its convenience for everyday shopping. Its close proximity to Gatwick Airport makes it a great option for travelers looking for a quick shopping trip. Families will also find the center accommodating, with plenty of child-friendly amenities and a diverse range of stores.
2. Acorn Retail Park (Crawley)
Introduction
Acorn Retail Park is a popular shopping destination in Crawley, offering a selection of well-known retail stores and services. With its easy access and convenient layout, the retail park caters to a variety of shopping needs, from electronics to home goods and pet supplies. Its proximity to Gatwick Airport makes it a practical stop for both locals and travelers.
Location
Acorn Retail Park is located about 3.8 miles (6 km) from Gatwick Airport, making it a short 10 to 15-minute drive. The easiest way to reach the retail park is by car, with the route taking about 10 minutes via the A23 or M23. There is ample free parking available for visitors. Several bus routes, including Metrobus services 10 and 20, run from Gatwick Airport to Crawley, with stops near Acorn Retail Park. The journey takes around 20 minutes. Also, the Crawley Station is just a 5-minute taxi ride from the retail park, and trains from Gatwick to Crawley take less than 10 minutes.
Features
Acorn Retail Park features a mix of retail outlets and services that cater to a wide range of shoppers.
Stores include Currys PC World, Halfords, Pets at Home, and DFS, making it a great place to shop for electronics, pet supplies, home furnishings, and automotive needs.
The M&S FoodHall provides convenience for shoppers looking for a bite to eat.
Free parking and easy access make it a hassle-free shopping experience, with all stores situated on one level for easy navigation.
What is it Best For?
This Retail Park is best known for its selection of home goods, electronics, and pet supplies, making it a one-stop shop for larger household purchases and essentials. Its spacious layout and convenient parking also make it a popular choice for quick, stress-free shopping trips, especially for those visiting from Gatwick Airport or surrounding areas.
3. County Oak Retail Park (Crawley)
Introduction
County Oak Retail Park is a well-established shopping destination located in Crawley, offering a mix of big-name retail stores. With a focus on home goods, fashion, and everyday essentials, it provides a convenient and practical shopping experience. Its proximity to Gatwick Airport makes it a popular stop for both locals and travelers in need of essential items or a quick shopping trip.
Location
County Oak Retail Park is located approximately 4.5 miles (7.2 km) from Gatwick Airport, which makes it a convenient 10 to 15-minute drive. The retail park is easily accessible via the A23 and M23, with free parking available for visitors. Metrobus routes 10 and 100 connect Gatwick Airport to County Oak Retail Park in about 15 minutes, providing frequent service. Furthermore, the Train Station is a short 10-minute drive or taxi ride from the retail park, with direct trains running from Gatwick Airport.
Features
County Oak Retail Park offers a range of stores that cater to various shopping needs, making it a versatile destination.
Retailers include major brands such as Next, TK Maxx, Boots, and Hobbycraft, providing options for fashion, home goods, health, and crafting.
Asda Living is also a key feature of the retail park, offering a wide variety of home essentials and clothing at affordable prices.
For dining, there are nearby cafes and fast-food outlets that provide convenient meal options for shoppers.
The retail park offers plenty of free parking and is designed for easy access, with all stores located on one level.
What is it Best For?
County Oak Retail Park is best known for its selection of fashion, home goods, and lifestyle essentials. With popular stores like TK Maxx and Next, it’s a great place to shop for bargains on clothing, home decor, and household items. The park’s close proximity to Gatwick Airport makes it an ideal stop for travelers or anyone looking for convenient, quick shopping in the area.
4. Queens Square (Crawley Town Centre)
Introduction
Queens Square is a bustling pedestrianized shopping area in the heart of Crawley Town Centre. Recently refurbished, it serves as a vibrant public space surrounded by a range of shops, cafes, and services. Queens Square is a key part of Crawley’s retail experience, offering a mix of independent stores and popular high-street brands. Its central location makes it a convenient spot for locals, shoppers, and visitors from nearby Gatwick Airport.
Location
Queens Square is located about 3.7 miles (6 km) from Gatwick Airport, easily accessible by various modes of transport. It’s a 10 to 15-minute drive from Gatwick via the A23 or M23, with plenty of parking available at nearby multi-story car parks like the Crawley Boulevard Car Park or Orchard Street Car Park. Several buses, including Metrobus routes 10, 20, and 100, offer frequent services from Gatwick to Crawley Town Centre, with a journey time of around 15 minutes. The station is just a 5-minute walk from Queens Square, and trains from Gatwick to Crawley take less than 10 minutes.
Features
Queens Square is a lively public space, surrounded by a variety of shops, cafes, and services, perfect for both casual browsing and essential shopping.
The square features popular high-street stores like Pandora, Shoe Zone, Card Factory, and Decathlon, offering a mix of fashion, accessories, and sports gear.
It is also home to a variety of independent cafes and eateries, providing a perfect spot for relaxing after shopping.
Public seating areas and fountains enhance the open space, making it a pleasant place to take a break or meet with friends.
Regular markets and events are held in the square, bringing a vibrant atmosphere to the area throughout the year.
What is it Best For?
Queens Square is best known for being a central hub of shopping and leisure in Crawley. With a variety of high-street brands, independent stores, and cafes, it offers a more relaxed and social shopping experience compared to larger retail parks or malls. It’s also a popular spot for casual outings, whether you’re shopping, meeting friends, or enjoying the lively town center atmosphere. Its proximity to Gatwick Airport makes it an easy and pleasant destination for travelers as well.
5. The Belfry Shopping Centre (Redhill)
Introduction
The Belfry Shopping Centre in Redhill is a popular retail destination offering a mix of high-street stores, cafes, and essential services. Known for its compact and convenient layout, the shopping center caters to a variety of shopping needs, from fashion and beauty to books and electronics. Its location within easy reach of Gatwick Airport makes it a great stop for travelers and locals alike.
Location
The Belfry Shopping Centre is located in Redhill, about 8.5 miles (13.7 km) from Gatwick Airport. The drive from Gatwick to The Belfry takes approximately 30 minutes, via the A23 or M23 and A25, with parking available at the shopping center. Trains from Gatwick Airport to Redhill Station take around 15 minutes, and the station is a short 5-minute walk from The Belfry.
Regular buses also connect Gatwick Airport to Redhill, with a journey time of about 30 minutes.
Features
The Belfry offers a wide selection of high-street retailers, dining options, and essential services.
Stores include popular brands like New Look, Boots, WHSmith, Waterstones, and Marks & Spencer, providing a mix of fashion, beauty, and lifestyle shopping.
The shopping centre also features cafes such as Costa Coffee, making it an ideal spot to grab a quick refreshment during your visit.
For added convenience, The Belfry includes services such as opticians and pharmacies, making it a practical stop for more than just retail shopping.
What is it Best For?
The Belfry Shopping Centre is best known for its accessible high-street shopping and convenient location. With a variety of stores offering fashion, beauty products, books, and more, it’s a great place for those seeking a mix of essentials and leisure shopping. Its proximity to Gatwick Airport also makes it an ideal stop for travellers in need of a quick retail experience before or after their journey.
6. The Lanes (Brighton)
Introduction
The Lanes in Brighton is a charming and historic shopping district, known for its narrow, winding streets filled with independent boutiques, antique shops, jewelry stores, and cafes. It offers a unique shopping experience that blends the old-world charm of Brighton with modern retail, making it a must-visit destination for those looking for something different from the typical high-street shopping experience.
Location
The Lanes is located in Brighton, about 28 miles (45 km) from Gatwick Airport. The drive from Gatwick to The Lanes takes approximately 35 to 40 minutes via the M23 and A23, with multiple parking options available near the shopping area. Trains from Gatwick Airport to Brighton Station take around 30 minutes, and The Lanes are a 10-minute walk from the station. Regular buses and coach services connect Gatwick Airport to Brighton, with a journey time of about 40 minutes.
Features
The Lanes is known for its eclectic mix of shops and vibrant atmosphere.
It’s home to a wide range of independent boutiques selling unique fashion, accessories, and vintage items.
The Lanes is famous for its antique jewelry shops, where visitors can find unique pieces ranging from modern designs to rare vintage collections.
Dotted throughout the area are cozy cafes, pubs, and restaurants offering everything from light bites to full meals, ideal for a break during shopping.
The Lanes also has a strong presence of art galleries and antique shops, making it a perfect place to find special collectibles or art pieces.
What is it Best For?
The Lanes is best known for its unique, independent shops and antique jewellry stores. It’s the ideal destination for those looking to explore a quirky, historic part of Brighton while finding one-of-a-kind items that you won’t see in larger retail chains. With its vibrant streets, historic buildings, and an array of boutiques, it offers a shopping experience that blends culture, history, and retail in one of Brighton’s most iconic areas.
7. Bluewater Shopping Centre (Kent)
Introduction
Bluewater Shopping Centre, located in Kent, is one of the largest and most popular shopping destinations in the UK. It boasts over 300 stores, including luxury brands, high-street retailers, and an impressive selection of restaurants and entertainment options. The modern design and expansive layout make it a must-visit for a full day of shopping, dining, and leisure.
Location
Bluewater is situated about 36 miles (58 km) from Gatwick Airport. The drive takes approximately 40 to 45 minutes via the M25, with ample free parking available at the shopping centre. The nearest train station is Greenhithe, with regular connections to London and Kent. From Gatwick, the journey involves taking a train to London Bridge and transferring to a service towards Greenhithe, taking around 1 hour 20 minutes in total. There are coach and bus services connecting Gatwick to Bluewater, with a journey time of around 1 hour.
Features
Bluewater is a destination for all kinds of shopping and entertainment experiences.
It features brands like Zara, Apple, John Lewis, and Michael Kors, offering a wide range of fashion, electronics, and lifestyle items.
There are over 50 dining options, including restaurants such as Wagamama, Byron, and Nando’s, providing everything from quick bites to sit-down meals.
The shopping centre includes a cinema, a climbing wall, and seasonal events, making it a hub for more than just retail therapy.
With landscaped gardens and lakes, Bluewater offers outdoor areas to relax, making it a pleasant space for families and groups.
What is it Best For?
Bluewater is best known for its comprehensive retail experience and entertainment options. Whether you’re looking for luxury shopping, high-street fashion, or a family day out with dining and entertainment, Bluewater offers something for everyone. Its wide range of stores and activities makes it ideal for a complete shopping day, especially for visitors with time to spare before or after traveling from Gatwick.
8. Ashford Designer Outlet (Ashford)
Introduction
Ashford Designer Outlet is a premium shopping destination offering significant discounts on luxury and designer brands. With over 100 stores, it’s a perfect place for fashion enthusiasts looking to buy high-end goods at reduced prices. The outlet’s striking architecture, designed by renowned architect Richard Rogers, adds to its appeal, creating a stylish and enjoyable shopping environment.
Location
Ashford Designer Outlet is located in Ashford, 45 miles (72 km) from Gatwick Airport. The drive takes approximately 1 hour via the M23 and M20, with plenty of parking available at the outlet. Trains from Gatwick to Ashford International Station take about 1 hour, and the outlet is a short 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk from the station. Bus services are available from Ashford International to the outlet, with frequent connections throughout the day.
Features
Ashford Designer Outlet offers high-end shopping at discounted prices.
The outlet includes brands such as Calvin Klein, Hugo Boss, Nike, Ralph Lauren, and Tommy Hilfiger, with discounts of up to 60% off regular retail prices.
There are several cafes and restaurants such as Pret A Manger, PizzaExpress, and Caffè Nero, providing a comfortable spot to rest and refuel during your shopping trip.
The outlet has play areas for children and provides facilities for a relaxed family shopping experience.
Ashford Designer Outlet is known for its special offers during sales events like Black Friday and seasonal sales, where shoppers can find even greater discounts.
What is it Best For?
Ashford Designer Outlet is best known for offering luxury and designer brands at discounted prices. It’s the perfect shopping destination for bargain hunters who want to invest in high-quality, branded items without paying full price. With a mix of fashion, lifestyle, and sportswear brands, along with family-friendly facilities, it’s a great destination for an all-day shopping spree near Gatwick.
Conclusion
Gatwick Airport is surrounded by a diverse range of shopping experiences, offering everything from luxury designer outlets to bustling high-street shopping centres and unique local retail parks. Whether you’re a traveller looking to pick up last-minute essentials, indulge in a bit of fashion shopping, or explore unique local finds, the destinations we’ve highlighted will surely have something to offer. You can conveniently travel to these places and more by our affordable ride options from Gatwick throughout the UK. These shopping spots can easily be integrated into your travel plans, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable shopping experience near Gatwick Airport.
