Find Great Designer Brands at Westgate Oxford
The success of Westgate Oxford’s recent regeneration has ranked it at 8th place on Travel Sage’s Top 10 Best Shopping Centres in England. With over 100 stores and places to eat here spanned across three floors, there’s something here for everyone. Go to stores here include Guess, John Lewis for technology and other gifts, and T2, to sample different teas. I like the iced fruit teas, which are very refreshing. If shopping isn’t for you, then head to The Roof Terrace where you can see incredible views of Oxford.
The shopping mall has undergone two regenerations since opening in the 1970s. First it underwent a small £3 million regeneration in 1986, but it didn’t stop there… In 2016, Westgate underwent a whopping £500 million redevelopment, which completely transformed it into a bustling hub. I think the results are amazing, especially with the open plan, walkways, and glass ceiling.
Clothes and accessories shopping at Westgate
With a great selection of designer brands and clothes shops at Westgate, you’re spoilt for choice. As well as the usual high street shops such as NEXT and Superdry, there’s also a great collection of designer brands here too. My favourite designer brand stores here have to be Ted Baker, Uniqlo, and Tommy Hilfiger. There are epic sales throughout the year, so this is a great chance to pick up a great bargain.
For other luxury brands such as Gucci and Versace, there’s the renowned Flannels store. Personally, I wouldn’t shop here as Bicester Village is only a short train ride away… Nevertheless, I like going to Flannels to do window shopping and look at the different accessories here.
If you’re looking for something classier, then there’s Burrows and Hare. Here, you’ll find a selection of grooming products, leather goods, and glass vases. I loved the atmosphere here because it reminded me of the tailors on Jermyn Street in London. And the products were very high quality too.
For watch lovers, you have the choice of Ernest Jones or Goldsmiths. This Goldsmiths is home to one of their largest Rolex boutiques, and it is one of nine stores across the UK that stocks IWC watches. Recently, Tag Heuer opened a boutique here, which stocks lines such as the Monaco and Carrera. But my favourite line here has to be the Heuer One’s.
The foodie experience at Social Street Food
Social Street Food is loud, its vibrant, and its something different! Food lovers will have an amazing experience here, where they can eat tasty street foods from a selection of vendors here. Different foods you can find here include burgers, noodles, and a variety of tempting desserts. Don’t forget to also check out the Crazy Golf here too! For anyone who has eaten here, I’d be interested to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
See incredible views of Oxford from The Roof Terrace
As well as eating delicious food at a great selection of restaurants, foodies can see some incredible views of Oxford while they eat…On The Roof Terrace (located on the top floor), you can find places to eat, the cinema, and The Escape Rooms. I love coming here the incredible views of Oxford’s old architecture. The selection of tropical trees and plants outside Cinnamon Kitchen were also a great touch too.
The best time to come is during the summer months during the warm weather, as this makes it the ideal spot to relax. I enjoy coming when it’s getting dark, usually around sunset time, as the warm lighting adds a great touch to the deck. Plus, you can take some great photos too.
The location of Westgate Oxford
Westgate is conveniently located in the city centre, making it very easy to get to from the other colleges and attractions around Oxford. Most of the places of interest are all within walking distance of each other, so there’s no need to get on buses. Westgate is only a 10- minute walk away from Oxford Station and Said Business School, while Nuffield College and The Castle are moments away. Christchurch Meadows and Radcliffe Square are also less than a 10- minute walk away too. And of course, you can’t forget The Covered Market on the high street too, where you can try amazing gelato ice cream!
Verdict
Overall, the vast selection of clothes stores and places to eat makes Westgate Oxford one of the best shopping malls in the south of England. I love the atmosphere here and open plan design, which really adds to the shopping experience! As well as adding Westgate to your list, don’t forget to visit some of the other attractions in Oxford such as Radcliffe Square and some of the free entry museums.
Directions to Westgate: