The best designer outlets allow you to snap up designer clothing and accessories at a fraction of the price. So if you've dreamed of a wardrobe filled with top-quality designer basics, but worry it's out of budget, you need to get acquainted with outlet shopping.
By their very nature, designer brands are about exclusivity, and bi-annual fashion shows and limited edition new drops help to sustain the desire and aspiration from consumers. However over the last 10 years, fashion brands have also realized the importance of entry points to their brand and how cultivating a wider audience is, in the long term a shrewd business move. And as a result, outlet shopping has boomed, with it becoming a viable business stream alongside the brand's main lines.
With many of the best designer outlets designed to be as luxurious as shopping in the brand's flagship stores, bargain hunting for designer pieces has become a great day out for all the family, with on-site restaurants, playgrounds and entertainment. Rail rummaging has been replaced with high-end shopping services, including personal shoppers on-hand at many outlets to kit you out in your dream designers, all with a discounted price tag. Whether you want to invest in the best designer handbag or are looking to nail your capsule wardrobe, the best designer outlets host a range of brands and price points, so there is something for everyone.
Best Designer Outlets in the UK - how does it work?
If you've never been to any of the best designer outlets in the UK, well, you're in for a treat. Over the past five years or so, they've really become destination shopping hubs, beautifully laid out, well-curated, usually with a choice of eateries and restaurants, as well as entertainment or playgrounds, making them a great outing for the whole family. With designer outlets popping up all over the UK, you can find great bargains, wherever you live.
Unlike stores like TK Maxx, the best designer outlets are made up of a series of boutiques. The boutiques are stand-alone to particular brands, which means you can plan your day and hone in on the stores and the designer brands you want to investigate further. So whether you're looking for one of the best Gucci bags for less or a discounted Mulberry, pick the right designer outlet and all you've got to do is find the dream item you're going to take home.
The best designer outlet stores will be kitted out to look like the real stores too, so you can actually enjoy the shopping experience, and as it's discounted, you get more for your money. The items in store will usually be past season, so don't expect the fashion trends 2022, but as most brands have a design signature, you'll probably be able to find something with a similar look.
The best designer outlets in the UK as selected by our fashion team
1. Bicester Village
One of the UK's most luxurious designer outlet shopping experiences, this Oxfordshire based hub has garnered a reputation worldwide. Set up as a shopping village, with beautifully created stores, an array of dining options, plenty of parking and even a bus laid on from the nearest station, Bicester Village has really set the pace for luxury designer outlet shopping. Whether you're in search of the best French clothing brands, high-end designer Italian clothing brands, or you want to shop classic British clothing brands - Burberry trench coat anyone? You can find the biggest names in fashion at Bicester Village.
With a personal shopping service, that is operated out of a swanky separate building, known as The Apartment. This is ideal for those that want to up the luxe factor on their designer outlet day out. With its own separate, pre-bookable car park, The Apartment has places to relax and enjoy a drink and there is a hands-free shopping service, which means you can have everything sent back to The Apartment throughout the day so that you can really concentrate on shopping. The Apartment is a pre-booked service, so make sure to plan your day well in advance.
While there is no real online aspect to Bicester Village, as it's all about the in-person experience, however, they have recently started doing digital appointments to help those who want to shop online, with appointments taking place by phone, video, email or WhatsApp. So you will still get that personal connection
Home to more than 160 boutique stores boasting discounts of up to 60% on everything from Burberry to Balenciaga and Alexander McQueen to Jimmy Choo you could literally curate your wardrobe from designer goodies and never pay full price. Oh and it isn't just fashion and footwear, you can shop for homeware and beauty goodies too. Some stores do require a time slot to be booked so that they can manage the crowds, so it's good to plan your day in advance.
On a recent visit to Bicester, we noticed an increase in the number of brands carrying current and new-season stock (at full price), widening the choice if you want to compare between past and present, or you simply want to treat yourself.
As if that wasn't enough, Bicester Village has a charitable initiative called 'DO GOOD', and they are currently teamed up with the Smiley Company to support charities that promote and progress the self-empowerment of women and children. The Smiley x DO GOOD kiosk is unmissable (literally) as the bright yellow smiley stand is packed full of fun pieces to snap up, with 100% of the proceeds going to charity. From tees and hats to beach essentials and a special back-to-school drop, the iconic Smiley brand (celebrating its 50th year) will never go out of fashion. So when your shopping habit can support the likes of Adream, Brides do Good, charity: water, IntoUniversity, L'Envol, Make-A-Wish®, SeriousFun Children’s Network, Women for Women International and World Connect, it's best just to embrace it.
Best for: Designer brands
Plan your visit to Bicester Village
Our fashion editor's top 5 picks at Bicester Village
- Mulberry - if you're looking for the best tote bags, or simply want to save money and learn how to buy a discounted Mulberry - then head to Bicester Village.
- Dolce & Gabbana - for some of the best sunglasses for women that will stand out from the crowd. Be aware, you have to book a time slot so they can time manage the crowds.
- Moncler - the best winter coats. Even discounted, these are still fairly pricey, but they are super warm and really well made to keep you cozy for winters to come.
- Levi's - they make some of the best jeans and at Bicester Village you don't need to pay full price.
- Monica Vinader - one of the best jewelry brands, you can get some classic pieces for less in the brand's Bicester store.
2. Cheshire Oaks
Located 35 minutes from Manchester and 45 minutes from Liverpool, Cheshire Oaks is the UK's largest multi-storey outlet, and boasts over 140 stores. With discounts of up to 60% of recommended retail value you can really grab yourselves some serious bargains.
Unlike Bicester Village which has a far greater lean towards designer brands (although Bicester does have high-end of the high street too - think The White Company and Reiss) Cheshire Oaks has a much larger brand mix, making it one that hits a huge array of price points. While you can shop your big runway names here such as Mulberry and Michael Kors, you can also pick up some brilliant high street and ready to wear labels, with great discounts too. Meaning you really can sort your whole wardrobe here.
From Ben Sherman to Adidas, Reiss, Dune London, Joules, Jigsaw, Pandora and Phase Eight, there is a massive array of brands to suit all tastes.
With five restaurants you can really make a day of it, having a full shopping experience, not just a quick mooch.
Similarly to Bicester Village though, Cheshire Oaks has also introduced a virtual shopping experience, great if you're short on time or just want to feel like a celebrity.
Best for: Mid to high-end brands
Plan your visit to Cheshire Oaks
Our fashion editor's top 5 picks at Cheshire Oaks
- Dr Martens - grab yourself a pair of the brands' best Chelsesa boots
- LuLuLemon - for some of the best leggings, you'll enjoy working out more in discounted designer sportswear
- Tommy Hilfiger - one of the best American clothing brands, you can stock up on gorgeous classic pieces that will last for years.
- Karl Lagerfeld - not the brands particular specialism, but we have spotted some of the best leather jackets there on previous shopping trips, they're really buttery soft.
- Ugg - pick up some of the best slippers and of course some classic winter, shearling boots.
3. Livingston Designer Outlet
Situated between Edinburgh and Glasgow, Livingston Designer Outlet houses more than 70 stores beneath its cathedral-inspired glass dome roof, ranging from BOSS and Radley to Ted Baker and French Connection.
There's a really good selection of ready-to-wear brands and a distinctly more sporty and casual direction to the brands housed here, but have no fear, you'll be able to grab some brilliant bargains for your wardrobe and stock up on timeless items you can wear season after season. For British basics fans, there is even a Marks and Spencer outlet - guaranteed to have some good buys.
Aside from fashion outlets, there is a good selection of kitchenware options including Le Creuset, as well as a Cadbury's and Lindt outlet - great if you need a little pick-me-up during your shop.
There's also entertainment for those who don't want to splash the cash, with a mini golf, a cinema and 14 dining options.
Best for: Straight-to-market labels
Plan your visit to the Livingston Designer Outlet
Our fashion editor's top 5 picks at Livingston Designer Outlet
- Fossil - home to some of the best watches for women, great for gifting or self gifting.
- Pavers - for comfortable flats, this is a really good option.
- The NorthFace - makes brilliant outerwear, such as some of the best waterproof jackets.
- Next Outlet - brilliant for all the family, you're guaranteed some good style buys.
- Kurt Geiger - looking for some party shoes, this would be our first stop.
4. Gloucester Quays
With up to 70% off leading brands, Gloucester Quays outlet has some of the best discounts around. There is a much smaller pool of brands to choose from compared to other outlets, but they do have a really stellar edit of recognizable names that are well worth the trip.
With options for men, women and kids, as well as gifting and homeware, there really is plenty to see. Household names like M&S, Hobbs, Phase Eight, Ted Baker, All Saints and White Stuff, means you can get some great deals and timeless styles on a shopping trip here.
With 14 dining options, a cinema, a gym (just in case you need to train up to carry all those shopping bags) as well as a host of special events, you're guaranteed an action packed day out.
Best for: A higher percentage discount, with up to 70%, many outlets only have up to 60% off.
Plan your visit to Gloucester Quays
Our fashion editor's top 5 picks at Gloucester Quays
- Barbour - makers of some of the best gilets and waterproof outerwear looks, a Barbour coat is definitely an investment piece, so a discounted one is even better.
- Dune London - from great everyday flats to seriously stylish boots, put your best fashion foot forward.
- Phase Eight - wondering what to wear to a christening?, or need help with what to wear to a wedding this summer? Then Phase Eight should be on your hit list.
- Calvin Klein - this designer brand makes some of the most stylish, classic pieces that you can wear on repeat. Oh and their bralettes are great too.
- Ted Baker - for everyday style with a twist, we love Ted Baker's beautiful but quirky collections.
5. Burberry Outlet
Hackney's Chatham Place is home to its own hub of designer outlet stores. Launched in around 2017, this ambitious project of factory outlet stores for some of the world's biggest luxury labels rarely seems to get a mention, with much more focused on big mall style destinations. But according to shoppers, there are rarely queues at the Hackney designer outlets making them already a great place to stop for a mooch.
The Burberry Outlet is an ideal pitstop if you're after a timeless handbag, a classic trench coat or just some amazing quality basics to top up your capsule wardrobe. It has discounts of more than 50% making it one for bargain hunters.
Best for: Investing in one of the best British designer brands at a lower price point.
Plan your visit to the Burberry Outlet
Our fashion editor's top 5 picks at the Burberry Outlet
- Burberry trench coat - an obvious answer, but if you're going to invest in one Burberry item, it really should be this timeless classic.
- Scarf - a silk scarf is a brilliant styling item and at outlet prices, much cheaper than in the regular flagship store.
- Tailoring - with thanks to the history of the trench coat, any Burberry tailoring will be well loved in your wardrobe.
- Bags - a bag is now at the heart of most designer collections, as they're often the first major purchase entry point to a brand. Look for classic styles such as the best crossbody bags or tote bags that won't date.
- Belt - leather items from designer labels will often be of significantly higher quality and so they can be wnjoyed for years to come.
6. The Box
The Box at Chatham Place - near the Burberry Outlet store is a rotating pit stop for sample sales and pop-up shops and product launches. Based around a curated calendar of events, they offer experiential activities to compliment their sample sale calendar, including talks from brands, workshops, DJs and fashion shows.
Essentially this is the kind of venue you add to bookmarks and check once a fortnight to see what's coming up next.
With two events currently in the diary, previous collaborations and visitors to The Box include Agent Provocateur, Anya Hindmarch, Joseph and Liberty London to name just a few.
Best for: Shopping brands who don't usually have outlet stores, these are one off events, so it's a real, shop them whilst you can moment.
Our fashion editor's top picks at The Box
Upcoming events include...
- Sunspel Sample Sale - a must for those obsessed with the best t-shrits and the sale is across all categories, and up to 70% off!
- House of Hackney Sample Sale - interiors more your thing? This is fashionista's absolute favorite right now. Quirky designs, statement prints, this luxe brand will hopefully be selling some real goodies at great prices.
7. The London Designer Outlet
One of the newer designer outlets, this shopping hub sprung up next to London's iconic Wembley Arena. With up to 70% off RRP you can grab some incredible bargains. While not as high-end as somewhere like Bicester Village, you can still grab some big designer names with a presence from Tommy Hilfiger, Replay, Guess and Calvin Klein.
With more of an emphasis on straight to market labels such as Phase Eight, Clarks and Kurt Geiger, you can get some really great pieces to enhance your wardrobe.
From the selection of brands, The London Designer Outlet certainly feels more streetwear led, with shopping options including Nicce, Superdry and The NorthFace and a brilliant array of brands with a sports leaning, so if you're a fan of Puma, New Balance, Vans and Adidas, this is the designer outlet for you.
With plenty of places to eat and a cinema, this is a really good stop for a full day out.
Best for: Casual and sports lifestyle brands.
Plan your visit to The London Designer Outlet
Our fashion editor's top picks at The London Designer Outlet
- The Sunglasses Hut - while of course there are sunglasses trends 2022 in the works, if you opt for classic styles you can grab a timeless designer bargain that will work this year and beyond.
- The NorthFace - for your winter and outdoorsy needs, they have a great selection of cosy outerwear including some of the best winter hats.
- Nike Factory Outlet - in need of the best running shoes? Great sportswear can get expensive, so this is definitely worth a look.
- Guess - stock up on brilliant jeans and casual tees.
- Sketchers - a classic, Sketchers trainers and flats are supremely comfortable and have great tech to mold to your feet.
8. Braintree Village
With over 75 stores, ranging from Armani to an M&S Outlet, there is a great brand mix with up to 60% off. Catering for all ages and categories, Braintree Village is, like many of the other UK designer outlets, a day out for the whole family, with a host of snack bars and eateries to ensure no one goes hungry.
There's a great mix of brands here, with mid and a few higher level brands such as Reiss, Barbour, Ted Baker and Polo Ralph Lauren, balanced with family favorites such as White Stuff, Claire's Accessories, Adidas and Clarks.
With hands-free shopping available, you can really immerse yourself in a day of shopping and if you want a bit of alone time, there is a cinema and entertainment park (with bowling, an amusement arcade and soft play area) just opposite the shops. If you're still not convinced your family will be entertain while you shop 'til you drop. There's also a swimming pool and fitness center within the south car park. Ideal if not everyone sees shopping as a sport in the same way you do.
Best for: A day out for the whole family. From food to shopping and extra activities a stone throw away.
Plan your visit to Braintree Village
Our fashion editor's top picks at Braintree Village
- Armani - one of the higher end brands at Braintree Village, this is the place to head to really treat yourself. Well cut basics, from great coats, blazers, and smart tailoring
- Reiss - a stylish mid to higher level option, they make great workwear pieces and smart dresses for special occasions.
- Ted Baker - the British brand is known for classic pieces with a twist, so were excited about the prospect of up to 60% off.
- Hallmark Outlet - a surprising choice, but you could literally stock up on cards for all the family for a snippet of the price.
- Calvin Klein - another great place for chic basics, stylish underwear and timeless classics.
9. Clarks Village Somerset Outlet Shopping
Clarks Village outlet shopping center is in the heart of Somerset and houses over 90 designer and straight-to-market brands. As with many other outlet villages, you're looking at discounts of up to 60%, but with such an array of brands there is something for everyone at this picturesque outlet.
With a recently redeveloped garden landscape, it's the perfect spot for a bit of shopping and some r&r amongst the greenery. There are plenty of restaurants and take-away outlets, so you could even stop for a picnic in the park area, that's if you can tear yourself away from the hustle and bustle.
There are a lot of recognizable names at the outlet, including M&S, Next and of course, Clarks. But there are also lots of more boutique names to look out for, including Mint Velvet, Joules, Hobbs and Phase Eight, as well as some great homeware brands, including Tempur and Le Creuset.
For little ones, there is also an on site adventure play park, so shopping isn't the only exercise they get during their visit.
Plan your visit to Clarks Village Somerset Outlet Shopping
Our fashion editor's top picks at Clarks Village Somerset Outlet Shopping
- Mint Velvet - packed with chic everyday pieces and stylish special occasion numbers, this luxe brand is one to visit for up to 60% off.
- Joules - From the best waterproof jackets, to cute prints to bulk out your weekend wardrobe, the brand also do excellent gifts and children's clothing.
- Hobbs - for stylish workwear and some of the best mother of the groom dresses.
- Phase Eight - one of our favorite stores for the best cocktail dresses and best wedding guest dresses, if you've got events on the horizon, this is the place to go.
- Crew Clothing Company - Packed full of basics across all categories, from timeless Breton tops to vacation ready cropped trousers and pretty dresses, this is a high quality label that's worth snapping up.
Best designer outlets - top tips for a successful shop, according to a fashion editor
Fashion editor and shopping expert, Antonia Kraskowski says...
- "If you’re heading to a designer outlet, it’s good to plan ahead. Weekends are typically much busier - if you can, plan your trip for a weekday to avoid the crowds and shopping tourists. Like many excursions, the earlier you arrive, the more pleasant your experience is likely to be.
- Sign up for the outlet’s newsletter for any additional discounts that they may offer to subscribers which will save you even more money.
- Before you go, think about what’s missing from your wardrobe or needs replacing - perhaps a gorgeous camel coat or designer handbag? This is the perfect opportunity to invest in a piece that you’ve always wanted at a knockdown price but equally, it’ll still be more expensive than the average straight-to-market piece so think carefully before parting with your pennies and try not to get caught up in the moment.
- Making a wish list of items to look for will focus your energies and money, meaning you’re less likely to splurge on a random item that you later regret.
- When you’re shopping, try to look for classic styles that will stand the test of time as well as working with your wardrobe. Leather goods such as jackets, boots and handbags are good investments, as are trench coats, the best cashmere sweaters and suits.
- If you’re shopping for a designer handbag, classic styles may be hard to come by but limited edition versions are often available which may have a small quirky update on the typical model of the bag you are after. Popular brands such as Gucci, Mulberry and Chloe can be found at many of the more popular outlet destinations such as Bicester Village in Oxford or MacArther Glen outlets nationwide."
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