McArthur Glen Designer Outlet - Ashford Kent England

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 McARTHUR GLEN 
DESIGNER OUTLET 
- ASHFORD KENT

The McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Ashford is a popular shopping destination located in Ashford, Kent, in the southeast of England. It is part of the larger network of McArthurGlen Designer Outlets, known for offering luxury and designer brands at discounted prices. Below is a detailed overview of the Ashford outlet, covering its history, location, design, and shopping experience.

1. Location and Accessibility

  • The Ashford Designer Outlet is located in Ashford, Kent, about 60 miles southeast of London. Its proximity to major transport links makes it accessible for both local shoppers and international visitors.
  • It’s situated near the Ashford International Station, which is part of the Eurostar route, meaning it's easily accessible for visitors from London, Paris, Brussels, and other European destinations.
  • Road access is straightforward, with the outlet being near the M20 motorway (junction 9 or 10), and there is ample parking available on-site for those arriving by car. There are also bus services connecting it to nearby towns.

2. History and Development

  • McArthurGlen is a European company that specializes in developing and managing designer outlets, and the Ashford outlet was one of its early locations in the UK.
  • The Ashford outlet opened in 2000 and has since undergone several expansions and updates to improve the shopping experience and attract more brands and visitors.
  • In 2019, the outlet went through a major expansion, adding 50,000 square feet of retail space and new stores. This made it one of the largest designer outlets in the South East of England.

3. Architecture and Design

  • The original design of the outlet was conceived by renowned architect Lord Richard Rogers, who is famous for his work on the Lloyd’s building in London and the Pompidou Centre in Paris. His vision for Ashford was inspired by the area's history and landscape.
  • The outlet is structured like a giant tent, with a striking white, canopy-style roof designed to reflect the tenting traditions of local fairs and markets. This gives it a modern, open-air feel while providing shelter to shoppers.
  • The 2019 expansion introduced a more contemporary design that blends well with the existing architecture. It includes new communal areas, green spaces, and enhanced landscaping.

4. Shopping and Brands

  • The Ashford outlet offers over 100 stores, many of which are designer and high-end brands at discounted prices, typically offering savings of 30-70% off regular retail prices.
  • You’ll find a wide variety of products including fashion, sportswear, footwear, accessories, homeware, and beauty products. Some of the key brands include:
    • Luxury and Designer Brands: Burberry, Polo Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Ted Baker, Hugo Boss
    • High-Street Brands: Superdry, Levi’s, GAP, Tommy Hilfiger, Nike
    • Footwear and Accessories: Clarks, Timberland, Skechers, Coach, Kate Spade
    • Children’s and Sportswear: Adidas, Reebok, Converse, Under Armour
  • Additionally, there are seasonal sales and special events where even deeper discounts can be found.

5. Dining and Amenities

  • The outlet is not just a place to shop but also provides a range of dining options, making it a full-day destination for many visitors. There are a variety of cafes, restaurants, and fast-food outlets, offering everything from quick bites to sit-down meals.
    • Popular eateries include Pizza Express, Five Guys, Starbucks, and Wagamama. The food court and dining spaces were also enhanced during the 2019 expansion.
  • There are plenty of facilities for families, including baby-changing rooms, children’s play areas, and plenty of seating around the outlet for resting during a shopping spree.
  • Parking is convenient, with multiple parking spaces available (including EV charging stations), and wheelchair accessibility is well catered for.

6. Sustainability and Environment

  • The Ashford outlet prides itself on its efforts to incorporate sustainability into its design and operation. The 2019 expansion featured eco-friendly initiatives such as improved energy efficiency, enhanced waste recycling, and the use of sustainable materials in construction.
  • The outlet has also incorporated green spaces, creating a more pleasant environment for visitors, with outdoor areas designed to encourage relaxation in between shopping.

7. Special Events and Promotions

  • The McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Ashford hosts various promotions and seasonal sales throughout the year, including Black Friday, Christmas sales, and bank holiday specials. These events often come with extra discounts on top of the usual outlet prices.
  • The outlet also has VIP shopping experiences, where members can get access to exclusive offers, previews, and personal shopping services.
  • During festive periods like Christmas, the outlet is beautifully decorated, and family-friendly events like visits from Santa and live entertainment are organized to enhance the shopping experience.

8. Tourism and Local Attractions

  • Many tourists visiting the Kent region or passing through Ashford often stop at the outlet as part of their itinerary. Ashford itself is a gateway to the Kent countryside, including places like the Kent Downs, Leeds Castle, and Canterbury.
  • The outlet is also a popular stop for European travelers due to the proximity to the Eurostar terminal, making it a hub for cross-border shopping.

9. Customer Experience

  • The McArthurGlen Ashford outlet is known for providing a pleasant, leisurely shopping experience. It offers free Wi-Fi, clean facilities, and a friendly customer service team.
  • The outlet is a destination where visitors can enjoy shopping at discounted rates in a relaxed, open-air setting, without the typical hustle and bustle of inner-city shopping districts.

Conclusion

The McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Ashford in Kent is a premier shopping destination in the region, blending luxury, high-street fashion, and value shopping. With its iconic design, convenient location, wide range of brands, and family-friendly amenities, it has become a must-visit destination for both local and international shoppers. Whether you're hunting for designer bargains or just enjoying a day out, the outlet offers a comprehensive shopping experience for everyone.

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