Lakeside Retail Park in Essex is a bustling retail destination, offering visitors a wide range of stores, dining options, and family-friendly attractions. Located conveniently near the M25, it is part of the broader Lakeside Shopping Centre area but stands out with its unique mix of homeware stores, fashion brands, tech shops, and dining spots, making it a versatile shopping destination.
Overview of Lakeside Retail Park
Lakeside Retail Park is distinct from the Lakeside Shopping Centre. While the latter focuses more on high-street fashion and upscale stores, Lakeside Retail Park offers a curated selection of stores for lifestyle, home goods, and dining. The retail park currently hosts about 29 stores, covering needs from home furnishings to technology and family essentials.
Store Highlights at Lakeside Retail Park
Home Furnishings and Decor: Lakeside Retail Park is popular for its array of home furnishing stores. Retailers such as HomeSense and Oak Furnitureland provide a broad selection of furniture, decor, and accessories. Wren Kitchens specializes in customizable kitchen layouts and consultations, while SCS and Sofology are popular for sofas and living room furniture.
Family Essentials and Toys: For family shopping, Smyths Toys offers a range of toys and games, while Mothercare caters to new parents with a selection of baby products. Stores like Mamas & Papas also provide essentials for young families, including strollers, baby furniture, and clothing.
Technology and Electronics: The retail park also has an excellent mix of tech and electronics stores, including Currys PC World for the latest gadgets and home appliances, and Carphone Warehouse for mobile and telecommunications products.
Fashion and Apparel: Next and Card Factory cater to fashion-forward shoppers with a selection of clothing, accessories, and greeting cards. Though limited in apparel, these stores provide options for everyday wear and occasion dressing.
Groceries and Essentials: Lidl offers a full grocery shopping experience with competitive prices, making it a convenient stop for both grocery and essentials.
Dining Options: After a long day of shopping, visitors can enjoy several dining options. Nando’s provides popular grilled dishes, while Costa Coffee is perfect for a quick caffeine fix. There’s also a Subway for quick bites and a Pizza Hut for family-friendly dining.
Key Amenities and Services
Lakeside Retail Park offers free parking, including spots for disabled visitors and parents with young children. The retail park’s layout is wheelchair-friendly, with level access to most stores. Restroom facilities are available, and many stores provide contactless payment options, making the shopping experience both comfortable and accessible for all visitors.
Accessibility and Travel Information
Located close to major road networks, Lakeside Retail Park is highly accessible by car. It’s conveniently situated near Junction 30 of the M25, allowing visitors from London and beyond to reach it easily. Public transportation options are also available, with regular bus routes from nearby towns and a nearby train station (Chafford Hundred).
FAQs
What types of stores are available at Lakeside Retail Park, and what can I expect to find there?
Lakeside Retail Park is home to a wide variety of retail stores, including big-brand fashion outlets, electronics, home decor, furniture, and sporting goods stores. Popular brands such as TK Maxx, Currys PC World, Sports Direct, and Next often have a presence. You can expect to find options for clothing, footwear, gadgets, home goods, and essentials, making it a convenient destination for diverse shopping needs. The park often features larger “big box” stores, meaning you’ll have access to more inventory than in smaller shops.
Are there dining options at Lakeside Retail Park?
Yes, Lakeside Retail Park offers a range of dining options, from fast food to casual dining spots. Popular food chains such as McDonald’s, Costa Coffee, and Subway are often available. Some retail parks also have restaurants for sit-down meals, which can be a great way to unwind after shopping. If you’re in the mood for a quick coffee break or a leisurely meal, there’s likely an option for you at the park or nearby in the area.
Is parking available at Lakeside Retail Park, and what are the parking fees?
Parking is typically abundant at Lakeside Retail Park, with free parking for several hours available for shoppers. However, there may be time restrictions, so it’s best to check posted signs or inquire about current policies as these can vary slightly based on the retailer. Free parking generally makes it convenient for longer shopping trips or dining visits without the worry of accumulating fees.
What are the opening hours for Lakeside Retail Park?
Most stores at Lakeside Retail Park follow general retail hours, opening around 9:00 or 10:00 a.m. and closing between 8:00 and 9:00 p.m. from Monday through Saturday, with reduced hours on Sundays, typically around 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. However, opening times may vary slightly by store, so if you’re visiting a specific retailer, it’s a good idea to check their individual hours online, especially during holidays or sales periods when hours may be extended.
How can I reach Lakeside Retail Park by public transportation?
Lakeside Retail Park is accessible by various public transport options. The nearby Chafford Hundred train station is within walking distance, making it convenient for those traveling by train. Additionally, several bus routes serve the area, connecting it to nearby towns and residential areas. If you’re planning to take public transportation, it’s helpful to check schedules for your chosen bus or train, especially on weekends or holidays when frequency may be lower.
Are there accessibility features at Lakeside Retail Park?
Yes, Lakeside Retail Park is designed to be accessible, with features like dedicated disabled parking bays, wheelchair-accessible entrances, and ramps where needed. Most stores within the park are equipped with wide aisles and accessible facilities, making it easier for individuals with mobility challenges. Additionally, some retailers offer customer assistance services to help shoppers with special needs.
IN SUMMARY
Lakeside Retail Park offers a convenient, family-friendly shopping experience with a focus on homeware, essentials, and tech. With a variety of stores, ample parking, and accessible facilities, it serves as an ideal destination for both quick errands and leisurely shopping trips. Whether you’re furnishing a new home or looking for a day out with family, Lakeside Retail Park caters to a wide range of needs, making it a go-to shopping destination in Essex.
To read more, Click here
