American brand Bath and Body Works has opened its first store in the UK – and it's in Kent.

The shop has welcomed its first customers to its new branch at Bluewater where it replaces Lipsy in the lower mall.

Bath and Body Works is an American chain that sells shower gels, fragrances, moisturiser and candles, among other products – making it the US equivalent to a Lush or The Body Shop for us.

It stocks more than 100 scents and is particularly famous for its mini PocketBac hand sanitisers.

The brand is also popular for its "buy three get three free" sales, though it is not known yet whether this will be on offer in this store.

The chain is hugely popular in the States and there are more than 1,500 stores in the US.

The new 1,500 sq ft shop is between Marks and Spencer and House of Fraser at the Greenhithe shopping centre, and sits within Next – but is accessible independently from the mall.

Its Christmas collection includes the Winter Candy Apple and Vanilla Bean Noel ranges.

Earlier this year, the brand announced it would be available in Next stores in the UK, and can also bought online via Next.

James Waugh, centre director at Bluewater, said: "We are thrilled to welcome Bath and Body Works to our line-up ahead of Christmas.

"We know that guests love the iconic American brand and will be delighted to browse the collections in real life."