More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
With non-essential retail back open, we've all got lists to tick off in time for Christmas.
Here's our guide to where - and when - to head to Kent for some of your big buys.
Bluewater
The Greenhithe centre, which has a one-way system in operation, has opening hours in the run-up to Christmas as follows: Monday to Friday 10am to 9pm; Saturday 9am to 9pm and Sunday 11am to 5pm. But some stores are operating longer opening hours than this - details of individual stores' opening hours, including the pop-up Hamleys toy shop, can be found at bluewater.co.uk, along with a traffic light system showing how busy the centre is at any one time. Parking is free. There's also a kids' festive experience and ice skating. Find out more here.
Westwood Cross, Broadstairs
The centre has a one-way system and other safety measures, plus a maximum number of visitors. If this is reached, the number of cars entering the centre will be temporarily restricted. There are some 45 stores, opening at varying times - details of individual opening hours are listed on the website. There is free parking. Go to westwoodx.co.uk
McArthur Designer Outlet, Ashford
There are more than 70 designer stores to visit at the centre, just outside Ashford, which is open from 9am to 9pm Monday to Saturday, and 10am to 6pm on Sundays. It will also open to 5pm on Christmas Eve. There is plenty of parking, with charges - £1 every four hours and free from 5pm. Find out more at mcarthurglen.com
Hempstead Valley, Medway
The Gillingham centre is open from 9am to 8pm Monday to Friday; 9am to 7pm on Saturdays and 10am to 4pm on Sundays, but many stores are operating their own opening hours, which are detailed on the website. Parking is free, with a maximum stay of six hours. Find out more at hempsteadvalley.com
Whitefriars, Canterbury
The city centre shopping area has stores opening for extended hours in the run-up to Christmas, details of which are on the website and updated weekly. There is parking nearby, with charges. Details at whitefriars.co.uk
The Mall, Maidstone
The centre in King Street is open from 8am to 8pm from Monday to Saturday and 10.30am to 4.30pm on Sundays in the run-up to Christmas, with Christmas Eve hours 8am to 5.30pm. There is parking, with charges, but if you park after 4pm, the charge is only £1. Details at themall.co.uk
Fremlin Walk, Maidstone
The town centre shopping area in Earl Street is open from 9 to 5.30pm Monday to Friday; to 6.30pm on Saturdays and 10.30am to 4.30pm on Sundays. There is parking, with charges, and a one-way system. Details at fremlinwalk.co.uk
Forum Centre, Sittingbourne
The centre, with its mix of independent and high street stores, is open Monday to Saturday from 8am to 6pm and 9am to 4pm on Sundays.
There is parking nextdoor costing from 50p for half an hour to £4 for four hours. Details at theforumsc.co.uk
* While non-essential retail can open, restaurants and bars cannot, so any catering facilities at shopping centres and areas are providing takeaway facilities only. You will need to wear a face covering in all shops.
