Explore Metrocentre Shopping Centre: Top Shopping and Entertainment in Gateshead

Nestled in the heart of Gateshead, Metrocentre Shopping Centre stands as one of the UK’s premier shopping destinations. With over 300 shops, a variety of dining options, and entertainment venues, it promises an unparalleled shopping experience. Whether we’re hunting for the latest fashion trends or indulging in a gourmet meal, Metrocentre offers something for everyone.

As we wander through its expansive corridors, we can’t help but marvel at the blend of high-street favourites and luxury brands. The centre’s family-friendly atmosphere, complete with play areas and cinemas, ensures that everyone leaves with a smile. Join us as we explore what makes Metrocentre a must-visit spot for shoppers and leisure seekers alike.

Key Takeaways

• Premier Shopping Destination: Metrocentre Shopping Centre in Gateshead is one of the UK’s top shopping destinations, spanning over 2 million square feet with more than 300 shops.
• Diverse Retail Options: The centre offers a mix of high-street brands, luxury retailers, and boutique stores, ensuring a wide range of shopping choices for visitors.
• Varied Dining Choices: With over 50 restaurants and cafes, Metrocentre caters to all tastes and budgets, offering everything from international cuisines to quick bites.
• Comprehensive Entertainment: Visitors can enjoy entertainment venues like a state-of-the-art Odeon IMAX cinema, Namco Funscape arcade, and bowling alley, making it a holistic destination for leisure.
• Family-Friendly Environment: The centre provides ample family-friendly amenities, including play areas and seasonal events hosted by the Metrognomes, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all ages.
• Accessibility and Sustainability: Metrocentre offers convenient accessibility options, including ample parking and public transport links, while actively engaging in sustainability practices like recycling programmes and energy-efficient lighting.

Overview Of Metrocentre Shopping Centre

Metrocentre Shopping Centre spans over 2 million square feet, making it one of the largest shopping centres in Europe. Situated in Gateshead, it offers a blend of retail, dining, and entertainment options designed to cater to various preferences and age groups. The centre is strategically divided into five zones: Green Mall, Blue Mall, Yellow Mall, Red Mall, and Platinum Mall.

Retail Diversity

The centre houses more than 300 shops, including high-street brands, luxury retailers, and boutique stores. Examples include Marks & Spencer, House of Fraser, and independent fashion outlets. This variety ensures shoppers can find everything from everyday essentials to special luxury items.

Dining Options

Dining at Metrocentre presents a multitude of choices, with over 50 restaurants and cafes. Options range from international cuisine to quick bites. Well-known eateries include Wagamama, Bella Italia, and Nando’s, providing something for every palate and occasion.

Entertainment Venues

Entertainment facilities are a major draw at Metrocentre. It features a state-of-the-art Odeon IMAX cinema, a Namco Funscape arcade, and a bowling alley. These venues offer comprehensive entertainment options for families and individuals alike.

Family-Friendly Environment

The centre places emphasis on family-friendly amenities. Play areas, baby-changing facilities, and family restrooms are accessible throughout. The Metrognomes, the centre’s mascots, host seasonal events and activities that engage younger visitors.

Accessibility

Metrocentre ensures accessibility for all visitors. It provides ample parking, including dedicated spaces for disabled visitors. Public transport links, such as the nearby Metrocentre train station and extensive bus services, facilitate easy access.

Sustainability Efforts

The centre actively engages in sustainability practices. Initiatives include energy-efficient lighting, recycling programmes, and responsible waste management. These efforts reflect a commitment to creating an environmentally-friendly shopping experience.

By incorporating these elements, Metrocentre Shopping Centre stands out as a leading destination, balancing retail, dining, and entertainment in a comprehensive and accessible environment.

Shopping Experience

Metrocentre Shopping Centre offers an unmatched shopping experience combining variety, special offers, and discounts.

Variety Of Shops

With more than 300 shops, Metrocentre caters to diverse tastes. We find high-street favourites like Marks & Spencer and H&M alongside luxury brands such as House of Fraser and Michael Kors. The centre’s five zones, Green Mall, Blue Mall, Yellow Mall, Red Mall, and Platinum Mall, each have unique shops specialising in fashion, electronics, home goods, and more. Trendsetters appreciate Zara and Topshop, while tech enthusiasts explore Apple and Currys. Independent boutiques and UK-exclusive stores enhance the shopping diversity, ensuring something for everyone.

Special Offers And Discounts

Metrocentre shoppers enjoy various special offers and discounts. Major sales events like Boxing Day and Black Friday attract crowds seeking bargains. Individual stores frequently run promotions, with discounts ranging from 10% to 50%. Students get extra perks through student discount schemes available at selected retailers. The Metrocentre app further benefits users with exclusive deals and notifications on the latest offers. This commitment to affordability makes shopping here even more appealing.

Dining Options

Metrocentre Shopping Centre offers an impressive variety of dining options suitable for all tastes and budgets. From full-service restaurants to quick cafes and snack bars, there’s something for everyone.

Restaurants

Our restaurants feature a diverse array of cuisines from around the world. Popular favourites include:

• Wagamama: Known for its Japanese-inspired menu, the restaurant offers dishes like ramen and teppanyaki.
• Nando’s: Famous for its peri-peri chicken, Nando’s provides classic Portuguese fare.
• Bella Italia: This eatery serves authentic Italian pasta and pizza.
• YO! Sushi: A modern sushi chain where customers pick their favourites from a rotating conveyor belt.
• TGI Fridays: Specialises in American classics such as burgers and ribs.

• Starbucks: Offers coffee lovers a wide range of beverages and pastries.
• Costa Coffee: Known for its expertly crafted coffees and cosy atmosphere.
• Krispy Kreme: Famous for its delicious doughnuts.
• Subway: Provides made-to-order sandwiches and salads.
• Greggs: A British bakery chain known for its sausage rolls and sandwiches.

Entertainment Facilities

Visitors can enjoy a variety of entertainment options at Metrocentre Shopping Centre, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Cinema

Our state-of-the-art Odeon IMAX Cinema is a must-visit. It offers an immersive experience with its giant screen, 3D capabilities, and superior sound quality. With 17 screens, the cinema showcases the latest blockbusters, family films, and independent movies. The luxurious seating ensures comfort throughout the viewing experience, and the on-site concessions provide a range of snacks and drinks, including popcorn, nachos, and soft drinks.

Gaming Zones

Gaming enthusiasts will find plenty to keep them entertained. Namco Funscape stands out with its diverse arcade games, ranging from classic pinball to modern video games. The sprawling space features racing simulators, claw machines, and everything in-between. For those who enjoy bowling, the on-site alley offers several lanes, ensuring availability even during peak times. Additionally, the centre hosts seasonal gaming events and tournaments, encouraging friendly competition and community engagement.

Accessibility

Metrocentre Shopping Centre is committed to ensuring ease of access for all visitors, whether they arrive by public transport or car.

Public Transport

Visitors can conveniently reach Metrocentre via various public transport options. The shopping centre has its own train station, Metrocentre Station, offering direct links to Newcastle and surrounding areas. Regular bus services also operate, connecting Metrocentre with Gateshead, Newcastle, and other nearby towns. Additionally, the centre cooperates with local taxi services to provide an efficient drop-off and pick-up point at its main entrances.

Parking Facilities

Metrocentre boasts ample parking with over 10,000 spaces, including designated areas for disabled visitors and parent-and-child parking near entrances. Accessible parking zones ensure ease of access for those needing extra assistance. Electric vehicle charging stations are also available, promoting eco-friendly travel. No charge applies for parking, making it convenient for short and long shopping trips. Clear signage and real-time availability updates in the Metrocentre app help drivers find appropriate spaces quickly.

Tips For Visitors

Plan Your Visit

Maximise your visit to the Metrocentre Shopping Centre by planning. Use the official Metrocentre app to check real-time information on parking availability and store promotions. Identify which zones, such as Green Mall or Platinum Mall, host the shops or services you want to visit, ensuring a streamlined experience.

Optimal Visiting Times

Consider visiting during weekdays or early mornings if you prefer less crowded environments. Thursday evenings are also typically quieter. Note that weekends and sales events like Boxing Day and Black Friday can draw larger crowds.

Efficient Parking

Use the Metrocentre app to find the best parking spots quickly. Take advantage of the 10,000 available parking spaces, with designated areas for disabled visitors and parents with children near entrances. Electric vehicle charging stations are available for eco-conscious shoppers.

Explore Dining Options

Plan your dining experiences ahead by checking the variety of eateries. With over 50 options, from Wagamama to TGI Fridays, catering to various budgets and tastes, avoid peak meal times to secure a table more easily.

Leverage Public Transport

Utilise the accessible public transport links, including the Metrocentre Station, which connects directly to Newcastle and surrounding areas. Regular bus services and local taxi collaborations also facilitate easy drop-off and pick-up.

Family-Friendly Amenities

Families will appreciate play areas and the engaging activities organised by the Metrognomes. These amenities can make shopping trips more enjoyable for children. Seasonal events often offer additional entertainment options.

Take Advantage Of Promotions

Stay informed on special offers and discounts through the Metrocentre app. Frequent updates keep you in the loop about sales events, individual store promotions, and student discounts available through selected retailers.

Enjoy Entertainment Facilities

Include leisure activities in your itinerary. The Odeon IMAX cinema, Namco Funscape arcade, and bowling alley provide excellent entertainment options. Check the Metrocentre website for details on seasonal gaming events and tournaments.

Utilise Accessibility Features

Ensure a smooth visit by leveraging accessible features. Ample wheelchair-friendly parking, lifts, and clearly marked accessible routes allow all visitors to navigate the centre comfortably.

Sustainability Practices

Participate in Metrocentre’s sustainability initiatives, including recycling programmes. Using designated recycling bins helps maintain eco-friendly practices while visiting the centre.

Conclusion

Metrocentre Shopping Centre truly stands out as a premier destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment in the UK. With its vast array of shops, diverse culinary options, and top-notch entertainment facilities, there’s something for everyone. The centre’s commitment to accessibility and sustainability further enhances the visitor experience, making it a welcoming and eco-friendly place to spend a day out. Whether you’re looking for high-street favourites, luxury brands, or a fun family outing, Metrocentre offers an unparalleled experience that keeps us coming back for more.