If you enjoy shopping days that feel relaxed, modern, and full of great finds, then the new Cotswold Designer Outlet is a place you will want to know about. It opened only recently, and it has already become one of the most talked-about shopping spots in the country. People travelled from different towns and cities just to see it on opening day, and many said they had been waiting months to visit.
What makes this outlet so special is how simple and enjoyable the whole experience feels. The shops are new, the walkways are bright and open, and the design feels like a fresh version of a Cotswold village. It is the kind of place where you can easily spend a whole day — shopping, eating, walking, and enjoying the atmosphere without stress or rush.
What Is the Cotswold Designer Outlet?
The Cotswold Designer Outlet is a new, premium shopping centre built in Tewkesbury, right by the gateway to the Cotswolds. It opened in July 2025 after years of planning and construction. The goal was simple: create a modern shopping village that feels stylish, relaxed, and connected to the natural beauty of the area.
The project was in development from 2021 and quickly grew into one of the biggest new retail launches in the UK. The outlet was designed to offer something fresh — a place where designer brands, good food, and clean open spaces come together in a calm and comfortable way. Instead of feeling busy or rushed, the centre aims to give visitors an enjoyable day out.
People are already comparing it to places like Bicester Village. But many visitors say this outlet feels friendlier and easier to explore. It’s built with a “slow shopping” idea in mind, meaning you can take your time, enjoy the surroundings, and not feel squeezed between crowds.
The Vision Behind the Outlet
Blending Tradition With Modern Style
When you walk into the outlet, the first thing you notice is the design. The buildings look like updated versions of old Cotswold houses. The colours are soft, the roofs are simple, and the whole place feels warm and welcoming. This did not happen by accident. Award-winning architects studied real Cotswold villages and used them as inspiration.
The idea was to keep the charm of the past while adding modern comfort. So you get wide paths, clean shop fronts, landscaped flowers, and peaceful seating areas. Everything feels familiar, but also fresh and new. Many visitors have said that the place feels like a mix between a small Cotswold town and a modern outdoor mall.
This design choice also helps the area keep its identity. Instead of placing a huge concrete block next to the motorway, the developers created something that fits perfectly with the local character. Even people who do not want to shop can enjoy walking around the outlet because of how pleasant it looks.
Built for Today’s Shoppers
The outlet was also created with the needs of modern shoppers in mind. People want clean spaces, easy navigation, good food, and places to rest. The Cotswold Designer Outlet delivers all of this. You can shop for clothes, sportswear, home goods, beauty products, and more — and then sit down for a nice meal at restaurants like Wagamama or Five Guys.
Many parents also appreciate that there are play areas for children, soft-play options, and wide paths for strollers. For dog owners, there are pet-friendly areas and even a fun “dog stick library.” All these small details make the outlet feel thoughtful and welcoming.
Location and Accessibility
Easy to Reach From Many Cities
One of the biggest strengths of the Cotswold Designer Outlet is its location. It sits right next to Junction 9 of the M5 motorway. This makes it incredibly easy for people travelling from Bristol, Birmingham, Cheltenham, Worcester, Gloucester, and even parts of Wales.
Drivers can simply exit the motorway and reach the outlet within minutes. There is no confusing turn or long narrow road — just a direct and simple route. Because of this, the outlet is expected to become a regular stop for travellers heading through the region.
Visitors who came on opening day said the parking was easy and the signs were clear. Some even said they had been watching the development rise from the ground each time they drove past on the motorway.
Train, Bus, Walking — All Simple Options
If you prefer public transport, the outlet is still easy to reach. Ashchurch-for-Tewkesbury train station is only a few minutes’ walk away. This makes it possible to travel from places like Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, and the wider Midlands without needing a car.
There are also local bus services, including weekend shuttle buses from Tewkesbury town centre. The walking paths between the station and the outlet are flat, clear, and well signposted. Even the parking has been designed with comfort in mind, offering more than 900 spaces plus overflow areas and electric vehicle chargers.
All these travel options make the outlet accessible to families, tourists, commuters, and day-trippers.
The Early Excitement Around the Opening
Crowds, Queues, and Big Smiles
The opening day was filled with excitement. People waited over an hour in line just to enter, and many enjoyed watching the final touches being completed. Michael Jones and his wife Jo, who travelled from Northampton, said they were eager to visit because they had been driving past the site for months.
This kind of reaction shows how much interest the outlet has created. Some visitors said they visit outlets often, including Bicester, and were ready to try something new. They wanted to see if this outlet would bring a different experience — and most said it did.
A Positive First Impression
The mayor of Tewkesbury, Alan Haynes, said he was impressed with the entire setup. He mentioned that the outlet has already attracted strong brands and that it will bring more visitors to the area. With over 47 shops and seven food spots opening in Phase 1, the outlet already feels full and lively.
Staff members, especially those in brand-new stores like Merrell, said they were excited to welcome visitors. Centre Manager Adrian Field also shared his happiness, saying the team worked hard to create a place that looks vibrant and ready for customers.
The Full Shopping Experience
A Wide Mix of Brands for Every Shopper
The Cotswold Designer Outlet offers a large and growing list of stores, and this is one of the main reasons people are so excited about it. From designer fashion to sportswear, from outdoor gear to beauty products, the outlet has something for every type of shopper. It currently has more than 50 stores in Phase 1, with many more planned for the future expansion.
You will find well-known names like Adidas, BOSS, Levi’s, Sweaty Betty, Tommy Hilfiger, and Under Armour. There are also outdoor favourites such as Merrell, Mountain Warehouse, Saltrock, Regatta, and The North Face — perfect for anyone who loves exploring the Cotswolds. For home and lifestyle lovers, there are shops like Denby, Rituals, Tefal, and Yankee Candle.
What makes the variety even better is how close everything is. You do not need to walk long distances or move between large buildings. All the stores are arranged in easy-to-follow paths, so it feels comfortable and simple to explore.
Sweet Treats and Special Finds
The outlet also includes fun specialty stores like Cadbury Outlet, Lindt, Holland & Barrett, The Perfume Shop, and Beauty Outlet. These places are great for quick gifts or small treats. Many visitors love stopping here before heading home because it feels like a nice final touch to the day.
And since the outlet is still new, more brands are signing up for Phase 2, which is already being pushed forward earlier than planned. By the time both phases are complete, shoppers will have access to around 75 to 90 stores.
Food and Drink Options
Places to Relax and Enjoy a Meal
Shopping is always more enjoyable when there are good food choices nearby, and the outlet does a great job at offering plenty of places to eat. You can choose from popular spots like Wagamama, Five Guys, Zizzi, Pret A Manger, and Caffe Nero. If you want something warm and fresh, Knead Bakery is a lovely option and has become a quick favourite for many visitors.
These restaurants are placed throughout the outlet, so you never have to walk far to take a break. There is a mix of sit-down meals and grab-and-go options, depending on what you need. This makes it very easy for families, especially when travelling with children.
Food for Every Mood
Some people want a full meal, some want snacks, and some just need a good coffee before browsing more shops. The outlet covers all these needs. When you enter the food areas, you’ll see plenty of seating, clean layouts, and friendly staff. Many visitors mentioned online that the food options help make the outlet feel like a “full day out” rather than a quick shopping stop.
Family-Friendly and Pet-Friendly Facilities
Made for Families
One of the nicest things about the Cotswold Designer Outlet is how much thought has gone into making it comfortable for families. There is an indoor soft-play area where young kids can run, climb, and play safely. Outside, you will find open play zones near the restrooms, which is useful for parents who need a quick break.
The walkways are wide and easy for strollers, and the seating areas make resting simple. Family-friendly changing rooms and accessible toilets are also well placed, so you never have to go far to find what you need.
Pets Are Welcome Too
Dog owners will be happy to know the outlet is also pet-friendly. There are outdoor seating areas for people who bring their dogs, and even a fun “dog stick library,” where dogs can pick up a stick during their visit. It’s a small detail, but it adds a warm, friendly feeling to the place.
Many shoppers bring their pets during their visit, especially on weekends. The relaxed layout and open-air design make it easy for everyone to enjoy the day together.
Guest Facilities and Services
The Guest Services Hub
At the centre of the outlet, you’ll find the Guest Services Hub. This is where you can ask for store information, get help with directions, buy gift cards, or find lost items. If someone in your group needs accessibility support, this is also the place to visit.
What makes this hub helpful is how friendly and attentive the staff are. Many reviews mention that the customer service team is patient, clear, and always willing to guide visitors who are new to the outlet.
Clean, Comfortable, and Thoughtfully Designed
The outlet has clean restrooms, modern seating areas, and well-maintained walkways. The lighting and landscaping make everything feel bright and open. Even on busy days, it rarely feels cramped because the layout was designed to spread people out evenly.
Sustainability Features
Built With the Environment in Mind
The Cotswold Designer Outlet is not just another shopping centre. It’s part of a modern approach to retail development where sustainability plays a major role. The construction used eco-friendly materials like FSC-certified timber, and the builders used Gaia AI technology to cut energy use on the site by more than half during construction.
There are also plenty of green spaces, a wild-walk meadow, and landscaped areas that make the outlet feel peaceful and natural. These outdoor zones help create a calming environment and support local biodiversity.
Encouraging Greener Travel
To support energy-friendly travel, the outlet offers electric car charging stations. The pathways and access routes also make it simple for visitors to walk from the nearby train station. Together, these features show the outlet’s commitment to a greener future.
Economic and Community Impact
New Jobs and New Opportunities
The outlet has brought a strong economic boost to Tewkesbury and the surrounding areas. More than 300 jobs were created during the opening, and around 500 jobs are expected across retail, food, and management roles once the expansion is complete. There are also 20 apprenticeships for young people looking to begin careers in retail or hospitality.
This is especially valuable for local families and people who prefer working closer to home. Many employees have said that working at a brand-new outlet feels exciting because everything is fresh, organised, and built for long-term growth.
Part of a Larger Community Project
The outlet sits inside the Tewkesbury Garden Town development, a 250-acre area that includes new homes, community spaces, and infrastructure improvements. Over 1,500 homes are being built by companies like Persimmon, Barratt, Charles Church, and Vistry.
Together, these developments are transforming the area into a lively, modern hub.
Phase 2 Expansion: What’s Coming Next
Bigger Space, More Brands
Because of the strong response to the outlet, Phase 2 is already being pushed forward earlier than expected. This next phase will add around 50,000 square feet of new retail space. The final number of stores is expected to reach between 75 and 90.
Many brands have already shown interest in joining the new phase, and shoppers can look forward to even more fashion, lifestyle, outdoor, and dining options.
A Growing Future
Once both phases are complete, the outlet will become one of the strongest retail destinations in the UK. Its blend of design, nature, shopping, and easy access makes it a long-term addition to the area — not just a temporary trend.
Visitor Tips for the Best Experience
Plan Your Visit
If it’s your first time visiting, it helps to plan ahead. Weekdays are quieter than weekends. Mornings are also easier for parking and browsing. Many visitors like to start at the big fashion stores, then move toward the food areas for lunch.
Bring Comfortable Shoes and Take Breaks
It’s easy to walk more than you expect. Comfortable shoes, a bottle of water, and short breaks can help keep the day fun and relaxed. The benches and seating areas are spread out nicely, so you can stop and rest whenever you need to.
Conclusion
The Cotswold Designer Outlet is more than a shopping centre — it’s a fresh, modern day-out destination that mixes designer brands with local charm. With beautiful design, great food, family-friendly features, and strong community support, it has already made a big mark in Gloucestershire.
Whether you want bargains, a peaceful outing, or a fun family visit, this outlet offers all of it in one place. As Phase 2 arrives, the experience will only get better.
FAQs
1. What shops are at Cotswold Designer Outlet?
It has more than 50 shops, including Adidas, BOSS, Levi’s, Tommy Hilfiger, Sweaty Betty, Rituals, Merrell, and many more.
2. How big is the Cotswold Designer Outlet?
Phase 1 covers about 136,000 sq ft. After Phase 2, it will reach around 180,000+ sq ft with 75–90 stores.
3. Who owns Cotswold Designer Outlet?
It is owned and developed by Robert Hitchins Ltd.
4. Is it better than Bicester Village?
It depends on what you want. Many people say it feels calmer, friendlier, and easier to navigate.
5. Is the outlet worth visiting?
Yes — especially if you enjoy relaxed shopping, modern design, and a family-friendly day out.
