More time to shop this Christmas at Bluewater
Bluewater extends its opening hours to cater for morning larks and night owls
Until 30th December, Bluewater guests will be able to shop, skate, eat and drink for longer thanks to its Christmas opening hours. Bluewater will be open ‘early to late’ Monday to Saturday 9am to 11pm and 11am to 5pm on Sundays until the 23rd December, so still plenty of opportunity to tackle the Christmas list and enjoy some festive fun.
Kent based couple Clare and Kaedyn have different schedules when it comes to preparing for Christmas. Clare, a self-confessed early bird talks to InsideKENT about why she loves shopping bright and early. Her partner, Kaedyn, the family’s night owl, reveals why he’s a fan of hitting the shops later on.
“The morning lark”
Clare Barfoot, aged 30, is a professional nanny and a full time mum from Tunbridge Wells. Clare lives with her partner Kaedyn and their 3-week old son Raffee.
Why do you shop in the morning?
As I have a newborn who is an early riser, it makes sense to get to the shops early, when it’s less busy. I arrive when the shops are just opening and take time to have a Christmassy coffee, feed the baby and get in the Christmas spirit before tackling my list.
What are the advantages?
Shopping first thing is great as I get home early and can wrap the family’s gifts before they have a chance to nose at them! The stores are generally quieter too, I can take my time and browse around. Plus, there are more car parking spaces to choose from, which is particularly important when you have a young child with you – it’s useful to park as close to the centre’s entrance as possible.
Are there any drawbacks?
I guess for some people getting up earlier can be difficult but I’m used to it as I have a newborn and so getting up and about early suits my routine.
Who are you shopping for?
This year we have family and friends flying in from abroad and it’s our sons first Christmas so we are shopping for all ages. I’ll be heading to Bluewater a couple more times to finish off the shopping before the big day.
Any Christmas shopping tips?
It’s nice to take a break and people watch over a spot of lunch. Also, don’t forget to treat yourself to something nice, like something to wear on Christmas Day.
“The night owl”
Kaedyn Sheikh, aged 34, is a personal trainer from Hildenborough. Kaedyn lives with his partner Clare and their 3-week old son Raffee.
Why do you shop in the evening?
As a personal trainer my working day starts very early and goes on until late, so it’s more convenient for me to shop later in the evening.
What are the advantages?
I’m not the biggest fan of spending hours shopping and usually know what I’m going to get before I head to the shops. The later opening times at Bluewater mean I can get in and out quickly when it’s quieter as there are fewer shoppers and plenty of parking spaces. The restaurants stay open later too, so I can enjoy a meal out if I’m home quite late.
Are there any drawbacks?
I get quite tired during the evenings because of my job, but I just grab a coffee before I hit the shops to pick me up!
Who are you buying for?
Mostly friends and family, however as it’s my baby’s first Christmas, we want to make it extra special this year. Also, I’m always on the hunt for new sportswear so I may pop into a few shops for myself.
Do you have any Christmas shopping tips?
My best Christmas shopping tip is to have a list and stick to it. If I’m stuck with what to buy, then I’ll make the most of the sales advisors and ask them to advise on what to get. I’m also planning to take advantage of Bluewater’s gift-wrapping service too as I’m rubbish at wrapping!
Extended opening hours, plus 13,000 free extra-wide parking spaces means Bluewater guests can enjoy Christmas shopping with ease. Visitors can browse over 300 quality brands including John Lewis, House of Fraser, Jigsaw and Superdry for on-trend Christmas outfits and inspirational gift ideas including beauty gifts and stylish jewellery, watches and accessories.
