Arnison Centre — Attraction in England

Embarking on an impromptu shopping escapade at Arniston Centre proved to be an unexpected delight, with its abundance of conveniences, including ample parking. This retail haven boasts a diverse array of shops, all conveniently situated within walking distance, making it a shopper's paradise.

Upon entering Boyes, my attention was immediately captured by the enticing displays showcasing an array of super bargains. Poundland also beckoned with its promise of hidden treasures, always worthy of exploration.

For a quick refuel, I indulged in a satisfying breakfast at McDonald's, savoring the familiar flavors that never disappoint. Meanwhile, New Look beckoned with its latest fashion offerings, providing ample opportunities to refresh my wardrobe with trendy finds.

However, it was Marks & Spencer that truly stole the show, particularly with its Christmas fashion range. The festive attire exuded elegance and style, leaving me enamored with the thought of upcoming holiday gatherings. Yet, it was the food selection that truly captured my heart. Marks & Spencer never fails to deliver a plethora of delectable treats, ensuring that every visit is a culinary adventure. From gourmet snacks to indulgent desserts, there is always something special to be discovered.

As I meandered through the center, I found myself drawn to a multitude of other shops, each offering its own unique treasures waiting to be uncovered. Whether browsing for gifts or treating myself to a little indulgence, there was no shortage of options to explore.

To recharge amidst the excitement, I sought refuge in one of the charming coffee shops scattered throughout the center. There, I savored a moment of tranquility, sipping on a steaming cup of coffee while reflecting on the day's discoveries.

In conclusion, my unexpected shopping excursion at Arniston Centre proved to be a delightful experience filled with pleasant surprises and memorable moments. From the thrill of discovering super bargains to indulging in delicious treats, every aspect of the journey was a testament to the center's allure. With its diverse selection of shops, convenient amenities, and inviting atmosphere, Arniston Centre continues to be a beloved destination for shoppers seeking both convenience...

What can you say? It’s a fairly standard retail park with the kind of shops you expect in a fairly standard retail park. The Marks & Spencer’s is good and the only one in Durham. Sainsbury’s is huge and contains an Argos where you can collect things you bought online. At time of writing this Wilko has shut down and currently empty. The vets here is is actually pretty good and it’s very convenient to be able to park close to it (when it’s quiet that is). On that subject the parking here is a nightmare at peak times which is pretty much the entire weekend. It tends to quieten down towards the end of the afternoon but on Sundays most of the shops start shutting around four o’clock. If you come at peak times, you can expect to park considerable distance away from where you want to shop. That being said if for example you wanted to visit Marks and the pet shop, you have to walk a long distance anyway as they are at opposite ends of the retail park.

Parking is capped at four hours which seems like a reasonably long time, but if you are doing a full supermarket, getting some lunch from one of the Cafes there and maybe getting some bits from marks that time go by pretty quick. You have to bear in mind that the parking system takes a photo of your plate as you go into the place the clock is starting before you’ve parked, peak times it could take up to 25 minutes to get parked. You have to get out again at the end which can also take some time that’s when you will be taken again and the times compared so it could be quite easy to slip over the four hour mark, which will incur £100 fine. It seems a bit ridiculous to me to have these fines as there is not much around so it’s not like anyone’s gonna park here and go for a walk or go to any other shops as all seems to be is the little across the road which has its own car park. Anyway, as I said it’s a fairly standard retail park. It serves its purpose but I’d rather these shops were still in town centre which has nothing but bars...

The Arnison Centre is a good place for a bit retail therapy and has recently undergone a change in shops over the past year. Smyths, Asda Living (no food), Laura Ashley, Pets at Home, Sainsburys Superstore, The Works Mountain Warehouse, Wilkos, Outfit, River Island, Next, New Look, Boots, Marks and Spencer, Superdrug, Card Factory etc... With eateries such as Frankie and Bennys, Costa, Greggs, McDonald's aswell as cafes in Sainsburys and Asda Living (haven't mentioned every shop but this is the bulk of them). Also has a Sainsburys petrol station. I love going to this shopping centre as I can pop for groceries, presents, clothes, homeware etc as well as pop out for a meal or a coffee with family or friends. I would give the Arnison Centre 5 stars however my only annoyance is the parking! Parking is free for the first 4 hours then you get a parking ticket... It has parking eye on both entrances/exists which takes photo and registers times. I got a parking fine (after spending 4hours and 13 mins there). So as a pop to the shops for something it is excellent, for a day out shopping I would...