Retail Royale! An insider’s guide to Bicester Village [2024]

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Oxfordshire, England, lies Bicester Village, a world-renowned shopping destination that beckons fashionistas and savvy shoppers from around the globe. With its collection of over 150 boutiques representing some of the most coveted luxury brands, Bicester Village offers an unrivaled shopping experience, blending designer labels with exceptional savings of up to 60%.

Before embarking on your Bicester Village adventure, a little planning goes a long way in ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Planning Your Bicester Village Visit

1. Timing is Key:

Consider the timing of your visit carefully. Weekdays tend to be less crowded, offering a more relaxed shopping environment. During peak seasons, such as summer and Christmas, expect larger crowds and potentially longer queues.

2. Sign Up for Membership:

Enroll in the complimentary Bicester Village VIP membership program to access exclusive offers and discounts. Membership also grants you early access to sales events and invites to special member-only events.

3. Download the App:

Enhance your shopping experience by downloading the Bicester Village app [Android]. The app provides a comprehensive directory of boutiques, interactive maps, and up-to-date information on events and promotions.

4. Embrace the Village Vibe:

Bicester Village isn’t just about shopping; it’s about savoring the ambiance. Take time to stroll through the main pedestrianized street, adorned with beautiful plants and charming outdoor restaurants and cafes.

5. Plan Your Dining Delights:

Whether you’re seeking a quick bite or a leisurely lunch, Bicester Village offers a variety of dining options to satisfy every palate. From gourmet cafes to renowned restaurants, there’s something to tempt every taste bud.

Best Days to Visit Bicester Village

Weekdays: Generally less crowded than weekends, especially mornings and evenings. Good option if you want a relaxed shopping experience.
Weekends: Busier, especially midday. Expect queues and possibly limited selections of popular items. Good option if you enjoy the bustling atmosphere and don’t mind crowds.
Avoid public holidays and school holidays: These periods are the busiest.

Sales and deals

The Extraordinary Sale (Boxing Week – end of December): Biggest discounts of the year (up to 70%), but also the most crowded. Good option if you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind the crowds.
Bicester Village Private Sale (March – April): Members-only event with an extra 20% off already discounted items. Good option if you’re a member and want exclusive deals.
Other seasonal sales and promotions: Throughout the year, Bicester Village often has flash sales and brand-specific discounts. Check their website or social media for current offers.

Insider Tips for Savvy Shopping

Start Early: Arrive early to beat the crowds and ensure you have ample time to explore the vast collection of boutiques.
Seek Out the Hidden Gems: Venture beyond the well-known brands and discover the smaller boutiques that often offer unique finds and personalized service.
Utilize Personal Shopping Services: Take advantage of the complimentary personal shopping services offered by select boutiques. Expert stylists can guide you through the collections, tailoring selections to your personal style and preferences.
Embrace Tax-Free Shopping: International visitors can enjoy tax-free shopping, making Bicester Village an even more attractive destination.
Don’t Miss the Sales: Keep an eye out for seasonal sales and special promotions, where discounts can reach up to 70%.

Unveiling the Secrets of Bicester Village

Private Sales: Occasionally, Bicester Village hosts private sales, offering exclusive discounts to select shoppers. To receive invitations, ensure you’re enrolled in the VIP membership program and regularly check the Bicester Village website and social media channels.
VIP Lounge: VIP members can access the exclusive VIP lounge “The Apartment”, providing a tranquil retreat amidst the shopping frenzy. Enjoy complimentary refreshments, personalized concierge services, and a luxurious ambiance.
Hands-Free Shopping: Take advantage of the hands-free shopping service, allowing you to drop off your purchases at designated points and have them delivered to your hotel or residence.
Concierge Services: The village’s concierge team is at your service, offering assistance with everything from currency exchange to restaurant reservations.
Special Events: Throughout the year, Bicester Village hosts a variety of special events, from fashion shows to cultural exhibitions. Stay updated on these events to add an extra touch of excitement to your visit.

Brands with Stores at Bicester Village

Fashion: Alexander McQueen, AllSaints, Burberry, Dior, Fendi, Gucci, Jimmy Choo, Michael Kors, Prada, Saint Laurent, Acne Studios, Agent Provocateur, Balenciaga, Bally, Balmain, Barbour, Belstaff, Boss, Bottega Veneta, Breitling, Brioni, Brooks Brothers, Brunello Cucinelli, Calvin Klein, Celine, Chloé, Christian Louboutin, Coach, Diesel, Dolce & Gabbana, Dunhill, Ermenegildo Zegna, ETRO, Furla, Gina, Giuseppe Zanotti, Givenchy, Golden Goose, Gucci, Hackett London, Holland Cooper, Hunter, Hugo Boss, Isabel Marant, Jil Sander, Jimmy Choo, Karl Lagerfeld, Kate Spade New York, Kenzo, L.K.Bennett, Lacoste, Longchamp, Loro Piana, Lululemon, Maje, Manolo Blahnik, Marni, Max Mara, MCM, Missoni, Moncler, Monica Vinader, Montblanc, Mulberry, N.PEAL, New Balance, Off-White, Orlebar Brown, Pandora, Paul Smith, Penhaligon’s, Philipp Plein, Radley London, Reiss, Rituals, Roger Vivier, Rupert Sanderson, Saint Laurent, Salvatore Ferragamo, Samsonite, Sandro, Smythson, Stella McCartney, Stuart Weitzman, Superdry, Swarovski, Sweaty Betty, Tag Heuer, Ted Baker, The Cosmetics Company Store.

Lifestyle: Elemis, L’Occitane en Provence, Le Creuset, Pandora, Salvatore Ferragamo, Ugg.

Also take a look at the Bicester Village Directory for the complete up to date list.

Getting to Bicester Village Outlets

From London

Train: The quickest and most convenient option. Hop on a Chiltern Railways train from Marylebone station, and in just 47 minutes, you’ll be steps away from the shopping haven. Trains run frequently, so you can choose a schedule that fits your shopping spree.
Car: If you prefer a road trip, take the M40 westbound towards Oxford/Birmingham. Exit at junction 9 and follow the A41 towards Bicester. The drive takes about an hour and a half, so grab some snacks and your shopping playlist for the ride.
Coach: Stagecoach bus services operate from various London locations, including Victoria Coach Station and Oxford Street. The journey takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on your starting point. This budget-friendly option is perfect for groups or those who enjoy the scenic countryside views.

From Oxford

Train: This is the easiest and fastest way to reach Bicester Village from Oxford. Trains from Oxford station take just 14 minutes, whisking you away in no time. Perfect for a spontaneous shopping day!
Bus: Stagecoach buses run every 15 minutes from Oxford city center to Bicester Village. The journey takes about 45 minutes, making it a good choice for those who want to relax and enjoy the ride.
Taxi: If you’re traveling with a group or have lots of shopping bags, a taxi might be the most convenient option. The journey takes around 30 minutes, and you can be dropped off right at the Village entrance.

Top Tip: Whichever mode of transport you choose, consider booking your tickets in advance, especially during peak season or weekends. This ensures a smooth journey and avoids last-minute stress.

Bonus Round

Flying: If you’re coming from further afield, London Heathrow and Birmingham International airports are both within an hour’s drive of Bicester Village. You can easily catch a taxi or train from the airport to reach your shopping destination.

Making the Most of Your Bicester Village Experience

Comfortable Attire: Choose comfortable footwear, as you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking. Dress in layers to adapt to the varying weather conditions.
Bring a Bag: Although Bicester Village provides bags, it’s advisable to bring your own reusable shopping bag to reduce waste and carry your purchases with ease.
Plan Your Budget: Set a realistic budget before you start shopping. With so many temptations, it’s easy to get carried away, so having a spending limit helps you stay on track.
Take Breaks: Shopping can be tiring, so take regular breaks to recharge. Relax at one of the cafes, enjoy a stroll through the village grounds, or simply find a quiet spot to sit and people-watch.
Savour the Experience: Embrace the unique atmosphere of Bicester Village. Enjoy the architecture, the landscaping, and the overall ambiance that sets it apart from ordinary shopping destinations.

We hope you’ve found these tips to be useful. Have a great day out!