MetroCentre Shopping Centre Guide: Shops, Dining, Entertainment & Parking Facilities

Nestled in the heart of Gateshead, MetroCentre stands as one of the UK’s premier shopping destinations. With over 300 shops, an array of dining options, and a variety of entertainment facilities, it offers a vibrant experience for visitors of all ages. Whether we’re hunting for the latest fashion trends, indulging in a gourmet meal, or catching a movie, MetroCentre has something for everyone.

Navigating such a vast complex can be daunting, but fear not! Our comprehensive guide will walk us through the essential facilities and parking options, ensuring our visit is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. From family-friendly amenities to convenient parking solutions, we’ve got all the details covered to make our trip to MetroCentre a breeze.

Key Takeaways

• Diverse Shopping Experience: MetroCentre boasts over 300 stores, including major retailers like Marks & Spencer and boutique stores such as Beaverbrooks, ensuring a comprehensive shopping experience.
• Wide Range of Dining Options: A plethora of dining choices are available, from Italian and Asian restaurants to quick-service cafes and takeaways, catering to various tastes and preferences.
• Ample Entertainment Facilities: Visitors can enjoy diverse entertainment options, including an Odeon IMAX cinema, Namco Funscape arcade, and family-friendly play areas.
• Accessibility and Convenience: MetroCentre is designed for ease of navigation with step-free access, abundant seating, and accessible restrooms, ensuring comfort for all visitors.
• Extensive Parking: The centre offers 10,000 free parking spaces across four colour-coded zones, including dedicated disabled parking and electric vehicle charging points.
• Helpful Visit Tips: To enhance the visit, consider visiting during off-peak hours, using digital maps, planning dining in advance, and exploring boutique stores for a unique shopping experience.

Overview Of MetroCentre Shopping Centre

MetroCentre Shopping Centre in Gateshead offers an unparalleled shopping experience. With over 300 stores, visitors can find everything from high-street fashion and designer brands to electronics and home goods. Anchored by major retailers like Marks & Spencer, House of Fraser, and Primark, MetroCentre caters to diverse shopping needs.

Dining at MetroCentre provides an equally wide range of choices. The Qube and MetroCentre square house numerous eateries, offering flavours from around the world. Whether you’re in the mood for Italian, Asian, or classic British cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

Entertainment options abound at MetroCentre. Visitors can enjoy a movie at the Odeon IMAX cinema, challenge friends at Namco Funscape, or let little ones play at the family-friendly zones. For a unique experience, the MetroCentre also hosts live events and seasonal attractions.

Navigating MetroCentre is straightforward due to clear signage, a user-friendly layout, and accessible facilities. Information desks located throughout the centre provide assistance, and interactive maps help locate specific stores and amenities.

Accessibility is a priority at MetroCentre. Facilities include step-free access, ample seating, and accessible toilets. For those with young children, family rooms and baby-changing facilities are conveniently situated.

Parking at MetroCentre is extensive, with 10,000 free parking spaces in car parks near the various entrance zones. Dedicated disabled parking spaces, clear signage, and proximity to entrances enhance the convenience.

MetroCentre’s shopping, dining, entertainment, and accessible facilities offer a comprehensive experience suitable for all visitors, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable trip.

Shopping Experience

MetroCentre offers an unparalleled shopping experience, featuring a diverse mix of major retailers, boutique stores, and seasonal promotions.

Major Retailers

Our shopping centre houses a range of major retailers to accommodate all your needs. Marks & Spencer provides quality clothing, food, and home goods. House of Fraser offers luxury fashion, beauty products, and home accessories. Primark delivers on-trend fashion at affordable prices. Other key stores include Debenhams, H&M, and Boots.

Boutique Stores

Beyond the big names, we feature a variety of boutique stores offering unique products. For bespoke jewellery, visit Beaverbrooks or Ernest Jones. Explore stylish home decor at The White Company. Lush presents a selection of handmade cosmetics perfect for gifts.

Seasonal Promotions

We continually enhance the shopping experience with seasonal promotions. During Christmas, festive events and special offers create a magical atmosphere. Summer sale events provide excellent deals on fashion and electronic items. Valentine’s Day features promotions on gifts and dining, adding to the festive spirit.

These diverse elements collectively provide a fulfilling shopping experience at MetroCentre.

Dining Options

MetroCentre offers a multitude of dining options, catering to every palate. Discover various cuisines and dining styles for every meal or snack.

Restaurants

Our diverse restaurant selection includes Italian cuisine from Bella Italia, Asian delicacies at Yo! Sushi, and traditional British dishes at Wagamama. Frankie & Benny’s provides a family-friendly atmosphere with its American-Italian menu. TGI Fridays offers classic American fare, perfect for a lively dinner with friends or family. These restaurants offer both sit-down dining experiences and excellent customer service to ensure an enjoyable meal.

Cafes And Takeaways

For quicker dining options, MetroCentre’s cafes and takeaways provide convenience without sacrificing quality. Costa Coffee and Starbucks serve premium coffee alongside light snacks and pastries, ideal for a midday break. Greggs offers hearty British bakery items, and Millie’s Cookies satisfies sweet cravings. Subway provides customisable sandwiches, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal on the go. These cafes and takeaways make it easy to grab a bite while continuing your shopping adventure.

Entertainment And Leisure

Entertainment and leisure options at MetroCentre offer diverse activities ensuring an enjoyable visit for all ages.

Cinema

Our Odeon IMAX cinema provides an immersive film experience. With 12 screens and the latest releases, it’s a popular destination. Comfortable seating, advanced sound systems, and a range of snacks complete the visit. The cinema also hosts special events, including live screenings of theatre productions, concerts, and sports events. For those with accessibility needs, dedicated seating and audio description devices are available.

Family Activities

Families can explore various activities at Namco Funscape, featuring arcade games, bowling alleys, and soft play areas. The Metroland Adventure Play area, a key attraction, offers play equipment suitable for children up to 12 years. Seasonal events keep the atmosphere exciting, such as themed holiday activities and live character appearances. Family-friendly dining options and rest areas ensure a convenient experience, making MetroCentre an ideal outing destination.

MetroCentre Facilities

MetroCentre offers various amenities to enhance visitors’ experience, providing convenience and comfort throughout their visit.

Accessibility

Navigating MetroCentre is easy, thanks to its well-designed accessibility features. The centre offers step-free access at all main entrances and throughout public areas. Lifts and escalators are conveniently located to assist with movement between floors. For visitors with mobility impairments, there are dedicated disabled parking spaces close to entrances. Clear signage and information desks are available to help with directions and queries. Additionally, wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be hired from designated points within the centre.

Restrooms And Baby Changing Facilities

MetroCentre provides well-maintained restrooms and baby changing facilities strategically located across the site. Each of the centre’s four quadrants—Red, Green, Yellow, and Blue—hosts restrooms, ensuring easy access no matter where visitors are. Baby changing rooms include changing tables, nappy disposal units, and washbasins to cater comfortably to parents’ needs. Parent-and-child restrooms offer extra space for strollers and shopping bags. Cleanliness is maintained to high standards, providing a hygienic environment for all visitors.

Parking At MetroCentre

MetroCentre offers convenient and ample parking, ensuring a stress-free visit for all.

Parking Zones

With over 10,000 free parking spaces, MetroCentre caters to all visitors. Four main coloured parking zones—Red, Yellow, Blue, and Green—make it easy to find a space near your preferred entrance. Each zone is clearly signposted and corresponds to different areas of the centre, helping you park close to your destination.

Accessibility Parking

Convenience is key for all, with dedicated disabled parking spaces available across all four parking zones. These spaces are located near main entrances, offering ease of access for visitors with mobility needs. Step-free access points are strategically placed to ensure a smooth journey into the centre.

Electric Vehicle Charging Points

For those driving electric vehicles, we provide several charging points. These are situated in key locations within each parking zone, making it simple to charge your vehicle while you shop or dine. Detailed signage ensures you can easily locate these facilities.

Tips For Visiting MetroCentre

Planning a visit to MetroCentre can be straightforward with a few key tips. Here, we provide essential advice, covering various aspects to enhance your overall experience.

Avoid Peak Times

Visit the centre during weekday mornings or mid-afternoons to avoid crowds. The busiest times, including weekends and public holidays, can extend wait times for parking, dining, and popular stores. By selecting off-peak hours, you’ll encounter shorter queues and a more relaxed shopping environment.

Utilise Digital Maps

Download the MetroCentre app or use their official website map for easy navigation. These tools help locate stores, restrooms, and dining options efficiently. Digital maps provide real-time updates on store promotions and events, ensuring an optimised visit without the need to ask for directions frequently.

Plan Dining Ahead

Reserve tables at popular restaurants such as Bella Italia or Wagamama in advance. During peak hours, walk-in wait times can be significant. Pre-booking ensures you have a reserved spot, reducing dining delays and stress.

Explore Beyond Major Retailers

Include boutique stores like Beaverbrooks and The White Company in your itinerary. These shops offer unique products that can enhance your shopping experience. Exploring beyond the well-known retailers can lead to discovering exclusive deals and unique items.

Take Advantage Of Seasonal Events

Timing your visit around seasonal promotions such as Christmas events or summer sales can offer added benefits. These events often include special discounts, product launches, and festive decorations that enrich your shopping experience.

Prepare For Entertainment Activities

Pre-purchase tickets for entertainment options such as the Odeon IMAX cinema or Namco Funscape. These venues can get busy, especially during school holidays and weekends. Booking in advance ensures you don’t miss out on popular shows or activities.

Use Family-Friendly Facilities

Families should utilise the centre’s parent-and-child facilities, including restrooms and play areas. The Metroland Adventure Play area and designated family zones are perfect for ensuring a fun visit for all ages. Taking breaks at these spaces can make the visit more enjoyable for children.

Leverage Parking Zones

Choose parking zones based on proximity to your preferred entrance. The Red, Yellow, Blue, and Green zones are well signposted, making it easy to find a convenient spot. Electric vehicle users can locate charging points via the MetroCentre app, ensuring a seamless visit for eco-conscious visitors.

By following these tips, visitors can maximise their MetroCentre experience with effective planning and smart choices.

Conclusion

MetroCentre truly stands out as a premier shopping destination, offering a blend of major retailers, unique boutiques, diverse dining options, and top-notch entertainment facilities. With its well-thought-out amenities and extensive parking, visitors can enjoy a seamless and enjoyable experience.

By planning ahead and using the practical tips provided, we can make the most of our visit, avoiding peak times and navigating the centre with ease. Whether we’re shopping, dining, or seeking entertainment, MetroCentre ensures a memorable outing for everyone.