Bicester, UK
Below is a detailed travel guide to Bicester, UK:
I. Overview
Bicester is located in Oxfordshire, England. Historically an important market town, it is now known worldwide for its shopping village.
II. Shopping Guide
1. Shopping Village Overview
• Bicester Village is the most popular outlet in the UK and the preferred shopping destination for tourists outside of London.
• The shopping village is home to more than 90 world-renowned brands, such as Prada, Gucci, Dior, D&G, Celine, Burberry, and Coach. Prices are typically half of the regular retail price or even less.
2. Opening Hours
• Monday–Friday: 10:00 am–8:00 pm
• Saturday: 9:00 am–8:00 pm
• Sunday: 10:00 am–7:00 pm
• Note: On Sundays, Burberry, Gucci, Hugo Boss, and Polo Ralph Lauren open for browsing at 11:30 am, with shopping starting at 12:00 pm and ending at 6:00 pm. Prada is open for shopping from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
3. Shopping Tips
• Present a UnionPay card starting with "62" at the Bicester Visitor Centre to receive an electronic 10% discount card, which can be used for most full-price items.
• Download the Bicester app and register in advance. The signal in the shopping village may not be very good. Signing in through the app allows you to use free Wi-Fi, making it convenient to search for information online. You can also earn points by scanning QR codes. Once you reach a certain level, you can unlock new services.
• If you are on a group tour, the tour guide will usually provide promo codes. Ask if they are applicable before making a purchase.
III. Dining Recommendations
1. Chilli Prawn Pasta: Fresh, jumbo prawns will definitely satisfy your cravings.
2. Calamari Fritti: Crispy fried squid with lemon juice is incredibly delicious.
3. Shan Shui: A must-try for those who want Chinese food. We recommend the seafood udon, shrimp dumplings, and savory, spicy fried chicken.
4. Farmshop: Perfect for snacks and afternoon tea. We recommend the wood-fired garlic prawns and thick pancakes.
5. Creperie Angelie: A famous creperie with super rich cheese flavors. If you like savory crepes, try the smoked salmon.
6. La Tua Pasta: For authentic pasta, this is the place to go. We recommend the black truffle and cheese penne and the Italian penne.
7. Oliphant's: We recommend the handmade ice cream. It's fresh, sweet, and melts in your mouth. The Oreo flavor is not too sweet.
IV. Accommodation Recommendations
1. Bicester Hotel: Located on 130 acres of charming countryside in Oxfordshire, surrounded by 11 lakes, with easy access to the M40 motorway. The hotel is 2.5 km from Bicester Village and offers free parking. It features a gym, tennis court, indoor swimming pool, and other wellness facilities.
2. Lime Trees Farm: This bed and breakfast offers free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with free toiletries, a hairdryer, and a bathtub. A continental breakfast is served every morning, and there is also a terrace.
3. Winston Guesthouse: Offers free Wi-Fi and free private parking. Rooms are equipped with a wardrobe and a refrigerator. It's a 20-minute walk or 5-minute drive from Bicester Village.
4. Thirteen Bicester: Features a shared lounge and free Wi-Fi, as well as concierge services. Guests can enjoy drinks at the bar or dine in the restaurant.
V. Transportation Guide
1. Train: It takes only 46 minutes from London Marylebone Station.
2. Bus: Take the National Express bus from Victoria Station.
3. Car: The shopping village has a large parking lot, making it very convenient for self-driving and parking.
4. Private Car: If you want a hassle-free trip, hiring a private car is also a good option. Departing from London at 9:00 am, you can reach your destination within 1.5 hours.
VI. Important Notes
1. Casual wear is recommended for a more comfortable shopping and trying-on experience.
2. It's best to come empty-handed so you have enough space to carry your purchases back.
3. If you can't come shopping in person, you can use Bicester's virtual shopping service: Contact your favorite boutiques, learn about product details online, make your purchase, and wait for delivery.
4. Remember to ask for a tax refund form at checkout. Some items in certain stores are not tax-free. Even if the price is already discounted, it's always worth asking if a tax refund is available.
Overall, Bicester, UK, is a tourist destination that integrates shopping, dining, and leisure. Whether you are a shopping enthusiast or a food lover, you can find your own enjoyment here.