Lakeside and Bluewater Shopping Centres (Malls)

Lakeside Shopping Centre

This is situated North of the Dartford Crossing.

If you come through the Dartford tunnel take junction 31 but don't worry if you miss it - there are other options.

At junction 31, take the A1090/A1306 exit to Thurrock (Lakeside)/Purfleet/W Thurrock

or take A13 turnoff and follow directions for Lakeside.

The easiest way for newcomers is the A13 which you can take right out of London on the North side of the river Thames. Lakeside is easy to get to but can be confusing to get into - not recommended to try it in busy traffic unless you know exactly where you are going. It's probably best to dump yourself somewhere you can park then go in and find your bearings by checking out the maps in the centre. If you want a specific store, check out its location before you go since Lakeside has well known stores (Like IKEA) which are separate from the main shopping centre. Parking is tight at the main centre.

normal opening hours 10 am to 6 pm

late night Thursday open till 8 pm
Sunday close 4.30 pm


Bluewater Shopping Centre

This is situated South of the Dartford Crossing about 10 miles into Kent.

If you come across the Dartford Bridge and all other cases take the A2 towards Dover (don't go towards London)

Bluewater is very easy to get to and to get into - it is isolated from main traffic flows so this is the preferred option if you have to travel in busier traffic. The A2 itself can be bunched up at rush hour.

Bluewater is much more self contained that Lakeside and is set out as a triangle of three main stores - Marks and Spencer, John Lewis and House of Fraser. It is fairly easy to orientate yourself here - just remember which store you parked the car near. Parking is ample and fairly spacious if somewhat maze-like coming in and out.

normal opening hours

  • Mon: 09:00 - 22:00
  • Tue: 09:00 - 18.00
  • Wed: 10:00 - 19.00
  • Thu: 09:00 - 22:00
  • Fri: 09:00 - 22:00
  • Sat: 09:00 - 21:00
  • Sun: 11:00 - 17:00