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Drake Circus

About

Drake Circus is one of the premier shopping centers located in the heart of Plymouth, United Kingdom. Opened in October 2006, this modern indoor complex quickly gained popularity among both locals and tourists, becoming a major commercial hub and a popular destination for shopping and relaxation. Its impressive area of approximately 39,484 square meters makes it one of the largest retail spaces in the region.

Drake Circus. Illustration.
Source: Kupi.com AI

Traveller photos:

The shopping center was designed by the renowned London-based architectural firm Chapman Taylor and built by Bovis Lend Lease. Thanks to its thoughtful design and modern architecture, Drake Circus has seamlessly integrated into the urban landscape, becoming a prominent landmark in Plymouth.

Inside, Drake Circus spans three floors, housing over 60 diverse shops and service outlets. Here, you can find everything from major international brands to more local offerings. In addition to the wide selection of goods, the center offers visitors cozy cafes, restaurants, and rest areas where you can grab a bite or simply relax after a successful shopping trip. The presence of eight major "anchor" tenants ensures a steady flow of visitors and a variety of options.

Contacts

To get in touch with Drake Circus and find the most up-to-date information, please use the contact details provided below. If you need a phone number or email address, we recommend checking for them on the official website.

How to contactContact
Address1 Charles St, Plymouth PL1 1EA, UK
Phone+44 1752 223030
Websitewww.drakecircus.com

What to Do

Drake Circus in Plymouth is a modern shopping center offering visitors a wide range of opportunities for shopping and leisure. Here, you will find a diverse selection of stores representing both well-known international and popular British brands. Guests can visit large department stores, fashion boutiques, electronics shops, cosmetics, and accessory stores, making it an attractive destination for those seeking the latest trends or simply looking to update their wardrobe.

Beyond shopping, you can spend quality time at Drake Circus in its numerous cafes, restaurants, and eateries. It is a great place to take a break during your shopping spree, enjoy a snack, or have a full meal. The shopping center often serves as a venue for various seasonal events, sales, and promotions, while thematic decorations create a festive atmosphere that appeals to both families with children and groups of friends.

For the convenience of visitors, Drake Circus provides rest areas where you can catch your breath, along with free Wi-Fi. There is also a large indoor parking garage with space for over a thousand cars, which significantly eases the visit for those arriving by vehicle. All this makes the shopping center more than just a place to shop, but a complete hub for leisure and social gatherings.

Getting There

Drake Circus shopping center is conveniently located in the heart of Plymouth at 1 Charles Street. Thanks to its central position, it is easy to reach by various means. If you are arriving in the city by train, the shopping center is just a few minutes' walk from Plymouth railway station, making it particularly accessible for travelers.

For those who prefer public transport, Drake Circus is also a convenient destination. Major bus stops are located in the immediate vicinity of the shopping center. Numerous city and suburban routes connect Drake Circus with various districts of Plymouth and the surrounding areas, providing easy access for locals and visitors alike.

If you are traveling by car, you can use the shopping center's spacious indoor parking lot, which has 1,270 spaces. This makes it easy to find a spot for your vehicle. Furthermore, due to its proximity to Plymouth's main highways and transport hubs, Drake Circus is easily accessible for visitors coming from other cities across the United Kingdom.

Nearest city: Plymouth

History & Facts

Drake Circus in Plymouth is a striking example of modern architecture and a significant piece of urban infrastructure. It was built on the site of an older shopping complex of the same name, which was demolished in 2004. The new Drake Circus opened its doors to visitors on October 5, 2006, marking an important stage in the redevelopment of central Plymouth and quickly becoming a popular destination for shopping and leisure.

The building's architectural design initially sparked a mixed reaction from the public and specialists alike. Immediately after opening in 2006, Drake Circus received the Carbuncle Cup, an "anti-award" given to the "worst new building in the United Kingdom." However, the following year, in 2007, the shopping center was honored with two prestigious national retail awards. One of these was the "Shopping Destination of the Year" title by the authoritative publication Retail Week, highlighting its commercial success and appeal to shoppers.

One of the unique features of Drake Circus is its location. The shopping center is situated directly behind the ruins of Charles Church. This church was destroyed during the air raids of the 1940s and has been preserved as a memorial to the civilian victims of those tragic events. This proximity provides the modern complex with a unique historical context, creating a dialogue between the present day and the memory of the past, making a visit to Drake Circus more than just a shopping trip—it is an experience that touches on the cultural and historical aspects of Plymouth.

Time Needed

When planning a visit to the Drake Circus shopping center in Plymouth, you should expect to spend about 2 to 4 hours for a full tour. This is usually enough time to explore the main shops and offerings within the complex.

The exact amount of time you spend at Drake Circus will depend on your personal interests and plans. If you are looking for a serious shopping spree and want to visit many stores, or if you plan to enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the restaurants, your stay may be longer. It is also worth considering any participation in various events or promotions that are periodically held at the mall, which could add more time to your visit.

Working Hours

The Drake Circus shopping center in Plymouth is generally happy to welcome visitors throughout the week, though opening hours may vary. Typically, from Monday to Saturday, the shops are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, while on Sundays, the center operates on a shorter schedule, usually from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. These hours may change depending on the season or public holidays.

Since the schedule can be flexible, it is highly recommended to check the current opening hours on the official Drake Circus website or on-site before planning your visit. This will help you avoid any inconvenience and plan your shopping in the best possible way. No special booking is usually required to visit the shopping center.

DayOpening hours
Monday9:00 – 18:00
Tuesday9:00 – 18:00
Wednesday9:00 – 18:00
Thursday9:00 – 20:00
Friday9:00 – 18:00
Saturday9:00 – 18:00
Sunday10:30 – 16:30

Nearby

After visiting Drake Circus, don't be in a rush to leave this area of Plymouth. Exploring the surroundings will allow you to dive deeper into the city's atmosphere and discover interesting new spots that may not be as widely known but are no less appealing.

Often, the most vivid impressions of a trip come from unexpected finds and spontaneous discoveries. A stroll through the nearby streets, a visit to cozy local venues, or other attractions within walking distance can offer a unique experience and a better understanding of local life in Plymouth.

NameDistance
Turtle Bay0.2 km
Battle Bar Plymouth0.2 km
Cosmic Kitchen0.4 km
Armada Shopping Centre0.4 km
Sutton Harbour0.5 km
KUKU0.5 km
HonkyTonk Wine Library0.5 km

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