Northamptonshire isn’t often considered a shopping destination but with the arrival of Rushden Lakes Shopping Centre two years ago, it’s becoming a popular spot for people far and wide to check out big department names, fabulous restaurants and leisure facilities all in one spot.
We were lucky to move to East Northamptonshire just after Rushden Lakes opened so it’s been great to see it expand. Whilst it does have a bit of a traffic/car parking issue (which I could easily rant about all year) it is a fantastic place for things to do and we’re very fortunate to have such big brands on our doorstep. It has saved me many fashion emergencies!
In the last two years they have not only expanded the shops but increased the food section to include such fab names like Wagamama’s, TGI Fridays, Nandos and loads more – and now are starting to bring in some local independent names. The cinema and leisure facility has loads for families to enjoy especially on rainy days with items like indoor golf, climbing walls and soft play.
I was kindly invited to check out their festival from the anniversary weekend which included stalls, demos and masterclasses to showcase the best of the centre. Whilst it was belting it down with rain all weekend, there were high spirits across the board and I’m not even kidding, it was the busiest I’ve ever seen the centre. It took us ages to even find a space to park so the festival obviously brought the crowds in.
Lunch spot
We were kindly gifted lunch at Zizzi’s as part of the festival day and I was so surprised. Wagamama’s is probably my first choice at Rushden Lakes (Pad Thai is life) but I loved the food and service in Zizzi’s. It’s one of the newest additions to the food quarter but a welcome one with their vast Italian options, great drinks menu and just generally relaxed and nice vibe.
We had a LOT to eat and left very full, I’ll be showcasing a full food review shortly so keep your eyes peeled for that but we had a fab lunch with Dan’s brother in there and it made for a great day out. We all left giving high praises.
Coffee break
After a bit of a mooch, we popped into Out of Office coffee which is a fab spot at the lakes. It is actually an independent coffee house which is always music to my ears. (Rushden Lakes has TWO Costa’s opposite each other which personally is ridiculous so I’m so glad to see a local brand now!)
Out of Office provides a personal approach to great coffee. I for one, am not a coffee drinker but Dan and his brother really got intrigued by the options available and their fresh coffee was ground in house and provided in very cool beakers. Dan even purchased a bag of the beans which were even ground for him as we don’t have a grinder at home. What a great service.
I can confirm the hot chocolate was delicious and so creamy – I love when hot chocolate tastes like heated liquid chocolate rather than powder and water. I would love to come in here to get some work done, have meetings or just chill out. Big love to Out of Office.
For press and influencers this weekend they provided our drinks for free and some goodies in a goodie bag – however we purchased the bag of coffee ourself!
All in all – despite the rain – Rushden Lakes deserves to be proud of where it’s come in two years. I love that it’s so close to me and conveniently on my route home from work. My grandma’s local coach company in Norfolk are even providing an excursion to the centre so it’s putting Northamptonshire on the map as a shopping destination.