Designer shopping, easy dining, and a relaxed Essex day out.
This designer outlet shopping is in the heart of North Essex. Browse top brands at outlet prices, grab a bite at one of the on-site restaurants, and enjoy a relaxed day out for the whole family. Easy parking, great vibes, and just minutes from the A120. Perfect for a shopping trip, rainy-day escape, or a cheeky Essex day out whilst visiting the wider area.
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Local insider tips
For the best experience, visit on a weekday when it's quieter and more relaxed — weekends can get pretty busy! There are three car parks to choose from, all fully accessible, so parking's a breeze. Freeport is mainly open air, which is lovely on a nice day but worth bearing in mind if the weather's not playing ball. Keep an eye out for seasonal pop-up events like ice skating in winter — they're always a treat. Beyond the shopping, there's plenty to keep everyone happy: fantastic restaurants and coffee shops for refuelling, a cinema for catching the latest films, and a bowling alley for some family fun. You've even got the town swimming pool on site and a large garden centre within walking distance or a very short drive. And if you fancy making a proper day of it, there are loads of brilliant local attractions nearby to combine with your visit — North Essex has no shortage of things to explore.
Suggested day itinerary
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Morning coffee
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Outlet browsing
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Lunch stop
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Afternoon shopping
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Nearby local explore
Nearby Braintree History
The earliest concentrated settlements being near the River Brain in the Skitts Hill area, and around the present crossroads at the junction of the A120. This latter area became the focus of the Roman Town, and Saxon development and medieval pilgrim routes influenced the shaping of Braintree over the following centuries.
In 1199 the Bishop of London obtained a Market Charter for Braintree.
many people emigrated from Essex to the New World, including a group from Braintree who sailed on ‘The Lyon’ in 1632 and founded Braintree, Massachusetts and Hartford, Connecticut.
Nearby places / continue exploring
