Jodie Bradley, a resident of Essex and a journalist, has long been a loyal visitor to Lakeside shopping center. She expressed her initial hesitation when a family friend recommended Braintree Village for shopping, a place she had never visited despite living in Essex for most of her life.
Despite the distance from her home, Jodie was drawn to Braintree Village by the promise of great deals. The ample free parking available for up to six hours was a major plus point for her. Upon stepping into the center, she was pleasantly surprised, comparing it to the renowned Bicester Village due to its charming open-air layout adorned with fairy lights that connected the various stores, each with its unique style.
Jodie was impressed by the diverse range of retailers at Braintree Village, dispelling the misconception that outlet malls only cater to luxury brands. Apart from high-end names like Coach, Ralph Lauren, and Belstaff, she found popular brands such as Hollister, Clarks, Nike, Lindt, Haribo, and more, offering a wide selection at attractive prices.
Expressing her excitement, Jodie highlighted the fantastic deals she found, like Hollister jeans for as low as £16, a significant discount from their usual price. She also mentioned discounted products at The Body Shop, where items like body washes and cleansers were available for just £5, making it an ideal spot for her upcoming Christmas shopping.
The variety of dining options at Braintree Village also caught Jodie’s attention, with eateries like Pret, Brick Lane Bagel Co, and the Real Greek adding to the overall experience. While acknowledging that Braintree Village is smaller than Bicester Village, Jodie emphasized the abundance of activities and shopping opportunities that can keep visitors engaged all day long, making it a worthwhile recommendation for those seeking quality bargains and delicious food closer to home.


