On the very western edge of Greater London, Bracknell was one of the first designated New Towns in 1949, rapidly growing into a large town with a population nudging 100,000. Thanks to its regeneration and New Town status, Bracknell centre has seen some impressive development, including the huge Lexicon shopping centre as well as the Peel Centre, housing a wide range of High Street brands, independent outlets, bars, pubs, cafés, restaurants and several cinema complexes. The town also has an impressive entertainment and activities scene considering its size, boasting the excellent cultural space at South Hill Park, the John Nike Leisure centre which is home to an Olympic-sized ice rink and a large dry ski slope, ensuring you’ll never be left wondering what to do in Bracknell. Plus, just a short drive away, you’ll find Legoland, Windsor Great Park and Lapland UK; three of the UK’s best-loved attractions. And our Bracknell hotels are well-placed to take in all the action, a short walk from the town centre or a short drive to the main activities.
Things to do in Bracknell
Entertainment
The cultural and entertainment heartbeat of the region, no trip to Bracknell is complete without a visit to the South Hill Park, a wonderful space including several theatres, a cinema, café and restaurant. Plus, with a 10-screen cinema complex, food, music, and beer and cider festivals, there’s something for everyone.
Shopping
The largest shopping centre in Bracknell, The Lexicon spreads over 58,0000 square feet of retail space. It’s home to dozens of stores, outlets, bars and restaurants, as well as the 12-screen Cineworld complex. With more than 140 outlets, the modern shopping centre covers everything from High Street fashion to homeware, jewellery, banking, travel and more, alongside over 30 bars and restaurants spread over two separate areas; Eagle Lane and The Deck.
Next door, you’ll find The Peel Centre, a smaller and more compact shopping centre. As well as a decent range of fashion retailers and big-name stores, the Peel Centre is also where you’ll find the 10-screen Cineworld complex and the Hollywood Bowl as well as several cafés and restaurants to keep you feeling refreshed.
Getting Around
The 25-mile journey from Bracknell to Heathrow Airport takes around 30 minutes by car or taxi and around 90 minutes via a direct bus service to Bracknell Bus Station. The busiest airport in the UK, Heathrow has over 1,000 departures each day taking passengers across the UK, Europe and the rest of the world. Take any stress out of your journey by staying the night before you travel at one of our many hotels near Heathrow Airport.
With direct trains running every 30 minutes into London, Bracknell Train Station is well-connected to the capital. The small town centre station also has regular departures to Reading and Staines, with the two platforms being serviced by a newsagents, ticket office and small waiting area. Outside, you’ll find a taxi rank, bike stands and a car park with around 200 spaces available.
The Lexicon Shopping Centre
