Lakeside

[Dee Sa]

I went to Lakeside late shopping today, on my return journey it took 10mins to get out of the car park and another 45mins to reach the A13 and then another 10 mins to get past the turn off for Dartford Bridge and make tracks for London A13.never again before xmas !

[jno]

as you say, it's Christmas. Don't imagine Oxford St is any better. Could you maybe go by bus? (Sorry, don't know if there are actually bus lanes to speed them up, but if you could park further away and do the last bit on public transport it could well be quicker)

[whiffey]

Why not try a different route rather than being part of the common herd ? For example, turn out of Lakeside towards Southend on the A13, then north towards Brentwood, then into London via the A127 or A12. That whole area around Lakeside/Dartford Crossing is a permanent traffic jam at this time of year.

Taking a less-used route will add to your distance, but at least you stand a sporting chance of not being caught up in frustrating snarl-ups.

[Pippa68]

I avoid all large shopping malls at Christmas. Lakeside is the only one I avoid all year round!

[whiffey]

Christmas Shopping: Put a huge rucksack on my back, cycle to Whitgift Centre Croydon (3 miles, about 15 mins), shopping, maybe a pint or two in a Young's pub, cycle home. No traffic jams, no delays, no hassle.

[beejaybee]

I don`t do any Xmas shopping.

[dartagnon]

I went to Lakeside in April and it was quiet, so why don't they have Christmas in March or April when the shops aren't so busy???

[Dee Sa]

many thanks for all replies, luckily I dont have to go back before xmas and sales are a no no for me, I always come back with such crap.
What I was impressed with in Lakeside retail park was the George store and right next to TKMaxx and and M& S outlet store. three hits in one.
happy xmas to all , keep on shopping.
Dee

[Hellyon]

I do most of my Christmas shopping by internet now. If I do shop I go to West Quay (Southampton) but I drive to Hythe get the little train down the pier, get on the ferry and get a free bus on the other side. Bracing in an east wind but infinitely better than taking the car - 30 minutes as opposed to up to an hour.