
City Centre
A bustling shopping and entertainment hub in Newport, featuring brand retailers, diverse eateries, a cinema, and bowling alley.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping

City Centre
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling shopping and entertainment hub in Newport, featuring brand retailers, diverse eateries, a cinema, and bowling alley.
"More shops are starting to move in here but still closures the retraunt sector is very nice with landscaped views. "

Check Gate Times
Gates may not open exactly at the advertised time, especially on weekends. Allow extra time. :clock1:
Public Toilet Availability
Public toilets can be scarce. Look for facilities within specific stores like Costa. :toilet:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Brand-Name Retailers
Discover popular brands like Next, New Look, and River Island for your fashion needs.

Diverse Eateries
From KFC and Costa to Prezzo and Wagamama, satisfy your cravings with a variety of dining options.

Entertainment Hub
Enjoy a movie at the cinema or try your luck at the bowling alley for some fun.

Riverfront Theatre
Catch a show or performance at this modern theatre, a cultural gem near the shopping centre.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Newport's City Centre
Beyond the Shops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Gate Times
Gates may not open exactly at the advertised time, especially on weekends. Allow extra time. :clock1:
Public Toilet Availability
Public toilets can be scarce. Look for facilities within specific stores like Costa. :toilet:
Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with the indoor market or Riverfront Theatre for a fuller day out. :performing_arts:
Fashion Finds
Look out for great deals, especially in stores like Next for men's clothing. :shopping_bags:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Gate Times
Gates may not open exactly at the advertised time, especially on weekends. Allow extra time. :clock1:
Public Toilet Availability
Public toilets can be scarce. Look for facilities within specific stores like Costa. :toilet:
Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with the indoor market or Riverfront Theatre for a fuller day out. :performing_arts:
Fashion Finds
Look out for great deals, especially in stores like Next for men's clothing. :shopping_bags:
Vending Machine Alert
Keep an eye out for Meggi Lashes vending machines in the area! :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
City Centre Newport offers a mix of retail therapy and dining, with popular brands and a variety of eateries. While it serves as a convenient hub, some visitors note issues with inconsistent opening times and limited public facilities. The entertainment options and proximity to cultural venues like the Riverfront Theatre are definite draws.
"Gates never open at 6 the two guys who come and open the gate at 15 mins past every weekend purposely bloke me so I can’t get trough the gate until they have got in there van making me even later for work. Immature old men"
Thomas Burgess-Hunt
"Lots of eating places here. Sadly Cineworld has shut which was disappointing...and there is a Next and New Look and River Island. The University campus is on the other side of the road. However. not sure where all the customers are meant to be coming from...hardly the demographic as far as I could see...as usual the KFC is shocking in terms of service standards and hygiene...and of course there is the incredibly run down shopping centre adjoining it..and no public toilets to be seen...and very weird access to ridiculous steps and inadequate lifts...would like to come back in couple of years to see what state it is all in...."
Julia King
"I only used Puregym.
There are some dregs hanging around along with scooters & e-bikes flying about - ideally need the security people to enforce better."
Martyn Perrin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
City Centre Newport is easily accessible by public transport. The ICC conference venue is a short distance from the city centre, and walking is feasible. Buses are a convenient option for reaching the centre. :bus:
While specific parking details aren't widely shared, shopping centres typically offer parking facilities. It's advisable to check local parking information or use a navigation app for real-time availability. :car:
Yes, the city centre is designed for pedestrian access. However, some reviews mention unusual access points and inadequate lifts, so be mindful of this. :walking:
The ICC is a little further out from the city centre. While walking is an option, consider local bus services for a quicker commute. :right_arrow:
Yes, there's a bus station located near Friars Walk, which is part of the City Centre complex, making it convenient for arrivals and departures.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, and some reviews note that gates may not open precisely at the advertised time, particularly on weekends. It's best to check specific store hours or arrive a little after the stated opening. :alarm_clock:
No, City Centre Newport is a public shopping area, and general entry does not require tickets. Individual attractions within the centre, like the cinema or bowling alley, may have their own ticketing requirements. :ticket:
Entry to the general shopping areas of City Centre Newport is free. You only pay for purchases made in the shops or for services and attractions within the centre. :moneywithwings:
Accessibility can be a concern, as some reviews mention 'ridiculous steps and inadequate lifts'. It's advisable to inquire about specific accessibility routes if needed. :wheelchair:
While not explicitly detailed in the provided information, keeping an eye on local event listings or the centre's official website (if available) would be the best way to find out about upcoming events. :calendar:
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You'll find a mix of high-street brands like Next, New Look, and River Island, alongside other retailers. There are also M&S Foods and other specialty stores. :shopping_bags:
The centre boasts a variety of eateries, including popular chains like KFC, Costa, Prezzo, Wagamama, and TGI Friday's. The indoor market also offers many dining options. :forkandknifewithplate:
Yes, some shoppers have found great selections and prices, particularly in the men's clothing section at Next. Look out for promotions and sales. :moneywithwings:
One review specifically mentioned that the KFC in the centre has 'shocking' service standards and hygiene. It might be worth considering other dining options. :warning:
You might find unique items, such as 'made in UK' birthday cards, in stores like Next. Exploring the indoor market could also yield interesting finds. :gift:
🎫 🎬 Entertainment & Activities
City Centre features a cinema (though Cineworld has reportedly shut) and a bowling alley, offering entertainment beyond shopping. :clapper_board:
While Cineworld was a feature, one review indicates it has shut down. It's advisable to check current listings for any operational cinemas within or very near the centre. :movie_camera:
You can enjoy the bowling alley, catch a show at the nearby Riverfront Theatre, or explore the diverse food options available. :performing_arts:
The bowling alley is a good option for families. The general atmosphere of a shopping centre can also be engaging for children, though specific child-focused attractions aren't highlighted. :family_mm:
The Riverfront Theatre is described as 'amazing' and is a modern, well-laid-out venue worth visiting for shows. :performing_arts:
📸 📸 Photography Spots
While not a primary focus, the modern architecture of the centre and the landscaped views in the restaurant areas can offer some visual interest. The Riverfront Theatre also presents a good photographic subject. :camerawithflash:
Consider the areas around the restaurants with landscaped views for a pleasant backdrop. The exterior of the Riverfront Theatre is also a notable spot. :cityscape:
Generally, yes, you can take photos of the public areas of shops and restaurants. However, always be mindful of any specific store policies or privacy concerns. :iphone:
The centre has undergone modernization, and the restaurant sector features landscaped views. The Riverfront Theatre's architecture is also a point of interest. :art:
It's best suited for casual snaps of your shopping trip, food, or perhaps architectural shots of the theatre. It's not typically considered a prime destination for professional photography. :camera:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining your visit with a meal at one of the family-friendly restaurants like Wagamama or TGI Friday's. The proximity to the Riverfront Theatre might also offer family-oriented shows, so checking their schedule could be a good idea. :family_mm:
💰 Budget Travelers
Entry to the centre itself is free, allowing you to browse without spending. Look out for promotions and multi-buy offers in various shops. While specific budget accommodation isn't detailed, the centre's accessibility via public transport can help save on travel costs. :moneywithwings:
couples
For a more cultural experience, check the schedule at the nearby Riverfront Theatre for a date night. The centre's proximity to other city attractions means you can easily extend your outing beyond just shopping. :heart:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the City Centre Experience
However, visitor experiences can be mixed. Some reviews highlight issues with inconsistent gate opening times and a lack of public toilets, suggesting a need for better facility management. There are also mentions of 'dregs hanging around' and scooters being ridden unsafely, indicating potential security or public order concerns. Despite these drawbacks, the modernized restaurant sector with landscaped views and the proximity to the theatre are often cited as positives.
For visitors, it's recommended to be prepared for potential minor inconveniences regarding facilities and to check opening times. Combining a visit with nearby attractions like the indoor market or the Riverfront Theatre can enhance the overall experience. The presence of vending machines, like Meggi Lashes, adds a unique, albeit niche, element to the area.
Navigating Newport: Beyond the Centre
For those looking for more cultural experiences, the Riverfront Theatre is a significant landmark adjacent to the shopping centre. It hosts a variety of performances and events, adding a cultural dimension to a visit. The nearby indoor market is also a vibrant space, particularly for food enthusiasts, offering a modern and well-laid-out marketplace.
When planning your trip, consider how these elements integrate. A conference attendee might find it easy to pop into the City Centre for lunch or an evening meal before heading to a show at the theatre. Understanding the connectivity between these points of interest will help in maximizing your time in Newport. :world_map:
Shopping and Dining Insights
The dining scene is diverse, featuring well-known chains such as KFC, Costa, Prezzo, Wagamama, and TGI Friday's. However, one review specifically flagged the KFC for poor service and hygiene standards, suggesting caution. The Costa upstairs is noted for its convenience and available toilets, a valuable tip given the general scarcity of public facilities.
For a more local flavour, the adjacent indoor market is a popular spot for eating, described as modern and well-organized. This offers an alternative to the chain restaurants and is a good place to explore for a variety of food options. :forkandknifewithplate:





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit