UK's greatest shopping centre for 2025 named - it's got more than 100 stores and cafes

A UK shopping centre has been crowned the best for shopping and customer experience - and it's not in London or Kent. Home to more than 100 shops, cafés, and restaurants, it's a popular spot for bargain hunters, fashion fans, and families planning a day out.

The SCEPTRE Awards, dubbed "the Oscars of retail," have announced their full list of 2025 winners, highlighting Britain's top shopping destinations. This year, Silverburn in Glasgow took home the "Retail Destination of the Year" title. Opened in 2007 in Pollok, the mall spans over one million square feet.

The SCEPTRE Awards judging panel said: "Over the past 18 months, Silverburn has delivered record-breaking results, driven by a strategic transformation that has strengthened its reputation as one of Scotland's most dynamic and resilient retail and leisure destinations."

Why did Silberburn win?

Silverburn has established itself as Glasgow's fifth-largest out-of-town retail complex. The destination now houses more than 100 renowned household names, offering a diverse range of products, from clothing to cuisine, featuring establishments such as Boots, H&M, New Look, Pandora, Costa, Cosmo, and numerous others, reported the Daily Record.

Silverburn has expanded its lineup this year with new arrivals, including Black Sheep Coffee, Hollister, H Beauty by Harrods, Jack & Jones, and Bershka. It also debuted Scotland's first standalone Haribo store, welcomed Jo Malone London, and will soon see Oliver Bonas move into a 5,759 sq ft unit next to JD Sports.

Food options continue to grow too, with Wingstop set to open by December, joining existing favourites such as Nando's, Wagamama, Krispy Kreme, Chopstix, and Zizzi.

The Scottish shopping centre beat competitors such as Bluewater in Kent, which was "highly commended" for its sustainability efforts. Trinity Walk in Wakefield and Stamford Quarter in Altrincham also lost out on the first-place title.

The runner-up was Victoria in Leeds, which features an elaborate, glass-roofed Victorian structure housing high street and designer brands. However, the Leeds shopping centre was recognised for its "high commendation" from the awards ceremony.

David Pierotti, general manager of Silverburn, said: "This win, alongside record-breaking customer numbers, is a testament to the dedication of our incredible team and partners, who have worked tirelessly over the past 18 months to transform Silverburn into something truly special," reported Time Out.

"Silverburn has always been about more than just a place to enjoy shopping; we have worked hard to create a destination our community and guests can be proud of, one that champions local employment and contributes meaningfully to Glasgow's continued growth."

Silverburn's victory arrived shortly after the shopping complex claimed another prestigious accolade this year at the Glasgow Business Awards. The retail hub secured the trophy for "Best Performing Large Business".