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Queensmere Observatory Shopping Centre, Slough

Slough’s central shopping destination combining retail, leisure, and community events in a twin-centre complex.

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Queensmere Observatory Shopping Centre is the central retail hub of Slough, combining two adjoining malls—the Queensmere and the Observatory. It hosts around 124 retail units including shops, cafés, restaurants, a 10-screen cinema, and a gym. Despite its size and variety, the centre has experienced significant decline, with many stores closed, but it remains a key part of Slough's town centre offering parking, events, and essential services.

A brief summary to Queensmere Observatory Shopping Centre

  • Monday 9 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-7 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 10:30 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Use the Observatory Mall car park for convenient 24-hour parking with over 800 spaces and security.
  • Take advantage of Click and Collect services offered by some stores for easier shopping.
  • Visit on weekdays or Saturdays for longer opening hours, with Thursday and Saturday open until 7pm.
  • Check for scheduled free events at the centre to enjoy community activities during your visit.
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Getting There

  • Train

    Slough train station is a short walk from the centre, with frequent trains from London Paddington, Heathrow Airport, and Maidenhead. Journey times vary from 15 to 40 minutes depending on origin. The station is well connected and accessible.

  • Bus

    Multiple bus routes stop near Queensmere Observatory Shopping Centre, running regularly throughout the day. Buses connect Slough town centre with surrounding areas and Heathrow Airport, with typical journey times ranging from 20 to 60 minutes.

  • Car

    Visitors driving can use the Observatory Mall car park with 830 spaces, accessible via Wellington Street (A4). Parking costs about £1 per hour Monday to Saturday and £2 all day Sunday. Note the Queensmere car park closed permanently in June 2025.

Queensmere Observatory Shopping Centre location weather suitability

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  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Queensmere Observatory Shopping Centre

A Central Retail Complex in Slough

Queensmere Observatory Shopping Centre is a twin-centre complex located in the heart of Slough, combining the Queensmere and the adjoining Observatory malls. Together, they house approximately 124 retail units, providing a mix of shops, cafés, restaurants, and leisure facilities including a 10-screen cinema and a gym. The centre serves as Slough’s main shopping destination, situated on High Street and supported by extensive parking facilities.

Facilities and Services for Visitors

The shopping centre offers practical amenities such as free Wi-Fi, multiple lifts for accessibility, and a taxi rank to facilitate easy movement around the town. There are also Amazon Lockers for convenient parcel collection, various cash machines, and post boxes near the entrances. The Observatory Mall car park, with over 800 spaces, operates 24 hours and features CCTV and security, though the Queensmere car park was permanently closed in mid-2025 due to operational challenges.

Current Retail Landscape and Challenges

In recent years, Queensmere Observatory has faced significant decline, with many major stores closing down. The departure of key retailers has left large sections of the mall empty, leading to a quieter atmosphere than in its heyday. Despite this, some stores like Next, Peacocks, and TK Maxx remain operational. The cinema and other entertainment venues continue to serve visitors, though there are reports of closures and a general sense of neglect in parts of the centre.

Ongoing Regeneration Plans

The shopping centre is part of a wider regeneration scheme for Slough town centre, involving new residential, office, and retail developments. Ownership changes and planning permissions have been secured for redevelopment, though progress has been slow. The future vision aims to revitalize the area, improve facilities, and create a more vibrant town centre environment.

Accessibility and Transport Links

Queensmere Observatory is easily accessible by public transport, located within walking distance of Slough train station with regular connections to London Paddington, Heathrow, and Maidenhead. Numerous bus routes serve the area, and the large Observatory car park accommodates visitors arriving by car. The centre is designed to be wheelchair accessible, with lifts and disabled parking spaces available.

Community and Events

Despite retail challenges, the centre hosts regular free events organized by retailers and management to engage the local community. These range from seasonal celebrations to family-friendly activities, aiming to maintain the centre’s role as a social hub in Slough.

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