The Port Arcades Shopping Centre, Ellesmere Port
A central shopping hub in Ellesmere Port offering diverse stores and a traditional market in a covered, accessible setting.
The Port Arcades Shopping Centre is a covered retail hub located in the heart of Ellesmere Port, Cheshire. Established in the mid-1980s, it serves as a central shopping destination featuring a variety of stores including charity shops and a market area. Open seven days a week, it offers a convenient shopping experience with a mix of local and national retailers, reflecting the town's evolution from an industrial past to a retail-focused community.
A brief summary to The Port Arcades Shopping Centre
- 54, Mercer Walk, Ellesmere Port, CH65 0AP, GB
- +441513572118
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
- Thursday 8 am-6 pm
- Friday 8 am-6 pm
- Saturday 8 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays for a quieter shopping experience and full store access.
- Explore the market stalls within the centre for unique local products.
- Check individual store opening times as some may vary within the centre’s general hours.
- Use nearby parking facilities for convenience when visiting by car.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
The Port Arcades Shopping Centre location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Port Arcades Shopping Centre
Origins and Role in Ellesmere Port's Development
The Port Arcades Shopping Centre was constructed in the mid-1980s as part of Ellesmere Port’s shift from an industrial town to a retail and service-oriented community. Situated in the town centre, it was designed as a covered mall to provide a modern shopping environment for local residents and visitors. The centre’s establishment coincided with the rise of retail as a key economic driver in Ellesmere Port, complementing the nearby industrial facilities such as the Vauxhall Motors factory and the Stanlow oil refinery.Architectural and Commercial Character
The shopping centre incorporates buildings from the original Market Square area, blending traditional structures with the covered arcade design typical of 1980s retail architecture. Inside, visitors find a range of shops including charity outlets, market stalls, and various retail stores that cater to everyday needs. Although some feedback notes a need for more diverse retail offerings, the centre remains a focal point for shopping in Ellesmere Port, providing a sheltered and accessible environment.Community and Market Presence
The Port Arcades also hosts a market area that continues Ellesmere Port’s long history of market trading dating back to the early 1800s. This market contributes to the centre’s community atmosphere, offering local produce and goods alongside the permanent retail stores. The market’s presence helps maintain a traditional shopping experience within the modern shopping centre setting.Location and Accessibility
Located at 54 Mercer Walk, the centre benefits from proximity to Ellesmere Port’s transport links and parking facilities, making it easily accessible for shoppers from the town and surrounding areas. Its central position in the town centre makes it a natural gathering place and a convenient stop for errands or leisure shopping.Operating Hours and Visitor Experience
The Port Arcades Shopping Centre operates seven days a week, with weekday hours typically from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm and shorter hours on Sundays. This schedule provides flexibility for visitors with varying routines. The covered design ensures a comfortable shopping experience regardless of weather, contributing to its appeal as a reliable retail destination.Future and Local Significance
As Ellesmere Port continues to evolve, the Port Arcades Shopping Centre remains a key part of the town’s retail landscape. It reflects the transition from the town’s industrial roots to a more diversified economy focused on services and commerce. The centre’s ongoing role supports local businesses and community engagement, anchoring the town centre as a vibrant place for shopping and social interaction.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bridge Of Sighs
9.3 km
A haunting 1793 stone bridge where condemned prisoners took their final steps before execution—Chester's most poignant historical crossing.
Pemberton's Parlour
9.4 km
Explore Pemberton's Parlour, a striking red sandstone tower on Chester’s historic city walls, revealing centuries of medieval and Victorian heritage.
Bonewaldesthorne's Tower
9.4 km
Medieval gatehouse controlling Chester's western defenses, standing sentinel on Britain's most complete city walls.
Ancient Roman Columns, Chester
9.5 km
Roman column bases marking Chester's legacy as a major legionary fortress and potential capital of Britannia.
Chester Town Hall
9.6 km
A stunning Victorian Gothic Revival landmark, Chester Town Hall is the historic heart of Chester’s civic and cultural life.
Chester Visitor Information Centre
9.6 km
Explore Chester's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visitor Information Centre, your essential resource for navigating this historic city.
Chester War Memorial
9.6 km
A solemn neo-medieval tribute to fallen soldiers, unveiled in 1922 within Chester Cathedral's historic grounds.
Eastgate Clock
9.7 km
A Victorian clock atop a Roman gateway, Eastgate Clock is Chester’s most iconic meeting point and one of England’s most photographed timepieces.
Uffington House, Chester
9.7 km
Victorian literary landmark where author Thomas Hughes built his Chester residence in 1885.
Crypt Chambers
9.7 km
Medieval crypt meets Victorian Gothic Revival in Chester's most architecturally significant commercial building.
Chester Cross
9.7 km
Medieval heart of Chester where Roman streets meet Tudor architecture and civic tradition.
Grosvenor Park
9.8 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Grosvenor Park, Chester's Victorian gem, perfect for relaxation, nature walks, and family fun.
Statue of Richard Grosvenor, Second Marquess of Westminster
9.8 km
Discover the monumental Statue of Richard Grosvenor in Chester, a testament to history and artistry surrounded by the charm of this ancient city.
Deva Roman Experience
9.9 km
Discover Chester's rich Roman heritage at Deva Roman Experience, a captivating museum filled with interactive exhibits and historical artifacts.
Chester Roman Amphitheatre
9.9 km
Discover the largest Roman amphitheater in Britain, steeped in history and culture, perfect for tourists exploring Chester's rich heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Coliseum Shopping Park
1.8 km
A bustling retail and leisure hub in Ellesmere Port offering diverse shopping, dining, and family-friendly amenities with excellent accessibility.
Designer Outlet Cheshire Oaks
1.9 km
The UK’s largest designer outlet with over 140 stores, festive events, and dining in a lively, family-friendly setting.
Blue Planet Aquarium
1.9 km
Explore Europe’s largest shark collection and immersive underwater tunnels at Blue Planet Aquarium, a thrilling marine adventure for all ages.
Chester Attractions Partnership
2.0 km
Your welcoming gateway to Chester’s history, tours, and local insights, located in the iconic Town Hall.
Lions
5.5 km
Explore Chester Zoo's vast wildlife sanctuary, home to thousands of animals and immersive habitats, blending conservation with unforgettable family adventures.
Spirit of the Jaguar
5.6 km
Explore one of the world’s finest jaguar habitats in a lush South American-themed exhibit at Chester Zoo, home to elusive big cats and fascinating rainforest species.
Tropical Realm
5.6 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant warmth and exotic wildlife of Chester Zoo’s Tropical Realm, a lush indoor rainforest habitat.
Butterflies journey
5.7 km
Step into a vibrant tropical paradise at Chester Zoo’s Butterfly Journey, home to over 30 species of free-flying butterflies and lush exotic plants.
Elephant Statue
5.8 km
A charming bronze baby elephant statue gifted by Chester Zoo, nestled in the historic streets of Chester – a delightful photo stop for all ages.
Camels
5.8 km
Encounter majestic desert dwellers at the UK's premier conservation zoo
Aquarium
5.8 km
Explore Europe’s largest shark collection and a stunning underwater tunnel at Blue Planet Aquarium, a family-friendly aquatic adventure near Chester.
Chester Zoo
5.9 km
Explore the UK's largest zoo, home to 35,000 animals and immersive tropical habitats, championing conservation and unforgettable family adventures.
Flamingos
5.9 km
Discover the stunning Caribbean flamingos and witness rare chick hatchings at Chester Zoo’s vibrant and lively flamingo habitat.
Giant Otter
5.9 km
Discover the captivating Giant Otters of Chester in a serene, naturalistic setting perfect for wildlife lovers and families alike.
Andean Bear
6.0 km
Discover the captivating Andean Bear in Chester—a unique wildlife experience highlighting conservation and education.
Essential places to dine
Miller & Carter Cheshire
1.7 km
Savor expertly aged British steaks and vibrant bar dining in the heart of Cheshire Oaks, Ellesmere Port’s premier steakhouse destination.
Las Iguanas - Cheshire Oaks
1.7 km
Experience vibrant Latin American flavors and cocktails in a lively, family-friendly setting at Las Iguanas, Cheshire Oaks.
Mowgli Street Food Cheshire Oaks
2.0 km
Authentic Indian street food bursting with vibrant flavours, served in a welcoming and lively setting at Cheshire Oaks Outlet Village.
The Cheshire Yeoman
4.4 km
A warm, family-run country pub in Ellesmere Port serving traditional British dishes in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Made in Italy
8.8 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Chester’s vibrant dining scene.
Sticky Walnut
8.9 km
Intimate modern European bistro in Chester’s Hoole, famed for seasonal dishes, warm service, and a cozy, refined atmosphere.
The Faulkner Pub, Bar & Restaurant
8.9 km
A vibrant Hoole gastropub blending fresh local cuisine, lively bar vibes, and welcoming community spirit in the heart of Chester.
Pacinos
9.1 km
Family-run Italian and Mediterranean fine dining in Chester's city centre since 1986.
Chai Station - Vegetarian vegan Indian
9.2 km
Authentic vegetarian and vegan Indian flavors in Chester’s cozy, welcoming eatery with a personal touch.
Pierogi | Handmade Polish Dumplings
9.2 km
Authentic handmade Polish dumplings in Chester’s cozy Brook Street eatery, blending tradition with fresh, comforting flavors.
The Bird In Hand
9.3 km
A charming Chester pub blending traditional British fare with creative dishes in a cozy, welcoming village setting.
Porta Wine & Tapas Bar
9.3 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Chester’s historic district.
Green House
9.4 km
A stylish Chester tapas restaurant blending gourmet small plates, inventive cocktails, and warm hospitality in a modern setting.
Chez Jules in Chester
9.4 km
Historic French bistro in a converted fire station, celebrated for seasonal cuisine and outstanding value.
Bollicini
9.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and stylish Milanese-inspired dining in the heart of Chester’s historic city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Port Arcades Shopping Centre
0.0 km
A central shopping hub in Ellesmere Port offering diverse stores and a traditional market in a covered, accessible setting.
mirror mirror boutique
8.0 km
Find your unique style at Mirror Mirror Boutique, Chester's premier clothing shop offering trendy apparel and personalized fashion advice.
Olivia & Smith
8.9 km
Discover bespoke jewellery, stylish handbags, and unique gifts at Olivia & Smith, Chester’s charming boutique for quality and personalized service.
erj Boutique & Lifestyle
8.9 km
Discover curated womenswear, footwear, jewellery, and homeware in Chester’s vibrant Hoole at erj Boutique & Lifestyle.
Lagenlook Clothing Boutique - Pale Grey Boutique
9.1 km
Explore unique Lagenlook fashion at Chester's Pale Grey Boutique, where style and elegance meet individuality in every layer.
The 2nd Floor Independent Shop
9.2 km
Discover quirky, unique fashion and gifts with friendly service in Chester’s charming independent boutique on Upper Northgate Street.
CH.ONE
9.4 km
Discover quirky, stylish bargains at CH.ONE, a unique ladies' clothing boutique in the heart of Chester's vibrant Northgate Street.
Queens Road Shopping Centre
9.5 km
Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Queens Road Shopping Centre in Chester, where retail therapy meets local charm.
Chester Zoo at The Market
9.5 km
Discover unique wildlife gifts and support global conservation at Chester Zoo’s vibrant market stall in the heart of Chester.
The Crystal Hut New Chester Market
9.5 km
Discover the vibrant world of healing crystals and spiritual gifts at The Crystal Hut, Chester’s colorful gem in Exchange Square market.
Gifts and Guidance
9.5 km
Trusted crystal specialists offering healing gemstones, spiritual books, and reiki services since 2008.
The Gift Shop
9.6 km
Unique gifts and novelties in the heart of historic Chester's medieval city center.
Lily Vintage Boutique
9.6 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage fashion at Lily Vintage Boutique in Chester’s historic St Werburgh Street.
Foxy Frox Boutique
9.6 km
A stylish women’s clothing boutique in Chester’s historic center, offering contemporary fashion with a personal touch and a relaxed, independent vibe.
The Mug Doctor
9.6 km
Chester's specialist mug retailer offering personalized drinkware and quirky gift finds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Under the oak bar
1.9 km
Cozy bar retreat in Ellesmere Port’s Cheshire Oaks, blending local ales, live music, and a friendly atmosphere for shoppers and visitors alike.
The Lodge Bar
8.7 km
A cozy Chester bar blending classic pub charm with modern cocktails and fine wines in the vibrant Hoole district.
The Deva Tap
9.1 km
Discover Chester’s quirky craft beer gem with a vibrant atmosphere, diverse brews, and a welcoming beer garden on Brook Street.
The Old Harkers Arms
9.4 km
A cozy canalside pub in Chester blending historic charm, quality ales, and classic British fare in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
City Tavern
9.5 km
Historic Chester pub blending traditional charm with lively entertainment, great food, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
The Cornerhouse
9.5 km
A lively Chester bar blending craft beers, live music, and a welcoming vibe for memorable nights and celebrations.
Revolution Chester
9.6 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Chester city centre, perfect for socialising, dining, and celebrations with expertly mixed drinks and vibrant atmosphere.
Music Hall Tap
9.6 km
Chester’s lively craft beer pub with rustic charm, live sports, and a vibrant social scene in the heart of the city.
Metronome Jazz Bar
9.6 km
Chester’s intimate jazz bar with live piano, vinyl classics, and a warm, candlelit atmosphere for a perfect night out.
Brewhouse & Kitchen - Chester
9.7 km
Chester’s vibrant brewpub serving award-winning craft beers, hearty British classics, and a lively community atmosphere on Love Street.
Watergates Bar
9.7 km
Historic 12th-century crypt pub in Chester city centre, serving classic British fare and real ales in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
Red Door
9.8 km
Vibrant late-night cocktail bar and restaurant in Chester’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively music.
Havana Chester
9.8 km
Lively Cuban-inspired bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Watergate Street, offering vibrant music, tapas, and creative cocktails.
Prohibition
9.8 km
Step into Chester’s Prohibition for expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant 1920s speakeasy vibe in a cozy, intimate setting.
The Guild Chester
9.8 km
Chester’s stylish cocktail bar and live music venue with two bars, terrace, and a vibrant yet intimate atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Mandy & Graham’s
7.9 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Mandy & Graham’s, where pulsating beats and lively crowds create unforgettable party nights.
Rosies - Chester
9.7 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Rosies, a multiroom club with rooftop terrace, VIP lounges, and cutting-edge sound over three lively floors.
Cruise
9.7 km
A multi-floor nightclub in Chester offering vibrant music, premium drinks, and lively nightlife across seven bars.
Chester City Club
9.8 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at City Club, where modern beats meet historic charm in the heart of St Peters Churchyard.
BONOBO Bar & Canteen
9.8 km
A vibrant two-floor bar and canteen in Chester blending American eats, cocktails, video games, and lively music for a unique nightlife experience.
Ewloe Social and Community Club Ltd
14.1 km
Experience the heart of Deeside at Ewloe Social and Community Club, where fun, games, and community spirit come together.
Supper Club at Blundell Street
14.4 km
Liverpool's ultimate supper club: fuel up on hearty meals, then dance the night away to drag shows, tributes, and non-stop hits near Echo Arena.
The Establishment
14.6 km
A vibrant Widnes nightclub offering lively events, friendly staff, and a spacious venue for unforgettable nights out.
The Blue Angel Nightclub
14.6 km
Liverpool's dingy dive for 60s rock legends, dirt-cheap drinks, and sweaty throwback dances—where The Beatles once rocked and students still rage till dawn.
Cool It
14.7 km
A multi-level, student-friendly nightclub on Seel Street offering loud DJ nights, bargain entry and packed late‑night dancefloors.
Heebie Jeebies
14.7 km
Liverpool's eclectic nightlife heart: multi-level bar, live music basement, courtyard hangs, and anthemic nights until dawn on Seel Street.
EBGBS
14.7 km
Liverpool's gritty basement nightclub where live indie gigs, craft cocktails, and underground vibes fuel epic nights until 4am in the heart of Seel Street.
BrooklynMixer
14.7 km
Liverpool's original R&B haven on Seel Street: three floors of hip-hop beats, craft cocktails, leather lounges, and private party vibes from dusk till dawn.
Pure Nightlounge
14.7 km
Liverpool’s boutique R&B nightspot with VIP booths, tight dancefloor energy and a late-night, fashion-forward vibe.
Ink Bar Liverpool
14.8 km
Liverpool's premier R&B and house nightclub, where stylish cocktails, thumping beats, and luxury vibes fuel unforgettable nights on Wood Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Casual
- Lively
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly