arc Shopping Centre
Modern shopping meets cultural entertainment in the heart of historic Bury St Edmunds.
arc Shopping Centre is a modern open street-scape shopping destination in the heart of Bury St Edmunds, featuring over 35 shops and restaurants alongside leisure facilities including Everyman Cinema and The Apex theatre. Opened in March 2009, this contemporary centre offers a relaxed shopping experience with award-winning facilities, dog-friendly access, and excellent accessibility features. Perfect for a half-day outing combining retail therapy, dining, and entertainment.
A brief summary to arc Shopping Centre
- 14 Prospect Row, Bury Saint Edmunds, IP33 3DG, GB
- +441284706037
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Thursday evenings for late-night shopping until 20:00, allowing you to browse without weekend crowds and enjoy the centre's festive atmosphere during darker months.
- Combine shopping with entertainment by checking The Apex's live music schedule or Everyman Cinema's film listings before your visit to plan a full day out.
- Use the Click and Collect service through participating brands to shop at your convenience and collect items during your visit, avoiding the need to carry purchases around the centre.
- Bring your dog along—the centre is dog-friendly with many stores welcoming well-behaved pets, making it a unique shopping experience for you and your companion.
- Take advantage of the award-winning customer facilities, including excellent restrooms and baby changing areas, which are among the best-maintained in the region.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By Car
The Cattle Market car park is directly adjacent to arc Shopping Centre and provides ample parking. From the town centre, follow signs for the shopping centre or Cattle Market. Parking is free and accessible throughout the day. Journey time from central Bury St Edmunds is approximately 5-10 minutes depending on traffic and starting location.
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By Bus
Bury St Edmunds has a comprehensive local bus network with multiple services operating through the town centre. The shopping centre is within walking distance of the main bus station. Most local and regional services stop within 5-15 minutes' walk of arc. Check Traveline East Anglia for current routes and timetables serving your starting point.
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On Foot
arc Shopping Centre is centrally located in Bury St Edmunds at 14 Prospect Row. From the Abbey Gardens, it's approximately 10-15 minutes' walk through the town centre. From the train station, allow 20-25 minutes' walk following town centre signs. The route is flat and well-signposted with clear pedestrian access throughout the town.
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By Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis are readily available in Bury St Edmunds town centre. Journey times from the train station are typically 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Ride-share services operate in the area. The centre's address is 14 Prospect Row, Bury St Edmunds IP33 3DG for navigation purposes.
arc Shopping Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about arc Shopping Centre
A Contemporary Shopping Hub in Historic Bury St Edmunds
arc Shopping Centre stands as a modern focal point in the medieval market town of Bury St Edmunds, having opened its doors in March 2009. The centre's distinctive open street-scape design creates an inviting atmosphere that feels more like a curated outdoor plaza than a traditional enclosed mall. Positioned at 14 Prospect Row, it occupies a strategic location within the town centre, making it easily accessible to both locals and visitors exploring Suffolk's heritage attractions. The centre houses over 35 retail outlets and dining establishments, carefully curated to offer something for every shopper. From high street fashion brands to specialist retailers, gift shops to bookstores, the variety ensures that whether you're seeking everyday essentials or something special, you'll find it here. The mix of well-known chains creates a familiar shopping environment while the thoughtful curation maintains the centre's character as a destination rather than just a shopping facility.Leisure and Entertainment Beyond Shopping
arc transcends the typical shopping centre experience by integrating significant cultural and entertainment venues. The Apex, an award-winning multi-purpose venue, hosts live music performances and diverse cultural events throughout the year, while Everyman Cinema provides a refined cinematic experience. These anchors transform arc into a genuine leisure destination where visitors can combine shopping with entertainment, making it ideal for a full day out rather than a quick retail visit. The dining options span from casual coffee shops to established restaurants, allowing visitors to refuel between shopping expeditions or enjoy an evening meal before catching a film or live performance. This integrated approach to retail and leisure reflects contemporary shopping centre design, where the experience extends well beyond purchasing goods.Accessibility and Family-Friendly Facilities
arc has invested significantly in accessibility and family amenities, earning recognition for its facilities. The customer toilets, located just off Hanchet Square, achieved the prestigious Platinum Plus standard in the 2024 Loo of the Year Awards, alongside the Washroom Cleaner of the Year Award. Baby changing facilities are available within these toilets, which also won the Space to Change Platinum Plus award. For visitors with accessibility needs, the centre provides adjustable adult changing tables with powered hoists, Radar Key access to accessible facilities, and emergency alarms throughout. The centre welcomes families with young children and is notably dog-friendly, with many stores inviting four-legged companions to shop alongside their owners. This inclusive approach extends to mobility support through the Shopmobility Scheme, ensuring visitors of all abilities can navigate and enjoy the centre comfortably.Shopping Experience and Practical Features
The modern design of arc creates a pleasant shopping environment with its open street-scape layout, allowing natural light and ventilation while maintaining weather protection. The centre operates extended hours, particularly on Thursdays when late-night shopping allows visitors to browse until 20:00, perfect for those seeking to avoid weekend crowds during peak seasons. Click and Collect services are available through 28 brands, enabling convenient shopping flexibility. Parking is readily available at the Cattle Market car park adjacent to the centre, with clear signage and easy access. The layout encourages leisurely browsing rather than rushed shopping, with seating areas and shelter throughout the open design. Information boards guide visitors to specific retailers and services, while the centre management office can assist with any queries or special requirements.Seasonal Atmosphere and Community Role
arc plays an important role in Bury St Edmunds' community calendar, particularly during festive seasons when twinkling lights and seasonal decorations enhance the shopping experience. The centre becomes a gathering point for locals and visitors alike, especially during the Christmas period when late-night shopping Thursdays attract those seeking stress-free festive shopping. Beyond retail, the venue hosts community events and activities, reinforcing its position as more than just a shopping destination but as a genuine community hub.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Visit The Broads
29.5 km
Your gateway to exploring the enchanting waterways, wildlife, and heritage of the Norfolk Broads National Park.
Eye Castle
31.1 km
Discover the historic Eye Castle, a medieval gem in Eye, England, offering stunning architecture and rich history for curious travelers.
Finchingfield Post Mill
35.4 km
Discover Essex’s oldest post mill, a charming 18th-century landmark overlooking the picturesque village of Finchingfield.
Romsey Terrace
38.8 km
Explore the historic charm of Cambridge from Romsey Terrace, a convenient bus stop that connects you to the city's vibrant attractions and culture.
Cambridge Leisure Park
39.5 km
A lively Cambridge leisure hub offering diverse dining, entertainment, and modern facilities for all ages and tastes.
Midsummer Common
39.7 km
Discover the tranquility of Midsummer Common, a stunning park in Cambridge, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and scenic riverside walks.
Hills Road War Memorial
39.8 km
A poignant bronze statue on Hills Road honoring Cambridgeshire’s war heroes, symbolizing sacrifice and the journey home.
St. Paul's Church
39.9 km
Explore the architectural beauty and community spirit of St. Paul's Church, a serene Anglican landmark in Cambridge, perfect for reflection and connection.
Parker's Piece
39.9 km
Explore Parker's Piece, Cambridge's iconic park, where history meets nature in a picturesque setting perfect for relaxation and outdoor fun.
Reality Checkpoint
39.9 km
A colorful Victorian lamppost marking the boundary between Cambridge's academic bubble and the real world, standing proudly at Parker’s Piece.
Duke House
40.0 km
A charming boutique guesthouse blending historic elegance with warm hospitality in central Cambridge.
High Woods Country Park
40.0 km
Discover High Woods Country Park: An expansive green oasis in Colchester, perfect for nature lovers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts.
The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption and the English Martyrs, Cambridge
40.0 km
Explore the breathtaking architecture and serene atmosphere of The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption and the English Martyrs in Cambridge.
Christ's Pieces
40.1 km
Discover the lush landscapes and vibrant atmosphere of Christ's Pieces, a picturesque park in the heart of Cambridge, perfect for relaxation and social gatherings.
Scott Polar Research Institute (Polar Museum)
40.1 km
Uncover the history of polar exploration at the Scott Polar Research Institute, a captivating museum in Cambridge dedicated to the icy frontiers of our planet.
Unmissable attractions to see
English Heritage - Bury St Edmunds Abbey
0.6 km
Explore the majestic ruins of Bury St Edmunds Abbey nestled within tranquil, historic Abbey Gardens in the heart of Suffolk.
Risby Barn Antique Centre
5.8 km
Discover antiques, collectibles, and countryside charm in a historic 16th-century barn near Bury St Edmunds.
West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village
8.8 km
Step into 5th–7th century England at this living Anglo-Saxon village, where reconstructed houses, ancient crafts, and a 125-acre country park bring early medieval life vividly to life.
St Peter & St Paul's Church, Alpheton
14.0 km
Experience the tranquility and history of St Peter & St Paul's Church, Alpheton, a hidden gem in the picturesque Sudbury region of England.
Moulton Packhorse Bridge
15.3 km
Discover the serene charm of Moulton Packhorse Bridge, a historical landmark steeped in rich heritage and picturesque beauty.
Little Hall Museum, Lavenham
16.3 km
Discover the rich history and Tudor charm of Little Hall, a beautifully preserved 14th-century timber-framed house in Lavenham’s Market Place.
National Trust - Lavenham Guildhall
16.3 km
Step into 500 years of history at Lavenham Guildhall, a beautifully preserved Tudor timber-framed treasure in the heart of Suffolk’s medieval village.
Kentwell Hall
16.4 km
Explore Kentwell Hall, a timeless Tudor manor with moat, gardens, rare breeds farm, and immersive living history in Suffolk’s scenic Long Melford.
The Cock Horse Inn - Lavenham
16.6 km
Historic timber-framed pub in medieval Lavenham offering traditional ales, hearty meals, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Holy Trinity Church, Long Melford
17.6 km
Explore the awe-inspiring medieval Holy Trinity Church in Long Melford, a Suffolk wool church renowned for its grand architecture and historic stained glass.
National Trust - Melford Hall
18.2 km
Explore centuries of history, naval heritage, and tranquil gardens at Melford Hall, a beloved Suffolk family estate with charming Tudor features.
Ancient House Museum
19.0 km
Discover Thetford’s rich heritage in a charming crooked house museum filled with stories, exhibits, and a tranquil garden.
English Heritage - Thetford Priory
19.1 km
Explore the atmospheric ruins of a grand 12th-century priory, set within tranquil Norfolk grounds and steeped in medieval history and noble legacy.
Burwell Museum and Windmill
26.1 km
Explore Burwell’s rich fenland heritage through a historic windmill, vintage exhibits, and immersive rural life displays in a charming village setting.
Burwell Fen
28.7 km
Restored fenland wilderness where nature reclaims the landscape and rare birds thrive
Essential places to dine
The Eaterie @ The Angel Hotel
0.4 km
Stylish modern British dining with historic charm in the heart of Bury St Edmunds at The Angel Hotel’s acclaimed restaurant.
La Maison Bleue
0.5 km
Elegant modern French dining in Bury St Edmunds, offering refined classics, exceptional service, and a curated wine selection for memorable gourmet experiences.
1921
0.5 km
Experience exquisite modern British cuisine with seasonal artistry and refined hospitality at 1921 Angel Hill in historic Bury St Edmunds.
Pea Porridge
0.5 km
Discover Suffolk’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, Pea Porridge, serving hearty Moorish-inspired cuisine in a warm, intimate setting.
The Great House Hotel and Restaurant
16.3 km
Historic elegance and exquisite dining converge in the heart of Lavenham’s medieval Market Place.
Scutchers
17.8 km
Refined British fine dining in the historic village of Long Melford, blending exceptional cuisine with warm, polished service.
The Mulberry
18.7 km
Savor a refined blend of British and Italian cuisine in a warm, inviting atmosphere at The Mulberry, Thetford’s acclaimed dining gem.
The Bull Auberge
27.6 km
Elegant 5-star countryside inn in Suffolk offering exquisite local cuisine, luxurious rooms, and warm, attentive hospitality.
The Hole In The Wall
31.2 km
Historic gastropub and cozy B&B in Little Wilbraham, blending rustic charm with exceptional British cuisine and warm hospitality.
The Prince Albert
34.9 km
A charming traditional pub in Ely offering expertly crafted ales, fresh local food, and a welcoming atmosphere with a lively social calendar.
Talbooth Restaurant
36.2 km
Award-winning Modern British fine dining on the River Stour, where 19th-century charm meets contemporary culinary excellence.
The Eaterie @ the Salthouse Harbour Hotel
37.6 km
Modern British dining with fresh local seafood and stunning marina views at Ipswich’s stylish Salthouse Harbour Hotel.
Limoncello
38.9 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm meet in Cambridge's beloved deli, bistro, and courtyard garden on Mill Road.
Tradizioni
38.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Cambridge.
Kingston Arms
39.2 km
Discover traditional British hospitality at The Kingston Arms in Cambridge—your perfect pub retreat with craft beers and delightful outdoor spaces.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bohemia Vintage & Lifestyle
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage fashion, retro homewares, and quirky collectibles at Bohemia Vintage & Lifestyle in the heart of Bury St Edmunds.
Essential Vintage
37.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion classics in the heart of Ipswich’s charming Eagle Street.
Romsey Barbers Ltd Cambridge
37.8 km
Classic cuts in Cambridge's Romsey: friendly barber shop delivering sharp fades and shaves with neighborhood warmth.
Beehive Centre
38.8 km
A dynamic shopping centre in Cambridge offering diverse stores, dining, and free parking for a convenient retail experience.
The Old Chemist Shop Antique Centre
38.9 km
Vibrant Cambridge antique centre in a former chemist shop, brimming with 20th-century toys, jewelry, and eclectic finds from fun-loving dealers.
Romsey Mill Charity Shop
39.0 km
Mill Road’s friendly charity shop — thrift, small discoveries and funds for local youth and family services in Cambridge.
The Hive
39.3 km
Discover a charming treasure trove of antiques and vintage finds in the heart of Cambridge at The Hive.
Not Listed
39.4 km
Explore the vibrant local culture and unique offerings at this charming shop in the heart of Cambridge.
Sense
39.5 km
Affordable finds in central Cambridge, supporting a national disability charity with every purchase.
Cambs Frocktails
39.6 km
Boutique fashion finds capturing individual style and charm on Cambridge's Station Road.
Jemporium Vintage
39.6 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage treasures from the 50s to the 90s in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant fashion scene.
Primark
39.6 km
Discover affordable fashion and home essentials at Primark Cambridge, your budget-friendly style destination in the city center.
The Stock Shop
39.6 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and accessories in a unique hospital setting at The Stock Shop, Cambridge's trusted retail haven since 1988.
The Works
39.7 km
Bargain-packed paradise of books, crafts, toys, and gifts on Cambridge's Fitzroy Street—creative treasures at unbeatable prices.
CJ’s Vintage Store
40.2 km
Discover timeless fashion treasures and iconic vintage streetwear at CJ’s Vintage Store, a stylish gem in the heart of Cambridge.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Unique Bar Newmarket
20.7 km
Experience the lively vibes and weekend dance nights at Unique Bar, Newmarket’s hotspot for great drinks and energetic fun.
The Three Tuns
35.2 km
Historic 16th-century pub in Great Abington blending authentic Thai cuisine with charming accommodation and a warm village atmosphere.
Plough Cambridge
37.0 km
A charming riverside gastropub in Fen Ditton offering classic British fare with modern flair and scenic views by the River Cam.
The Brewers Inn
37.1 km
A refined gastro pub with Indian-inspired dishes and cozy rooms, offering a peaceful retreat near Cambridge.
Red Lion, Cherry Hinton
37.2 km
Historic village pub in Cherry Hinton with a lively atmosphere, dog-friendly garden, classic fare, and live sports entertainment.
The Royal Standard Pub
38.5 km
Cambridge's Mill Road gastropub pouring exceptional gins, craft beers, and hearty plates in a quirky, cosy haven for every occasion.
The Corner House
38.8 km
A lively gastropub on Newmarket Road offering excellent pub food, diverse drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere in Cambridge.
Rock
38.9 km
Cherry Hinton's go-to Greene King pub for hearty meals, well-kept ales, and neighborhood camaraderie on lively Cherry Hinton Road.
196 cocktail bar
38.9 km
Discover Cambridge’s intimate cocktail haven with expertly crafted drinks, cozy vibes, and attentive service on vibrant Mill Road.
The Geldart
38.9 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cambridge blending historic charm, creative hot rock dining, and a lively retro music atmosphere for a unique experience.
The Petersfield
39.1 km
A friendly and lively pub in Cambridge offering classic drinks, a welcoming garden, and a cozy atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Cambridge Blue
39.2 km
Historic Cambridge pub famed for its award-winning real ales, vast beer selection, and vibrant community spirit in a charming Victorian setting.
Devonshire Arms
39.2 km
Cambridge's cozy real ale gem with ciders galore, Caribbean kicks, and a labyrinthine layout that invites you to settle in for the evening.
The Blue Moon
39.3 km
Cambridge's craft beer heartbeat: rotating taps, live gigs, and cozy pizzas in a welcoming pub alive with local energy.
Station Tavern
39.4 km
Cambridge's first Young's pub, steps from the station: British seasonal eats, fine ales, and terrace vibes for travelers and locals.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Flex Nightclub
0.1 km
Lively late-night nightclub in Bury St. Edmunds offering dance music, bar service, and a bustling atmosphere with a local crowd.
Ice Nightclub
18.8 km
Thetford’s vibrant nightlife hotspot with nostalgic tunes, lively parties, and a welcoming atmosphere for over-18s.
Carbon Nightclub
20.7 km
Experience Stowmarket’s lively nightlife at Carbon Nightclub, a modern venue pulsing with music and weekend energy.
The Club
36.7 km
Experience Ipswich’s vibrant nightlife at The Club, where music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere come alive in the city centre.
Supper Club
37.1 km
Lively nightclub in Ipswich offering great drinks, music, and a vibrant social scene from afternoon until early morning.
Salisbury Club
38.7 km
Cambridge's cozy Mill Road club: retro discos, pool tables, cheap drinks, and community spirit in a true local gem.
EBC Shop
39.4 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at EBC Shop in Cambridge, where the music keeps you dancing and the atmosphere is always electric.
Sing Dizzy
39.5 km
Sing Dizzy offers Cambridge a lively karaoke bar experience with costumes, props, and an extensive song list for unforgettable nights of fun and music.
Cambridge Pop-up Speakeasy Jazz
39.6 km
Free live jazz pop-ups in a historic Cambridge pub: intimate sets, diverse musicians, speakeasy vibes on select Wednesdays at 7:30pm.
The Calling
39.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Calling, Cambridge's premier event management venue, perfect for unforgettable experiences and fun times.
80s karaoke bar
39.9 km
Neon-lit, 80s-themed karaoke on Hills Road—compact, group-friendly singalongs from the early evening into the night.
Vinyl Cambridge
40.4 km
Dance through decades on a glowing LED floor at Vinyl Cambridge's throwback haven—2-for-1 drinks, VIP vibes, and non-stop retro anthems await in the city center.
MASH
40.4 km
Cambridge’s vibrant independent nightclub offering themed music nights and a welcoming, safe party atmosphere until the early hours.
High Five
40.4 km
Cambridge's electrifying gay nightclub where themed nights, drag glamour, and inclusive dance floors ignite unforgettable evenings in the city heart.
Cambridge Lola Lo
40.4 km
Step into Cambridge Lola Lo, a vibrant tiki-themed nightclub with tropical vibes, lively dance floors, and a stunning rooftop terrace in the city centre.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Casual
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
