The Howard Centre: Welwyn Garden City's Premier Shopping Destination
Welwyn Garden City’s vibrant shopping centre offering diverse stores, dining, and community events in a welcoming, accessible setting.
Located in the heart of Welwyn Garden City, The Howard Centre is a vibrant shopping centre offering a diverse range of retail stores, eateries, and services. Open daily with convenient hours, it serves as a community hub for shopping, dining, and socialising. With a mix of high-street brands and local shops, it caters to all ages and tastes, making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors.
A brief summary to The Howard Centre
- Howardsgate, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6HA, GB
- +441707320026
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- 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 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays for a quieter shopping experience and easier parking.
- Check out seasonal pop-up shops and events for unique local products and entertainment.
- Use the centre’s amenities such as seating areas and restrooms to enhance your visit comfort.
- Plan your visit during opening hours from 9am to 5:30pm on weekdays for full access to stores.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Howard Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Howard Centre
A Central Hub for Shopping and Community Life
The Howard Centre stands prominently in Welwyn Garden City’s town centre, acting as a focal point for retail and social activity. This shopping centre hosts a wide variety of stores ranging from well-known high-street names to unique local boutiques. Its location on Howardsgate makes it easily accessible and central to the town’s daily rhythm. The centre’s design focuses on functionality and comfort, providing shoppers with an inviting environment to explore a comprehensive selection of goods and services.Diverse Retail and Dining Options
Within the Howard Centre, visitors will find a broad spectrum of retail outlets including fashion, health and beauty, electronics, and lifestyle stores. Notable tenants include popular brands such as Boots and H&M, which offer extended opening hours to accommodate different schedules. The centre also features a variety of cafes and eateries, creating a pleasant atmosphere for breaks between shopping. This blend of retail and dining options ensures that visitors can enjoy a full day of leisure and convenience under one roof.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
The Howard Centre is designed to be welcoming and accessible to all. It provides amenities such as restrooms, seating areas, and information boards to enhance the visitor experience. The centre is equipped with good mobile reception and offers a safe, clean environment suitable for families, seniors, and individuals with mobility needs. Its operating hours from early morning to early evening throughout the week, with slightly reduced hours on Sundays, offer flexibility for shoppers.Events and Community Engagement
Beyond shopping, The Howard Centre frequently hosts events and pop-up shops that celebrate local culture and seasonal festivities. These activities foster a sense of community and provide visitors with unique experiences beyond retail therapy. The centre’s management actively engages with the local population to ensure it remains a vibrant and relevant part of Welwyn Garden City’s social fabric.Modern Design with Practical Appeal
While not architecturally historic, The Howard Centre features a modern, functional design focused on shopper comfort and ease of navigation. Its interior spaces are well-lit and spacious, facilitating a relaxed shopping pace. The centre’s aesthetic is straightforward and practical, emphasizing convenience and accessibility over ornate design elements.A Welcoming Destination for All Visitors
Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to Welwyn Garden City, The Howard Centre offers a reliable and enjoyable shopping experience. Its broad mix of stores, community-oriented events, and accessible facilities make it a central part of the town’s commercial life. The centre’s commitment to serving diverse audiences ensures it remains a key destination for shopping, dining, and social connection.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rye House Gatehouse
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Whitewebbs Museum of Transport
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Explore the rich history of transportation at Whitewebbs Museum of Transport, featuring vintage vehicles and fascinating memorabilia in Enfield.
Premier Inn London Elstree / Borehamwood hotel
16.2 km
Comfortable, accessible 3-star hotel near Elstree Studios with great dining and easy London connections.
Scratchwood
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Discover Scratchwood, a serene woodland retreat perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility and outdoor adventures in the heart of lush greenery.
Bentley Priory Museum
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Discover the fascinating history of Bentley Priory Museum, a key site of British aviation heritage during World War II, nestled in the serene Stanmore countryside.
St John the Evangelist, Stanmore
22.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of St John the Evangelist Church in Stanmore, a blend of rich history and stunning architecture for every traveler.
River Lee Navigation
22.6 km
Experience the tranquility of River Lee Navigation, a scenic waterway offering picturesque views, wildlife encounters, and outdoor activities in the heart of England.
Middlesex University London
23.6 km
Discover Middlesex University London, where education meets culture in a vibrant campus setting, just a stone's throw from the heart of the city.
The Weald Stone
23.8 km
An ancient sarsen stone marking centuries of history and identity at the heart of Harrow Wealdstone.
The Gibberd Garden
24.4 km
Discover The Gibberd Garden in Harlow, a beautiful park blending art and nature for a serene retreat and memorable experiences.
Queen's Wood
24.8 km
Explore the tranquility of Queen's Wood, a serene nature reserve in London perfect for leisurely walks and wildlife spotting amidst stunning greenery.
Downhills Park
24.9 km
Explore Downhills Park, a tranquil oasis in London offering picturesque gardens, expansive green spaces, and enjoyable recreational activities for all.
Pinner Hill Golf Club
24.9 km
Discover Pinner Hill Golf Club, a beautiful golfing haven in Middlesex offering a stunning course and welcoming atmosphere for all golf enthusiasts.
Landmark Auctions London
25.8 km
Experience the thrill of property bidding at Landmark Auctions London, where investment opportunities await in the heart of Rickmansworth.
The Gypsy Stone
26.9 km
Discover the Gypsy Stone in Woodford, a serene forest monument honoring evangelist Rodney 'Gipsy' Smith and Romani heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Enchanted England Tours
3.5 km
Discover England’s magic and history with bespoke private tours from Hatfield, blending folklore, royal heritage, and scenic beauty.
Hatfield House, Park and Gardens
4.5 km
Explore centuries of English history, stunning Jacobean architecture, and serene gardens at the magnificent Hatfield House estate in Hertfordshire.
The Galleria
5.1 km
Hatfield’s covered outlet hub with 80+ stores, dining, cinema and family play, all under one roof just off the A1(M).
Panshanger Park
6.6 km
Explore 400 hectares of historic Hertfordshire countryside with ancient oaks, lakes, and abundant wildlife at Panshanger Park.
Willowmead
7.7 km
A tranquil riverside nature reserve in Hertford offering rich wildlife habitats and peaceful urban escape.
Knebworth House
8.0 km
Five centuries of aristocratic heritage, cultural legacy, and family stories in a splendid Hertfordshire country estate.
The Maltings
10.7 km
A historic and vibrant shopping centre blending heritage charm with modern retail in the heart of St Albans.
St Albans Market
10.7 km
A historic and bustling outdoor market in St Albans offering fresh produce, artisan goods, and vibrant community spirit every Wednesday and Saturday.
St Albans
10.9 km
Explore St Albans, a historic cathedral city blending Roman heritage, medieval grandeur, and vibrant market life just outside London.
The Clock Tower
10.9 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking views at The Clock Tower, a must-see landmark in St Albans that embodies the city's heritage and charm.
St Albans Cathedral
11.1 km
Discover the historic St Albans Cathedral, a majestic blend of architecture, history, and spirituality in the heart of England.
Westgate Shopping Centre (Stevenage)
11.3 km
A compact and convenient shopping centre at the heart of Stevenage, blending practical retail with community spirit.
Abbey View Retail Park
11.5 km
Modern retail park with major stores, free parking, and convenient access south of St Albans town centre.
Hertford Heath Nature Reserve
11.5 km
Explore the peaceful heathland and woodland trails of Hertford Heath Nature Reserve, a vibrant haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts.
Roman Wall of St Albans
11.7 km
Explore the enduring Roman Wall of St Albans, a monumental relic enclosing the ancient city of Verulamium within scenic Verulamium Park.
Essential places to dine
The Waggoners
1.9 km
A charming French bistro nestled in a traditional English country pub setting, offering authentic cuisine and warm hospitality in Ayot Green.
Auberge du Lac
2.7 km
Elegant Modern British dining with estate-grown ingredients in a historic lakeside lodge at Brocket Hall Estate.
Roy's Restaurant
3.3 km
A warm, modern British restaurant in Welwyn offering diverse dishes, attentive service, and a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Cowper Arms Hertford
4.9 km
A charming Hertford gastropub blending traditional British fare with modern style and a welcoming atmosphere.
Le Moulin Restaurant
6.3 km
Experience authentic French fine dining in the cozy charm of Wheathampstead at Le Moulin Restaurant.
The Wicked Lady
6.3 km
A charming Hertfordshire gastropub blending rustic tradition with modern British cuisine in a warm, inviting countryside setting.
Cock o’ the North
7.7 km
A charming English pub in Bell Bar offering classic British fare, cozy fires, and a spacious beer garden near Hatfield.
ILVINO RESTAURANT
8.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Hertford at ILVINO Restaurant, a cozy spot for pasta, pizza, and seafood lovers.
The Woolpack
8.6 km
Experience the best of British hospitality at The Woolpack - enjoy delicious food, local ales, and live music in Hertford's charming pub atmosphere.
Three Horseshoes
8.6 km
A charming gastropub in Hertford blending traditional British fare with creative cuisine in a warm, family-friendly setting.
The Old Barge
8.7 km
Discover The Old Barge: A charming English pub offering delicious cuisine, live music, and scenic views along the waterways.
Dinnio Restaurant
8.7 km
A vibrant Mediterranean dining experience blending Italian and Turkish flavors in the heart of Hertford’s historic Fore Street.
Lussmanns Sustainable Kitchen & Bar - Hertford
8.9 km
Savor sustainably sourced modern British cuisine in a warm, spacious Hertford bistro with attentive service and seasonal menus.
Veyso’s Brasserie
8.9 km
Award-winning Turkish cuisine and glamorous dining in the heart of Hertford, blending tradition with contemporary flair.
Harvester Ancient Briton St Albans
9.8 km
Family-friendly British dining with hearty grills, fresh salads, and a welcoming atmosphere in St Albans’ charming Harvester Ancient Briton.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Howard Centre
0.0 km
Welwyn Garden City’s vibrant shopping centre offering diverse stores, dining, and community events in a welcoming, accessible setting.
Spry Scents
1.0 km
Explore the enchanting world of fragrances at Spry Scents in Welwyn Garden City, where every scent tells a story.
Miss Boutique
7.4 km
Discover curated fashion and unique gifts in Knebworth’s cozy and stylish Miss Boutique on London Road.
Retail Therapy
8.4 km
Discover unique, stylish women's fashion curated globally in Hertford’s charming boutique since 2003.
Magpie Amore
8.5 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and gifts at Magpie Amore, Hertford’s curated boutique for exceptional style and sustainable shopping.
Frankie and Olive
8.5 km
Discover stylish, sustainable women's clothing and unique gifts at Frankie and Olive, Hertford’s ethical boutique gem.
The Women's Society Boutique
8.5 km
Hertford’s award-winning independent designer boutique, offering curated womenswear, accessories and personal styling in a charming historic setting.
Rossi's Attic
8.6 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and charming collectibles at Rossi's Attic, Hertford’s beloved boutique gift and antique shop.
Gingerlillie Boutique - Women's Clothing in Hertford
8.7 km
Discover curated designer women's fashion and accessories with personalized service in the heart of Hertford’s historic Market Place.
Ruby Room
8.8 km
Discover quirky, independent women’s fashion and unique gifts at Ruby Room, Hertford’s family-run boutique celebrating style across generations.
Eye Mind Heart
8.8 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish homewares, and charming toys at Eye Mind Heart, Hertford’s beloved boutique shop for all ages.
Mint of Hertford
8.9 km
Discover sustainable luxury and personalized styling at Mint of Hertford, your destination for exquisite pre-loved ladies’ fashion in Hertford.
Im Fine Wellbeing - St. Albans
9.4 km
A unique St. Albans wellness centre blending holistic therapies, mental health support, and mindful shopping under one welcoming roof.
Christopher Place Shopping Centre
10.9 km
A stylish open-air shopping and dining destination at the heart of historic St Albans with top brands and family-friendly charm.
The Dressing Room
10.9 km
Discover contemporary women's fashion and personalized service at The Dressing Room, a stylish boutique in the heart of St Albans.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Crooked Chimney
3.0 km
A cozy, rustic country pub in Lemsford offering hearty British fare and a warm, inviting atmosphere near Welwyn Garden City.
Red Lion
3.9 km
A lively Hatfield pub-restaurant blending hearty British classics, quirky charm, and a welcoming atmosphere for families and friends.
Plume of Feathers
4.0 km
Historic 400-year-old country pub in Tewin offering traditional British fare, family-friendly gardens, and lively community events.
The Great Northern
4.3 km
A vibrant Hatfield pub blending classic fare, lively events, and a welcoming community atmosphere near the Odyssey cinema.
Horse and Groom
4.3 km
Historic 17th-century pub in Old Hatfield offering cozy ambiance, real ales, and classic British fare in a charming timber-framed setting.
The Woodman Wildhill
6.6 km
A cherished Hertfordshire country pub famed for its real ales, hearty fare, sunny garden, and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Elephant and Castle
7.1 km
Historic 18th-century pub with spacious gardens, unique tepees, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Wheathampstead.
The Millstream
8.1 km
Classic British pub charm meets quality dining and warm hospitality in Hertford’s welcoming Millstream.
The Beehive
8.3 km
A charming Hertford country pub offering hearty British fare, warm hospitality, and a cozy rural atmosphere in Epping Green.
The Black Horse Hertford
8.4 km
Historic 1642 timbered pub in Hertford with wood-fired pizzas, real ales, a large garden, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
Old Cross Tavern
8.5 km
Historic Hertford pub renowned for award-winning ales, traditional charm, and a welcoming community atmosphere in a Grade II-listed setting.
Baar Baar- Multicuisine & Sports Bar
8.5 km
A vibrant multicuisine sports bar in Hertford blending lively atmosphere, great food, and live sports for an unforgettable social experience.
The White Horse Hertford
8.6 km
Classic British pub charm meets modern dining and lively atmosphere in the heart of Hertford’s Castle Street.
The Quiet Man
8.7 km
Experience traditional British pub warmth and lively charm in Hertford’s inviting Quiet Man, complete with live music and a welcoming beer garden.
Blackbirds
8.7 km
Traditional British pub with lively sports, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere in Hertford’s historic Parliament Square.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Forum Hertfordshire
6.3 km
A lively nightclub and live music venue at University of Hertfordshire, hosting diverse cultural events and vibrant nightlife in Hatfield.
—
8.7 km
Vibrant nightclub and Asian fusion lounge blending historic charm with lively nightlife in Hertford’s Parliament Square.
The Hertford Club
8.7 km
A historic private members’ club in Hertford, renowned for real ales, hearty home-cooked meals, and a vibrant social scene.
Havana
10.6 km
Vibrant late-night nightclub and bar in St Albans offering energetic music and lively weekend entertainment.
Mia Musica
16.4 km
Luton’s lively Romanian-themed night club and sports bar with authentic football culture and late-night weekend vibes.
The Bear Club
16.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Bear Club, a premier jazz and blues venue in Luton, perfect for music lovers seeking unforgettable live performances.
VOLTS NIGHT CLUB/ COPPER BAR
19.3 km
A vibrant nightlife hotspot in Hemel Hempstead, Volts Night Club offers energetic music, friendly staff, and a lively dance floor for unforgettable nights out.
Canvas Bar & Nightclub
20.9 km
Experience vibrant nights of music, dancing, and cocktails at Canvas Bar & Nightclub in the heart of Watford’s High Street.
Popworld Watford
20.9 km
A vibrant late-night hotspot in Watford playing all your favorite 90s and 2000s pop classics with fun cocktails and a lively dancefloor.
Penthouse Playrooms
24.5 km
A vibrant adult nightclub in Dunstable offering themed events and lively weekend entertainment for an energetic night out.
Epping Roof Garden & Nightclub
24.5 km
A stylish rooftop nightclub in Epping blending lively nightlife with blooming garden charm and sophisticated cocktails.
Monster Queen
29.0 km
Dive into Camden's dark heart at Monster Queen: intimate club nights pulsing with goth electronica, historic vibes, and non-stop energy till dawn.
Club Stable
29.0 km
Historic Camden stables turned electrifying nightclub: dance in Victorian horse stalls amid live music, cabaret, and pulsing beats in London's nightlife epicenter.
Lockside
29.2 km
Canal views, craft cocktails, and DJ-fueled nights atop Camden Market's vibrant West Yard—a daytime diner turned electric nightlife escape.
Egg London Nightclub
29.4 km
Experience marathon electronic music sessions in a converted Victorian warehouse with vibrant terraces and world-class DJs at Egg London Nightclub.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Casual
- Lively
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
